Mercado do Bolhao (Bolhao Market), Porto

Mercado do Bolhão is one of the most emblematic markets in the city of Porto.

The edifice is characterized by its monumentality, typical of neoclassical architecture. Vendors in the market are spread over two floors. There are four main entrances at different levels: the south entrance gives access to the ground floor via Rua Formosa, the side entrances via Rua de Sá da Bandeira and Rua Alexandre Braga give access to an intermediate level with stairs that connect both floors, and finally, the north entrance through Rua de Fernandes Tomás, which gives direct access to the upper floor.

Mercado do Bolhão is mainly dedicated to fresh products, especially food. The vendors are divided into different specialized sections, namely: fishmongers, butchers, horticultural and floral areas. On the outside of the building there are stores of other varieties, such as clothing, cafeteria, perfumeries, fabrics, etc.

The market building was classified as monuments of public interest in 2003. Starting 2018 the market is closed for refurbishing.

The Temporary market of Bolhao (MTB) is taking the place of the centenary market (Bolhao Market), which is in the process of restoration and modernization. The temporary market is but two minutes away from the Mercado do Bolhao on the Rua de Fernandes Tomas, 478. There is access from the street with escalators and a car park.

The temporary market has all the traditional food areas, restaurants and shops, using 16,250 square feet of space.

The market under renewal was founded in 1839. The town had bought the land for the market. There was a creek flowing through the square and a bubble of air forming. The word for bubble is "bolha." A handy name for the market.

The Bolhao Market was housed in a neoclassic building with two levels. There was an area in the center open to the air with cover for the stalls. Inside the building the market was divided into areas for fishmongers, butchers, greengrocers and florists. On the ground floor were small restaurants and cafes.

The temporary market has all the things available in the Bolhao Market and in addition there is private storage, loading docks, rest rooms and ATMs.