Mercat de Santa Catalina
Mercat de Santa Catalina – updated 13 February 2023.
Mercat de Santa Catalina in Palma, Majorca, is a vibrant and lively market that is a must-visit destination for foodies and travellers looking for an authentic local experience. Located in the heart of the Santa Catalina neighbourhood, the market is one of the oldest and most traditional markets in the city.
Bustling marketplace
The market is a hub of activity and energy, with vendors selling a wide range of fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and other local delicacies. Visitors can wander through the market’s aisles, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling marketplace. The vendors are friendly and welcoming, and they are always happy to share their knowledge and expertise about the products they sell.
Fresh seafood
One of the most popular sections of the market is the fish market, where vendors sell an array of fresh seafood that has been caught off the coast of Majorca. Visitors can see the fish being cleaned and prepared, and they can purchase everything from squid and octopus to shrimp and lobster. The seafood is of the highest quality, and it is a great opportunity for visitors to sample some of the local flavours of the island.
Beef, pork & lamb
Another highlight of the market is the meat section, where vendors sell a variety of cuts of beef, pork, and lamb. Visitors can purchase everything from sausages and chorizo to cuts of meat that are ready to be cooked. The meat is fresh and flavourful, and it is a great way to experience the culinary traditions of Majorca.
Cheese
In addition to fresh produce and meats, Mercat de Santa Catalina is also known for its local cheeses. Vendors sell a variety of cheeses that are made from cow’s, sheep’s, and goat’s milk, and visitors can sample everything from creamy brie to tangy blue cheese.
A bite to eat
Mercat de Santa Catalina is also a great place to stop for a bite to eat. There are several small bars and cafes in the market that serve up traditional Spanish tapas and other local dishes. Visitors can enjoy a glass of local wine or beer and indulge in some of the market’s delicious food offerings.
Opening times
The market is open every day except Sunday, and it is busiest in the mornings. The best time to visit is in the early morning, when the vendors are setting up and the market is just beginning to come to life. The market is an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine of Majorca, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Palma. Saturday is the busiest day because locals have a tradition to remain at the market after they have finished shopping to enjoy drinks and tapas.
Focal point
It is not just a market selling seasonal, fresh and local produce. Santa Catalina market is a focal point for professional chefs, restaurateurs, passionate amateur cooks, gourmands and people looking for advice about food. The stall owners have a vast culinary knowledge and understanding about how to get the best from the products that they sell. If you care about the quality and provenance of the food that you eat, this is the ideal market to go to.
Saturday is the busiest day because locals have a tradition to remain at the market after they have finished shopping to enjoy drinks and tapas.
For further information, visit the market’s website.
