Discover extraordinary Spanish design and fashion through our prestigious designers. Creations by pioneers like Cristóbal Balenciaga, one of Spain’s most famous designers, are real trend-setters. There is a long list of creators who have made Spain a focal point for fashion, from Adolfo Domínguez, famous for saying “wrinkles are beautiful”, to Jesús del Pozo, Pedro del Hierro, Roberto Verino, Purificación García and Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada.
Explore the world of handicrafts: visit workshops and small factories and see the creators in action. You could paint your own medieval-style Socarrat tile or create something on a potter’s wheel. You’ll be amazed at the intricate work in the embroideries made at the workshop in Carbajales de Alba which dates back to the 16th century, or visit Ubrique, paradise for lovers of traditionally hand-made leather goods.
While you’re here you really ought to try the best local products. You’ll find them in delicatessens and you can try them in traditional markets which have become gastronomic centres. Apart from tinned products with the best from our seas, you shouldn’t forget gourmet products like wines, cheeses, olive oil and Iberian cured ham. To make your mouth water!
If you are attracted by the glamour of the past and enjoy browsing in second-hand shops, then Spain is the place for you. In Madrid, take a walk around El Rastro, the historical, open air street market. In Catalonia, the Barcelona Vintage Market is noted for its casual, vibrant atmosphere where both ordinary people and professionals can sell their “treasures”.
The advantages of shopping in Spain go beyond the wide variety of products. Here is a quick guide for you to enjoy tax-free shopping.
Tourists are eligible for a rebate on their VAT under the following conditions: For non-EU residents. Having a duly stamped tax free form on leaving the EU within a maximum of three months.
Before checking in your luggage you'll need to show your purchases together with the tax free invoices at the customs (it is usually signposted as the VAT Refund Office) to be stamped.
A la hora de hacer tus compras tendrás que enseñar tu pasaporte y solicitar la factura tax free en el comercio. Te entregarán la factura de compra y un formulario para rellenar con todos tus datos.
When you make your purchases you need to show your passport and ask for a tax free invoice in the shop. You will be given an invoice for the purchase and a form to fill in with your details. In some shops you can combine invoices for different purchases made on different days. Always ask the shop if this option is available.
