Babel Street Market

Babel Street Market (Mercadillo de Babel) sets up every Thursday and Saturday from 8am to 2pm in Alicante's Babel district. Around 300 stalls spread across three streets, Calle Asilo, Calle Pardo Gimeno, and Calle Guillén de Castro, making it one of the largest street markets in Alicante. Bring cash, as most stalls don't accept cards.

Saturdays are busier than Thursdays, so get there early for the best selection. Many stalls start packing up around noon, well before the official 2pm closing time. The market runs alongside the permanent Babel Municipal Market, so you can combine both in one visit.

What you'll find

One side of the market focuses on fresh produce: seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, nuts, and spices from local growers. The other side is clothing, footwear, leather goods, jewellery, and household items. You'll also find flowers, plants, handicrafts, and antiques scattered between the stalls.

A standout is Aceitunas y Encurtidos Quinito, known locally for exceptional olives and pickles. There's also a medicinal herbs stall that regulars say is worth the trip alone.

How to get to Babel Street Market

The market sets up on Calle Asilo between Calle Pardo Gimeno and Calle Guillén de Castro in the Polígono Babel district (03007). Bus lines 03, 04, 251B, and 27 all stop nearby. Parking is available in the area but fills up fast on Alicante market days, especially Saturdays. Arrive before 9am if you're driving.

What days is Babel Street Market open?

Babel Street Market runs every Thursday and Saturday from 8am to 2pm. It does not open on public holidays but may operate the previous working day instead. Check the Alicante city council website for holiday schedule changes.

What can you buy at Babel Street Market?

Fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, bread, spices, nuts, and dried fruits on the produce side. Clothing, footwear, leather goods, jewellery, handicrafts, antiques, and flowers on the general goods side. Around 300 stalls in total across three streets.

Do I need cash at Babel Street Market?

Yes. Most stalls at the Babel mercadillo are cash only. There's no ATM at the market itself, so withdraw beforehand. A few clothing stalls may accept cards, but don't count on it.

Is there parking at Babel Street Market?

Street parking is available around the Babel district, but spaces go quickly after 9am on market days. Bus lines 03, 04, 251B, and 27 are a reliable alternative if you'd rather skip the search for a spot.