Markets are perhaps one of the best ways to truly soak in the local culture. With so many food markets (46 municipal markets, to be exact), and a number of flea markets, you may be lost on where to start. Here is our handy guide to some of Madrid’s best markets:
Food markets:
Mercado de San Miguel
Quite possibly the most popular market in Madrid, and with good reason. If you only have time to explore one market, this definitely has to be it. Opened in 1916, the Mercado de San Miguel is classified as a Property of Cultural Interest; after experiencing decline, it went through an extensive six-year restoration, transforming it into a much more modern shopping venue selling all sorts of local Spanish delicacies to tapas, wines and international fare, all while still retaining its original iron structure. While the prices may be on the higher end, don’t let that stop you from soaking in the atmosphere. While you’re at it, have some banderillas at La Hora Del Vermut!
Address: Plaza de San Miguel, S/N, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Mercado de San Fernando
San Fernando market, located in the Lavapiés area of Madrid, is a place where tradition and modernity coexist. The splendid façade of the building does not give any hint that it houses a municipal market behind it’s magnificent entrance. Alongside typical market produce such as fresh food and butchered meats are a range of other products, including La Casquería, a shop which sells books by the pound.
Address: Calle de Embajadores, 41, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Mercado de la Paz
This popular, indoor marketplace was established in 1882, and is one of the oldest markets in Madrid. Located in the affluent Salamanca barrio, you’ll find a variety of fresh meats, fruits and cheese at surprisingly affordable prices. Further away from the city centre, you’ll find mainly locals at this cosy but bustling market. While mainly catered towards home cooking, there are a few tapas bars available, including Casa Dani, well-known and loved among locals for arguably the best tortillas españolas (Spanish omelette) in Madrid.
Address: Calle de Ayala, 28B, 28001 Madrid, Spain
Mercado de Maravillas
Maravillas is a sprawling market covering an area of close to 9,000 square metres and with over 250 stalls. Located in Chueca, one of Madrid’s most culturally and racially diverse neighbourhoods, you’ll find just about everyone shopping here, and if you’re looking for something, you’ll definitely find it here. An information desk is available even to help orientate those visiting for this first time. Yes, it’s that big.
Address: Calle de Bravo Murillo, 122, 28020 Madrid, Spain
Mercado Antón Martin
In Antón Martin, alongside the traditional market it houses, you’ll find a food hall with a focus on all sorts of different street food from all sorts of different cultures.. It spans 3 floors, with a traditional dance school occupying the third. It is popular with the younger crowd, and it’s not hard to see why. The food here is as affordable as it is delicious. The sushi at Yokaloka is outstanding, and be sure to treat yourself to some authentic Italian cuisine at La Saletta.
Address: Calle de Santa Isabel, 5, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Mercado Vallehermoso
Like many of Madrid’s municipal markets, Vallehermoso underwent a facelift to save it from decline, and is another perfect example of how Madrid has magically managed to seamlessly integrate the traditional with the modern. Reopened in 2017, it is home to 62 stalls selling a range of typical market produce, as well as a number of specialty shops selling goods from other countries. An exciting new offering on the ground floor is Spain’s first and only permanent farmers’ market, comprising 22 small artisan food stalls offering local food products produced in the vicinity, according to traditional methods. Best of all, these stalls also allow visitors to sample their products. The market has a wide range of culinary delights, featuring cuisines from different countries. Grab a pastrami sandwich at Craft 19, or order the Korean ribs at Kitchen 154.
Address: Calle Vallehermoso, 36, 28015 Madrid
Flea markets:
El Rastro
El Rastro is Madrid’s most famous flea market, opening every Sunday and bank holiday. You’ll find things that you’re not likely to find anywhere else. Go early before it gets crowded and take your time to peruse the wide-range of vintage items, collector’s items, antiques and other second-hand items. Who knows, you may even pick up a lovely little souvenir to remind you of Madrid.
Address: Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Mercado de Motores
This charming craft market is held on the second weekend of every month at the Museo del Ferrocarril, an old railway station that lies just outside the city centre. The inside is filled with stalls hawking all kinds of eclectic goods, as well as a wide variety of handcrafted items. Food and drink are available here as well, and you can exchange money for tokens to redeem them.
Address: Museo del Ferrocarril, Paseo de las Delicias, 61, 28045 Madrid, Spain
