El Rastro Madrid
El Rastro is reportedly the world's biggest flea market. This fun open-air market is held on Sunday's from 10am to 2pm on the Calle de Ribera de Curtidores, and provides the perfect place to wander around, pick up handmade crafts, souveniers, discount clothes and food samples. Even if you're not in the mood to buy anything, the ambience and energy of this huge market is unbeatable.

Almost anything can be found here for those who look. Paintings are one of the most popular items on sale, as are various pets such as birds, kittens and puppies. Cheap jewelry abounds, as do various other 'Spanish' trinkets. Used clothes and other goods are everywhere, even hashish pipes can be purchased. Many of the original prices on items are high, so don't be afraid to try out your Spanish in an attempt to talk the price down. Many vendors will also throw in an additional small item into your purchase to entice you to buy.

Incidentally, the words 'El Rastro' can translate into either 'Flea Market' or 'Thieves Market'. This translation does ring true: while this market is mostly safe and fun, shoppers should be aware quite often the cheaper items being sold in this market are stolen goods. Wanderers should also be extremely careful of their wallets and purses, as this is a hotspot for pickpockets. The best bet here is to carry your valuables is in a money belt underneath your clothes.