Plaza del Mercado Chico
Ávila's historic heart, a charming medieval plaza with arcades, the Town Hall, and San Juan Bautista church.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Plaza del Mercado Chico
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ávila's historic heart, a charming medieval plaza with arcades, the Town Hall, and San Juan Bautista church.
"The main square in the city and located in the city centre. It is large and popular with tourists."
🎯 Central Hub for Exploration
This plaza is your starting point for exploring Ávila's walled city. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the medieval charm with photos of the arcades and historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Arcades
Three sides of the square
Elegant stone arches create a charming, shaded walkway, perfect for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.
Town Hall (Ayuntamiento)
NE side of the square
Admire the historic architecture of the Town Hall, a key landmark in the heart of the plaza.
Church of San Juan Bautista
Side without arcades
This church adds to the historical significance of the square, with its presence complementing the medieval setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Central Hub for Exploration
This plaza is your starting point for exploring Ávila's walled city. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the medieval charm with photos of the arcades and historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ Dining Delights
Enjoy tapas and traditional food at restaurants lining the square. :knifeforkplate:
🔔 Hear the Bells
Experience the lively atmosphere, including the charming church bells. :bell:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Central Hub for Exploration
This plaza is your starting point for exploring Ávila's walled city. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture the medieval charm with photos of the arcades and historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ Dining Delights
Enjoy tapas and traditional food at restaurants lining the square. :knifeforkplate:
🔔 Hear the Bells
Experience the lively atmosphere, including the charming church bells. :bell:
✨ Medieval Magic
Visit during festivals for an unforgettable historical reenactment. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plaza del Mercado Chico as the vibrant heart of Ávila, highlighting its historical charm, beautiful arcades, and central location. It's a must-visit for its atmosphere and as a gateway to the walled city. Some find it can get noisy with church bells and restaurant activity, but generally, its appeal is undeniable.
"It is the main square in the city and located in the city centre. It is large and popular with tourists. Has nice arches on 3 sides on the ground floor of the 3 storey building. Many shops, restaurants around the area. Easy flat access, no fees."
s vivekananda
"A historic building dating back to those centuries ago. A beautiful place that is worth a visit."
sas
"A definite must on your visit. It's much nicer than the larger Plaza outside the gates"
David Rumptz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza del Mercado Chico is located right in the center of Ávila, within the historic walled city. If you're arriving by car, park outside the walls and walk in. It's easily accessible on foot from most points within the old town. 
Absolutely! The plaza is a pedestrian-friendly area and serves as a central point for exploring the rest of Ávila's attractions.
Ávila is well-connected by train and bus from major Spanish cities like Madrid. Once in Ávila, the Plaza del Mercado Chico is a short walk from the main transport hubs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza del Mercado Chico is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As an open public space, the plaza is accessible 24/7. However, shops and restaurants around it will have their own operating hours.
Yes, the plaza is flat and has easy access, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic architecture, enjoy the arcades, visit the Town Hall and the Church of San Juan Bautista, and soak in the lively atmosphere. It's also a great spot for people-watching and enjoying local life. +1
Yes, the plaza is a hub for events, including medieval markets and festivals, which transform the space into a historical spectacle.
This plaza has been the center of Ávila for centuries, with some historians suggesting it was the site of the Roman forum. It's a place where history truly comes alive.
For a quieter experience, visit in the morning or late afternoon. Evenings can be lively with diners and events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The plaza is surrounded by numerous restaurants and tapas bars offering traditional Castilian cuisine and local wines.
Expect hearty traditional dishes like 'Chuletón de Ávila' (Ávila steak), 'Judiones de La Granja' (beans), and local cheeses.
Yes, you'll find several cafes perfect for a coffee break or a light snack while enjoying the plaza's ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the arcades, the Town Hall, the church, and the general medieval atmosphere. The square looks particularly charming during golden hour.
Yes, events like medieval markets offer dynamic scenes, but be prepared for crowds. Early mornings or late evenings might offer clearer shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting during a medieval festival if your children enjoy historical reenactments and themed activities.
It's a chance for them to step back in time and experience history in a fun, interactive way. The church bells can also be a point of interest for curious kids. 🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, opt for tapas and drinks at the local bars rather than full sit-down meals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1The presence of the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) on one side and the Church of San Juan Bautista on another anchors the plaza's historical and civic importance. Walking through the arcades, you can almost feel the echoes of past centuries, from Roman times to medieval markets and beyond. It's a place where history is not just preserved but actively experienced.
+1During special events, like the renowned Medieval Market of Ávila, the plaza truly comes alive, transporting visitors back in time with costumed reenactments, artisan stalls, and traditional performances. This transformation highlights the square's enduring role as a vibrant center for community and cultural celebration.
Experiencing the Plaza Today
The square is lined with numerous restaurants and tapas bars, offering a perfect opportunity to sample traditional Castilian cuisine and local wines. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite.
For photographers, the plaza offers a wealth of opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow through the arcades, the detailed architecture of the surrounding buildings, and the lively street scenes provide endless inspiration. Capturing the essence of Ávila often starts with a visit to this iconic square.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit