The Mercado la Esperanza is a lively market held in an impressive 19th-century hall of the same name. The cast-iron structure contains a range of vendors who stock their stalls with food and other products. Chat with sellers and fellow tourists to get a glimpse into the local culture and culinary traditions.
Admire the majestic building, which has glass panels decorating the upper layer of its exterior. Stone pillars and their rectangular foundations rise up the corners. Inspect the intricate white pediment and narrow columns above the main portal that leads to the market within.
Head downstairs for the aquatic section, where you’ll find all types of fish and seafood. The upstairs area is filled with meats, cheeses, fruit and other intriguing meals and ingredients from the Cantabria region. Explore the range of traditional products that include coffee beans and jars of jams and marmalades. Check out the frozen foods section and try the breads and herbs.
Go to the stalls often set up on the Plaza de la Esperanza outside the market hall. Here, you’ll find clothing and accessories. Relax with snacks and drinks at a café with tables arranged on the square.
The market first opened its doors to the public in 1904. Visit today for its lively atmosphere, high quality and fairly low prices. The market opens Monday through Saturday from morning to early afternoon. On weekdays, it opens again for several hours in the late afternoon.
The Mercado la Esperanza is in the northwestern part of the old quarter that marks the center of Santander. Get a bus to a stop on a main avenue bordering the market and traverse the historic center’s narrow alleys on foot. Look for some of the nearby highlights, including the Plaza Porticada, Santander Cathedral and Santander City Hall.
