Markets are a great way to get a taste of Rome. And not just in terms of fresh produce and local cuisine either – though the city certainly offers its fair share of stellar food stalls. The market can be a place to pick up lunch or dinner, get advice on how best to cook your fresh ingredients, snag a piece of antique furniture, score some vintage designer clothing, or simply just people-watch. Here are our favorite spots to immerse yourself in market life in Rome.
© Mercato di Testaccio
The Testaccio neighborhood is well known for its traditional and humble cuisine and the Testaccio Market is where local residents come to shop for ingredients and day-to-day essentials. As well as a rainbow of fresh, seasonal produce, you’ll find practical and utilitarian accessories like shoes, handbags, and household goods. The biggest attraction though is the street food stalls that dish up gourmet meals and snacks. We love CasaManco’s crunchy yet chewy pizza by the slice with inventive toppings and Mordi & Vai’s famous sandwiches filled with classic Roman recipes.
Yes, some of the stalls cater more to tourists than locals, but the market at Campo de’ Fiori (which translates to Field of Flowers) is still worth a visit. Make a beeline for the traders with fresh, vibrant produce and don’t be afraid to ask them for advice on how best to prepare it either – it’s a great way to get to know people, place, and cuisine in one fell swoop. If you’re looking for more gourmet goodies, skip the stalls hawking novelty-shaped bottles of liqueur and mysterious bags of spices and pop into Pizzicheria Ruggeri in the corner of the piazza instead. They’ll sort you out with flavorsome meats, cheeses, and homemade delicacies, and even stuff them into a delicious panino for you too.
© Il Mercatino di Borghetto Flaminio
Open Sundays from 10am to 7pm, the Borghetto Flaminio Market features a handful of eccentric stall holders and their eclectic wares. Come here for second-hand designer and vintage clothing, furs, bags, antiques and other accessories. The market’s location, near well-heeled northern neighborhoods, makes this a great spot to find pre-loved pieces like a Prada handbag or Burberry coat without a hefty price tag.
© Mercato Centrale Rome
Opened in 2016, Mercato Centrale in Termini Station offers a gastronomic tour of Italy under one roof. There are around 20 stalls and shops, selected to showcase the tradition and quality of Italian producers and chefs. Each spot has its own specialty, from particular ingredients, such as artichokes or truffles, to classic dishes of fresh pasta, Italian Chianina beef burgers, and pizza in all its forms (by the slice, personal pies, and street food pizza pockets from Trapizzino). Naturally, there’s dessert too so be sure to save room for a gelato or cannolo afterwards.
© Mercato Monti urban Market
Located in the hip Monti neighborhood, Mercato Monti is the place to go for unique, one-of-a-kind items with a stylish edge. Browse the rails here for vintage and remade clothing, handbags fashioned from repurposed denim, retro sunglasses, and preloved accessories. You’ll also find handcrafted items such as prints, artworks, and vintage books transformed into elegant lamps. What’s more, at Mercato Monti, most stalls are manned by the people who have sourced and created what’s on sale so you know you are directly supporting independent creatives.
Looking for more Made-in-Italy shopping? Check out our roundup of unique souvenirs you can only pick up in Rome.
