Even if you can't go abroad, you still need to prepare a guide for Madrid
This year's pandemic has been a real challenge for brothers and sisters who want to travel abroad. Especially as the Christmas season approaches, the most anticipated market atmosphere this year has also been ruined. But we must remain confident; since we can't go now, just look at travel guides to satisfy your longing and prepare in advance for next year.
This guide takes you to the city of Madrid. If you want to experience more local Spanish culture, you must go to Madrid, and you must visit the local markets. The vendors are very warm to Chinese tourists; you can communicate with them, ask for information, and learn about the locals' way of life. These markets are all open-air, which for us is like a free museum, an opportunity to deeply understand and integrate into the city.
1. Vintage Flea Market
EL RASTRO
Location: Plaza de Cascorro. Take the metro to La Latina and you'll see it.
Date: Every Sunday
Time: 9:00-14:00
This is the largest flea market in Spain, with a history of more than half a century. If you want to hunt for antiques, records, clothes, jewelry, furniture, or even toys, this place can meet all your needs. From the leather jackets loved by hippies in the 80s to the unique Louis Vuitton bags from the 90s, as long as you are observant enough, you can always find unexpected surprises. There are many restaurants nearby that offer appetizers and cocktails. When you're tired from shopping, sit down and rest, have something to eat and drink, and enjoy the street performers' shows – it's very pleasant.
It takes at least 2-3 hours to roughly browse the entire market. It's recommended to come early, otherwise you might run out of time or good items may be picked up by others first.
@todorastro
MercadoDe Motores
Location: Museo del Ferrocarril de Madrid, Paseo de las Delicias 61 (Railway Museum). Take the metro to Delicias station and you'll see it upon exit.
Date: The second Saturday and Sunday of each month
Time: 11:00-21:00
The Railway Museum was converted from an old train station, with many vintage trains parked inside, and the market is built on this basis. Here you can find not only vintage clothes, jewelry, and records, but also some niche brands and handmade jewelry. Some vendors can even adjust the size and design according to your needs on the spot. There are also agricultural product stalls, mainly selling honey or fruits. If you want to dispose of your old clothes, you can also submit an application on their website to sell them.
Additionally, there is always a live concert each time, inviting different bands to perform, while providing food and drinks, and free guided tours of the Railway Museum.
@mercadodemotores_oficial
2. Christmas Market
Location: Plaza Mayor
Date: November 24 - December 31
Time: 9:00-22:00
The oldest, most traditional, and largest Christmas market in Spain is in Madrid, with over 100 stalls selling items or food related to Christmas. Every Christmas season, Spaniards set up miniature scenes at home, mainly depicting places related to the story of Jesus, so you can also see many miniature animals and houses at the market. Under the Christmas lights, you can understand the romance of a European Christmas. You can also buy a Christmas lottery ticket to try your luck, go to Dona Manolita to buy one—this century-old shop has always been blessed with luck!
@madrid.explore
Tips: At midnight on New Year's Eve (December 31), the clock at Plaza Mayor strikes twelve times. With each chime, people eat one grape, called 'Uvas de la suerte' - lucky grapes. This tradition has lasted for more than a century, and to this day people gather at Puerta del Sol waiting for the bell tolls to ring in the New Year, eating grapes together and praying for a smooth year ahead.
Much of this information I found on a website called 'Seven-Star Tourism Holy Land'. This website is very comprehensive, covering shopping, travel, dining, local events, and everything you can imagine! You can search for it yourself!
