If you’re visiting Javea and want to experience authentic Spanish life, you’ll find the local markets are one of the best ways to do this. From fresh produce picked from local farms to handcrafted items you won’t find anywhere else, these markets give you a real taste of how locals live and shop.
I’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of Javea’s markets. You’ll discover where to find the freshest ingredients, the best local crafts, and some truly unique experiences that’ll make your trip special.
Javea Market (Every Thursday throughout the year)
The Javea market is held every Thursday in the square “Plaza de la Constitución” in the Javea Old Town. It features a wide range of stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, ornaments, tapestry, leather goods, and more.
The stalls here are packed with everything you can imagine – fresh fruit and vegetables from local farms, clothing, leather goods, ornaments, and plenty of souvenirs to take home. It’s the perfect place to pick up some traditional Spanish items at reasonable prices.
You’ll see locals doing their weekly shopping alongside tourists, and everyone’s happy to chat and share recommendations. Make sure to try some of the traditional Spanish foods on offer – the Catalan pizza (cocas) are particularly delicious and made fresh on-site.
The Thursday market runs from 8am to 2pm every Thursday, so I’d recommend getting there early when the selection is at its best and before it gets too crowded.
Javea Municipal Market (Monday to Saturday)
The Javea Municipal Market is an indoor food market that takes place every day at the Plaza Celestino Pons. Inside, you’ll find dedicated stalls for everything – butchers with the freshest cuts of meat, fishmongers with the daily catch, fruit and vegetable vendors with produce that’s often picked the same day, and specialists selling everything from homemade baked goods to artisanal cheese.
The best part? There are several bars and cafes with seating areas right inside the market. It’s such a lovely way to spend a morning – grab a coffee and a pastry, then wander around the stalls picking up ingredients for dinner.
The market is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 2pm, then again from 5pm until 8pm. On Saturdays, it runs from 8:15am until 2pm.
Market Del Riurau (every Sunday in Jesús Pobre)
This is hands down the most special market experience you’ll have in the Javea area. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Javea to the small village of Jesús Pobre, but trust me, it’s worth every minute of the journey.
Jesús Pobre sits in a beautiful valley surrounded by orange, almond, and olive groves, and this market truly celebrates the incredible produce that comes from these local farms. The quality here is outstanding because everything is harvested locally and sold fresh. Jesús Pobre is also home to the Market Del Riurau (also known as the Farmer’s market).
The market has two different schedules depending on the season. From September until late June, it runs from 9am until 2pm. But here’s where it gets really special – during summer (late June until September), the market moves to the evening, running from 6pm until 11pm.
This market is well worth the visit – from food, wares, entertainment and scenic pretty views, you absolutely need to visit once during your trip to Javea. Nearby Jesus Pobre is also the La Sella Golf resort, one of the best golf courses near Javea. Jesús Pobre is well-loved for its excellent local fresh produce, as its all harvested from their fields and sold in the Market Del Riurau.
I can’t recommend the summer evening market enough! There’s something magical about wandering through the stalls as the sun sets, with live music playing and people dancing with drinks in hand. It’s one of the most authentic Spanish experiences you’ll find in the area.
What to buy at Market Del Riurau
The olive oil is some of the finest you’ll find anywhere. It’s hand-picked from their own olive trees and pressed locally by the farmers. Yes, it costs a bit more than supermarket oil, but the quality is sublime and you’re supporting local producers. Pair that with the tomatoes because are incredible – so full of flavour that they’re perfect in salads or just eaten on their own with some fresh mozzarella. I always stock up when I visit.
Don’t miss the baked goods either. The Spanish sponge cake (bizcocho) and Catalan pizza (coca) are all homemade and absolutely delicious. They’re generous with their portions too, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
Beyond food, there are stalls selling handmade crafts, woven bags, and unique ornaments that make perfect souvenirs. Everything is locally made and you won’t find these items anywhere else.
Even if you’re not planning to buy much, the atmosphere alone is worth the visit. There are drinks stalls serving ice-cold beer and wine, which you can enjoy in the many seating areas throughout the market. They even serve drinks in special Market Del Riurau plastic cups that you can take home as a souvenir!
Many visitors bring their own deck chairs and tables to set up their own little picnic area. You’ll see families and friends sharing food and drinks while enjoying the live music and the lively atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dancing along – it’s that kind of place!
The market is surrounded by those stunning valley views, and during the summer evening sessions, you’ll get to enjoy beautiful sunset views that make the whole experience even more special.
