Markets and Street Fairs in Vitoria for Every Taste
Throughout the year, the capital of Álava hosts everything from traditional farmers’ and food markets to flea markets, craft fairs, collectors’ events, and iconic gatherings like the medieval market or the Christmas market.
Exploring the markets of Vitoria is also a wonderful way to combine cultural and sightseeing plans. The city offers unique settings—from its well-preserved historic center to expansive green areas and lively squares. At each stall, you’ll find carefully crafted, one-of-a-kind products that make the perfect souvenir of your visit to Vitoria-Gasteiz.
Below, we’ve put together a selection of the best markets in Vitoria so you can make the most of your time in the city.
Local Product Markets in Vitoria-Gasteiz
One of the best ways to take home an authentic memory of Vitoria-Gasteiz is by visiting its local product markets—spaces where tradition, sustainability, and quality come together. More than just points of sale, these markets offer a direct connection between producers and consumers, an opportunity to hear the stories behind each product and to reconnect with the region’s true flavors.
At the stalls, you’ll find freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses made in small family-run dairies, raw honey, organically grown legumes, traditional cured meats, and wines from the Rioja Alavesa designation of origin. These are local, seasonal products that honor the rhythm of the land and reflect the agricultural richness of Álava.
Many of these markets—like the Plaza de Abastos or the weekend traveling markets—also offer tastings, cooking activities, and areas where you can enjoy the products on the spot. Walking among the stalls, chatting with producers, and discovering unique ingredients becomes more than just shopping—it’s an immersion into local culture.
Santa Bárbara Market
The Santa Bárbara Market is one of the most traditional and iconic markets in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Located in the heart of the city under the distinctive pergola of Santa Bárbara Square, it features around 15 stalls.
This market is dedicated exclusively to high-quality food products: fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, honey, cheeses, oil, wine, cured meats, fresh meats, and artisan pastries. It’s one of the best places for those seeking zero-kilometer products and local commerce.
It opens on Thursday and Saturday mornings. From Kora Green City, it’s easily accessible by public transport or with a pleasant walk into the city center.
Simón Bolívar Square Market
The Simón Bolívar Square Market blends practical shopping with a lively atmosphere. It features numerous stalls focused mainly on personal goods: clothing, footwear, leather goods, accessories, and household items.
There are also several food stalls selling fruits and vegetables, bread, cheese, artisan sweets, plants, seeds, and flowers. This makes it a well-rounded market, perfect both for daily shopping and for strolling and discovering seasonal goods.
It takes place on Friday mornings, and can be easily reached from Kora Green City via public transportation.
Lakua-Arriaga Market
The Lakua-Arriaga Market is the largest market in Vitoria-Gasteiz, with a total of 92 stalls. It offers a wide and diverse range of products: local fruits and vegetables, legumes, cheeses, honey, cured meats, and artisan pastries, alongside a large area dedicated to textiles, home goods, leather products, accessories, and plant nurseries.
It’s one of the city’s most popular markets for those looking for variety and good prices, and a great stop to experience Vitoria’s modern flea market atmosphere in a multicultural and vibrant setting.
Located in the Lakua-Arriaga neighborhood, it takes place on Tuesday and Saturday mornings and is easily accessible by tram from Kora Green City.
Vitoria-Gasteiz Flea Market
The Vitoria Flea Market is a must for collectors and lovers of vintage and second-hand treasures. Across its 36 stalls, you’ll find coins, banknotes, stamps, postcards, vintage toys, vinyl records, out-of-print books, and all kinds of curiosities.
It takes place every Sunday at Plaza de España, right in the city center—making it the perfect plan to pair with a stroll through the historic old town.
Special Markets in Vitoria-Gasteiz
In addition to its weekly markets, Vitoria-Gasteiz hosts several themed markets throughout the year, attracting visitors interested in the city’s history, culture, and traditions.
Napoleonic Market of Vitoria
The Napoleonic Market of Vitoria began over 15 years ago and is held in spring, making it one of the first major events of the year. Its aim is to bring to life the history and culture of the Napoleonic era in Álava.
Featuring around 120 stalls, the market stands out for its historical focus, centered on the Battle of Vitoria and the Napoleonic occupation. In addition to local products, visitors can enjoy historical reenactments, theatre performances, parades, army marches, traditional music, and the famous skirmish show.
The market typically takes place between March and April, with dates varying each year. It is held in central locations such as Plaza de España, easily accessible from Kora Green City on foot or by public transport. For those staying there, it’s a perfect opportunity to discover Vitoria from a historical perspective and enjoy a unique festive atmosphere where past and present come together.
Medieval Market of Vitoria
The Medieval Market of Vitoria-Gasteiz is a must for history enthusiasts. For several days, the city’s historic center is completely transformed with stalls that recreate life in the Middle Ages.
Visitors can browse handcrafted products, traditional food, ceramics, textiles, and period items, while enjoying live music, street theatre, and family-friendly activities. It’s a cultural and entertaining experience that takes you back in time.
The market is usually held at the end of summer. We recommend checking the official annual program for exact dates.
Christmas Market in Vitoria
If you visit the city in December, the Christmas Market in Vitoria is a must. Typically located in Plaza de los Fueros, it features dozens of wooden stalls that create a warm, festive atmosphere.
What you’ll find at the stalls:
- Handmade Christmas decorations and nativity figurines
- Candles, traditional toys, and seasonal pastries
- Local gourmet products perfect for gifting
- Solidarity stalls run by local associations and NGOs
Highlights include:
- Concerts and street performances
- Children’s workshops
- Parades and craft demonstrations
- The Nativity Route and Christmas lights
The market runs throughout December and into early January, and is easily accessible from Kora Green City by public transport.
Collectors’ Market in Vitoria
The Collectors’ Market of Vitoria-Gasteiz is one of the city’s most unique events, especially for those who love items with history. Held on several dates throughout the year, it brings together expert exhibitors from the Basque Country and nearby provinces.
Here, you’ll find coins, stamps, postcards, comics, vinyl records, out-of-print books, classic toys, vintage cameras, and rare collectibles. Each edition draws collectors, tourists, and curious visitors alike in search of treasures with sentimental value.
The market usually takes place in central, well-connected venues.
Lan ta Lan Christmas Market in Vitoria-Gasteiz
During the holiday season, Vitoria-Gasteiz lights up with color and tradition, thanks to the charming Lan ta Lan market. Located in central squares across the city, this market has become a must-visit for those seeking heartfelt gifts and handmade products that capture the spirit of the season.
In wooden stalls reminiscent of Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets, you’ll find artisan candles, wooden toys, festive decorations, cozy textiles, handmade jewelry, and a beautifully curated selection of unique items. But Lan ta Lan is more than just shopping—it also offers creative workshops, tastings of traditional Basque sweets, and live concerts that fill the air with festive melodies.
Held over several weeks in December, it’s an ideal plan for families and anyone looking to enjoy a different kind of city stroll during the holidays.
From Kora Green City, you can reach it easily on foot or by public transport in just a few minutes.
Where to Stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz
Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference between an ordinary holiday getaway and an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning to visit Vitoria-Gasteiz’s Christmas markets this season, Kora Green City is the perfect place to stay.
Just minutes from the historic city center, Kora Green City combines modern design, sustainability, and comfort in a space designed to make you feel at home—whether you’re staying for a few days or planning a longer visit. The fully equipped apartments include a kitchen, living area, and workspace, making them ideal for couples, families, or travelers looking for a flexible alternative to a traditional hotel.
Practical Tips for Enjoying the Markets
Vitoria’s markets are popular and often get quite busy, so a bit of planning can make your visit even more enjoyable.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
- Bring cash, as not all stalls accept cards
- Check the schedule for workshops and activities
- Taste the local specialties: cheeses, cured meats, sweets, and wines
FAQs
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Yes. The Santa Bárbara Market is partially covered under the square’s pergola, making it the best option when it rains.
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There are public underground parking lots in the city center, located close to Santa Bárbara Square and Plaza de España.
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The Santa Bárbara Market and the Sunday flea market in Plaza de España are the closest to the old town.
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If you’re visiting for just one day, don’t miss the Santa Bárbara Market and the Sunday flea market (if your visit falls on a Sunday). Together, they offer a great glimpse into Vitoria’s local and traditional atmosphere.
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