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El Rastro flea market, Madrid

Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores, Madrid, Comunidad de Madrid

Description

El Rastro is an open-air flea market held on Sundays and public holidays along Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores in the Ambassador's neighbourhood (barrio de Embajadores). It can accommodate over 1000 merchants selling kitchenware, second-hand albums and magazines, artisanal goods, and clothing. The streets are also lined by several antique shops, bars and restaurants.

Access & Transport

The closest metro and train stations are Embajadores (L3, C5), La Latina (L5) and Puerta de Toledo (L5), all less than 5mins walk from the market area.

Instructions & Recommendations

This activity is best complemented by an exploration of the La Latina neighbourhood, including the San Isidro Museum and the Real Basilica of Saint Francis the Great.

Meta review

The market is incredibly popular and draws huge crowds every week. Reviewers' comments are quite consistent - although their opinion and conclusion differ: it is very large, busy and the quality of goods being sold is quite average; some people love this market atmosphere whilst others find it of limited interest and advice bypassing the area on Sundays. A recurring tip from visitors is to bring some cash as many merchants do not take credit cards.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral and supports small independent stall owners.

Conclusion

El Rastro flea market will, for many, be an enjoyable alternative to the various cultural activities of Madrid. Plenty to see and buy but a lot of it is of average quality; don't go in fully expecting to find great bargains. If you have no interest in shopping for cheap clothes, souvenirs and second-hand stuff you can skip this.

Key positive

Very large and colourful

Key negative

Can be quite crowded

A lot of low-quality items

Suitability

Suitable for all ages and accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
The market also takes place and public holidays and some stalls open on weekdays

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:1h 45m

Regulated hours

Monday -

Tuesday -

Wednesday -

Thursday -

Friday -

Saturday -

Sunday09:30 - 15:00

Pricing
Free

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