Mercado 27 de Febrero
A vibrant local market on Cuenca's outskirts, famous for authentic hornado, fresh produce, and affordable goods.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce & lively atmosphere
Mercado 27 de Febrero
Best Time
Freshest produce & lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant local market on Cuenca's outskirts, famous for authentic hornado, fresh produce, and affordable goods.
"Great place. Great prices. And if you are in the outskirts of Cuenca, and you don't have to go to the centro tonget mercado stuff"
Taste the Hornado!
Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, especially from Mami Lolita's stall.
Bring Cash
Most vendors prefer cash, so have some small bills handy for easy transactions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Hornado
Food stalls
Savor slow-roasted pork, a Cuenca specialty, bursting with flavor. A must-try for any food lover!
Fresh Produce Galore
Fruit and vegetable stalls
Discover a vibrant array of local fruits, vegetables, and herbs, showcasing Ecuador's agricultural richness.
Local Crafts and Goods
Non-food stalls
Browse unique handmade crafts, textiles, and everyday items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Bites & Bargains
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taste the Hornado!
Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, especially from Mami Lolita's stall.
Bring Cash
Most vendors prefer cash, so have some small bills handy for easy transactions.
Explore Beyond Food
Beyond delicious food, find unique local crafts and everyday items.
Clean and Organized
You'll be impressed by the market's cleanliness and organization.
Tips
from all over the internet
Taste the Hornado!
Don't leave without trying the famous hornado, especially from Mami Lolita's stall.
Bring Cash
Most vendors prefer cash, so have some small bills handy for easy transactions.
Explore Beyond Food
Beyond delicious food, find unique local crafts and everyday items.
Clean and Organized
You'll be impressed by the market's cleanliness and organization.
Affordable Eats
Enjoy a hearty meal for just a few dollars.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mercado 27 de Febrero for its authentic Ecuadorian food, especially the hornado, and its incredibly affordable prices. The market is praised for its cleanliness, organization, and the wide variety of goods available, from fresh produce to local crafts. While some might find it a bit out of the city center, the overall experience is highly recommended for a taste of local life.
"This is a medium size open air mercado typical of the kind one finds around Cuenca selling fresh fruits and vegetables. They also have stalls selling just about any non food products you can imagine. In addition there are numerous stalls selling prepared food at very affordable prices. Have shopped here many times."
William Morphis
"Great place. Great prices. And if you are in the outskirts of Cuenca, and you don't have to go to the centro tonget mercado stuff"
Josue Lopez
"Great pizza great attention good prices recomended"
RAFAEL CONDE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mercado 27 de Febrero is located on the outskirts of Cuenca, making it convenient if you're in that area. Many locals use bicycles to get there.
You can also reach it by taxi or local bus routes serving the surrounding neighborhoods.While specific parking details aren't widely shared, being on the outskirts suggests it might be easier to find parking than in the city center. Consider local advice if you're driving.
Yes, local bus routes likely serve the area around the market, providing an affordable way to get there for those not staying in the immediate vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mercado 27 de Febrero is a public market, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can freely explore all sections of the market.
The market is typically open daily, with mornings and lunchtime being the busiest periods for fresh produce and prepared foods. It's best to visit during daylight hours to experience the full vibrancy.
There is no separate entrance fee for the food court area within Mercado 27 de Febrero. You pay for the food you order directly from the vendors.
While official tours aren't widely advertised, you can experience the market like a local by simply wandering through and interacting with vendors. Some local guides might offer market visits as part of a broader Cuenca tour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The absolute must-try is the hornado (roasted pork), with Mami Lolita's stall being a popular recommendation.
You can also find other traditional Ecuadorian dishes, fresh fruits, and local snacks.Food prices are very affordable, with many meals costing just a few dollars. It's a great place for budget-friendly and authentic dining experiences.
While the market is known for its meat dishes like hornado, you can often find stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and possibly some simpler preparations that cater to vegetarians.
Yes, surprisingly, some reviews mention great pizza and good attention at the market, indicating diverse food offerings beyond traditional Ecuadorian fare.
The market is generally described as clean and well-maintained,
and the food is prepared fresh. As with any market, it's always good practice to choose busy stalls with high turnover.🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a wide variety of non-food products, including housewares, clothing, textiles, and local crafts. It's a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
For food items, prices are generally fixed. For crafts and non-food items, there might be some room for negotiation, especially if you're buying multiple items.
Explore the various stalls selling handmade goods. Look for items made from local materials or featuring traditional Ecuadorian designs.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and many visitors capture the vibrant scenes. However, it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors.
Mornings offer good natural light and a lively atmosphere as vendors set up and customers arrive. Lunchtime is also great for capturing people enjoying their meals.
Focus on the colorful produce, the bustling food stalls, the interactions between vendors and customers, and the unique local crafts. Portraits of vendors can also be very compelling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Heart: Hornado and More
Exploring the food stalls is an adventure in itself. You'll find vendors preparing dishes right before your eyes, adding to the sensory experience. The atmosphere is lively, with locals and visitors alike gathering to enjoy a delicious and inexpensive meal. It’s a place where you can truly taste the local culture, with each bite telling a story of tradition and flavor. Don't hesitate to ask vendors for recommendations or try something new – that's part of the market's charm.
A Hub for Local Life and Goods
The market's reputation for cleanliness and organization is frequently highlighted by visitors, setting it apart from some other traditional markets. This pleasant environment enhances the shopping and dining experience. Whether you're looking for fresh ingredients for a home-cooked meal, a unique piece of local art, or simply want to soak in the authentic atmosphere of Cuenca, Mercado 27 de Febrero offers a rich and rewarding experience for every visitor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit