Las Tablas, is a vibrant town known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals. For expats and digital nomads who have chosen this picturesque location as their temporary or permanent home, exploring the local markets is a must-do activity. These markets offer a glimpse into the daily life of Panamanians and provide an opportunity to purchase fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique souvenirs. Here’s a guide to the best markets in Las Tablas that you should not miss.
Mercado Publico de Las Tablas
Location: Avenida Belisario Porras, Las Tablas
Type of Market: Public Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 5 PM
The Mercado Publico de Las Tablas is the town’s central market where locals come to buy and sell a variety of goods. From fresh fruits and vegetables to meat and seafood, this market has everything you need for your daily cooking. The bustling atmosphere and the colorful stalls make it a lively place to explore and practice your Spanish with the vendors.
We Recommend: Try the fresh ceviche from one of the seafood stalls – it’s a refreshing and delicious local delicacy that’s perfect for the tropical climate.
Feria del Agricultor
Location: Calle Segundo Villareal, Las Tablas
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Saturdays, 6 AM – 12 PM
Every Saturday, local farmers and producers gather at the Feria del Agricultor to offer their freshest produce. This is the place to find organic fruits and vegetables, homemade cheeses, and artisanal bread. The market is also a social event where you can meet fellow expats and locals while enjoying a morning of shopping.
We Recommend: Don’t miss out on the locally produced honey – it’s pure, natural, and full of flavor, making it a sweet souvenir or a healthy addition to your pantry.
Las Tablas Artisan Market
Location: Plaza Simón Bolívar, Las Tablas
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Sundays, 9 AM – 4 PM
Located in the heart of Las Tablas, the Artisan Market is a treasure trove for those looking for unique handcrafted items. Here, you’ll find beautifully made Panamanian molas, wood carvings, jewelry, and textiles. The market is not only a great place to find gifts and souvenirs but also to support local artisans and their traditional crafts.
We Recommend:: Pick up a traditional Panamanian sombrero pintado – these handwoven hats are not only stylish but also a symbol of the country’s folkloric heritage.
El Mercadito Las Tablas
Location: Via Porras, near Parque Porras, Las Tablas
Type of Market: Boutique Market
Open: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 7 PM
El Mercadito is a charming boutique market that offers a curated selection of local goods, including gourmet food items, organic products, and handcrafted gifts. It’s a great spot for expats and digital nomads looking for high-quality, unique items that are hard to find elsewhere in Las Tablas.
We Recommend:: Try the artisanal Panamanian chocolate – it’s rich, flavorful, and made with locally sourced cacao, representing the country’s burgeoning chocolate industry.
Las Tablas Flea Market
Location: Just outside the town center, along the main road to Chitre
Type of Market: Flea Market
Open: First Sunday of each month, 8 AM – 2 PM
For those who love to hunt for bargains and unique finds, the Las Tablas Flea Market is the place to be. Once a month, vendors set up shop to sell a wide array of items, including second-hand clothing, vintage goods, furniture, and more. It’s a fun way to spend a Sunday morning and you never know what treasures you might uncover.
We Recommend:: Keep an eye out for traditional Panamanian textiles – you can find vintage molas and other hand-embroidered items that carry a piece of the country’s cultural history.
La Plaza de El Valle
Location: Central Las Tablas, near the church of Santa Librada
Type of Market: Outdoor Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 6 PM
La Plaza de El Valle is a bustling outdoor market where you can find a variety of everyday items, including clothing, accessories, and household goods. It’s a great place to mingle with the locals and practice your bargaining skills. The market is also known for its street food vendors, offering tasty local snacks and drinks.
We Recommend:: Sample the empanadas from a street food vendor – these savory pastries are a popular snack in Panama and come with a variety of delicious fillings.
Please note that the market names and details provided are fictional and for illustrative purposes only. If you are planning to visit any markets in Las Tablas, Panama, it is recommended to verify the existence and operational hours of the markets beforehand.
