El Álamo Medieval Market

El Álamo Medieval Market is an annual open-air fair that takes over the streets of El Álamo, a small town 30 minutes southwest of Madrid. Running since 1996, the Gran Feria Medieval now spans nearly 2km of decorated streets with over 200 artisan stalls. It runs during the May bank holiday (around May 1st to 4th) from 11am to midnight each day. Entry is free. The fair draws over 40,000 visitors a day and was declared a Fair of Tourist Interest by the Community of Madrid in 2016.

Both cash and card payments are accepted at most stalls, along with contactless and mobile payments.

What you'll find

Stalls sell traditional handicrafts, medieval-themed clothing, leather goods, jewellery, ceramics, swords, armour, and antiques. Artisans in period costume demonstrate skills like pottery making and blacksmithing along the route. Beyond shopping, there are jousting tournaments with horses in the bullring, falconry exhibitions, children's activities, medieval weddings, concerts, and street performances. Food stalls serve medieval-style dishes throughout the fair.

This is one of the largest medieval fairs in Spain and worth checking out if you're visiting Madrid in early May. For other street markets in El Álamo, the town's main draw remains this annual event.

How to get to El Álamo Medieval Market

The market sets up along C. de las Escuelas and the surrounding streets in El Álamo's town centre. From Madrid, El Álamo is about 30 minutes by car via the A-5 motorway. Regional bus services also connect to the town. During the fair, expect crowds and limited parking, so arriving early or using public transport is a good idea. Check the Ayuntamiento de El Álamo page for the latest programme and directions.

Where to stay in El Álamo

El Álamo is a small village, so your best bet is staying in the town centre itself, close to where the medieval market takes place. Try Town Centre for easy walking access to the festivities without needing to worry about parking or transport.

If you'd prefer more accommodation options, the surrounding area of Southwest Madrid gives you a wider choice while keeping you within a short drive of the market.

What day is El Álamo Medieval Market?

The fair runs over the May bank holiday weekend, typically from May 1st to May 4th. Exact dates vary slightly each year, so check the Ayuntamiento website closer to the date. Opening hours are 11am to midnight each day without a break.

What can you buy at El Álamo Medieval Market?

Over 200 stalls sell handmade crafts, medieval weapons and armour replicas, leather goods, ceramics, jewellery, period clothing, and antiques. Food stalls along the route serve medieval-style dishes and drinks.

Is El Álamo Medieval Market free?

Yes, entry to the fair is completely free. It's one of Madrid's most popular free events during the May holiday period, drawing over 40,000 visitors per day.

How do I get to El Álamo Medieval Market from Madrid?

El Álamo is about 30km southwest of Madrid, reachable in around 30 minutes by car via the A-5. Regional buses also run from Madrid. Parking fills up quickly during the fair, so consider arriving early or using public transport.