San Miguel Market

San Miguel Market, although not one of the largest in the area, is still a lively and friendly place to spend a Wednesday morning. The traditional Spanish village of San Miguel de Salinas lies on a hill overlooking the Torrevieja salt lake. Usually a laid back sleepy village, Wednesdays see it come alive to the cries and banter of stall holders setting up. Market day is fiesta day in San Miguel, but then the Spanish really don't need much of an excuse to enjoy a party 🙂

San Miguel Market
Source: Flickr / Isriya Paireepairit

San Miguel Market Directions

Depending on where you're staying in Orihuela Costa, there are several routes to San Miguel. Those staying in Campoamor or Cabo Roig can simply get onto the CV-941 and follow it all the way to the village. From La Zenia and Playa Flamenca take the main road to Villamartin. After the plaza turn left to Captain Morgan's bar then right and follow the signs. From Punta Prima, La Florida and Los Balcones make your way onto the CV-95 and take it straight to the village.

San Miguel Market

San Miguel Market sets up in the central streets around Calle Juan XXIII from 08:30 – 13:30 every Wednesday. Being a predominantly Spanish village, you will find many local women haggling as if their lives depended on it. This is the accepted rule in Spain as most families buy their entire week's produce shopping at the market. Take note and see if your haggling skills can bag you a bargain or two. You may want to brush up on your Spanish language though.

Aside from the tonnes of wonderful fresh produce, you will find a great selection of pickled, dried, cured and preserved produce. The delicious marinaded olives don't come cheap but are worth the treat. A must buy to take home is a bottle or two of the great variety of inexpensive olive oil. Other popular cured items include cheeses, pickles, hams and sausages.

Freshly baked bread, rolls, baguettes and pies permeate the air, and the young ones will enjoy the homemade cakes, pastries and sweets. Hot cooked food and snacks are available from a number of tempting stalls. Thirsty visitors can choose from a good selection of cold soft drinks and beers, or enjoy a glass of wine or sangria. There is also tea, coffee and tasty fried churros.

General products at San Miguel Market include household items such as cushions, carpets, rugs and bed linen. There is also kitchenware, gardening items, DIY goods, flowers and plants. All sorts of clothing is available as well as excellent shoes and other leather goods. Electronics, watches, jewellery, mobile phone accessories, toys and dodgy designer items can also be found.

Playa Flamenca Market

Playa Flamenca Market has been pulling in the crowds for years, and continues to remain one of the busiest and most popular markets on the Costa Blanca.