The Ballaro Market Palermo (Mercato di Ballarò) is a famous historical market in Palermo, Sicily. It is the oldest and largest market in the city, sprawling from Piazza Casa Professa all the way to the bastions of Corso Tukory.
The Ballarò market, which has existed since Arab times, still serves as Palermo’s main market, especially known for its fresh fruits and vegetables delivered daily from the surrounding countryside. As the city’s oldest market, it attracts hundreds of visitors every day. Sometimes you can still hear the traditional “abbanniate” – the melodic calls of vendors trying to draw people to their stalls.
Despite some changes and the touristification of the market, Ballarò remains the most authentic market in Palermo and is still part of the daily life of many locals. It is also a great place to sample Sicilian and Palermitan street food such as:
- boiled or baked onions
- panelle (chickpea fritters)
- sfincione (a focaccia-like snack)
- stigghiola (grilled skewers of marinated lamb/goat or beef intestines wrapped around a spring onion)
- crocchè o cazzilli (potato croquettes)
- pani câ meusa (bread with spleen)
The best way to find the best vendors for all the street food is joining a food tour by Eating Europe. As you navigate the souk-like alleyways of Palermo and the Ballarò market, your guide will introduce you to vendors who’ve been in the business for generations. You’ll hear stories of anti-mafia resistance and taste snacks that existed before tomatoes even arrived in Italy. A special highlight is enjoying cannoli inside a monastery, made following ancient recipes from cloistered nuns. Unlike typical food tours, your guide will pair the snacks with local sodas – the same drinks that Palermitan children have grown up with for generations – adding a truly authentic touch. Click here to book a tour!
Opening hours – Ballaro Market Palermo
Monday: 8am – 8pm
Tuesday: 8am – 8pm
Wednesday: 8am – 8pm
Thursday: 8am – 8pm
Friday: 8am – 8pm
Saturday: 8am – 8pm
Sunday: 8am-3pm
Find more markets in Palermo!
