Popular food markets of Rome

Rome is one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations and home to some of Italy's most delicious food. The thriving city is packed full of history and culture, and a key part of Roman life is visiting daily markets to pick up fresh produce.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice when it comes to visiting authentic Italian food markets in Rome, but with so many dotted across the city, it can be tricky to know which ones are most worth a visit. We've rounded up a list of the most popular food markets in Rome to help you plan your next food and drink tour of Italy.

Campo de' Fiori Market

Located in the historic centre of Rome, this outdoor market is one of the city's most popular tourist destinations and has a bustling, friendly atmosphere. You'll find meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, spices and oils, and since the market runs every morning except Sundays, you'll easily find the time to explore it during a trip to Rome. Plus, there are plenty of lovely cafes and restaurants dotted about the piazza to drop into before or after shopping.

Gianicolense Market

Located in Piazza San Giovanni di Dio, this is one of the biggest markets in Rome and caters predominantly to locals. It might look a little rough around the edges, but this only adds to its authenticity. The lack of tourists gives it a sense of history and tradition, which makes it the perfect spot to get a feel for local Roman life. It's open every day except Sunday between 6 am and 2 pm.

Esquilino Market

This indoor market is currently housed in a barracks in Principe Amedeo, but for hundreds of years, it was held in Piazza Vittorio. It is home to a vast range of vendors selling both local and international foods, as well as several fishmongers offering freshwater fish and seafood. It is open every day except Sunday between 7 am and 2 pm.

Campagna Amica Market

This farmer's market at Circo Massimo runs on weekends and is host to a variety of vendors offering goods produced locally in Lazio. You'll find cured meats, cheeses, mushrooms, freshly baked bread and jars of honey, and if you're feeling peckish during your visit, you can head to an outdoor seating area to eat the produce on-site. Be sure to wash everything down with a glass of regional wine which is served by the cup.

Testaccio Market

This large and lively covered market is centred around a popular cafe that often hosts live bands, making for a vibrant atmosphere. As well as the typical foodstuffs - meat, cheese, pasta and vegetables - you'll find clothes stalls, books, and pottery. You'll find it open between 6 am and 3 pm daily except Sundays.

Piazza dell'Unita Market

You'll find this indoor market at Cola di Rienzo in the luxurious neighbourhood of Prati. It is housed in an elegant white building that was built in the 1920s, and inside you'll find fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat and pasta vendors, as well as several flower stalls. It is open from 6.30 am until 7.30 pm Monday through Saturday.

Savoia Market

If you're looking for a truly local market experience, check out Savoia in Piazza Gimma. It isn't particularly popular with tourists but it has everything that a Roman resident needs - butchers, bakers, and greengrocers. If you're in the area and in need of supplies, this market makes for a far better choice of quality produce than the local supermarkets. It's open every morning except for Sundays.

Piazza San Cosimato Market

This small and relaxed market is the perfect spot for a leisurely shopping experience. Although the range of produce is limited, the setting just off the main square in Trastevere makes it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome's larger markets. Drop-in any day except Sunday between 6 am and 1.30 pm.

Nomentano Market

This 1920s brick building with its wrought iron gates is a beautiful shopping destination. You'll find a host of greengrocers and a butcher which sells readymade skewers and meatballs which are perfect for foodies staying in self-catered accommodation who want an easy and delicious home-cooked meal. Don't forget to check out the cafe to grab a cup of coffee before you leave. Nomentano is open between 7 am and 3 pm, Monday to Saturday.

Ex Mattatoio Market

This large farmers market is home to a range of locally produced Lazio cheeses, cured meats, preserves and sauces. The local vendors are always happy to chat and give you some tips on how to best prepare their goods, which is ideal for avid chefs who want to learn about authentic Roman cooking. You'll find the market open on weekends from 8.30 am, and it runs until 9 pm on Saturdays and until 2.30 pm on Sundays. It is closed all day on Sundays during August so bear this in mind if you'll be visiting Rome at this time of year.

Mercato Centrale

Right next to Roma Termini station, you'll find this underground food market which is packed full of talented chefs serving up fantastic local and international delicacies, including gelato, ramen, pizza and burgers. It has an ultra-modern and lively atmosphere, and it's open every day from 8 am until midnight so that you can grab a quick and delicious bite any time of day.

Food and Drink Tours of Rome's Food Markets

One of the best ways to see the most popular food markets in Rome is to take one of our food and drink tours. Namely those that focus on street food or a home cooking class that picks up fresh produce along the way.

Rome is packed full of incredible restaurants and cafes, however, there's something special about cooking for yourself. Especially with the help of a local host while staying in this incredible city. It helps you get a true sense of the freshness and quality of local produce, which is what makes Italian food so special.