Continuing my series on shops that only sell one thing... no wait; Casa de Diego sells two things! Fans and umbrellas, which pretty much has you covered for all the weather conditions in Madrid!
Fans are not just for decoration in Spain; people use them to keep cool - they really help in Madrid's scorching hot, dry summers. I'd feel a bit self-conscious using a fan in most countries, but in Spain it's very common, and if anyone is looking at you, it's probably out of envy because they don't have one!
I often buy summer visitors a fan from Diego's as a welcome present. The prices vary wildly, from large undecorated ones for 8 euros, to elaborate hand-painted antique fans for many 100s of euros. They make all the fans themselves, and have been doing so since the 1800s.
As well as being practical, a fan is a brilliant keepsake or gift - they're as Spanish as paella and sangria! This delightful shop is in the Plaza del Sol, unmissable for tourists, so when you are there, step into Casa de Diego. And as climate change means more rain, you might also need to invest in an umbrella!
Find your way with 258 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
This modern, award-winning building houses three immense floors of some of the Crown's most spectacular paintings, sculptures, tapestries and carriages.
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For 5 euros, paid at the ground-floor, I received a lift ticket which would carry me up 27 dizzying floors to enjoy some of the best views of the city.
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All of the classic favourites are served up here at Masala Darbar – Butter Chicken, Korma and Tikka Masala – with sides of basmati rice and fluffy naan.
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Escape the crowds of Madrid’s famous art museums and explore Serrería Belga, a repurposed sawmill turned vibrant art space with diverse exhibitions!
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Discover Barceló Market in Madrid for a lunch filled with global flavors! Stop by Latino Arepa for Venezuelan delights — arepas, empanadas, and cachapas!
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"Mercato Italiano" in Madrid is in the city's Little Italy in Rios Rosas. Great bruschetta and salads, and I recommend getting a wine, spritz or Campari...
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"Toma Café 2" in Madrid have not only created art out of coffee (I'm sipping a jasmine/white peach brew right now), I love their sandwiches & peacefulness.
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"Taverna Sacromonte" is an Andaluz tavern in Usera, Madrid. It feels village-y. Their tapas are great here -- I recommend going there and then for Chinese!
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Calle Redondilla (bottom of the square to the left) has maybe the oldest standing building in Madrid at Number 10 - it's from the 15th century,
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"Caramelos Paco" in Madrid sells sweets - its window display leaves no doubt about that. I love old shops like this, the opposites of one-stop shopping!
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"CaixaForum Madrid" is a good alternative to the nearby, more touristy Prado and Reina Sofia. It's beautiful, cool and quite small if you have limited time
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258 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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