Mercado Temporário do Bolhão is a covered market in Porto, set up in a car park while the original Bolhão building underwent renovation. Its independent stalls sell fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood, alongside local food and drinks. Stop for a coffee, cake or glass of wine, or pick up ingredients to cook where you are staying. The bright, modern space has a catering area where you can eat dishes made with produce from the market, and posters identify vendors and what they sell.
A temporary home for Bolhão
While the original Mercado do Bolhão was undergoing renovation, the city arranged this temporary market nearby. It occupies a car park structure inside La Vie Shopping Porto Baixo, giving vendors a place to sell while work continued on the historic market building.
The setting is modern and well lit, though it is underground and has no natural light. Escalators and stairs lead into the market. The space is described as spacious, but the enclosed layout may not suit visitors who are uncomfortable in underground interiors.
What to find at the stalls
Independent vendors sell fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and seafood. Ceiling-hung posters show vendor portraits and describe what each stall sells, which can help you decide where to stop.
The market also has a catering area serving food made with produce from the fresh-food stalls. It is a practical place to try local dishes or pick up ingredients to cook at your accommodation. Cod fish balls and grilled sardines are among the traditional foods mentioned as options to try.
Food and a short stop
You can pause for cakes, coffee or wine, as well as a meal in the catering area. Vendors are willing to talk about their goods, so ask about the produce or food on offer when choosing what to order.
The temporary market has a different setting from the original Bolhão building, but it keeps the focus on independent sellers and local food. Hand sanitizers are provided inside.
FAQ
Where is Mercado Temporário do Bolhão?
It is inside La Vie Shopping Porto Baixo, at Rua de Fernandes Tomás 506 508 in Porto.
What can you buy at the market?
Stalls sell fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and seafood. You can also find cakes, coffee, wine and local dishes.
Is this the original Mercado do Bolhão building?
No. This is a nearby temporary location used while the original market building was undergoing renovation.
How much time should you allow for a visit?
Allow around 30 to 60 minutes to browse the stalls and stop for food or a drink.
