There’s nothing like shopping at a market to lift your spirits, especially in Genoa, where food is part of the city’s soul. You’ll feel it the moment you step inside. Founded in 1899 on land that once belonged to the nearby church’s cloister, the Mercato Orientale is one of Genoa’s oldest trading spots. Its name, “Eastern Market”, refers to its location on the east side of the city centre. It drew inspiration from other major European markets, like La Boqueria in Barcelona or the Markthal in Rotterdam... but with that unmistakable Italian flair. The stalls are arranged like canvases, flowers and plants fill the air, and the local specialities will have your mouth watering before you even take a bite. Focaccia, fresh pasta, pesto alla genovese, Riviera olive oil, salted anchovies from the Ligurian Sea, the list goes on. Delicious, mouthwatering, irresistible… it’s hard not to get hungry talking about it! This is pure joy for the senses, spread out over 2,000 square meters, and best experienced during the week, when the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.