Whether in Berlin, Lisbon, Dublin, or anywhere else, we always love visiting local markets. And right next to Plaza Mayor is the “hipster” Mercado de San Miguel. However, despite being quite beautiful, it is very touristy—meaning expensive and crowded. So, here’s an alternative: Mercado de San Fernando, near Lavapiés station.
With shops ranging from bars and restaurants to a bookstore that sells books by weight (La Casquería), this market is just as impressive as San Miguel, but much more affordable. On weekends, it does get busy, mostly with locals, but never overwhelmingly so.
For a delicious and reasonably priced craft beer, La Buena Pinta is the place to go. If you're after the best tapas in the market at a great price, check out the family-run bar El Mochuelo. No matter your taste, you’re sure to find something you love at San Fernando.
The market is open every day but tends to stay open later on weekends.
Filipe Mendonça
Filipe has a degree in Advertising, works as a software developer in Germany, and is the creator of O Guia Nativo. The idea for a website offering non-touristic tips came about in 2014 but only became a reality in 2019.
