16 Street Markets Around The World Foodies Say Are Worth The Trip

For food lovers, travel itineraries revolve around every meal. After checking off all the non-negotiable restaurants, street markets are typically high on the must-do list. They're perfect for anyone short on time, trying to squeeze as many bites into a few short hours, or for any indecisive eaters who just want a taste of everything. The world has no shortage of street markets, especially those prioritizing good, local food. Across continents and cultures, certain food markets have earned fabled status among foodies for delivering something no one restaurant ever could. Street markets are a direct line to local flavor with an atmosphere mirroring the city's culture and energy.

I've had the pleasure of exploring a few of these lively markets, and all of the others have officially been added to my bucket list. To learn more about the world's best street markets from a foodies' perspective, I scoured through Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor Reviews, checked out some YouTube food crawls, and chatted with other devoted foodies willing to travel far for the right meal. These 16 street markets were consistently praised for standout dishes, but most importantly, a memorable experience. Some of these markets have been feeding cities for centuries, while others are new to the map, but regardless of the legacy, they're attracting foodies from around the world who feel it's worth the mileage. 

Visitors regularly describe Jemaa el-Fnaa as a quintessential Marrakech experience, but foodies in particular keep coming back for more. By day, the square is full of shops and local vendors, but then the nightly market takes over the entire square once the sun goes down, filling the area with rows and rows of food stalls. Reviewers habitually urge visitors to eat here at least once, presenting it as non-negotiable in Morocco. "There are many food stalls selling just about every good you can imagine," said one local.

Even with the hundreds of food stalls, foodies remember their most memorable meals, noting fried fish, bubbling pots of escargot, and smoky kebabs, and that's just the savory bites. Fresh juices and traditional Moroccan pastries like ghoribas and kaab el-ghzal (or gazelle's horns) are common in Jemaa el-Fnaa stalls. Eating amid the chaos is all part of the dining experience. Your meal will be delicious, but also rich with sounds and smells. The variety may be overwhelming, but foodies agree it's worth the trip.

San Francisco's Chinatown has celebrated its cuisine with night markets in the past, but it wasn't until 2024 that the SF Chinatown Night Market officially rejoined the summer calendar, thanks to BeChinatown, a locally-based nonprofit. In just one year, the revamped night market has climbed the charts in not just Northern California's food scene, but the whole country. USA Today ranked it the top night market in the U.S., and foodies are on board. 

In downtown SF, Grant Avenue turns into a celebration of Chinese culture on the second Friday of every month. The streets are alive with thrilling performances and music, all centered around local restaurants. The variety of must-try Chinese dishes makes decisions tough, but based on happy reviewers, attendees can't go wrong with any of the incredible booths. Aside from the classics like dim sum, noodles, and dumplings, there's boba to sip on and sweet treats for post-meal. One reviewer appreciated finding dragon's beard candy, tanghulu, and popular pop-up bakeries like Gong Dessert Shop. The market spans about four blocks with food vendors offering dishes starting at just around five dollars.

I can vouch for Queens Night Market as one of the city's best food-focused markets, but I'm not the only one. It's hard to deny its unmatched diversity and affordability, with endless options hovering around $6 or less. The bites are on the smaller size, but that just leaves the opportunity to try more flavors, plus the price matches the portion. 

There are a lot of unique must-try NYC foods, but at the Queens Night Market, you can try even more than you imagined. In one visit, I was able to try Sichuan, Malaysian, Peruvian, and Caribbean specialties without commitment anxiety. In other words, a food-lover's dream. All foodies agree to come early and come hungry, which tells you how highly regarded the food at Queens Night Market is. The night market stretches around Flushing Meadows-Corona Park for six months of the year, representing cuisine from over 95 countries, all served at small independent stalls.

Smorgasburg started in Brooklyn in 2011 and has grown into the country's biggest weekly open-air food market, dubbed "the Woodstock of Eating" by The New York Times. The market now operates in multiple locations across four cities, which also include Los Angeles, Miami, and Atlanta. As the original Smorgasburg, the Brooklyn market shines and repeatedly allures foodies who want to experience as much of the city's cuisine in one afternoon. The food options aren't strictly street food, which means it's not as cheap as some other epic markets, but it's a worthy experience, especially if you have a chance to try a special pop-up or high-end restaurant collaboration. Foodies, including myself, don't come here for bargains, but more to discover something new. The variety of stalls showcases modern food trends, with a variety of up-and-coming vendors specializing in anything from birria tacos to crispy Korean double-fried chicken. 

Smorgasburg has two Brooklyn locations – Saturdays in Williamsburg and Sundays in Prospect Park — and each makes for an iconic NYC afternoon. Saturday's food festival is held at Marsha P. Johnson State Park, which is right along the water with plenty of picnic tables for dining. You should find the same vendors over in the park on Sundays, where you'll feel like you're hidden in a secret green oasis. "Bring your appetite, you'll leave full and happy," one reviewer gushed, after praising the birria tacos and Korean fried chicken at the Williamsburg location.

Taipei has a handful of night markets to explore, but Ningxia is a consistent favorite among hungry locals and tourists, which is always a good sign. The food-focused market is less flashy than Taipei's well-known Shilin market, which is another foodie-adored treasure next up on the list, with notably more interesting nibbles. There's nothing wrong with a little dazzle, but Ningxia Night Market has a more relaxed, local energy that's easier to navigate. "Probably the best night market now in Taipei, food wise," declared one visitor. Don't miss Li-Chang Bo's stinky tofu – it's a highly recommended item that has foodies happily lining up for. 

Food lovers highlight signature dishes such as oyster pancakes, shaved ice, deep-fried squid, pepper shrimp, and sweet potato balls, specifically naming some memorable stalls and Michelin-recognized vendors like Yuan Huan. If visitors are willing to dedicate 30 minutes to waiting in line for an oyster omelet, it's safe to say the flavor is worth the voyage. 

Tsukiji Outer Market is a seafood lover's paradise. It's often described as one of Tokyo's best spots to enjoy fresh fish, with reviews constantly bowing down to the ultra-fresh tuna, scallops, oysters, and other specialties like wagyu sushi and sweet egg. It's a "must-visit when in Tokyo" with some of "the freshest seafood you can imagine," as one happy visitor shared in a five-star review.

The experience is repeatedly described as immersive yet totally feasible, with food stalls, knife shops, and fruit vendors creating an all-encompassing culinary environment. Unlike more novelty and tourist-driven markets, Tsukiji earns points for execution and authenticity. For seafood lovers especially, reviewers frame Tsukiji as a destination they'd travel to. As incredible as some of NYC's fish markets are, nothing compares to Tokyo's Tsukiji Outer Market.

In the heart of Old Delhi, Chandni Chowk Market represents one of India's oldest and most vibrant marketplaces, with origins dating back to the 17th century. Chandni Chowk is consistently framed by foodies as overwhelming, and gloriously so. Reviews emphasize that this is not a market you casually stroll through, but one you dedicate the day to and eat with a purpose. It's a beautiful reflection of Delhi's culinary identity, with regional highlights like daulat ki chaat, chole kulche, deep-fried parathas, kebabs, and jalebis. 

"No trip to Chandni Chowk is complete without indulging in its legendary street food," one reviewer declared. The only regret I've read from visitors is not having more time to eat through the incredible food stalls. While the chaos is acknowledged, foodies frame it as part of the authenticity, advising rickshaw rides and strategic pacing rather than simply avoiding long lines. For food lovers seeking history and flavor, Chandni Chowk is worth the trip.

La Boquería's history dates back to 1217 as a traveling market, but today it houses over 200 stalls offering everything from fresh seafood and jamón ibérico to tropical fruits, spices, and fresh-squeezed juices. A variety of stalls feature a more sit-down vibe, with proper seating for visitors to sit and enjoy tapas, paella, or grilled seafood, but I'd recommend pacing yourself so you can indulge in as many treats as possible. When I was last there, I had both hands full of incredible savory and sweet bites throughout my entire stroll. 

One enthusiastic reviewer shares my sentiment, declaring it an absolute must when visiting Barcelona. "It's always buzzing and packed with people, but the food options are endless. From fresh seafood to fried ones, everything looks and tastes incredible," they shared. While always busy, the gorgeous open space is large and airy enough that you won't feel like a squished sardine. The market is right off a main street, making it easy for passersby to weave in and out throughout the day. Like any good market, the people watching is up there with the quality of food, so take your time and appreciate it all.

Camden Market earns foodie approval not for tradition, but for range. Fans frequently speak of it as a global street food playground, where Ethiopian, Venezuelan, Korean, Caribbean, and vegan comfort foods coexist in a constantly evolving lineup. Based on my experience, that diversity — and the freedom to casually eat along the wharf in the heart of Camden — is the main draw. 

Food-focused visitors, including myself during my previous visits, mainly focus on wandering, sampling, and returning for seconds (and thirds). The market features bold, indulgent flavors and nothing with too much finesse. Tourists love to stop by this market (and with good reason), but don't let the crowds stop you. Many foodies regularly return to Camden Market to eat well, try something new, and soak up London's lively energy. Others seem to wholeheartedly agree with me that Camden Market is worth the pit stop when in London. 

In the heart of Palermo's historic center, Ballarò Market explodes with noise, color, and unmistakable Italian energy. It's "definitely a place to visit to get a glimpse of the real life in Palermo," one visitor commented in an enthusiastic review. This is Palermo's oldest and most time-honored market, operating continuously since the 10th century. Unlike tourist-oriented markets, Ballarò primarily serves locals, with vendors shouting their prices in thick Sicilian dialect over ground-shaking music. 

Food stalls offer traditional Sicilian street foods like panelle, grilled meat, seafood, and arancini, all at prices that reflect the market's working-class neighborhood. Foodies collectively describe Mercato Ballarò as raw, loud, and well worth visiting. For many reviewers, this is the definition of Palermo. The city's residents will all recommend the neighborhood market to visitors, which is a powerful endorsement from the mouth of a local. 

Viktualienmarkt is repeatedly described by foodies as Munich's most reliable place to eat like a local, stressing the balance between high-quality Bavarian specialties made with love, excellent beer, and a chill atmosphere that encourages grazing all day. Food lovers salute the market's sausages, cheeses, baked goods, and the central beer garden, with everyone agreeing it's a must on the travel itinerary. "Strongly recommended for anyone wanting to experience Munich's local charm," one fan proclaimed.

The ability to snack, sit, and people-watch earns a lot of well-deserved hype, as does the market's accessibility and easy-to-manage layout. Viktualienmarkt fits seamlessly into the city, adjusting decor and aesthetic based on the season or current event. For foodies who put tradition and quality first, this market is widely regarded as worth fitting into any Munich itinerary.

Lau Pa Sat is almost universally applauded by foodies as one of Singapore's most approachable and atmospheric hawker centers. Visitors consistently highlight its variety, cleanliness, and iconic Satay Street, often describing meals here as essential to understanding Singaporean food culture. Foodies draw attention to how the market blends history and convenience, noting its status as the only hawker center housed in a national monument. Aside from the satay, items such as laksa, chicken rice, char kway teow, and grilled seafood pop up repeatedly in glowing reviews, with travelers returning multiple times during a single trip.

What sets Lau Pa Sat apart from a foodie perspective is moxie, and reviewers recommend it with zero caveats. Even those who note its popularity with tourists still frame the food and experience as unquestionably worth it. For many, it's both an introduction to and a celebration of Singapore's hawker culture.

Shilin Night Market is widely framed as a rite of passage for Taipei visitors, especially first-time foodies. Reviews seem to always point to its sheer scale and variety, fawning over classics like oyster omelets, fried chicken, and grilled meats. While some note tourist-heavy crowds, food lovers are willing to put up with bumping elbows for the mouth-watering street food.

The atmosphere is just as impressive as the food, with energetic bright lights, sizzling grills, and a festive, communal vibe at every turn. The market's ability to engage all the senses draws people in from all over the world, with foodies describing it as a place that leaves you "full, happy, and eager to return," as one reviewer stated. While seasoned Taipei eaters may favor smaller markets, Shilin's reputation as an iconic food destination remains strong. For travelers wanting a broad, high-energy introduction to Taiwanese street food, foodies overwhelmingly say it's worth the visit.

Food lovers describe Rue Mouffetard as a market you shop, eat, and linger in — often all at once. Reviews consistently praise the quality of produce, cheeses, pastries, and wines, with many foodies noting it's where they'd shop daily if they lived nearby. Unlike spectacle-driven markets, Rue Mouffetard earns praise for authenticity. Reviewers emphasize assembling meals from fresh fruit, bread, cheese, and wine, often praising the value and flavor. It was explicitly called "a great place for foodies" by one visitor, citing both top-quality food and a positive atmosphere.

This quaint street market swirls up the hill and shares centuries of history paired with everyday Parisian life. Food lovers view visiting Rue Mouffetard as necessary sightseeing, but also a full-on food shopping event, which will instantly make your trip to Paris feel genuine and extra Parisian.

Chatuchak is frequently described by foodies as overwhelming in the best way possible, especially as the world's largest weekend market. Reviews emphasize that the market's sheer size allows for endless eating opportunities, with many visitors spending lots of time browsing and snacking. Pad Thai, grilled meats, fresh fruit, and regional Thai dishes are regularly spotlighted.

Food lovers see the Chatuchak Weekend Market as an experience rather than a checklist, often advising visitors to get lost, eat instinctively, and embrace the chaos. The combination of affordability, variety, and scale earns consistent acclaim. Claiming to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each weekend to its 15,000 food stalls, Chatuchak is widely regarded as unmissable. For foodies who equate abundance with joy, reviewers overwhelmingly say the trip is worth it.

Temple Street Night Market is repeatedly revered as one of Hong Kong's most cinematic places to grab dinner. Things really heat up around 9 p.m., with live Cantonese opera as the market's soundtrack. Past the hand-made souvenirs, there are a variety of food stalls. Reviews emphasize the claypot rice and seafood in the dai pai dong-style stalls, the endless array of skewers, and the thrill of eating amid neon lights and constant motion. Food lovers highlight the market's energy and cultural immersion, often celebrating how distinctly local it feels, despite its massive popularity. 

Even vegetarian diners mention being able to find fulfilling options, which can be a rarity when it comes to street food. "A must-visit for a true Hong Kong street market experience," read one happy diner's review. For travelers seeking flavor alongside a low-key show, foodie consensus is clear — Temple Street Night Market is worth the thick crowds.

To determine whether a street market is genuinely worth the trip for foodies, selection was based on a combination of factors rather than popularity alone. I reviewed and referenced food and travel media, Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor reviews, firsthand accounts from food lovers on social media and YouTube.

Street markets were prioritized if the reviews highlighted specific dishes and vendors that would bring them back for round two, as well as general praise. Several markets are also frequently cited in best-of lists, rankings, and polls amongst locals and tourists. A few markets (Queens Night Market, Smorgasburg, La Boqueria, Camden Market) were included based on personal experience, but also supported by a consensus from other reviewers. The best markets that are worth a journey serve a variety of delicious, unique dishes that you wouldn't typically find within one location.