Mercato delle Erbe
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
The largest covered market in Bolgona’s city center, the Mercato delle Erbe (literally, the “Herb Market”) has been a key destination for food lovers for more than a century. Housed in a historic building that was renovated after World War II, the atmospheric market offers dozens of food stalls and dining options all throughout the day.
The basics
If you’re a food lover who’s looking for an authentic market experience—and the chance to sample Emilia-Romagna staples, from Parmigiano-Reggiano to balsamic vinegar—don’t miss the chance to explore Bologna’s Mercato delle Erbe. By day, the market is a great place to shop for local and seasonal ingredients (from meats and cheeses to wine, pasta, and seafood), stop for lunch, and chat with vendors. In the evening, it becomes a popular place to enjoy an aperitivo or stop for casual street-food bites.
While it’s easy to visit independently, the Mercato delle Erbe is also featured on a range of Bologna food tours, which offer an even more accessible way to experience it.
Things to know before you go
- While the market has wide and level aisles, wheelchair users may find it difficult to visit at peak times, when the market is crowded.
- As the whole market area is covered, you don’t need to worry about any weather protection when visiting.
- Come prepared with cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
How to get there
The Mercato delle Erbe is located at Via Ugo Bassi, 25, 40121 Bologna, right in the city’s central nightlife district. You can walk there from a number of nearby attractions, and reach it in 20 minutes on foot from Bologna Centrale, the city’s main train station. Dozens of local bus routes also stop in the area.
When to get there
The market is open throughout the day Monday–Saturday, and the stalls are typically open from early morning to evening. Its restaurants are generally open for lunch on Monday–Saturday from noon to mid-afternoon, and for dinner from evening to midnight. On Sundays, the restaurants are open for just a few hours starting in the late morning.
Bologna’s top markets
The Mercato delle Erbe is one of Bologna’s most destination-worthy markets, but there are a number of others worth discovering. Highlights include the Antico Mercato nel Quadrilatero (which is open daily, and whose history dates back to the Middle Ages), the Mercato di Mezzo (the first covered market in town), and the Mercato Ritrovato (a farmers market specializing in slow food).
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