
Mercado de El Fontán Oviedo
Oviedo's historic Art Nouveau market, brimming with fresh Asturian produce, seafood, and local delicacies. A vibrant hub of local life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce & lively atmosphere

Mercado de El Fontán Oviedo
Best Time
Freshest produce & lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oviedo's historic Art Nouveau market, brimming with fresh Asturian produce, seafood, and local delicacies. A vibrant hub of local life.
"Awesome fish market in the old town of Oviedo - selection of fish, meats, hams, fruit & Veg plus cheeses and beans."

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys
Catch the freshest produce and seafood before it's gone! The market truly comes alive in the morning.
📸 Admire the Architecture
Don't miss the Art Nouveau details. Even with some areas needing updates, it's a beautiful space.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fresh Seafood Selection
Fishmonger stalls
Marvel at the dazzling array of fresh fish and seafood, expertly prepared by local vendors. A true feast for the eyes!
Art Nouveau Architecture
Market interior
Admire the elegant Art Nouveau design of the market, a beautiful backdrop to the bustling stalls and local commerce.

Asturian Delicacies
Various stalls
Discover local cheeses, cured meats, fresh produce, and the iconic Asturian cider (Sidra).
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Renovation Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys
Catch the freshest produce and seafood before it's gone! The market truly comes alive in the morning.
📸 Admire the Architecture
Don't miss the Art Nouveau details. Even with some areas needing updates, it's a beautiful space.
🧀 Taste Local Flavors
Sample Asturian cheeses, cured meats, and don't forget to try the local Sidra!
🚶 Explore the Surroundings
The market is in the heart of Oviedo's old town, perfect for combining with sightseeing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys
Catch the freshest produce and seafood before it's gone! The market truly comes alive in the morning.
📸 Admire the Architecture
Don't miss the Art Nouveau details. Even with some areas needing updates, it's a beautiful space.
🧀 Taste Local Flavors
Sample Asturian cheeses, cured meats, and don't forget to try the local Sidra!
🚶 Explore the Surroundings
The market is in the heart of Oviedo's old town, perfect for combining with sightseeing.
💰 Support Local Vendors
Buying directly from vendors supports the local economy and ensures quality products.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mercado El Fontán is a beloved central market in Oviedo, praised for its Art Nouveau charm and the exceptional quality and variety of its fresh produce, seafood, and local Asturian products. While some visitors note that certain areas could benefit from better lighting and renovations, the vibrant atmosphere and the authenticity of the experience make it a highly recommended stop for anyone wanting to taste the real Oviedo.
"Built in 1885, Mercado El Fontan is Oviedo central market serving the city. Flaunting an Art Nouveau style, it is in dire needs of some much needed renovations (just better lighting would do a lot) but let that stop you and entering the fine selection of specialized store.
We thought the fish store was especially attractive that day with a wide selection of fresh fish.
Free to enter, one of your must-stops while in Oviedo.
P.S.: if this review and pictures were useful in planning your visit, please leave a 👍, thank you 🙏"
Mister Morelight
"A traditional market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheese, and Sidra (Asturian cider), a local specialty. It is a must-visit for those looking to experience the authentic local culture of Oviedo. The market features modern facilities for a comfortable shopping experience, and outside, numerous street vendors add to the lively atmosphere."
Seokjin Ham
"Fantastic bazaar with a wide variety of products"
Pınar Gül 1.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mercado El Fontán is centrally located in Oviedo's old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most accommodations. If you're arriving by public transport, several bus lines stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the Cathedral of Oviedo.
Parking in the old town can be challenging. The closest public parking garages are often recommended, such as the Plaza del Carbayón or the Plaza de la Escandalera. Consider walking or using public transport if possible.
Yes, Oviedo has a good bus network. Several lines stop within a short walking distance of the market, making it convenient to reach from different parts of the city. Check local bus routes for the most direct options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mercado El Fontán is completely free. You can wander through the stalls and soak in the atmosphere without any admission fee.
The market typically opens in the morning and closes in the early evening. Specific hours can vary slightly by vendor and day, but it's generally open from Monday to Saturday. It's best to visit during daytime hours for the full experience.
There are no entrance fees to visit Mercado El Fontán. It's a public market, open for everyone to explore and shop.
Generally, Mercado El Fontán is not open on Sundays. It's primarily a weekday and Saturday market. Plan your visit accordingly to experience its full vibrancy.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products
You'll find a fantastic variety of fresh produce, seafood, meats (including Asturiana de la Montaña beef
), cheeses, cured meats, local pastries, and the famous Asturian cider (Sidra).Yes, a significant majority of the products at Mercado El Fontán are locally sourced from Asturias, ensuring freshness and supporting regional producers.
While primarily a food market, you might find some artisanal food products that make great souvenirs, like local cheeses or cured meats. It's more about experiencing local gastronomy than traditional souvenirs.
Some vendors may offer samples, especially for cheeses or cured meats. It's always worth asking politely, as many are proud of their local products.
The fish market is particularly impressive,
as are the stalls selling Asturian cheeses and cured meats. Don't miss the fresh fruit and vegetable vendors either!🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the market is primarily for purchasing ingredients, some stalls might offer prepared items or small tasting portions. There are also cafes and eateries nearby in Plaza del Fontán where you can enjoy local dishes.
Look for Fabada Asturiana (bean stew), Cachopo (breaded veal cutlet), local cheeses like Cabrales, and of course, Sidra (cider). Many vendors sell ingredients to make these dishes at home.
Yes, the area around Plaza del Fontán and the old town is filled with restaurants and tapas bars offering traditional Asturian cuisine. You can find everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Mercado El Fontán. It's a great place to capture vibrant scenes of local life and colorful produce. Be mindful of vendors and shoppers, and ask permission if you're focusing on individuals.
The fish market with its fresh catches, the colorful displays of fruits and vegetables, and the bustling activity of vendors and shoppers are all excellent photo opportunities. The Art Nouveau architecture also provides a beautiful backdrop.
Mornings offer the most dynamic atmosphere with vendors setting up and shoppers bustling. The natural light filtering into the market can also create beautiful shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
foodie Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Oviedo's Gastronomy
Visitors rave about the incredible variety and quality of products available. The fish market, in particular, is a highlight, showcasing an impressive selection of seafood that's expertly prepared by skilled vendors. Beyond seafood, you'll find premium Asturian meats, artisanal cheeses, vibrant fruits and vegetables, and local delicacies. Many creators emphasize the freshness and local sourcing of these goods, making it a prime spot for food enthusiasts.
While the market is a hub for fresh ingredients, the surrounding Plaza del Fontán and the old town offer numerous cafes and restaurants where you can savor these local flavors. It's an ideal spot to combine a morning market visit with a delicious Asturian meal, experiencing the full gastronomic richness of Oviedo.
Navigating Market Life and Community Concerns
Despite these underlying issues, the market's spirit remains strong. Visitors consistently praise the friendly and close-knit atmosphere among the vendors. This sense of community is palpable as you wander through the stalls, with vendors often happy to share information about their products and local traditions. It’s this authentic interaction that makes Mercado El Fontán a truly special place to visit.
For travelers, understanding these dynamics adds another layer to the experience. It’s a chance to appreciate not just the products but also the people who are the lifeblood of this historic institution. Supporting these local businesses directly contributes to preserving the market's unique character and heritage.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit