In the heart of the country, Spain’s capital, Madrid, is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an authentic experience of Spanish culture. Home to some of the most renowned architecture, monuments, and beaches in the world, the country is one of the most sought-after destinations by travelers. Madrid has many attractions for tourists, but the capital’s main activity is shopping. The city has been named by the British magazine “The Economist” as the second-best shopping capital in Europe- just after Paris. If you’re visiting Madrid and have plans to purchase souvenirs, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we have a list of some of the best things to buy in Madrid, Spain so you can enjoy the best shopping experience in Spain.
Ceramics
The first thing to buy in Madrid if you love anything with good designs is ceramics. If you were to enter all the houses in Spain, you will notice that each one of them has at least one ceramic in it. The country is famous for producing breathtakingly beautiful ceramics with different styles that are sure to blow your mind. You have been warned that the crockeries, fruit bowls, cups, and bowls come with fine designs that will entice you to buy more than one. You will also find many stores in the city that specializes in the making of ceramics. If you are planning on staying a little longer, you can even paint your very own piece of pottery!
Spanish Hand Fan
Another souvenir that you will see littered in all the tourist shops in Madrid is the Spanish Hand Fan. For many centuries now, the country has been producing handmade fans, which have grown to become a great economical souvenir from the region. While you will find traditional Spanish fans in several shops, we suggest that you visit Casa de Diego. The shop has been selling hand fans for more than two centuries, so you can expect to find some very traditional handmade fans with exquisite designs.
Alpargatas
If you are looking for the traditional footwear worn by Spaniard women, Alpargatas, also known as Espadrille are the best you will find. The footwear is a casual flat shoe mostly worn during summers and they are made of ropes and cloth. While the footwear was at first worn only by peasants, it is today seen as a staple of Spanish summer attire. There are modern-day versions of the footwear that are trendier. In fact, there are several towns in the country, especially in the beach towns, where espadrilles are preferred to flip-flops. You will find Alpargatas on sale in several shops in the city centre.
Majórica Pearls
You are in for a great surprise if you love pearls. During your stay in Madrid, you are bound to come across some magnificent pieces at decent prices. Majórica Pearls are man-made pearls that are made by a company that was established in 1897 on the island of Mallorca. The pearls closely resemble the natural versions since they are produced using a process that is similar to the one that the mollusks go through during development within the oyster. The pearls have a solid glass-ball center that is covered layer by layer with a special paste. The paste is made of various organic marine products. The result is perfectly rounded gems with a shine and iridescence that cannot be found anywhere else. You can choose to purchase the pearls alone or in settings as rings, earrings, and necklaces.
Flamenco Attire
Spain is home to the very passionate and globally recognized music and dance style, flamenco. The dance has grown to become part of the Spanish culture. After spending a few minutes in the country’s capital, you will definitely want to immerse yourself in the flamenco dance scene. We recommend you to visit one of the many flamenco shows in Madrid. The city is also the best place to buy flamenco dresses, shawls, shoes, or even dolls.
Spanish Olive Oil
Did you know that Spain is the number-one producer of olives, producing nearly twice as much as Italy? And although the capital city is rather small, it features a wide range of foods, including olives. The olive is grown in the south-east part of the city and produces olives marinated with sweet aromatic herbs like fennel, thyme, and oregano. Whether you are a connoisseur or you just like dipping your bread, a high-quality bottle will make for a great addition to the other gifts you will be getting from Madrid.
Violetas
For a taste of Madrid’s sweet treats, you can’t miss out on the violet candy. The treat is sold in a popular shop known as La Violeta. The shop, established over 100 years ago, sells a wide selection of candies and other treats that are to die for. Unlike other candies, their treats tend to look gorgeous and come in great packaging not forgetting the indescribable taste. So, if you are looking for a sweet treat to buy as a souvenir, you definitely know where to head over to.
Blue Wine
Spain is home to some of the best wine in the world and its capital, Madrid, is the best place to sit down and have a refreshing glass. The wine is available in red, rosy, and white varieties. There is even a Spanish firm that has shaken the entire wine industry by coming up with a blue wine called Gik. The wine is made from a combination of red and white grapes as well as some natural flavors and pigments. If you would like to buy this unique beverage and take it back home as a gift, you will only find it in a few stores and restaurants in the city.
Soccer Jersey
If you are a football fan then you definitely love two of the capital’s big teams, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. And if you are to visit the city, you shouldn’t leave without buying a football jersey or accessory from one of the clubs. The two teams have official stores along Gran Vía where you can get shirts, pens, and alarm clocks with the team’s logo.
The local art
Madrid is home to a number of famous artisans, painters, and illustrators. This makes the city the best place to visit for people who love to invest in an exclusive work of art. No matter which street you are walking on, you will definitely come across impressive displays of art showing the best side of the city. If you are looking for a fancy piece of art to take back home as a gift for your loved ones, just check out the many local art shops in Madrid. You will come across incredibly detailed and beautiful paintings with colors and patterns that you are definitely going to fall in love with.
Guide to Shopping in Madrid Spain
Exploring Madrid, Spain’s lively capital, will give you an amazing shopping experience.
Gran Vía
Your shopping journey in Madrid starts on Gran Vía. This energetic street is called the “Spanish Broadway” and offers everything from high-street fashion shops such as Zara and Mango to elegant Spanish designers displaying their latest pieces. As you take a stroll down Gran Vía, remember to meander off into the nearby alleyways to explore hidden boutiques and intriguing stores.
El Rastro
If you want to explore a more local and traditional Madrid, then El Rastro is a must-visit. This huge flea market only operates every Sunday, and it is like a treasure trove of antiques, handicrafts, clothes, and collectibles. From old jewelry to retro furniture and unique souvenirs, you will discover something in the labyrinth of stalls. Bargaining is also an art here, so be ready to haggle and go home with special treasures.
Mercado de San Miguel
Foodies will also have a great time at Mercado de San Miguel, near Plaza Mayor. This historic market is heaven on earth for foodies, with Spanish specialties like fresh seafood, Iberian ham, tapas, and desserts. You can sample the best of Spain’s cuisine and pick up some top-notch ingredients to take home as edible souvenirs.
Mercado de la Paz
For a similar tasty shopping trip, the Mercado de la Paz in the upscale Salamanca neighborhood is another option. This traditional market has fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, wines, and gourmet products. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect bottle of Spanish wine or artisanal cheeses to go with your tapas, you will find it. The vendors are always happy to share their knowledge and suggest the best local products.
Madrid’s Golden Mile
For those seeking luxury shopping, Madrid’s Golden Mile in Salamanca is calling your name. You will see designer boutiques such as Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. Even if you are not a big spender, walking along the Golden Mile is a treat for your eyes. The tree-lined streets and luxurious shop displays make it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
El Corte Inglés
To really dive into Spanish culture, you also should visit El Corte Inglés, Spain’s largest department store chain. The flagship store on Gran Vía is a great place to find Spanish products, including fashion, cosmetics, and gourmet food items. You can pick up top-quality souvenirs and gifts for friends and family here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Madrid’s shopping scene reflects the city’s vibrant and diverse nature. Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends, vintage treasures, delicious culinary delights, or luxury items, this Madrid tourist shopping guide will lead you to the best places to discover it. When you travel to Madrid, make sure you set aside plenty of time for a shopping adventure that will provide you with cherished memories and unique souvenirs from your Spanish escapade.
