El Corte Ingles is the largest department store group in Europe and the fourth largest in the world. The company is headquartered in Madrid and they have stores all around the city. The largest store is at Puerta del Sol. This location is a little more low-keyed. The crowds, however, can get crazy at all of their locations with the annual summer sale. The store has high-end international designer luxury boutiques on the main floor. They also have departments for men, women, children, babies, sporting goods, electronics, books, toys, furniture, and home. My favorite department is the "Gourmet Experience." They have a wonderful wine assortment with Spanish wines and Cavas, Iberian hams and cold meats, Spanish olive oils, smoked paprika, bomba rice, cheese, and other gourmet European products. They also have a variety of nice restaurants and an area to sit and eat which is perfect if you want to grab a quick lunch. There is an office in the basement that will process VAT refunds. Your passport information is kept on file if you are a previous customer for faster processing. Store hours vary by the day of the week, sale events, and holidays. www.elcorteingles.es read more