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The oldest market in Valencia
Mercado del Grau: the oldest market in Valencia complete transformation guide. Evening shopping, local vendors, international community, authentic Valencia.
Updated September 2025 – Globexs originally wrote about Mercado del Grau's renovation plans in 2017. Eight years later, we're updating this article to share how the market has successfully transformed into one of Valencia's most vibrant neighborhood destinations, becoming a must-visit spot for both locals and international residents.
In 1903, when the first brick of Mercado Central was laid, the final brick had just been laid in the Mercado del Grau, making it Valencia’s oldest working market. The market is open air, with a ceramic roof supported by forged steel columns, to protect the stalls from the elements. Mercado del Grau is a small market and has been usurped by the larger, busier Mercado del Cabañal, a few blocks to the north. Three permanent stalls and a quaint bar, with a large terrace, are all that remain.
This, however, is set to change. A recent upturn in the neighbourhood, thanks to trendy tapas bars such as La Peseta and La Fabrica, which sit on the other side of the market from BikeAlao Bike Rentals, has led to the local council proposing a remodelling of the market. An initial investment of E2.4 million will create 24 stalls and although the market will still be small, it will boast a garden area, a few bars and will be the only genuine market in Valencia which will be open in the evening.
The area already draws in many tourists who come to rent a bike and have a drink in BikeAlao, or enjoy a menu del día in one of the bars, such as La Forja.
Just a week ago my family and I went on a bike tour organised by BikeAlao. It was a fun and easy 3-hour tour along the coast and back to the shop, where they offered us a free post-tour drink to quench our thirst. I had an interesting chat with Chris, the tour guide, who knows a lot about Valencia.
There is also a loyal crowd of locals who enjoy drinks on the sunny terraces around the Grao market. A popular vegan restaurant next door, offering an interesting range of vegan dishes, also draws in many people to the market area. The revamped market is sure to further popularise the area and will sell fresh, organic produce throughout the day until around 8 pm.
Work is scheduled to begin in January and I can’t wait to see what it will be like.
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The €2.4 million renovation that began in 2018 has exceeded all expectations. Today, Mercado del Grau stands as a testament to successful urban renewal, attracting both traditional market-goers and Valencia's growing international community.
What's Changed Since 2017:
Market Expansion: The promised 24 stalls are now fully operational, featuring a diverse mix of traditional Valencian vendors and international food offerings that reflect the neighborhood's multicultural evolution.
Evening Market Success: As planned, Mercado del Grau remains the only traditional market in Valencia open until 8 PM, creating a unique evening market atmosphere that has become incredibly popular with young professionals and expats.
Garden Area: The market's garden space has become a community gathering point, hosting weekend farmers markets, cultural events, and outdoor dining that perfectly captures Valencia's Mediterranean lifestyle.
Gastronomic Hub: The area around the market has evolved into a recognized gastronomic destination, with the original bars like La Peseta and La Fabrica now joined by several new establishments catering to Valencia's international residents.
Mercado del Grau has become particularly popular among Valencia's growing expat community. The market's evening hours, international food options, and proximity to the beach make it ideal for international residents who work traditional hours but want to experience authentic Valencian market culture.
Digital Nomad Friendly: Many vendors now accept international payment methods, and the market's free WiFi zones make it a popular spot for remote workers to grab fresh food and work from the terrace areas.
Language Accessibility: Several vendors speak English, and the market has become a welcoming space for international residents learning Spanish through daily interactions.
BikeAlao bike rentals, mentioned in our original 2017 article, has expanded significantly. They now offer electric bike tours, specialized Valencia beach routes, and have become a key partner for many international residents exploring the city. Their post-tour drinks tradition continues to be a highlight for visitors.
The Grau neighborhood has seen substantial development since 2017, driven partly by the market's success:
Improved Transportation: Better metro connections and bike lane infrastructure
International Services: Banks, pharmacies, and services that cater to English-speaking residents
Beach Access: Just minutes from Valencia's best beaches via bike or metro
Authentic Living: Maintains traditional Valencian character while welcoming international residents
Unlike Valencia's tourist-heavy Mercado Central, Mercado del Grau offers an authentic neighborhood market experience where international residents can integrate into local life. The evening hours mean working professionals can shop for fresh produce after traditional Spanish lunch hours, making it particularly valuable for expats adapting to Spanish lifestyle rhythms.
The market represents successful urban renewal that preserved local character while embracing international diversity – exactly what makes Valencia attractive to international residents seeking authentic Mediterranean living.
The Grau neighborhood has become one of Valencia's most sought-after areas for international residents. The combination of authentic market life, beach proximity, and excellent transport connections makes it ideal for expats seeking genuine Valencian living.
Globexs offers a curated selection of furnished apartments near Mercado del Grau, perfect for international residents who want to experience daily life in one of Valencia's most authentic neighborhoods. Our properties provide easy access to both the market's fresh produce and Valencia's beautiful beaches.
Discover Globexs apartments near Mercado del Grau – where authentic Valencia meets international living standards.
