If you’ve just arrived in Madrid, finding the right supermarket in Spain can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options, organic products, or international ingredients, this guide to grocery stores in Spain has got you covered.
Here’s everything you need to know about grocery stores in Spain, whether you’re a student on a tight budget or craving a taste of homef you’re not feeling up for cooking, check out our article about the best Food Delivery apps in Spain!
1. The Most Popular Supermarkets in Spain
1. Mercadona
Good prices, reliable quality, and trusted store-brand products
Mercadona is the most popular supermarket in Spain, and for good reason. It’s clean, well-stocked, and offers great value for money. The in-house brands, Hacendado for food and Deliplus for personal care, are beloved across the country for their affordability and surprisingly high quality. Whether you need fresh produce, ready-made meals, or bulk basics, this grocery store in Spain has you covered.
2. DIA
Ultra-low prices, daily essentials, and constant discounts
If you’re looking to stretch your budget even further, DIA is one of the cheapest supermarket chains in Spain. Known for its deep discounts and store-brand products, DIA is perfect for anyone on a tight budget. It’s a simple option that provides affordable staples like pasta, canned goods, and dairy. You can also find a selection of toiletries and frozen foods.
Pro Tip: Use the DIA app for weekly coupons to save even more!
3. Carrefour Express & Market
Central locations, late-night shopping, and global brands
Carrefour Market and Express stores are everywhere in Madrid’s city center and many are open late, even 24/7 in some cases. They carry a good mix of Spanish and international brands, which is ideal when you’re craving a taste from home. Prices are slightly higher compared to DIA or Mercadona, but the convenience is unbeatable, especially on Sundays or after-hours.
4. Lidl
Affordable groceries, fresh bakery goods, and surprise deals
Lidl is known for its consistently low prices and themed weekly promos like “American Week”, “Thai Week and most famous of all, German week. During these promos you can try local snacks and ingredients from around the world. Their bakery section offers fresh bread and pastries, and each store features a rotating selection of budget-friendly items, from gardening tools and homeware to seasonal clothing and electronics. It’s a great place for both essentials and unexpected finds.
Pro Tip: Lidl charges for both plastic and paper bags, so bring your own to avoid extra costs.
5. ALDI
Simple shopping, quality basics, and low prices
ALDI is perfect if you want a quick grocery run. The stores are smaller than most others on this list, but they’re efficient, easy to navigate, and usually well-stocked with fresh produce, snacks, and pantry staples. Like Lidl, they lean heavily on store-brand items to keep prices down without compromising too much on quality.
6. El Corte Inglés
Gourmet groceries, high-end imports, and a luxury food hall vibe
The main El Corte Inglés supermarkets, especially those in their larger stores like at Callao or Goya, feel more like a European version of Whole Foods. They’ve got it all: fine wines, international cheeses, truffle oils, and a full gourmet food hall on the top floor. It’s a great place for specialty ingredients or if you’re planning a fancy dinner and want to impress. Definitely not your everyday grocery store in Spain, but an experience in itself.
Pro Tip: El Corte Inglés has one of the best selections of alcohol, syrups, and cocktail ingredients in the city, including rare finds you won’t see everywhere. Everything you need, all in one spot!
7. Supercor by El Corte Inglés
Premium name-brand items, international products, and late-night convenience
Supercor is the upscale little sibling of the most famous grocery store in Spain, El Corte Inglés. It’s a supermarket you’ll often find in central Madrid, and while it’s pricier than places like DIA or Lidl, it’s also way more convenient. You can expect longer opening hours (some are open until midnight or even 24/7), polished layouts, and a wide range of imported goods. It’s especially useful if you’re looking for something specific, like a particular brand of almond milk or that one hot sauce you saw on TikTok.
8. Alcampo
Bulk shopping, variety, and low prices on name brands
Alcampo is one of the biggest supermarkets in Spain, with massive locations that feel more like a hypermarket than a corner shop. You’ll find everything from groceries to electronics, home goods, and clothing under one roof. It’s a great spot if you’re planning a big haul, want more international name brands, or are shopping for a large household.
Pro Tip: Download the Alcampo app for online orders and special deals.
