Ribera Market is one of the biggest covered markets in Europe, a vast shopping space in the heart of Bilbao's old town. The origins of the market lie in the 14th century but the building you see today is an art deco construction from 1929. Explore three floors of stalls that are filled with a rich variety of foods including meats, cheeses, shellfish, fruit and fungi.
This is one of the places where the city loves to shop. The first floor of the waterfront building is devoted to seafood. See stalls packed with dozens of varieties of glistening fresh and frozen fish. Go up to the second floor for the meat products. Browse produce by local farmers and purchase regional meats such as sausages from Viana and different types of dry-cured ham. On the third floor find a large selection of fresh fruit and vegetables.
As you make your way from stall to stall in this beautiful light-filled building pause to appreciate the beauty of its stained-glass windows and art deco ornamentation.
Treat yourself to the local gastronomy in the market's bars. As with many bars and restaurants in the city, they sell pintxos, small finger food that comes in many different varieties. This is a very cost-effective way of trying lots of regional specialties. Typically, the hot and cold snacks are served on a piece of bread with a toothpick through them. Enjoy your food and drink on a terrace overlooking the Nervión River.
The market is located near the 15th-century San Antón Church. Arrive by taxi, tram, bus or metro. Street parking is limited if you are driving, you can park for a fee in nearby parking garages. Ribera Market is open every day except Sundays. After your visit tour the Gothic San Antón Church which was built over the ruins of a palace.
