The best markets in the world

From local flea markets to secret foodie ones, these are my pick of the best treasure-troves in cities around the world

I absolutely adore a market. ADORE. Take me anywhere in the world and I will scout out a bustling market filled with glossy fruit, oversized straw bags and baying stall holders. In fact I build my trips around market day- booking a flight that ensures I arrive in time or leave just after the city’s markets have come and gone. Not only is it a chance for me to pick up a couple of local bits and pieces- old vintage plates, some nibbles for the flight- but it gives you a real sense of the city. After all, the best local markets are always in a part of town that you would otherwise miss.

So I thought I’d do a little round-up of my favourite markets- the ones I’ve fallen madly in love with over the years. It’s a mix of food, antiques and just general lovely markets that sell a little bit of everything but are especially big on ‘market vibes’. They are all over the world- most in the UK, but a lot of magical ones which are a little further afield. I hope you love them as much as I do.

Faversham Antiques Market, First Sunday of the month

I’m so lucky this antiques market is just down the road from where I live. It’s on the first Sunday of every month and is filled with stall holders selling everything from vintage quilts and old terracotta plant pots to French linens and antique ceramics. (Because we’re so close to France in this part of the country there are lots of stalls selling French antiques). As it’s a little under the radar the prices are also scandalously cheap. My advice would be to grab coffee and cake at Havishams (cash only though- but the selection of cakes are astonishing) or grab brunch at Macknade’s which is a 15 minute walk from the market but one of the loveliest food halls around.