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One of a number of intriguing shops on Calle de Toledo, Casa Hernanz specializes in rope, with items such as espadrilles, baskets, mats and light-shades.

This delicatessen, on the famous street off Plaza Mayor, showcases local produce from Spanish regions – tinned seafood, hams, sausages, wines and cheeses.

Fascinating emporium near Sol, dealing in things spiritual – everything from amulets and birth charts to tarot cards, books on white magic and icons.

Health food shop with a good selection of natural products, mainly food (including vacuum-packed 100 per cent vegeburgers) and cosmetics.

Founded in 1842 by Luis Mira, who knew how to cater for the famous Spanish sweet tooth, this confitería (confectioner) is best known for its turrón (Christmas nougat); also marzipan, chocolate and pestiños (honey-coated pastries).

This quaint store, founded more than a century ago, sells its own brand of sugared violets, plus a small range of marrons glacés , pralines and other sweets.

Just off Plaza Mayor, this philatelist’s dream deals in stamps, albums, catalogues, commemorative issues and magnifying glasses; also medals, coins and old banknotes.

As the name suggests, this outlet caters for the soccer fan, with a strong bias towards local favourites, Real Madrid. Sells scarves, balls, calendars, clocks and other promotional items.

You’ve seen them in every café but maybe the name escapes you. Churros are the doughnuts madrileños eat for breakfast, often dipping them in a cup of thick hot chocolate.

Would-be matadors should first make their way here to be kitted out with the traditional Spanish cape. Be warned, however that they don’t come cheap (see Seseña).