Looking for an true Spanish market experience away from the busy tourist spots? The Jalon market offers a fantastic day out where you can find everything from local wines to rare antiques.
I’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your visit to both the Saturday and Tuesday markets in Jalon.
Jalón Saturday market
The Saturday market is the larger and more popular of the two, located in a lovely shady setting next to the Riu Xaló-Gorgos river. This is much more than your average Spanish market – it’s a flea market (or “rastro” as the locals call it) that attracts visitors from all around the region.
What makes this market special is the amazing variety on offer. You’ll find:
- Antiques and collectables
- Furniture and home décor
- Porcelain, ceramics and pottery
- Ornaments and paintings
- Handmade crafts and jewellery
- Rugs, cushions and embroidery
- Traditional Spanish costumes
- Books and vintage items
- Agricultural machinery
- Fossils and minerals
If you’re serious about antiques, you’ll want to take your time here. Don’t be afraid to try a bit of bartering – many stallholders will drop their prices quite substantially if an item has been taking up space in their home for a while!
The market is set up in the Passeig del Agermanament and runs from 10am to 4pm every Saturday. The earlier, the better – I’d recommend getting there on the earlier side if you want first pick of the goods.
Wine tasting after shopping
After browsing the stalls, you’ll likely be ready for a drink – and you’re in the perfect place! Just across the road from the market is one of Jalón Valley’s most famous wineries, Bodegas Xaló.
Here you can sample some of Spain’s best wines and take home a few bottles at prices far cheaper than you’d pay in a supermarket. The local muscatel is particularly good!
The market is conveniently located right in front of a small commercial area with bars and bodegas, so there are plenty of options to refresh yourself.
Tuesday market – Local produce and essentials
If you’re after fresh local produce and everyday essentials, the Tuesday market in the main square is worth a visit. While smaller than the Saturday market, it offers a great selection of:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Local cheeses and meats
- Olives and olive oil
- Bread and pastries
- Honey and preserves
- Flowers and plants
- Clothing and household items
This is where many locals do their weekly shop, so it’s a great place to immerse yourself in everyday Spanish life.
How to get to Jalón markets
The easiest way to reach Jalon is by car. From the coastal areas:
- Take the N-332 road
- Just before Benissa (when coming from Calpe), take the CV-750
- The town is about 5 kilometres inland from this junction
If you’re staying in Benidorm or other nearby towns, you might consider hiring a car for the day – it’s well worth it to visit this beautiful part of the Costa Blanca.
Tips for your visit
- Bring cash – most stallholders won’t accept cards
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing lots of walking
- Arrive early for the best selection, especially at the Saturday market
- Bring a shopping bag or two for your purchases
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases if you can – it helps with bartering!
- The markets get busy during peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds
- Make a day of it by combining your market visit with wine tasting and lunch
