Mercato Coperto di Como (Covered Market)
The Mercato Coperto di Como is the city’s largest indoor market, offering a wide range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. This bustling market is perfect for exploring the region’s food culture without any entry fee. It’s a great place to experience authentic local life and even sample some treats.
Location: Via Mentana, 5, Como
How to Get There: Bus number 1 or 5 to Piazza Cavour, then a 5-minute walk.
Free Entry: Open Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
Mercato di Piazza San Fedele
Held in the historic Piazza San Fedele, this open-air market offers an array of handmade crafts, antiques, and vintage items. It’s an ideal spot for treasure hunting, with plenty of unique finds and local products on display. Even if you’re just window shopping, the atmosphere is vibrant and quintessentially Italian.
Location: Piazza San Fedele, Como
How to Get There: A short walk from the city center or bus number 1 to Piazza Cavour.
Free Entry: Held every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Mercato del Lario (Lario Market)
This large outdoor market is located near Lake Como and offers everything from clothes and accessories to food and local specialties. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, especially on Saturdays when the market is in full swing. You can wander through the stalls, enjoy the lake views, and soak up the lively atmosphere for free.
Location: Viale Cesare Battisti, Como
How to Get There: Bus number 6 to Via Borgovico, near the lakefront.
Free Entry: Open on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Mercato di Ponte Chiasso
Located near the Swiss border, the Ponte Chiasso Market offers a mix of Italian and Swiss products, making it a unique cultural experience. Here, you’ll find everything from food to household items and textiles. The market provides a fascinating glimpse into the cross-border lifestyle that characterizes this region of Italy.
Location: Piazza XXIV Maggio, Como
How to Get There: Bus number 1 to Ponte Chiasso.
Free Entry: Open every Tuesday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Fiera di Sant’Abbondio
This is an annual fair held at the end of August to celebrate the patron saint of Como, Sant’Abbondio. The event includes a traditional market with food stalls selling local dishes, handicrafts, and agricultural products. Though it’s a special event rather than a regular market, it’s an authentic way to experience the region’s culinary and cultural traditions for free.
Location: Sant’Abbondio Basilica and surrounding areas
How to Get There: Bus number 7 to Via Regina Teodolinda.
Free Entry: Held annually around the 31st of August, with free access to market stalls.
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