Cuenca, is a haven for expats and digital nomads, offering a vibrant culture, affordable living, and a wealth of shopping experiences. The city’s markets are a colorful tapestry of fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and unique finds, making them a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the local lifestyle. Here are some of the best markets in Cuenca that offer a glimpse into the heart of this charming Andean city.
Mercado 10 de Agosto
Location: Calle Larga and Padre Aguirre
Type of Market: Traditional Food and Goods Market
Open: Daily, 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
As one of the oldest and most traditional markets in Cuenca, Mercado 10 de Agosto is a bustling hub where locals and visitors alike come to shop for fresh produce, meats, and household items. Spread over two floors, the market also offers a variety of local dishes served at small food stalls, providing an authentic taste of Ecuadorian cuisine.
We Recommend: Trying a bowl of ‘caldos’, a traditional Ecuadorian soup, which is a hearty and warming meal, especially popular during Cuenca’s cooler days.
Feria Libre
Location: Avenida de las Americas
Type of Market: Open-Air Market
Open: Daily, 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Feria Libre, also known as Mercado El Arenal, is the largest open-air market in Cuenca. It’s a sprawling space where you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing, electronics, and even live animals. The market’s sheer size and variety make it an adventure to explore.
We Recommend: Sampling some of the exotic fruits on offer, such as pitahaya (dragon fruit) or tomate de arbol (tree tomato), for a burst of local flavor.
Mercado de San Francisco
Location: Presidente Cordova and General Torres
Type of Market: Traditional Market
Open: Daily, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Mercado de San Francisco is a favorite among locals for its wide selection of fresh produce and traditional Ecuadorian goods. It’s smaller and less touristy than other markets, offering a more intimate shopping experience. Here, you can find beautiful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and other artisanal products.
We Recommend: Picking up a hand-woven Panama hat, a classic Ecuadorian item that makes for a stylish and practical souvenir.
Casa de la Mujer
Location: Calle Hermano Miguel between Juan Jaramillo and Honorato Vasquez
Type of Market: Artisanal Market
Open: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Casa de la Mujer is a cooperative market run by local women, offering a variety of handmade goods, including textiles, ceramics, and organic products. The market supports local female entrepreneurs and is an excellent place for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.
We Recommend: The hand-embroidered linens and clothing, which showcase the intricate skills of Cuenca’s talented artisans.
Plaza Rotary Market
Location: Plaza Rotary on 27 de Febrero
Type of Market: Flea Market
Open: Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Every Saturday, Plaza Rotary transforms into a bustling flea market where vendors sell a wide array of items, from antiques and second-hand goods to crafts and collectibles. It’s a great place to hunt for treasures and haggle for the best deals.
We Recommend: Scouring the stalls for vintage Ecuadorian coins and stamps, which make for a unique and historical memento of your time in Cuenca.
El Arenal
Location: Avenida de las Americas and Gran Colombia
Type of Market: Craft and Furniture Market
Open: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
El Arenal is known for its selection of handcrafted furniture and home decor items. Skilled artisans from the surrounding areas bring their finest work to sell, offering everything from traditional to modern designs. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to add a touch of Ecuadorian craftsmanship to their home.
We Recommend: The beautifully carved wooden furniture, which can often be customized to your preferences by the talented local woodworkers.
Mercado El Batan
Location: Avenida 12 de Abril and Agustin Cueva
Type of Market: Neighborhood Market
Open: Daily, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Mercado El Batan is a smaller, neighborhood market that offers a more relaxed shopping experience. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and enjoy a leisurely stroll while browsing the stalls for fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.
We Recommend: The freshly baked bread and pastries, which are perfect for a quick snack or to take home and enjoy with a cup of Ecuadorian coffee.
