Known as the “red gold” of Spain, azafrán or saffron is one of Spain’s most prized ingredients, present in a wide range of dishes and culinary traditions. Today, there are many regions worldwide that produce this luxurious red spice, however, Spanish saffron is considered to be some of the best there is. But what exactly […]
Complete Guide to the El Rastro Flea Market in Madrid
Sundays in Madrid mean one thing: the El Rastro market. Over 100,000 people come to this sprawling open-air market every weekend to treasure hunt their way through more than 700 stalls. The Rastro is a flea market, but it’s so much more than that. It’s true that you can find centuries-old antiques, vintage furniture, war […]
The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Spain Lovers
Spain is the kind of place that sticks with you. It’s the kind of place that, as soon as you leave, you find yourself yearning to come back to. In the meantime, you’ll likely find yourself scouring your local wine shop for bottles of Rioja, attempting to recreate some of your favorite tapas recipes at […]
The Complete Guide to Grocery Stores in Madrid
As the capital of one of the healthiest countries in the world, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to grocery stores in Madrid. There are supermarkets, indoor and outdoor markets, fishmongers, charcuteries, butchers, bakeries, and delis everywhere. You can find everything you want just by stepping outside your front door and going for a […]
Top 6 Madrid Street Markets You Should Check Out
In Spain, life happens in the street, like a never-ending block party. And nowhere is this more than in Madrid. You can’t visit the Spanish capital and not notice that there’s a buzz in the air—it’s electric! Madrileños fill the streets at all hours of the day: shouting, laughing, drinking, and of course, shopping. On […]
How & Where to Buy Olive Oil in Madrid
Drizzled over a slice of rustic bread with tomatoes and a dash of sea salt, splashed on a summer salad, or poured over ribbons of cured ham…the ways to love olive oil are endless. Luckily, Spain is the perfect place to celebrate your love for this liquid gold—no matter how you prefer to enjoy it! […]
30 Ideas for Awesome Christmas Gifts from Madrid
This blog post was originally posted on November 30, 2014 and was updated on November 3, 2017. As Christmas draws closer, the shopping season springs to life in the Spanish capital. Madrid is home to its fair share of great Spanish gifts. When it comes to Christmas in Madrid, there is a whole host of amazing […]
9 Essential Madrid Food Markets (& What to Eat There)
If you want to see Madrid’s beauty, wander its narrow streets or explore its sprawling parks. But if you want to know Madrid—its people, its culture, its vibrancy—head to its food markets. Here, the heart and soul of the Spanish capital are on display. With 3.2 million residents, many of whom are transplants from other […]
Where to Buy Authentic Flamenco Souvenirs in Madrid
If you’ve come to Spain hoping to lose yourself in the rhythm and passion of flamenco, you’re not alone. Luckily, with so many great places to experience authentic flamenco in Madrid, you won’t be disappointed. Then, when you’re ready to head home, take a piece of the story with you. There are wonderful shops all […]
Where to Buy Spanish Leather Goods in Madrid
Without a doubt, one of the best parts of traveling is picking up the perfect souvenir. And given Spain’s rich, centuries-long history of leather making, it only makes sense to buy leather goods in Madrid! Treat yourself to some beautiful handcrafted leather pieces in Madrid. Photo credit: Verity Sanders As with many of the best-known […]
6 Gourmet Shops in Madrid to Try the Best Edible Souvenirs
Finding the perfect gift is not an easy job, no matter the occasion, but foodies make it a bit easier. If you’re asking yourself where to shop in Madrid, you’ll find loads of boutiques and galleries. But, if you are in need of a really special gift for a fellow food lover, these are the […]
Shopping in Madrid: Best Boutiques, Novelty Stores & More
There are countless options for shopping in Madrid, no matter what your style and budget may be. If you want to discover where to find quirky bohemian boutiques, glamorous luxury brands, and everything in between, look no further. When you think of fashion capitals, cities such as Milan, Paris, and New York probably come to […]
El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience: Food Court Guide
One of the top foodie hotspots in Madrid isn’t a trendy tapas bar tucked into the backstreets of Chueca, or a bustling traditional market. It’s a massive food court on top of a department store. The El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience overlooking Plaza Callao is the place to get your fix of food and drink […]
The Best Food Souvenirs from Spain to Buy in Madrid
Many people will pick up a shot glass or a postcard from each city they visit. But if you’re anything like us, you’ll probably want to fill your suitcases with something else—food. Luckily, when it comes to taking home food souvenirs from Spain, you have plenty of options to choose from in Madrid. With a […]