A Must‑Visit Spot for Tourists: Bilbao’s Ribera Market
The Ribera Market in Bilbao — Photo: Mercado de la Ribera on Facebook
The Ribera Market in Bilbao sits like a ship run aground on the right bank of the Nervión River, next to the Church of San Antón, in what used to be the old Main Square or Plaza Vieja. Besides being one of the best places to shop for fresh produce, it is a must‑visit for travelers and tourists who want to discover the largest covered market in Europe —Guinness record included.
It’s easy to get there. The market stands at the end of each of the Seven Streets of Bilbao’s Old Town. And if you’re not nearby, the best option is to take the tram, which drops you off right at the building’s doorstep.
The Ribera Market is also part of Bilbao’s history, taking us back to a past of street vendors who set up their stalls in an apparently chaotic way, in contrast with the modern and functional present of today’s city, where architectural values are given great importance.
Its origins date back to the 14th century, when farmers, livestock breeders, and fish sellers from nearby villages came to the area to sell their products. At the end of the 19th century, a metal structure made of cast and wrought iron and glass was built to protect the vendors, although—as you can see in the photo—the shelter soon became too small.
Things remained that way until August 1929, when the building designed by architect Pedro Ispizua was inaugurated. Very modern for its time, the new construction resembled a factory, with no interior columns and open spaces that allowed ventilation and prevented unpleasant smells. On the outside, the market featured—and still features—an eclectic Art Deco decoration, mixing stained‑glass windows, decorative elements, latticework, and floral motifs.
The interior of the current building is divided into two floors with a total surface area of 10,000 square meters, following the major renovation carried out in 2010 due to structural issues. Today, the market is filled with natural light, and its most striking features are the impressive original stained‑glass windows, which were recovered and restored by expert glassmakers.
…and the central dome, built with a mixed slab of concrete and glass similar to the one that had been demolished.
Today, Bilbao’s Ribera Market is a place full of life and color. Across its 10,000 square meters, two floors, and 59 stalls, you can find all kinds of fresh food. Like this poultry stand, for example, where they even sell chicken combs and feet.
Or at this stall, where you’ll find unskinned rabbits and freshly hunted partridges.
Or this one, where they sell all kinds of mushrooms.
The market also has a restaurant or gastro‑bar where cooking happens to the rhythm of music, combining gastronomy with live performances. It even offers a daily set menu that feels like a real treat. And if you ask, they’ll even cook whatever you’ve just bought at the market.
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