If you want to see Madrid\u2019s beauty, wander its narrow streets or explore its sprawling parks. But if you want to know Madrid\u2014its people, its culture, its vibrancy\u2014head to its food markets. Here, the heart and soul of the Spanish capital are on display.<\/p>\n\n\n

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With 3.2 million residents, many of whom are transplants from other regions, Madrid is the most diverse city in Spain. Each of its neighborhoods has a distinct personality, and nowhere is this\u00a0more apparent than in Madrid’s food markets. <\/p>\n\n\n

Mercado de la Paz in the ritzy Salamanca district<\/a>, for example, features shops with pricey\u00a0spreads and conserved delicacies. On the other hand, in bohemian Lavapi\u00e9s<\/a>, stands of organic foods and craft beers speckle the San Fernando Market.<\/p>\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking to experience the Madrid of the locals, strolling through these Spanish markets<\/a> is the best way to do it! These are some of the Madrid food markets no gourmand will want to miss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Mercado de San Miguel<\/h2>\n\n\n

With a prime location just outside Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel<\/a>\u00a0has become a bit of a tourist hotspot. As you stroll through this most famous of Madrid food markets, you\u2019ll see people from all around the world and feast on food from every corner of Spain.<\/p>\n\n\n

Unlike many other markets in Madrid, where locals do their weekly grocery shopping, San Miguel is all about eating. The majority of its stands serve tapas, pastries and snacks rather than hawking fresh food products. It’s a gathering place where people meet to sip vermouth and snack on everything from olives to oysters. <\/p>\n\n\n

While it seems like a tourist trap, the\u00a0Mercado de San Miguel is worth a visit, especially if you’re new to Spanish food. There’s no other place in Madrid where you can experience so many foods from all across Spain, all under one roof. Get familiar with some common drinks and dishes here\u2014then you’ll know what to order when you tackle the tapas bars and restaurants on your own!<\/p>\n\n\n

Where to eat at Mercado San Miguel<\/strong>: Start with vermouth and local olives at La Hora del Vermut<\/a>. Next, move on to La Casa del Bacalao<\/a> for a taste of the ocean. Mix and match the huge\u00a0selection\u00a0of fresh\u00a0seafood tapas to eat like a true Spaniard!<\/p>\n\n\n