World's Best Open-Air Markets

Filled with colorful handicrafts, local delicacies and all manner of used and antique goods, open-air markets across the globe offer unique insight into a nation's culture. From Morocco to Japan , Thailand to Turkey , we've chosen our favorite open-air markets across the globe.
By: Valerie Conners
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Camden Market, London

Comprising 3 separate markets, London's Camden Market is one of the city's largest, most eclectic and popular shopping enclaves. Head to the Lock section for crafts, or wander the Stables for punk-rock fashion. Savvy shoppers can pick up everything from vintage records to bikes and bean bags. Keep your ears and eyes open; live music and other entertainment abound.

Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech, Morocco

Upon arriving at Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech's sprawling central market, you’ll feel as though all your senses have been walloped at once. During the day, the square fills with snake charmers, henna tattoo artists and storytellers, while the adjacent souk teems with vendors hawking every imaginable thing, from shoes to lanterns to spices. At night, a food market unfolds, with a maze of vendors grilling meats and other local delicacies, such as sheep heads.

Chatuchak, Bangkok

Gird your loins for one of the most intense shopping experiences you'll ever have: a visit to Chatuchak, Bangkok's weekend market. As many as 15,000 vendors spread out across 35 acres, selling all kinds of products, including T-shirts, handbags and traditional handicrafts. Arrive hungry; a plethora of food stalls serve a delectable world of treats, from spicy noodle dishes to deep-fried insects.

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey

Wear your sneakers to the Grand Bazaar; you'll do plenty of walking. The market stretches across 60 streets in the heart of Istanbul and receives as many as 400,000 shoppers daily. You can bargain for antique jewelry and weapons, water pipes, and decorative mirrors. Then, unwind with a strong Turkish coffee and pastry, or visit an on-site hammam to regain your strength.  

Chichicastenango Market, Chichicastenango, Guatemala

Known locally as ChiChi Market, this is one of the world's best handicraft markets and a must-see for visitors to Guatemala, many of whom make special trips to the town just to stop at the market. In addition to traditional crafts such as woven bags and tapestries, you'll find hand-painted pottery and food at the many stalls.

Chandni Chowk, Delhi, India

If you're traveling through Delhi and have the sudden urge to go native, you'll find a sea of saris, colorful textiles, sparkling bangle bracelets and more at Chandni Chowk. Meander through narrow walkways and alleyways as you admire the goods. If you dare to purchase anything, be prepared to bargain — in Delhi, the act has been lifted to art form.

Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo

Even if you're not a seafood lover, Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market is a sight to behold. Arrive early (around 4:30 a.m.) to witness the spectacle. Attend the seafood auction, and wander stalls selling all manner of edible marine life, including monstrous fish and exotic creatures from the deep that you’ll find only in Asia Pacific waters. As for the sushi being sold from some vendors? It's divine. 

Khan el-Khalili, Cairo, Egypt

Shopping at Cairo's Khan el-Khalili is like strolling through history; the market dates to the 14th century. Ogle the wares in more than 900 shops and stalls, bargaining for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, perfume and ornate glassware.

Temple Street Night Market, Hong Kong

Few experiences in the world compete with a visit to an Asian night market. Hong Kong's Temple Street is no exception. Make like a local and purchase jade trinkets to ward off evil, bargain for tea sets, get your fortune told by a parrot (yes, a parrot), and eat your way through a maze of food stalls, sampling rice and noodle dishes.

Kashgar, China

Trying to off-load a horse? Kashgar is the place to do it. There are 20-plus bazaars in Kashgar, and the markets here attract some 200,000 people on the busiest days. Beyond livestock, visitors can shop for all sorts of goods, including vegetables, clothes and textiles, as well as handicrafts. Food plays a central role in Kashgar; indulge in a plate of roasted lamb or kebabs.

Pike Place Market, Seattle

Pike Place has earned its reputation as one of Seattle's top attractions for a reason: This covered market is the nation's oldest and sprawls across nearly 10 acres. The seafood counter, where vendors toss enormous, whole fish to one another, is always a major draw, but also take time to admire booksellers, antique dealers and artisan cheesemakers.

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