Shopping in Madrid: A Comprehensive Guide
Madrid is renowned as the best city in Spain for shopping, offering an extensive range of options to satisfy every taste. This guide will provide you with information on the most popular shopping malls and districts in Madrid.
Madrid’s Shopping Districts
Many of these areas in Madrid are accessible through the Madrid Sightseeing Tour Bus.
- Las Rosas: This large shopping center features all of Spain’s major brands. It is situated outside the city center; therefore, using public transport may be advisable.
- Gran Via & Sol: This vibrant area hosts flagship stores for prominent brands, especially the Inditex chains, including Zara and Pull & Bear. Take a moment to admire the stunning rooftops of the buildings while enjoying Madrid’s largest cinemas.
- Principe Pío: Serving as a major bus and train station, there is also a contemporary shopping mall located above. This is Madrid’s most central covered shopping space, ideal for rainy days.
- Ortega y Gasset: This upscale district is frequented by celebrities and offers high-end shopping experiences. Nearby, on c/Serrano, you will find ABC Serrano, a luxurious three-floor shopping mall.
- Fuencarral & Hortaleza: Located just off Gran Via, this area appeals to trendy shoppers and features stores selling unique fashion items. Don’t be deterred by high prices—there are still bargains available, especially for shoes.
- Opera: The vicinity around the opera house specializes in musical instruments, particularly local guitar craftsmanship.
- Santo Domingo: Although less lively than other areas, it hosts some excellent record stores for music aficionados.
- Xanadu: Known as one of Europe’s largest indoor ski resorts, it also features a considerable shopping mall.
- El Corte Inglés: Spain’s ubiquitous department store chain is regarded for its vast selection; if it’s not available here, you may struggle to find it elsewhere.
Flea Markets in Madrid
- El Rastro: The noteworthy Sunday market located between Tirso de Molina and La Latina metro stations remains a cultural staple despite changes over the years.
- Cuesta de Moyano Book Market: Near Retiro Park, this market features huts selling interesting books, often out of print.
- Coin and Stamp Market in Madrid: Found in Plaza Mayor every Sunday morning.
- Chinchon Market: Located in the town of Chinchon to the south of Madrid, this market operates on Saturday mornings.
- Alcala de Henares: Situated on c/Mayor in a town east of Madrid, also held on Saturday mornings.
- Rastrillo de Tetuán: A smaller version of El Rastro, held on c/Marqués de Viana every Sunday morning.
Claiming Back Tax From Goods Bought in Spain
While shopping in Spain, it is possible to claim back your sales tax, which can be a significant benefit if you’re making larger purchases.
