market · Goiânia, GO
Mercado Central
Founded in 1950 in Setor Central, it is one of the capital's most traditional municipal markets and a meeting point for locals. It is known for its empadas goianas (savory pies) and for selling regional products.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mercado Central
The Mercado Central is one of Goiânia's most traditional spots. It is on Rua 3, in Setor Central, and brings together food stalls, regional products and crafts on several floors. It draws both locals, who have shopped there for generations, and visitors looking for the flavors of Goiás.
The market opened in 1950, in another building downtown. In 1986 it moved to its current address on Rua 3, where it remains today.
The idea is to wander among the stalls at your own pace. There are cheeses, flours, nuts, sweets, pequi, guariroba (bitter palm heart), herbs and home remedies, clay pots, baskets and other crafts. The big highlight is the empada goiana (savory pie), sold at the market's snack bars.
It is a short, indoor outing, good for any age and for rainy or very sunny days.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
About an hour to browse the stalls and eat an empada at a relaxed pace.
Best time
In the morning, when the stalls are well stocked and it is still cooler outside; it works in any season, since it is indoors.
How to get there
It is on Rua 3, in Setor Central, Goiânia's old downtown. If you are already downtown, you can walk; from other neighborhoods, go by bus, ride-hailing app or car.
Tip
Go hungry and try an empada goiana as soon as you arrive; then pick up some cheese, sweets or pickled pequi (a pungent cerrado fruit) to take home.
A look at the place
Mercado Central in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mercado Central
Is there an entrance fee at the Mercado Central in Goiânia?
No. Entry is free; you only pay for what you eat or buy at the stalls.
What should I eat at the Mercado Central in Goiânia?
The star is the empada goiana (savory pie). It is also worth trying cheeses, sweets and dishes with pequi and guariroba.
Where is the Mercado Central in Goiânia?
On Rua 3, in Setor Central. It has been at this address since 1986; before that it was in another building downtown.
When was the Mercado Central founded?
In 1950. It moved to its current building on Rua 3 in 1986.
How long does the visit take?
About an hour to browse the stalls and eat at a relaxed pace. Check opening hours before you go.