Top Food Markets in Rome

Top Food Markets in Rome

When in Italy, one should make a conscious effort to indulge in rewards reaped from the earth. Italy’s vast and fertile terrains allow for an abundant agricultural industry spanning from the farthest north into the deepest south.

The easiest way to gain access to this fresh produce is to shop where all great Italian chefs do — the Roman food markets.

These are fresh produce galore, and worthy small businesses to support regardless of if you are a local or an outsider. Here are a few weekly markets to check out within Rome’s its boarders.

Tip: When making an excursion to a Roman food market with intention to purchase, take along some reusable packaging and carrier bags. This saves the vendors from having to provide masses of new plastic to each passing customer.

Mercato di Testaccio in Rome

On the right bank across from Monteverde you’ll find a historic archaeological landmark called Broken Pot Mountain. This is one of the quirkiest attractions Rome has to offer, featuring a giant pyramid-shaped mound made of broken pots and ancient jars.

Most of these ruins were excavated from the grounds immediately surrounding the structure itself. And a few meters from the mountain, on the fruitful land, now sits one of the top food markets in the city.

by ja ma – Unsplash

The Mercato di Testaccio is without a doubt Rome’s most vibrant food market. Arranged under a glass roof, this is a relaxing and enjoyable place to spend an hour or two during the hours of operation, six days a week.

The market is home to vendors of fresh produce, seafood, meats and even breads. A lot of locals do their regular grocery shopping here, as the array of items leaves little need for formal grocery store visits.

There are also a handful of ready-to-eat food vendors, too. Surprisingly some even offer vegan food, which is a rarity in Roman markets! Visitor seating with tables can be found in the center pavilion.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday — 7am to 2:30pm

ADDRESS: Via Aldo Manuzio, 66b, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Metro STATION: Piramide

Nuovo Mercato Esquilino in Rome

Further north, closer to Termini Train Station, we find the Nuovo Mercato Esquilino.

This food market is equally as energetic as the afore mentioned spot, only this one has more of a transportive energy to it! At the Nuovo Mercato Esquilino, immigrants from around the world hawk their local cuisines, including imported spices and textiles from lands very different to that of Italy.

by Portuguese Gravity – Unsplash

This is a popular spot for immigrants living in Rome who find themselves craving specific dishes from home, but unable to purchase the necessary ingredients from regular supermarkets.

This market offers fantastic fresh produce, as well as meat and seafood. The fact that it opens at 5am each day makes it the go-to for restaurant owners who need to get their ingredients as early as possible.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday — 5am to 5pm

ADDRESS: Via Filippo Turati, 160, 00118 Roma RM, Italy

Metro STATION: Vittorio Emanuele

Campagna Amica Market in Rome

Rome is not only the capital of Italy, but it is also the capital of the Lazio region of the country.

It’s here at the Campagna Amica Market that farmers from all over the Lazio lands come together to sell their grown produce. Whatever is currently “in season” in northern Rome, will be found here at these cluster stalls.

Campagna Amica Market in Rome – by Campagna Amica Market – Uploaded by them

The market is very central; close to the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain.

A few of the vendors make and sell very traditional Italian foods for take away dining. There are tables and chairs in the courtyard outside of the dome in which the market is situated and you’ll rarely have to wait in long queues to get fed.

Take note: This market is only open on Saturdays!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Saturday — 8am to 3pm

ADDRESS: Via di S. Teodoro, 74, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Metro STATION: Colosseo

Campo de’ Fiori in Rome

When it comes to food markets in Rome, it doesn’t get more well known than the Campo de’ Fiori.

Situated in the city center on Rome’s right bank, the Campo de’ Fiori is an informal yet abundant market found on a public square with the same name: the Piazza Campo de’ Fiori.

As you approach the piazza, you won’t be able to miss the sagging tents and worn-out umbrellas that make for the market shelter. As you enter the labyrinth, you’ll shop all things fresh and tasty.

Campo de’ Fiori in Rome – by Myrabella – Wikimedia Commons

There are rows and rows of fruits and veggies. There are spices and nuts imported from other worlds. You’ll find a few stalls selling incense and trinkets, usually with a confident ‘ROME’ printed somewhere on the facade.

The Campo de’ Fiori is a particularly wonderful place to visit on a hot day in Rome — or at least when the weather is offering blue skies.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday — 7am to 2pm

ADDRESS: Piazza Campo de’ Fiori, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Metro STATION: Colosseo

Mercato Trionfale in Rome

If you’re on the left bank and near the Vatican City, then the Mercato Trionfale is your most convenient food market.

This one is big; and by big I mean over 200 individual stalls all with something essential to sell. There is fruit, vegetables, meats, cheeses, wines, seafood… the works. For restaurants in this part of town, a visit here is a morning ritual, ensuing the freshest ingredients possible.

by iSAW Company – Unsplash

Let it be known that the Mercato Trionfale is by no means a “tourist attraction” or a “must see” while in Rome! This is a serious place to shop if you’re in need of the best quality foods and prices for your day-to-day.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday — 7am to 2pm

ADDRESS: Via la Goletta, 1, 00192 Roma RM, Italy

Metro STATION: Cipro