SPOTAHOME

When it first came on the scene in September of 2013 in the Museo del Ferrocarril, the Mercado de Motores turned heads. Ever since, on the second weekend of the month, flocks of people who would normally be parading the streets of Malasaña or Chueca make the pilgrimage to Delicias to the Mercado de Motores. I’m one of them. This is one of my favorite things to do in Madrid; you’re in an incredible setting, the vendors change every month AND it’s not just about the shopping for artisan and vintage goods: it’s also about the atmosphere. For those of you heading home for the holidays or just want to pick up some great presents, this is a don’t miss stop for great finds!

First off, as a seasoned pro, let me give you two tips:

Tip 1: Make sure you have enough cash

While there are more and more vendors with card terminals and readers, many of the vendors at Motores (especially in the vintage section) only take cash. If you’ve found something you can’t live without and you don’t have enough cash, you’re going to have to leave the market to got to the ATM and have to go back in line to re-enter. Save yourself the hassle and bring enough cash. If you’re on a tight budget, then don’t tempt yourself with have a whole wad of Euros

Tip 2: Get there around 12

While it’s open from 11 AM to 10 PM, it’s better to get there earlier. At 11 things are still quiet and people are setting up, but at 12 things are at their perfect balance: the vendors still have plenty of stock, the music is playing, and it’s a lot easier to get through the crowds. Plus, sometimes the line can go all the way to the Metro stop, so you sometimes have to wait for 45 minutes!

What you’ll find

Along the different aisles beside trains, you’ll find a variety of vendors. Once you walk into the museum, there will be bikes and plants right outside in front. Upon walking in, you’ll be greeted by live music (a fantastic complement to the beautiful space that is the Museo del Ferrocarril). One aisle will be dedicated to foods, while the others have a mixture of artisan goods, ranging to handmade jewelry, decorative items, and clothes.

And who wouldn’t love taking in the sites. You never know what you’re going to find!

One time I found the Mahou beer truck!

How to get there**

Mercado de Motores (2nd weekend of the month)
Museo del Ferrocarril
Paseo de las Delicias, 61
28045 MADRID
Metro: Delicias (Line 3)
@MercadodMotores

Hope to see you there!

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Christmas Shopping in Madrid: Mercado de Motores