Mercado de San Miguel

For a true flavour of traditional Madrid life, go to the historic Mercado de San Miguel in the city’s old quarter. From seasonal fruit to traditional tapas and chocolate to caviar, you’ll find the highest quality produce on offer from enthusiastic sellers, making this a must-visit if you’re something of a foodie. After a recent revamp, the new look market is a place where locals, tourists, professional chefs and farmers all shop and swap stories under the same roof. As you walk through the beautiful cast iron building, the last of its kind in Madrid, make sure you have a chat with the producers who’ll tell you all about their wares. Before leaving the market, sample some local foods including fresh calamari, empanadas, cured meats and delicious cheeses. You can even get your hands on locally brewed wine and sherry, a perfect gift for friends and family at home. To make the most of your visit, order tapas with a beer or sangria, and sit at the tables as you soak up the atmosphere in this bustling artisan market. Your kids will love trying the freshly squeezed fruit juices and traditional sweets. Mercado de San Miguel also holds regular workshops, presentations and food fairs, so keep an eye on their website to find out what’s happening during your trip. After your tour of the market, take the short walk to Plaza Mayor, one of the city’s most impressive squares, to relax in a café or take pictures of the beautiful buildings. The smaller Plaza de la Villa is also close by.