Nicknamed Boi Para (“Book Town”), this roughly kilometre-long stretch of Central Kolkata is the largest second-hand book market in the world – hundreds of stalls piled with new and used titles at bargain prices. Browse for rare finds, haggle gently, and soak up the literary heart of the city.
A twin landmark to the book market, this high-ceilinged coffee house has been the haunt of Kolkata’s students, writers and intellectuals for generations. Come for strong coffee, cutlets and endless “adda” – the freewheeling conversation the city is famous for.
A bustling market focused on local produce – fruit, vegetables and dairy, with plenty of organic options. Make an effort to blend in and the vendors will warm to you; a little friendly haggling is part of the fun.
A slice of Milanese history, busiest on Saturdays, where food stalls sit beside outlet coats, shoes and bags. A bargain-hunter’s paradise for quality Italian leather and discounted labels – bring cash and a camera.
Milan’s oldest flea market, dating back to the 1800s and set a step from the Navigli. You can find just about everything – vintage and alternative clothing, handicrafts, books, vinyl, rare plants and collectibles – plus food and drink stalls and a great taste of the city’s underground culture.
A friendly little shop mixing classic Aalborg souvenirs – magnets, T-shirts, postcards – with cool retro and vintage finds, even vinyl records, plus a good cup of coffee while you browse.
A much-loved family restaurant in the heart of the old town, serving authentic Nicoise cooking with generations of history behind it. Warm, friendly and always busy – five minutes from the sea, so book ahead or arrive early.
A small, cosy music room where Florentines settle in for the best local jazz, blues and rock. Open most evenings with live bands, and great jam sessions when no one is booked. Sip a glass of Italian wine or dance to groovy tunes – note the club recently moved to a new home at Piazza del Tiratoio.
A lively Oltrarno osteria on one of Florence’s best people-watching squares. Book an outdoor table in warm weather and dig into fresh, fairly priced Tuscan cooking – the truffle gnocchi is the decadent house favourite.
