San Miguel Market, Madrid

The San Miguel Market, a recently renovated, modern, inviting building, sits right next to the Plaza Mayor, in the heart of Madrid. It is one of the oldest permanent markets in Madrid, running nearly every day since 1916, but you would never know it from the sleek design of the updated iron structure that houses the market. Both its ideal location and its appealing design make it a sort of hub of activity in the city, more than just a market where shoppers come to get their daily groceries. The San Miguel market specialises in premium quality foods, with gourmet cheeses, seafood, coffee, and especially tapas of all kinds. Housed under the same roof are the light-hearted Italian cheese stall, Mozheart (stall 58) and the decadent comfort food stall, Paella y olé, which specialises in rice, paellas and tapas (stalls 9 and 10). There's even a stall offering playful edible flower creations (Flower Experience, stall 72).

What's more, the market hosts regular cultural and cooking events which transform the marketplace into a veritable community centre. Events can range from music and art exhibitions to cooking classes and tasting events. And by night, the market takes on a more festive atmosphere, offering music along beer and wine. Enjoy the performances put on by the Cardamomo Flamenco stall (number 48) while you sip on beverage from the Cold Beer Cart (number 53)

Mercado de San Miguel
Plaza de San Miguel, 28005, Madrid