In a world that is dominated by supermarkets, shopping malls, outlet centers and online shopping – getting back to basics can be a fun trip through the past. From food markets to flea markets, Madrid is covered in these wonderful bazaars to explore and shop the old fashioned way. Check out some of Madrid’s most popular and unique markets.
In a rush and want to get your produce from a normal supermarket? Take a look at our list of the best supermarkets in the city. And if you want to keep shopping, check out our comprehensive guide to shopping in Madrid for tips on where to shop, top Spanish brands and expert tips.
1. Mercado San Miguel
San Miguel is one of Madrid’s most popular food markets for tourists and locals alike! It is located just off of Calle Mayor – a 1 minute walk west of Plaza Mayor. It was named after the original church that occupied the property called San Miguel do los Octoes, and operated as an open air fish market in 1835. By 1911 it was converted into the closed market that you see today. Although San Miguel is slightly on the expensive side, its 33 stalls offer a variety of fresh produce, fish and meats. As well as some prepared cuisine – the upscale design of the market makes for a food lovers paradise.
If you are interested in learning about wine, Mercado San Miguel is the place to go, with mini bodegas and wine bars scattered throughout. The best times to go to the market is late in the evening and early morning to avoid the hoards of tourists that pass through each day.
2. Mercado Ildefonso
Food market by day, youth hotspot by night. Mercado Ildefonso is a super hip market in Malasana located right around the corner from Plaza de San IIdefonso. The market is a great mixture of fresh and prepared foods as well as a beautiful roof terrace and gastro bars. It’s got a very bohemian vibe to it, which attracts a really fun and social crowd during all hours of the day. It gets crowded fast at night, as many people make the market their first stop on a night out.
The market is set up with many places to sit and relax while enjoying your food, which makes it more of a hangout than a shopping market. When you are planning your next night out: add Malasaña on your list and start the evening with Ildefonso!
3. El Rastro
El Rastro is Spain’s largest open air flea market. Located in the heart of La Latina and open every Sunday morning from 9am-3pm. Unlike the other markets on this list, El Rastro is not a food market. But, instead it offers a wide range of antiques, clothing (both new and used) and many other trinkets and doodads. The market makes up for its lack in fresh produce by being located within a neighbourhood with some of the best and most authentic tapas bars in the city!
A local tradition at Rastro is to gather with friends, eat some food and have some drinks – don’t forget about the dancing and singing too! You can’t be in Madrid and not experience one of the cities best markets!
4. The Festival by Olavide
Located in the charming Plaza de Olavide in Madrid’s barrio Chamberí, The Festival by Olavide is an open air market filled with all kinds of independent vendors from across the city. Visitors will find boutique designers, artisanal crafts and gourmet food stalls. The market only takes place a few times every year, so make sure to follow their socials so you don’t miss the next one!
