Embarking on a memorable vacation involves not only exploring new sights and sounds but also savoring the flavors of your destination. One essential aspect of creating a home-away-from-home experience is knowing where to find the freshest ingredients to whip up a delicious meal or grab a quick snack. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey, exploring the diverse and vibrant options for grocery shopping around your vacation rental. From bustling markets brimming with local specialties to convenience stores just around the corner, we’ve got your gastronomic adventure covered. Let’s dive into the heart of the community and discover the best places to stock up on essentials and indulge in the local culinary scene.
Central Market

Dive into the heart of Alicante’s culinary scene at the renowned Central Market, a bustling hub that lives up to its name. With over 200 stalls and shops, this market is a treasure trove of fresh delights, from succulent seafood to savory meats and authentic Spanish specialties.
The architectural charm of the market is a journey in itself, housed in a modernist building dating back to 1911. Marvel at its semi-spherical dome and an impressive staircase adorned by two striking sculptures.
For an authentic experience, plan your visit on Friday or Saturday mornings—the market truly comes alive as locals gather for their weekly shopping ritual. It’s a vibrant spectacle, a snapshot of Alicante’s lively spirit.
Discover the rich history of this culinary haven on Wikipedia, delving into the stories that have shaped its legacy.
In my personal view, the Central Market is unrivaled for sourcing fresh produce. The variety is astounding, from an array of fruits and vegetables to top-quality meats, fish, and seafood. It’s more than a market—it’s a sensory journey through Alicante’s flavors.

How to get there?
Location: Av. Alfonso X El Sabio 10, 03004 Alicante
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, from 07:00 to 14:30; Saturday, from 07:00 to 15:00. Closed on Sundays.
Mercadona

Market is a well-known supermarket chain throughout Spain, quite possibly the largest. You’ll come across numerous stores scattered across the city, with one conveniently located just a couple of minutes on foot from the apartment. Mercadona offers a diverse range of fresh and packaged products, including ready-to-go meals. The prices are budget-friendly, and the variety and quality are more than satisfactory. It’s likely the go-to daily supermarket for the majority of Alicante locals.

How to get there?
Location: Carrer Alvarez Sereix, 5, 03001 Alacant
Opening Hours: From Monday to Saturday, from 09:00 to 21:30; Closed on Sundays.
El Corte Ingles (Gourmet Experience)

Gourmet store nestled within the renowned El Corte Inglés shopping center. Here, you’ll discover high-quality products that are often hard to come by elsewhere, resulting in prices slightly above the norm. If you’re looking for an everyday shopping spot without breaking the bank, this might not be your go-to place. However, it’s an excellent choice for indulging in something more special on those days when you want to treat yourself.

How to get there?
Location: Calle Federico Soto, 1 y 3, Planta Baja, 03003 Alicante
Opening Hours: From Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 to 23:00; Sundays from 11:00 to 21:00.
24/7 Convenience store

It can happen that when all regular stores are closed, the need arises to buy some missing food or drinks. For these moments, you have a 24/7 store just an 8-minute walk away. In this small shop, you can find a limited variety of essential items along with some food, beverages, and tobacco.

How to get there?
Location: Plaza Gral. Mancha, 2, 03005 Alicante
Opening Hours: 24/7
Go Explore!
While there are numerous other alternatives, consider this a great opportunity to explore the city and discover hidden gems for your grocery needs.