Madrid is a fascinating city and there are many things to see. Here is a list of some of Madrid's most popular sights.
El Rastro is the most popular open air flea market in Madrid, it is open every sunday and on public holidays. It is located in the historic center of the capital, just in the neighborhood of Embajadores (Ambassadors).
El Rastro has a total of 3,500 sales positions ranging from Plaza de Cascorro, to Ribera Street and surrounding streets, Embajadores street, and the Ronda de Toledo and Plaza del Campillo Del Nuevo Mundo.
The area in which is located the Rastro flea market was from the late fifteenth and early sixteenth and a large business of slaughterhouses, tanneries and sellers of old clothes and used, known as "ropavejeros".
It is believed that the word El Rastro (the trial) comes from the time when slaughterhouses existed in this area, in particular, refers to the blood trail left by the cattle after being beheaded. On the other hand, some argue that the term can mean "Las afueras” (outside).
The air we breathe every market day is amazing, you can see all kinds of people, from tourists, immigrants to the same Madrid people, all of them doing what they do best giving, selling or buying.
Visit the market is undoubtedly one of the best activities to do in Madrid, everyone who comes to town always reserves Sunday morning for the tour. The experience is fun and unique, even if you only walk.
In the surrounding area you will find all kinds of breweries, restaurants and cafes, in summer or when the weather is good, terraces are installed at the Plaza of the Barley.
Access to El Rastro is very simple, it is very close to the Plaza Mayor and can be reached on foot from Plaza del Sol. Can be accessed through public transportation: subway and bus.
Two important recommendations that you must consider are: It is recommended not to arrive by car on because the parking issue will be difficult and takes care of your wallet, in places as crowded as this you need to be attentive.
The El Rastro Market hours are 9 am to 3 pm.
Underground
Line 5 Latina and Puerta de Toledo
Line 1 Tirso de Molina
Line 3: Embajadores
Buses: 17, 33, 35, 41, 60, And 148
Images credit:
El Rastro mercado de pulgas Flickr Gallery uitdragerij
El Rastro mercado en Madrid Flickr Gallery uitdragerij
El Rastro FLickr Gallery Reservasdecoches.com