Where international travel destinations are concerned, Madrid is oftentimes referred to as the “new kid on the block” and that is quite a misconception in itself. Though the city is a relative newcomer to the tourist industry, don’t let that fool you. In our opinion, this is one city in Spain that you won’t want to miss. The attractions, the countryside, and the cuisine make Madrid a very desirous destination for many international travelers. However, if it’s a shopping vacation that holds the most allure for your travel agenda, the city will absolutely amaze you with the abundance of bargains that you will find.
Consider the flea market concept, found in abundance all over Western Europe, as being your format for a trip to Madrid. Why? It’s simple - Madrid’s flea markets are one of the best kept secrets in the international travel industry. The city’s busy markets will amaze you not only with their character but because they are so full of life. You can spend the entire day just browsing or find tons of quality merchandise at exceptional bargains.
Best of all, you will have a ball just enjoying the atmosphere in general with all the colorful banter occurring when the locals are negotiating the best deals. Here are three excellent flea and cheap markets that you won’t want to miss while visiting Madrid:
1. El Rastro (The Trace)
El Rastro is situated at the Plaza de Cascorro, the Calle Ribera, and on the adjoining side streets. They have turned the streets here into some of the biggest flea markets that you will find anywhere in the world. Antiques, clothing, and just lots of useless tidbits are what you find in abundance at El Rastro. The character of this market area alone makes this a must-explore destination.
2. Mercado Puerta de Toledo (Toledo Gate Market)
Formerly a busy fish market, Mercado Puerta de Toledo has been transformed into shopping metropolis filled with galleries and stores. Antique shops, art galleries, fashion retailers, cafés, pubs, and restaurants abound here, so plan on spending the day adventuring. However, you will quickly discover that one day may not be enough time to experience all there is to take in once you see the uniqueness that each establishment holds for the traveler.
3. Cuesta de Moyano
Located at Calle de Claudio Moyano, Cuesta de Moyano is one of the busier street market centers in Madrid, well-known for the abundance of values that you can find there. There are roughly 30 outdoor stalls filled with merchants buying and selling merchandise – specifically assorted literature and books from ages gone by. Serious book collectors from all over the world shop here, so be prepared to hear some of the finest negotiating you will hear anywhere in Madrid.
Photo of El Rastro Market, Madrid, Spain by Sylvain Bourdos
Topic: Tips and Ideas |
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Tags: budget, Madrid, shopping
About the author
Anita Choudhary is a freelance writer and travel blogger based in New Delhi, India. She loves to travel and has traveled extensively in India. Exploring new places, reading and writing are her hobbies.
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