The Antignano Market

The hillside district of Vomero in the city of Naples is one of the most important shopping areas of the metropolis: thousands of people, in fact, wander its streets in search of purchases all year round. And it is precisely here that the Antignano market rises up, a typical neighbourhood market, in total contrast to the tidy and expensive shops found in the more renowned streets of the area.

by Chiara Scaramella

This is, perhaps, one of the few places in the Neapolitan city where the famous Neapolitan proverb "'O sparagno nunn'è maje guadagno" (literally, "saving is never earning") does not apply: it is, in fact, the perfect spot to get away from the streets and shops of Via Luca Giordano or Via Scarlatti, immersing yourself in an atmosphere made up of bustling stalls, tireless vendors and a whirlwind of goods at rock-bottom prices.

Low cost, identity and Neapolitan originality

Walking through the alleys of the market means finding yourself surrounded by stalls displaying the most varied items: between fruit and vegetables, clothes, leather goods, perfumes, shoes, toys, household items, home decor and much more, you are truly spoilt for choice.

What's more, wandering among the bancarielli (little market stalls), you are constantly cheered up by the ringing shouts of the vendors who, in loud voices and with the most colourful, characterful and imaginative phrases, invite passers-by to buy their goods. Once you enter the market, it's practically impossible not to come out laden with purchases, given the many bargains to be found and thanks also to the amusing custom of talking and haggling with the various vendors, in a true “challenge” to get the lowest price: an urban souk where a good deal is always just around the corner.

The market is open all year round and offers unique pieces for every season: it's a sort of home-grown Portobello Road where new and used, antique and modern, old and new coexist and share the stage, ready to satisfy everyone's tastes and budgets; indeed, it's not unusual to come across genuine vintage rarities or collector's items.

It is, however, during the Christmas period that the market offers its best bargains. Here, in fact, you can find the most incredible Christmas decorations, as well as charming and highly original gift ideas, achievable on the tightest of budgets.

The market also fills up with stalls selling the most varied and delicious sweets to satisfy Epiphany wishes, naturally always at super competitive prices: an opportunity not to be missed for filling the stockings of friends and family without breaking the bank.

How to get there

The market stretches through the streets around Piazza Antignano, it is open on weekdays from 7am to 1pm, but it's advisable to visit around 9am, when the crowds are thinner and you can stroll leisurely among the stalls. Finally, it is easily reachable from every part of the city, given its proximity (about a 5-minute walk) to the Piazza Medaglie d'Oro stop on Line 1 of the Naples Metro.