El Rastro

El Rastro began as a meat market in the 17th century (rastro is a Spanish word meaning "trail," referring to the blood left behind by slaughtered animals), but it has turned into Madrid's busiest flea market. Every Sunday, the stalls are filled with antiques, vintage t-shirts, and old vinyl records, as well as new clothing and souvenirs. The eclectic items on sale have price tags, but browsing the rows is free, and strolling through them is a great way to get a sense of what drives the madrileños. Madrid's famous flea market takes place every Sunday morning, when the streets come alive with stalls, bars spill out onto the streets, and locals and tourists alike enjoy the festive atmosphere in the Lavapiés neighborhood.