Madrid’s oldest fan maker (in business since 1858) sells its wares on the busy Puerta del Sol. The light-weight confections make great mementos to bring home.

Run by the same family for five generations, this dusty shop, located just outside an archway leading into the Plaza Mayor, is the place to buy espadrilles. The selection is fantastic, with examples in every size and shade lining the walls, but you should expect gruff service.

This flea market takes over the streets south of the Plaza Mayor every Sunday morning (it’s concentrated on Calle de la Ribera de Curtidores and the Plaza de Cascorro, south of the La Latina metro). The wares tend to be tchotchkes, but some local artists and artisans also come to display their paintings and crafts. Arrive early, and watch out for the pickpockets and purse-snatchers that prey on distracted tourists.

Visit this unique housewares and fashion shop at the very end of street for bold dresses, woven bags from Kenya, handmade fabrics, and colorful shoes.

Spanish craftsmen make and design all of the accessories and jewelry in the Malababa boutiques. You can find strappy sandals in neutral and bright colors in summer and fabulous boots in winter. Bags range from cute clutches to substantial messenger bags. 

Both professional flamenco dancers and souvenir hunters come to Maty for traditional pumps, hair combs and costumes.

This heavenly cheese shop (sister to the yummy Poncelet Cheese Bar restaurant) sells an incredible assortment of fresh-off-the-farm cheeses. They have ones that have been aged in in mountain caves and others that are drizzled in honey, sweetened with lavender or rolled in ash or rosemary. Among the musts to try are tetilla from Galicia and payoyo from Andalucia. There are always lots to taste and the staff can steer you.

Those looking for traditional Spanish ceramics should head to this tiny shop behind San Miguel Market. There is a huge selection of painted plates, bowls and pitchers in lovely patterns. They ship internationally. 

Xoan Viqueira, an illustrator and graphic designer from Valencia, designs unique espadrilles and quirky home accessories. His shop is one of the many gems tucked away in the trendy neighborhood of Chueca. While in the neighborhood, don’t miss the Mercado San Anton.