The world's largest markets (2024)

Arguably one of the greatest experiences we can enjoy when visiting a well-known city is going to the market stalls. In part, this can help us to get to know the local culture in greater depth and even find products, food or clothes that can serve as souvenirs. Therefore, if you want to know the biggest markets, below we will be talking about some of them.

1. Yiwu Market, China

Many warehouses in China are huge; however, the Yiwu market, also known as Futian, has become the largest wholesale market on the planet. It has dimensions spanning 5.5 million square meters and extending over 7 km.

From this market come almost all the products that will go to Chinese bazaars around the world. For the most part, watches, gifts, toys, clothing and electronic items are sold, all of which are sold wholesale. Even if you manage to visit it, it will take several days to go through it completely.

2. Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

With an occupation of 7 hectares, the Queen Victoria Market is consolidated as the largest market we can find in the southern hemisphere area. Moreover, the size is not the only attribute that stands out of this market, but it is also one of the oldest, since it opened its doors in 1898.

As commerce began to expand rapidly, Queen Victoria Market grew exponentially to become one of Melbourne’s best-known sites. It is even the center of nightlife and culture in this Australian city, and the government is trying to have it declared a World Heritage Site.

3. Central de Abastos, Mexico City

In the list of the largest markets in the world, one of the most outstanding is the Central de Abastos located in Mexico City. It stands out as the largest food market in the world. The stalls of this market have been distributed in a 327 hectares plan, where it is possible to have access to food of all kinds and rental cars.

In the central de abastos, you will find different types of people; among them are the bodegueros, trolley girls and even loaders who use carts to carry the goods through the market.

4. Merkato, Addis Ababa

Also known as Addis Ketema, Merkato market is one where open-air trading is practiced. It is located in Addis Ababa, which is the capital of Ethiopia, and is also the largest open market on the African continent. Its specialty is agricultural products grown in the locality, for example: coffee, some tubers or spices.

The origin of this market dates back to the years of colonization that Italy carried out in Ethiopia. This is the reason why its name is Mercato, which means Market in Italian. Today, its extension is about 15 hectares and covers an entire neighborhood.

5. Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar is also one of the largest in the world, as well as being one of the most famous in existence. It is located in the Old City of Istanbul, and its extension reaches up to 64 streets. It is also possible to enter it through 22 gates. As is the case with almost all markets, the Grand Bazaar is organized into associations, among which are jewelers, hatters, artisans and many others who present what they sell in the streets.

It is also one of the oldest markets, since its origin dates back to 1455, at the time when Mehmed II undertook the construction of a bazaar near the palace. In this way, some artisans’ workshops were placed around it, and little by little, the streets were covered with vendors, and the wall was built around it. You can learn more about the Grand Bazaar with a private tour of Istanbul.

6. Chatuchak Market, Bangkok

Another of the main trade centers in the world is Chatuchak, which is located in Bangkok. It stands out for the fact that it has 140,000 square meters, where you can find any kind of products: Starting with plants, handicrafts, art, furniture, pets and food products.

One of the most common practices in this market is bargaining, so you can get a good price if you know how to negotiate. It should be noted that this Bangkok market is only open on weekends.

One of its most popular sections is the restaurants, where it is possible to taste succulent dishes of Thai origin. One of the most outstanding are the famous insect snacks, if you want to taste a grilled scorpion, the Chatuchak market in Bangkok is the right place for you.

7. Tsukiji Market, Tokyo

Finally, if you are a sushi lover, you will love this market. The area around Tsukiji Market is undoubtedly the best place in the world where you can taste Japanese food. This Tokyo market is the largest fish bazaar in the world. In it, we can be eyewitnesses of more than 450 different species of fish and seafood.

Its history dates back to the early sixteenth century and one of the most important points that you cannot miss in this market is the tuna auction. This starts between 5:00 and ends at 6:15 in the morning, basically tons of tuna are auctioned every day.

As we can see, there is no doubt that the largest markets in the world are capable of providing countless possibilities for visitors who come to them every day. After getting to know them all, there is no excuse to skip a visit to the market of the city you are visiting. Without a doubt, it will be the best experience you will have in a long time.