Markets around the world, part 2

From Europe to Asia, passing by Marrakesh and Jerusalem a closer look at daily life, traditions and flavors.

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This is the second part of Markets Around the World, if you missed the first part with markets from South America and the Balkans you can read it here.

If you’ve been reading this newsletter, you probably know I love markets. Every time I travel, I seek them out, they offer a window into local life, culture, and relationships.

After visiting 42 countries, I’ve captured countless images of markets, each with its own colours, scents, and energy. From the spice-laden souks of Marrakesh to the bustling fish stalls of Catania, and the night markets of Malaysia, where sizzling street food fills the air with tempting aromas, every market tells a story.

Markets are more than places of trade, they are living spaces where tradition meets modernity. That’s why I decided to create a photographic journey through the world’s markets, celebrating their diversity, energy, and soul.

Budapest, Hungary

We couldn’t miss the city where I currently live. The Christmas Market in Budapest is one of Hungary's most magical and festive events, attracting visitors with its charming atmosphere, traditional crafts, and delicious seasonal treats. The most famous markets take place at Vörösmarty Square and in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, both beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and wooden stalls.

At the market, you can find handmade gifts, such as ceramics, wool scarves, candles, and intricate Hungarian embroidery, making it a perfect place for unique holiday shopping. The air is filled with the scent of cinnamon-spiced mulled wine, chimney cake, and hearty Hungarian dishes like goulash and stuffed cabbage.

Catania, Italy

I couldn’t miss an Italian market; in 2023, I visited Fiera 'o Luni, Catania’s historic market, held every day (except Sunday) near Piazza Carlo Alberto. Its name comes from the fact that it was originally held only on Mondays, but today it operates daily and is one of the largest markets in Sicily. Here, you can find everything: clothing, shoes, fabrics, household items, fruits, vegetables, spices, and typical Sicilian products. The atmosphere is lively and chaotic, with vendors calling out to customers in true Catanese style. Similar to a Mediterranean souk, the Fiera 'o Luni is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city’s daily life and find great bargains.

Marrakesh, Morocco

From Sicily to Morocco, the trip is short. The market in the Medina of Marrakesh, also known as the souks of Marrakesh, is one of the most famous and enchanting markets in Morocco. Located around Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s main square, the souks form a maze of narrow alleys filled with vibrant stalls selling spices, textiles, leather goods, pottery, jewellery, and traditional Moroccan lamps. The air is filled with the scent of mint tea, saffron, and incense, while the sounds of bargaining vendors and street performers add to the lively atmosphere.

By day, you can explore handcrafted babouches (leather slippers), Berber rugs, and metalwork, while by night, Jemaa el-Fnaa transforms into a bustling food market with stalls serving tagines, grilled meats, and fresh orange juice.

Jerusalem

Before going to Asia, let’s stop in the Middle East. I went to Israel and Palestine in 2020. The Mahane Yehuda Market, or "The Shuk," is Jerusalem’s most famous and vibrant marketplace. Located in the heart of the city, it is a bustling hub of fresh produce, spices, baked goods, and Middle Eastern delicacies. By day, the market is packed with locals shopping for everything from halva, olives, and fresh pita to artisanal cheeses and exotic spices. Vendors enthusiastically call out their prices, adding to the lively atmosphere.

By night, Mahane Yehuda transforms into a social hotspot with trendy bars, restaurants, and live music. Street art covers many of the market’s metal shutters, depicting historical figures and cultural icons.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

I went to Malaysia in 2023, I was volunteering for a restaurant, and twice a week with the owner I went shopping in two different markets. The Chow Kit Market in Kuala Lumpur is one of the city’s most vibrant and authentic markets. Divided into a wet market and a dry market, it offers everything from fresh seafood, meats, and tropical fruits to spices, textiles, and household goods. Known for its bustling atmosphere, the market is a favourite among locals for its affordable prices and diverse Malay, Chinese, and Indian ingredients. You can explore the lively stalls, sample street food like nasi lemak and satay, and experience the rich cultural mix that defines Kuala Lumpur.

The Pasar Tani Kelana Jaya is a well-known farmers’ market in Kuala Lumpur, offering a mix of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. Held on specific days of the week, it is popular among locals for its high-quality fruits, vegetables, seafood, and traditional Malay ingredients sourced directly from farmers and small producers. In addition to groceries, the market is famous for its ready-to-eat street food, including nasi lemak, satay, kuih (Malay sweets), and grilled seafood.

Seoul, South Korea

Our trip around the world finishes in far east Asia, in Seoul. The Namdaemun Market is South Korea’s largest and oldest traditional market, dating back to 1964. Located near Namdaemun Gate, it features thousands of stalls and shops selling a wide variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, kitchenware, souvenirs, and traditional Korean crafts. The market is especially famous for its affordable street food, with vendors serving local favourites like hotteok (sweet pancakes), mandu (dumplings), gimbap, and spicy tteokbokki.

I hope you enjoyed this article, which is different from the usual ones. Let me know what you think about it, or if you are also a market enthusiast, what fascinating markets have you visited? Please consider subscribing, updating to a paid subscription, or buying me a coffee. Also, please share it with people you think might like this content. If you want to see more pictures, and more content when I am travelling follow me on Instagram.

See you soon,

Flavio