Markets in Sweden are a laid-back affair and we’re very much on board. Far from the cacophony of flogging and haggling that characterises so many bazaars around the globe, those in Sweden are elegant, upmarket and well-organised. From the gourmet food halls of Stockholm to the second-hand vintage bazaars of Gothenburg, there really is a market for everybody in the shopping haven of Sweden. And if you’re someone who wants to go beyond the classic keychain and magnet souvenir combination, then we have a few trendy flea markets lined up for you. Keep reading to discover our roundup of the best markets in Sweden.
Ostermalms Saluhall
Stockholm’s Mecca for Foodies
While the entire city of Stockholm is generally held up as a nirvana for food lovers, this classic food market is the place to go back to basics and focus more on the quality of the ingredients than the final result; the quality really is top-notch. Since its grand opening in 1888, Ostermalms Saluhall has been the go-to spot for the city’s most decorated chefs on the hunt the finest ingredients. Even Jamie Oliver has named this market as one of his favourite destinations in Stockholm. There are 17 market stands, selling everything from organic fruit and veggies to deli cheeses and cured meats. Most of the small businesses are run by families keen to share their knowledge of Swedish produce and recipes, so make sure to ask them for their top tips. Ostermalms Saluhall is also a great spot for travellers looking to enjoy a fresh, authentic lunch — you can tuck into a range of local delicacies, including gourmet pickled herring, fresh fish sandwiches and Skagen toast (Swedish shrimp toast). And the cherry on top? The market is housed inside a beautifully-renovated red-brick Victorian masterpiece, making it not just one of the best markets in Sweden, but also one of the most beautiful.
Kommersen Loppmarknad
Gothenburg’s Treasure Trove of Second-Hand Goods
Located inside an unassuming building with splashes of street art on its facade, Kommersen Loppmarknad, is a bustling second-hand market, flooded with a whole host of curious finds. Everyone from hip students to stylish locals head to the market en masse at weekends simply because it is one of the best, cheapest and most exciting places to shop in Gothenburg. The market spans across a whopping 15,000 square feet and is home to around 100 stands that are rented out by eager vendors. Thanks to its immense size, there really is something for everyone. Fashionistas can sift through rail upon rail of vintage apparel, music-lovers can rummage through retro records and amateur art collectors can hunt for the perfect one-of-a-kind masterpiece. There are also a handful of cafes dotted across the market, making it possible for you to enjoy a foodie break in between all the shopping.
Malmö Farmers Market
Sweden’s Freshest Produce
Those on the hunt for a place that sells the freshest produce Sweden has to offer will be hard-pressed to find one that tops the Malmö food market. The nation’s southern regions are responsible for over 90% of the country’s agriculture, so if you’re in the market for fresh produce, then the city of Malmö is the place for you. Every Saturday, farmers from across the region set up shop in the huge central square of Drottningtorget, bringing with them their latest collections of freshly picked produce, including Swedish classics like chanterelle mushrooms, wild strawberries and sweet cherries. Besides fresh, organic produce, you can also leave with unusual breads, homemade preserves and some more exotic imported delicacies.
Karlaloppis
Stockholm’s Classic Flea Market
Thanks to their environmentally friendly outlook on, well, just about everything, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that Swedes love a good flea market. Known locally as loppis, flea markets are a popular weekend spot for shoppers keen to breathe new life into unwanted items. This particular flea market, located in the beautiful park of Karlaplan, on Östermalm, easily deserves a spot on our roundup of the best markets in Sweden. And why’s that, you ask? Well, not only is it beautifully arranged around a giant fountain, the market is overflowing with excellent products. You can browse through the famously chic second-hand clothes of locals, admire artisanal arts and handicrafts, and barter for some unique antique bric-a-brac.
Hornstulls Marknad
Stockholm’s Waterfront Weekend Market
And finally, for those who can’t decide if they’re in the mood for food shopping, clothes shopping or vintage shopping, not to worry, the lovely Hornstulls Marknad in Stockholm is the undisputed jack-of-all-trades when it comes to Swedish markets. Perched along the western waterfront of Södermalm is a charming mixture of local art sellers, makeshift vintage clothing stores and electronic stands selling old gadgets such as old Super 8 movie projectors. Some of the city’s finest gourmet food trucks set up shop in and around this market at weekends, making it the perfect time to sample some of Stockholm’s best gourmet street food — be that a Peruvian-style pork belly burger, classic Mexican tacos or an indulgent French crepe. Due to it being outdoors, this weekend market is only open during the sunnier months of April through to September.