The 50 most Instagrammed food markets in Europe

“From Barcelona’s iconic La Boqueria to Munich’s famed Viktualienmarkt, discover the most popular European markets on Instagram.”

Local cuisine is without a doubt one of the most pleasurable ways to get to know a culture, which is why food markets are an unmissable stop on any travel itinerary. With hundreds of stalls brimming with fresh products, local delicacies and exotic ingredients, markets throughout Europe are an excellent way to taste the local flavors while getting an authentic glimpse of daily life in your destination.

With their brilliant colors, unusual flavors and fantastic smells, each market has its own unique character, and many of them also happen to be extremely photogenic. That’s why we looked to Instagram* to find out which European markets are currently the most popular. By counting the number of hashtags from 99 markets in Europe, we’ve compiled a ranking of the 50 most Instagrammed markets.

Read on to discover the complete ranking.

Top 10

1. Borough Market, London, UK

First place in the ranking goes to London’s Borough Market. Centrally located in the Southwark district, just a stone’s throw from London Bridge and the Tower of London, this Victorian covered market is the most famous and oldest in the city. Here about 130 traders (including bakers, fishmongers and butchers) offer high-quality local or international products. Foodies will also appreciate being able to buy directly from local producers, who are passionate about everything they offer. Pick up any number of cheeses, oysters, tea, olive oil and more. And as the icing on the cake, you might even meet Alain Ducasse!

2. La Boqueria, Barcelona, Spain

Located off La Rambla in central Barcelona, the La Boqueria market is one of the most iconic places in the city. It was built on the ancient convent of Saint-Joseph that was destroyed during a fire, and was officially inaugurated in 1853. La Boqueria is so famous that it’s not just a market, but a real tourist attraction and a must when visiting Barcelona. Browse through over 300 stalls with an array of eye-catching offerings, from fresh fruit and vegetables to meat, spices, sweets, freshly made smoothies and Spanish specialties. Our top tip is to snack on a small cone of jamón ibérico and remember to look up and admire the architecture.

3. Markthal, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

On any trip to Rotterdam the Markthal is an obligatory stop. This beautiful covered market has around 100 food stalls, as well as 15 shops and eight restaurants. At the stalls you’ll find delicacies from all over the world, from fish from southern Spain to Brazilian coffee and, of course, Dutch cheese. And as if that wasn’t enough, the Markthal is also an architectural gem and its huge interior façade is covered in the artwork of Hoorn des Abundance (spanning 118403sq ft). Rotterdam’s covered market is open every day and with its many sensory charms it’s easy to lose a couple of hours here.

4. Viktualienmarkt, Munich, Germany

The most famous market in Munich needs no introduction. The Viktualienmarkt was historically housed on Marienplatz and when it was first established in the 19th century it was mainly dominated by farmers selling grains and fresh products. However, after a rapid expansion it was soon moved to its current building to accommodate more vendors. Still located in the heart of the city, the market today has over 140 stands where you can buy all the fresh, organic and gourmet products, fruit, flowers and cheeses you could ever want. We suggest taking your time and stopping for a bite to eat and a cold beer.

5. Naschmarkt, Vienna, Austria

This famous market in Vienna has become a meeting point for young locals, thanks to its international cuisine and increasingly trendy clubs. With around 120 stalls and venues, a welcoming atmosphere and the iconic Saturday flea market, the Naschmarkt is one of Vienna’s top attractions. With food options ranging from organic to Israeli cuisine and Austrian gastronomic specialties you’ll be spoiled for choice. Be sure to drop by Urbanek, to savor local cheeses accompanied by an excellent glass of wine, and Eisernen Zeit, where you can sample traditional Viennese cuisine. And if for some (strange) reason you’ve already eaten, it’s still worth going to the market during the summer evenings to sit at the tables, have a drink and watch the lively comings and goings.

6. Torvehallerne, Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen has long been a gastronomic hot spot attracting foodies from around the world, which is why it’s no surprise to see this well-known Danish market in the rankings. The Torvehallerne is a paradise for local artisanal products, including bread of all different types, cheeses and the freshest fish. For a quick lunch try Smørrebrød, the famous Danish open sandwich, traditionally topped with herring or salmon. Also don’t forget to sample some frikadeller (meatballs), cod, shellfish salad and sommerbuk (summer deer) flavored with juniper.

7. San Miguel Market, Madrid, Spain

This historic market in the city’s heart was officially inaugurated in 1916 and then reopened in 2009 as Madrid’s first gastronomic market. Today it attracts over 10 million visitors a year. It’s known both for the fantastic food on offer and its spectacular iron and glass design. Discover high-quality Spanish products, such as tapas, gourmet cheeses, meats and much more in its well-curated 30 stalls. For those with a sweet tooth, we recommend the delicious ice cream by Michelin-starred chef Joan Roca, which alone is worth the visit.

8. Leadenhall Market, London, UK

With its atmospheric 14th-century architecture, this gorgeous market in the heart of London is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter Fields. Not only a feast for the palate, it’s also a visual feast and is wonderfully photogenic. It has numerous trendy shops and bars, along with ample dining options ranging from sushi to Korean bibimbap, tortilla and pizza.

9. Old Spitalfields Market, London, UK

With its mix of vintage clothing, tasty street food and trending art, Old Spitalfields Market is a true East London institution. It also has a long history as markets of all kinds have been held on the same site for over 350 years. Its 41 food and drink stalls, which run the gamut from French crêpes to Chinese dumplings to Neapolitan pizza, will ensure your stomach is well satiated by your visit. The market is open every day, while the flea market takes place on Thursdays.

10. Kauppatori, Helsinki, Finland

One of Finland’s most important street markets takes place in Helsinki’s Market Square (Kauppatori), which sits scenically between the Baltic Sea and the Esplanade Park. Close to attractions such as the Presidential Palace and the Town Hall, you can also take the nearby ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress and Korkeasaari Island. But, of course, what you’re really here for is the food! Don’t forget to try the wonderfully fresh salmon and herring. You can also shop the many Finnish delicacies, flowers and find great souvenirs to take home.

*Methodology: To carry out the study, 99 European gastronomic markets were taken into account (source: https://www.google.com/travel/things-to-do/). To determine the 50 most popular markets on Instagram, we analysed the number of posts tagged with the full market name hashtag (eg, #boroughmarket, #laboqueria). Data updated December 2022.