El Rastro City Center

I went at 9 a.m. on Sunday, when some vendors were only just opening, so it wasn’t too crowded. I enjoyed browsing El Rastro and found a few hidden gems at very reasonable prices. It only opens on Sundays.

It's a large outdoor market, but the main street feels more like a bazaar, with ordinary, maybe even high, prices. Don't just stay on that road. Wander the smaller streets for the real flea market finds. You could probably find whatever you're looking for, and it was nice seeing all the retro and vintage things.

Come early if you want room to move, because El Rastro gets very crowded, especially on Sundays when locals and tourists fill the narrow streets. Even a walk around is enjoyable, thanks to the area's character, and there are plenty of nearby cafés and tapas bars for a break. This huge open-air market has stalls selling everything from antiques and old vinyl to clothes, bags, souvenirs, and all sorts of unexpected finds. Prices vary. Look carefully and you may find bargains, though regular shops are mixed in among the stalls. It's a must-visit in Madrid.

Cash is a good idea since not many stalls accepted cards. The market covers a huge area, and the central section is rammed and hectic. I had more fun exploring the outer streets, full of quirky flea market stalls and gloomy but fascinating junk shops for every budget. Great fun.