Central Market of Almansa

The building was designed by architect Miguel López González and opened in 1947, then fully renovated in 2014 under the Mercurio modernisation project. It is wheelchair accessible, and because everything trades under one roof rather than across a square, the 20 counters can be worked through in a single circuit in any weather. Stalls take cash, contactless and mobile payments. Saturday is the one day the pattern shifts, opening half an hour earlier at 8am and running to 2:30pm. It is one of a handful of covered halls across Albacete province.

The stalls cover the full range of daily staples: fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, fish and seafood, cheese and dairy, and bread. Selection is at its best during morning hours. The extended Thursday and Friday hours are handy if morning shopping isn't possible.

Almansa is a small town, so your best bet is to stay close to the centre, where the market and the main sights are all within easy walking distance. Try Town Centre for the most convenient base, or look at options around Casco Histórico if you want to be near the castle and the old streets.

There aren't many large hotels here, but you'll find comfortable guesthouses and small hotels that suit a short stay well.

The market is on Calle Corredera in the centre of Almansa, an easy walk from the town square and the hilltop castle. Street parking is available on surrounding streets. Almansa is compact enough that most visitors can reach the market on foot from wherever they're staying.