Welcome to Manta, a coastal city that’s a haven for expats and digital nomads alike. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, Manta also boasts a variety of markets that cater to all tastes and needs. From bustling food markets offering fresh local produce to artisanal craft markets, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best markets in Manta, where you can shop for groceries, souvenirs, clothing, and more.
Mercado Central
Location: Avenida 4 de Noviembre and Calle 13
Type of Market: Traditional Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 5 PM
Mercado Central is the heart of Manta’s local commerce, offering a true taste of the city’s daily life. This bustling market is where locals come to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. It’s also a great place to experience the local culture and practice your Spanish with friendly vendors.
We Recommend: Trying the freshly caught camaron (shrimp), which is a staple in the coastal cuisine and can be found in abundance here.
Tarqui Artisanal Market
Location: Avenida 113 and Calle 115, Barrio Tarqui
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
The Tarqui Artisanal Market is a colorful and vibrant space where local artisans sell their handmade goods. You’ll find everything from traditional Ecuadorian textiles and jewelry to leather goods and pottery. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
We Recommend: Picking up a Panama hat, which, despite its name, originates from Ecuador and is a classic piece of local craftsmanship.
Los Esteros Market
Location: Calle 119 and Avenida 108
Type of Market: Food Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 4 PM
Los Esteros Market is a favorite among foodies for its wide selection of fresh produce and seafood. It’s smaller than Mercado Central but offers a more intimate shopping experience. This is where you can find some of the freshest ingredients for your home-cooked meals.
We Recommend: Sampling the ceviche de pescado, a local delicacy made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice and spices, often sold by street vendors outside the market.
Mall del Pacifico
Location: Avenida Malecon and Calle 23
Type of Market: Shopping Mall
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 9 PM
For a more modern shopping experience, Mall del Pacifico offers a wide range of stores, from international brands to local boutiques. It’s also a great place to escape the heat with its air-conditioned environment, food court, and entertainment options.
We Recommend: Visiting the local boutiques for Ecuadorian-made clothing and accessories that showcase the country’s fashion talent.
Barrio Cordova Market
Location: Intersection of Calle 24 and Avenida 25
Type of Market: Neighborhood Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 5 PM
Barrio Cordova Market is a smaller, neighborhood market where you can find a variety of goods, from household items to clothing. It’s less touristy and offers a glimpse into the everyday life of Manta’s residents.
We Recommend: Trying the local snacks and street food, such as empanadas or bolon de verde, which are often sold by vendors around the market.
Plaza Civica
Location: Central Manta, near the Malecon
Type of Market: Open-Air Market
Open: Weekends, 8 AM – 5 PM
Plaza Civica is an open-air market that comes to life on weekends. It’s a social hub where you can find a mix of food vendors, local crafts, and sometimes live music or cultural performances.
We Recommend: Exploring the stalls for artisanal chocolate made in Ecuador, known for its high-quality cacao beans.
Feria de Muebles
Location: Avenida de la Cultura
Type of Market: Furniture Market
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Feria de Muebles is a specialized market for those looking to furnish their homes. Here, you can find a range of furniture from traditional to modern designs, all crafted by local artisans.
We Recommend: Investing in a handmade hammock, perfect for relaxing in Manta’s tropical climate.
These markets in Manta offer a diverse shopping experience for expats and digital nomads, blending the traditional with the modern and providing a taste of Ecuadorian culture and hospitality. Whether you’re grocery shopping, souvenir hunting, or just exploring, Manta’s markets are sure to enrich your stay in this coastal city.
