Rome is known for it’s amazing restaurants (that we so often write about) but if you want to experience a Foodie wonderland, head over to one of Rome’s outstanding farmers markets. You’ll find the freshest quality meats, cheeses, fruits, veggies and so much more. Everyday, locals and tourists pile into the markets to see the vibrant colors and smell the enticing aromas. Plus in Rome, vendors commonly give out free samples, so make sure you go on an empty stomach! Here is your go-to list of the top 5 markets in Rome to eat your way through while you’re on vacation!
Nuovo Mercato Esquillino
Walking out of Termini station, I was in awe at how large Nuovo Mercato Esquillino is. If you love meat and seafood then this is the market for you. An array of fish, squid, and shrimp was laidout on ice for you to see (and smell) how fresh it is. If you’re looking for more than just food, the second building is full of clothing, souvenirs, tapestry’s and all the shoes you could possibly want. Imagine, knocking two birds with one stone, you get dinner in one area and all your shopping needs in the other.
Via Filippo Turati, 160 | Hours: Monday – Friday 6:30 to 1800, closed Saturday and Sunday
Campo de Fiori
This open air market is one of the oldest and most famous spots to see, found under the statue of Giordano Bruno. You can find any spice you want, but make sure you have a translator with you. As I walked passed the fruits and vegetables, I saw some of the reddest tomatoes that have ever crossed my eye. Yes, the vendors will let you taste what you want, and if you eat enough, that can be lunch. Next came the meat area where you can order mortadella and they will cut it for you right there. There are also many souvenirs that are perfect to bring home.
Piazza Campo de’ Fiori | Hours: Monday-Saturday: morning to 1400
Nuovo Mercato di Testaccio
Any day of the week this market is full of locals and tourists, looking for seasonal fruits and vegetables. This is the perfect spot when it’s raining and you do not have an umbrella. Right when you walk in you’ll be trapped by the cheap prices of vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese and even some candy, for those with a sweet tooth. The vendors have some of the funniest stories that make grocery shopping fun for everyone.
Via Galvani/Via Alessandro Volta | Hours: 24 hours
San Cosimato
Walking into this small, open air market is far from overwhelming. The fresh fruits and vegetables are grown right in local vendors backyards. If you are looking to get a feel for being a local, this is the best place to go. It’s a great place to get fresh meat of the day, add it to some bread and have your lunch right there. There is a variety of mouthwatering cheese and fresh pasta hanging in bags. Can’t get anything better than that right?
Piazza Son Cosimato | Hours: Early morning to 2pm
Mercato di Campagna Amica del Circus Massimo
Here 
you get a taste of Rome literally and figuratively, with the delicious food and the exquisite Circus Massimo right outside. Here you have bread of all types right at your finger tips, seasonal fruits and vegetables local farmers picked off the vine just for you. For the meat lovers, the sausages and home cooked meats are out of this world delicious. If you are looking for a quick sugar fix, the irresistible homemade cookies come in sweet flavors of all kind.
Via di San Teodoro | Hours: Saturday: 9 am to 6pm, Sunday: 9am to 4pm
There is no better way to feel like a local and experience Roman culture than to venture through one of these farmers markets, so don’t miss out on all the Foodie wonder!
Discover More
Feeling hungry yet? Join us on our food tour through the beautiful neighborhood Trastevere and continue your Foodie journey through Rome. It is an excellent way to see Rome’s foodie neighborhoods where many of the most authentic & historic restaurants in the center of Rome are located.
#ItalyOurWay
Have you experienced any of the culinary delights Rome has to offer? We have many more recommendations we’d love to share. Read our blog post on the Top 5 Dishes in Rome.
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