Covered Market
A historic 1865 indoor market brimming with local produce, artisanal foods, and international flavors. A feast for the senses!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Covered Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1865 indoor market brimming with local produce, artisanal foods, and international flavors. A feast for the senses!
"An explosion of flavors, colors, and aromas - a must-visit for any food lover!"
🎯 Sample Everything!
Many vendors offer samples. It's the best way to discover your new favorite treat! :ice_cream:
💳 Cash & Card Ready
While cards are widely accepted, having cash ensures you don't miss out on any gems. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisan Cheeses & Cured Meats
Various stalls
Savor the rich flavors of local cheeses, salamis, and butter. A true taste of the region!

Freshly Baked Pastries & Bread
Bakeries
Indulge in delicious bread, sweet pastries, and baked goods that are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Seafood Delights
Seafood vendors
Enjoy incredibly fresh oysters, shrimps, and other seafood, prepared to perfection.

Alsatian Specialties
Food stalls
Discover authentic Alsatian dishes and international flavors, perfect for a quick bite or a full meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Flavors
Market Etiquette & Payment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sample Everything!
Many vendors offer samples. It's the best way to discover your new favorite treat! :ice_cream:
💳 Cash & Card Ready
While cards are widely accepted, having cash ensures you don't miss out on any gems. :moneybag:
☕ Coffee Break Spot
Grab a delicious coffee or even an espresso martini from independent traders. :coffee:
🍕 Sourdough Pizza Fix
Don't miss out on artisanal sourdough pizzas, perfect for a market meal. :pizza:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sample Everything!
Many vendors offer samples. It's the best way to discover your new favorite treat! :ice_cream:
💳 Cash & Card Ready
While cards are widely accepted, having cash ensures you don't miss out on any gems. :moneybag:
☕ Coffee Break Spot
Grab a delicious coffee or even an espresso martini from independent traders. :coffee:
🍕 Sourdough Pizza Fix
Don't miss out on artisanal sourdough pizzas, perfect for a market meal. :pizza:
🍊 Taste of Italy
Seek out flaky sfogliatella pastries with delightful fillings for an authentic Italian treat. :croissant:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Covered Market's vibrant atmosphere, diverse culinary offerings, and high-quality local products. The historic building adds to its charm, making it a delightful place to explore. While some find it a bit pricey, the authentic experience and delicious food are consistently praised.
"The historic market is worth a visit, it is an explosion of flavors, colors and aromas. You can taste local products here, the cheeses, butter, salamis are great, as well as honey, various pastries and bread and baked sweets. We tasted fresh oysters and shrimps, and finally baked crab. This area is also known for its excellent white wine, there are wine-growing villages nearby and we visited the most beautiful one, I will write about that in another post."
Helena
"Although I only stayed here for three short days, I developed a strong interest in this market. Even though it’s not very big, the overall shopping atmosphere inside is really pleasant—clean and hygienic. There’s also a stall that sells bread and desserts, and the quality is quite high. I truly enjoyed this place.
Now that the trip is over, whenever I think of the taste of the food here, the warmth and friendliness of the people, and the gentle smiles always on their faces, I feel deeply moved."
Alex Ho
"It was a nice experience seeing the traditional market from Colmar. The building itself, along with the market inside were really nice and clean and I was glaf that it had the option to pay using the credit card too. And it was also the first time for me seeing natural figs, since I have only seen figs from Turkey, until I reached this square. It is deffinetly worth checking out this place, if you visit the beautiful city of Colmar!"
Codrin Ghindoc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Covered Market is centrally located in Oxford city center, easily accessible by foot from most areas. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and train services to Oxford station are frequent. Parking is available in nearby multi-story car parks, though walking or public transport is often recommended to avoid traffic and parking fees.
Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance, such as Gloucester Green and Westgate. However, Oxford city center can get busy, so consider public transport or walking if possible.
Cycling is a great option in Oxford. There are usually bike racks available in the vicinity of the market, making it a convenient way to arrive.
Several bus routes stop very close to the market, particularly around George Street and Cornmarket Street, which are just a short walk away. Check local bus timetables for the most convenient routes.
The market is generally accessible, with flat pathways throughout. However, some older buildings can have minor steps, so it's always good to be aware.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Covered Market is free. You only pay for the goods and food you purchase from the individual vendors.
The market is typically open Monday to Saturday from around 8 AM to 6 PM, and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. However, individual stall hours may vary, so it's best to check their specific times if you have a particular vendor in mind.
There are no admission fees to enter the Covered Market. It's a public space for shopping and dining.
While there aren't official 'tours' in the traditional sense, you can explore at your own pace. Some food tours might include a stop here.
Opening hours on public holidays can vary. It's advisable to check the market's official website or social media for specific holiday schedules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find an incredible variety! From fresh oysters and seafood
to artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh bread, pastries, and international cuisine like Lebanese wraps and sourdough pizza. There are also coffee stalls and sweet treats.Yes, many stalls offer vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, wraps, and baked goods. It's always best to ask the vendor directly about ingredients.
Absolutely! Many vendors have seating areas, and there are also communal spaces where you can enjoy your food. Some stalls offer takeaway options too.
Some visitors find it slightly pricey, but it's generally praised for its quality and authentic experience. Prices reflect the high-quality ingredients and artisanal preparation.
While not all stalls specialize in gluten-free, you can often find options like fresh fruit, some salads, and potentially gluten-free baked goods. Inquire with individual vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! The market is visually appealing with its vibrant stalls and diverse products.
The colorful displays of produce, the bustling food stalls, and the historic architecture of the building itself offer great photo opportunities. Look for interesting textures and light.
While generally permitted, it's always polite to ask vendors or customers if you plan to take close-up shots of them or their products.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, will work well. Consider a lens that can handle both wider shots of the market and close-ups of food.
Yes, filming is usually permitted. Many creators share their market experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for stalls with visually appealing items, such as colorful fruits or decorated baked goods. Sampling opportunities can be a hit with children, allowing them to try new flavors without commitment. The market's central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in the city.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the late afternoon when some vendors might offer slight discounts as they prepare to close. Alternatively, you can use the market as a place to pick up affordable ingredients for a picnic if you have self-catering accommodation. The experience of browsing and soaking in the atmosphere is free!
couples
Consider picking up some local cheeses and a bottle of wine from the market for a delightful picnic later. The variety of food options also means you can easily find something to suit both your tastes, making it a stress-free dining experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Tradition: The Covered Market's Culinary Scene
Beyond the main courses, the market is also a fantastic place to discover unique treats. Look out for vendors selling local honey, sweet baked goods, and even specialty coffee. The atmosphere is lively, with many stalls offering samples, allowing you to taste before you buy. This makes it an ideal spot for a casual lunch, a gourmet snack, or even to pick up ingredients for a special meal at home. Remember that while credit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand can be beneficial for smaller purchases.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider visiting during peak hours to soak in the bustling energy. However, if you prefer a more relaxed exploration, weekday mornings offer a quieter ambiance. The market's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every bite, making it a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates good food and a lively market atmosphere.
The Historic Charm of the Covered Market Building
The market is described as clean and hygienic, a testament to its upkeep and management over the years. This blend of historic charm and modern cleanliness makes it a pleasant place to spend time. The market houses around 20 vendors, offering a curated selection of local products and international foods, ensuring a diverse and engaging shopping experience.
Visitors often praise the building's aesthetic appeal, noting how it enhances the overall market experience. It's not just a place to buy goods; it's a destination that offers a glimpse into the past while serving the present-day needs of the community and visitors alike. The market's enduring presence is a testament to its importance and appeal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit