Are you really planning to have a wonderful vacation in Palermo? Then you absolutely cannot miss the markets among the attractions. Perhaps not everyone knows this, but they are true places where time seems to have stood still, and despite the passage of time, they never cease to hold their historical value in every aspect.
Palermo Market
The important thing to keep in mind is that they are always open, every day, from morning until the afternoon, and sometimes even until the evening. But which are the three most famous and historic ones?
Ballarò Market: Located in the Albergheria district, precisely from Corso Tukory to Piazza Casa Professa. It is currently the most famous market in Palermo, a truly historic market also frequently visited by tourists and considered the quintessential popular market. It seems that for many locals, shopping among its narrow streets is a truly unmissable appointment, a tradition passed down from father to son. Ballarò is sometimes called the fish market, but in reality, although fresh fish is the star, you can also buy meat, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, cold cuts, and even household goods and cleaning supplies here. There is also plenty of street food, and you can buy cooked food like meat, fish, and vegetables: typical specialties include boiled vegetables, baked or boiled onions, panelle (chickpea flour fritters), cazzilli (potato croquettes), quarume (veal entrails), and octopus.
Vucciria Market: This second market, also of great importance, is located in Piazza Caracciolo and the surrounding area. It is also a very ancient and historic place, which over time has undergone many changes and renovations. Among the many ingredients available, you can find typical Sicilian cuisine items such as sardines, olives, tomatoes, lemons, and aromatic herbs. It is a very unique place; during the day, it may be sparsely populated and therefore perfect for a pleasant walk through its alleys. But if you return in the evening, as the sun sets, you will see the market fill with people and come alive. Its name, Vucciria, is famous as a fish market, but the name derives from “bucceria,” which in French also means butcher shop. In short, you can find both fish and meat here.
Capo Market: The third market is located on Via S. Gregorio, from Porta Carini near the courthouse, extending along Beati Paoli, S. Agostino, and Cappuccinelle streets. Together with Ballarò, it is currently the most populated and frequented market. It is a true labyrinth of streets and alleys where you can buy meat or fish, as well as fruits and vegetables, all under awnings that protect people from the scorching sun.
