Centre Market

Mercat del Centre is the main indoor food market in Vilanova i la Geltrú, a coastal town on the Garraf coast south of Barcelona. Trading from Plaça Soler i Carbonell since 1941, the market is particularly known for the Gamba de Vilanova, the local shrimp landed daily at the town's fishing port. Its 35 stalls open Monday to Friday from 8am to 2pm, with afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Friday from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, and on Saturdays from 7am to 2:30pm. It is one of three municipal markets in Vilanova i la Geltrú.

What to buy at Mercat del Centre

The stalls cover all the main food groups: fresh fish and seafood, meat and poultry, seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheese and dairy, bread, and fresh pasta. The fish counters are the standout, supplied directly from Vilanova's Llotja, the town's fish auction house. Look out for the local shrimp and whatever else has come in off the coast that morning. There's also a market bar on site if you want a coffee or a snack between stalls.

How to get to Mercat del Centre

The market sits on Plaça Soler i Carbonell in the town centre, within easy walking distance of Vilanova i la Geltrú train station. Regular bus services connect to the plaza. Paid parking is available in the surrounding streets for those arriving by car, and the hall itself is wheelchair accessible. Full stall listings and contact details are on the official market website, and the market takes calls on +34 938 930 085.

Where to stay in Vilanova i la Geltrú

Staying close to the seafront puts you well within walking distance of the Centre Market and the town's main streets. The Town Centre is your best base, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and the market itself. If you prefer something with more comfort, Hotel Cesar is a reliable option right in town.

For those who want to be near the beach as well as the market, the Seafront area works well, especially in warmer months when the whole waterfront comes alive.

What time does Mercat del Centre open?

Mercat del Centre opens Monday to Friday from 8am to 2pm, and adds an afternoon session on Tuesday and Friday from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Saturday starts earlier, at 7am, and runs to 2:30pm, which is the longest trading day of the week. The market is closed on Sunday.

What is Mercat del Centre famous for?

Mercat del Centre is famous for the Gamba de Vilanova, the local shrimp caught off the Garraf coast and landed at the town's own port. Fish reaches the counters directly from Vilanova's Llotja, the town's fish auction house, so the catch on the stalls is landed the same morning.

Can you eat at Mercat del Centre?

Yes, Bar del Mercat sits inside Mercat del Centre, serving coffee and snacks between rounds of the stalls. The market also runs a home delivery service with a base fee of €5, so a full shop can be sent to your door rather than carried back.

Does Mercat del Centre accept card payments?

Yes, Mercat del Centre accepts contactless and mobile payments alongside cash, so you can shop without needing to carry coins. With 35 independent stalls in the hall, it is still worth having a few euros on you, since terminals vary from one trader to the next.