Mercado Central
Mercado Central things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIDescription
Ratings
Posts
Central Market (Mercado Central) is an indoor large shopping area located right in the middle of the historic center of Guatemala City (Zone 1). However, some of the same merchants sell products outdoors right in front of it. It is a three level shopping area but is not visibly seen as a large building. In fact most of these three stores are almost underground so don’t be looking for a tall three story building. The market is located at the rear of the Metropolitan Cathedral and this is how we found it. You will see a lot of vendors selling diverse merchandise and then follow the steps down to observe colorful and lively stands with fruits and vegetables, meat, spices, teas and coffee, you name it. Vendors in the market also sell items ranging from handmade items to mass produced souvenirs, knickknacks, art pieces. It was our favorite place due to its atmosphere and vitality, i.e., a place for people watching, buying souvenirs, trying different exotic treats and unknown foods, or simply exploring the shopping scene in Guatemala City. It falls into a “MUST visit” category in the city and of course traversing those these very colorful and joyful rows and rows of produce and goods is FREE unless you decide to purchase an item/ pay for food (and bring CASH). The market has three parts to it - grocery items, prepared food/restaurant area, and souvenirs/ knick knacks. Food items range from locally sourced to freshly baked right at the market. Dining is available for those who want to enjoy a prepared meal or sample unique varieties of tea, pastries, meats, cheese. The top level is the best area to find artisans hard at work. Tourists may find jewelry, pottery, clothing, and leather items. It is an overall rewarding experience and is highly recommended. Allocate somewhere between half an hour to few hours to visit the place.
Vera GordonVera Gordon
30
For an authentic market experience, visit Mercado Central. You will find the best prices for souvenirs and any other items you may be looking for including fresh fruit, flowers, candy and everything else in between. Just be warned that some food stalls may charge you higher prices as a tourist which was the case at Rosita's restaurant stall (My mom did recommend "Dona Mela" but unfortunately they were too packed) and most stalls may not be veggie friendly since this isn't common in Guatemala. (I did say, "Authentic", after all.)
Chris DavilaChris Davila
00
I loved this market in the middle of Guatemala City. It is close to the park of the constitution. You can find goods, food, spices, leather goods and so much more inside. Outside I was able to find the famous goat milk squeezed fresh. At the time, my views on dairy were different but I still didn’t enjoy it. Yes, it was warm but you could tell there was a lot of mucous. I wouldn’t participate again but it’s an interesting thing they do here in the city.
Andie PriceAndie Price
00
The Mercado Central is awesome! There is a food court which a lot of good options! Many locals eat there! The market has a meat section, a veggie and fruit section, and a souvenir section. I love the necklaces made by mini beats and bought two plus a pair of earrings for 185 GTQ in total. Small bargain (10%-15% off) is possible, and the vendors are very nice. When we said no, they kindly said ok and smiled. Highly recommended for tourists!
Ruoqing Wang-CendejasRuoqing Wang-Cendejas
00
A great place to come to shop for souvenirs. Lots of colorful textiles, purses, shirts, tablecloths, napkins, and tons of knickknacks. Most places do take credit cards, but not all. Also, they are less likely to barter if you use a credit card. I didn’t see any bathrooms, so pee before you come. The second floor has lots of merchandise and the bottom floor is primarily food and food stands. Watch your valuables.
Ted EckmanTed Eckman
10
This place is neat! I have been to a lot of central markets around the world, and this one hangs well with them. Good selection. They love to haggle, and you can ultimately get a extremely great deal! I was able to get a customized, handmade bracelet for $3usd and a really cool oversize Guatemala coffee mug for $4.50 and a shot glass for $1.50, and a cool Guatemalan tshirt for $4 usd!
Charles BelkCharles Belk
30
Nearby Attractions Of Mercado Central
Constitution Plaza
Parque Colón
Palacio Nacional de la Cultura
Edificio Nacional de la Cultura
Saint Francis Church
Cerrito del Carmen Church
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Church of Santo Domingo Guatemala
Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago of Guatemala
Pasaje Rubio
Guatemala City Central Park
Constitution Plaza
4.4
(7.3K)Click for details
Parque Colón
3.9
(2.4K)Click for details
Palacio Nacional de la Cultura
4.6
(1.6K)Click for details
Edificio Nacional de la Cultura
4.6
(1.4K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Mercado Central
San Martín • Centro Histórico
Los Tres Tiempos • Centro Histórico
Restaurante El Adobe zona 1
McDonald's Zona 1 - 6ta Avenida
Arrin Cuan
McDonald's Gómez Carrillo
Saúl Bistro Lux
Proyecto poporopo
Café León
Aída Restaurant
San Martín • Centro Histórico
4.4
(2.1K)$$
Click for details
Los Tres Tiempos • Centro Histórico
4.4
(1.3K)$$$
Click for details
Restaurante El Adobe zona 1
4.5
(1.2K)$$
Click for details
McDonald's Zona 1 - 6ta Avenida
4.3
(1.7K)$$
Click for details
Reviews
Overview
4.5
(6.1K reviews)
Phone
+502 2230 1579
Call
Deep Dive
A deep dive into Mercado Central
- Unable to get your location