Fashion
As the cultural capital of Spain, Madrid is also the point of emergence for some of the hottest trends in the world of fashion. A unique mix of shopping celebrities, locals and tourists sweeps through the boulevards popping into exclusive boutiques, second-hand designer shops and vintage clothing markets. Though some of the central establishments may seem expensive at first glance, true gems await patient browsers. Be sure to visit:

• Puerta del Sol, Calle de Preciados, and Gran Vía comprise the most popular area among tourists, as they feature a wide range of popular fashion chains. The world-famous Spanish brands of Zara, Bershka, Stradivarius and Pull&Bear can all be found here, offering their collections for prices much lower than anywhere else in the world.
• Salamanca, located northeast of the centre, is a Mecca for the wealthiest shoppers. Calle Serrano and Calle Ortega y Gasset are home to the fancy establishments of internationally known designers like Versace, Chanel and Hugo Boss, along with the renowned Spanish fashion houses of Adolfo Domínguez and Purificación García.
• Chueca, the gay district of Madrid, is known as a popular shopping destination among fans of hippie fashion. Calle Hortaleza and Calle Fuencarral hold a number of intriguing second-hand and vintage boutiques, as well as youthful fashion outlets and unique accessories shops. An interesting hippie market takes place at Plaza Felipe II.

Art & Antiques
Though substantially modernised in recent years, Madrid retains its essentially retro feel. Art enthusiasts and crafts collectors will be delighted with the abundance of traditional art dealers' studios and outdoor markets selling all kinds of curious junk.