Shopping In Barcelona: A Short Guide

Last Updated: 14th September 2017

Barcelona is a shopper’s paradise, no matter how big or small your budget may be. From designer brand names to thrifty boutiques, and from outdoor markets to outlet malls, Barcelona is the place to be for seasonal discounts and top notch gear – not to mention an endless variety of gadgets and souvenirs! So, whether you’re looking for that perfect present or just want to splurge in one of Europe’s best cities for shopping, Barcelona is sure to have just what you need.

Read on in our short guide to shopping in Barcelona and enjoy some retail therapy, Catalonia-style.

Big Names in Barcelona

The Spanish have a passion for fashion, and the city of Barcelona is a hotbed of high-end labels. If you’re looking to spend a little more for the latest trends, head to Passeig de Gràcia or Avinguda Diagonal. These streets are lined with stores featuring the biggest designer names such as Burberry, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, as well as some top sights like Gaudí’s Casa Batlló.

Metro stops: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3, L4), Diagonal (L3 and L5), and Catalunya (L1 and L3).

Indoor Shopping

• Las Arenas:This former bullfighting ring-turned-shopping mall has a perfect blend of Barcelona tradition and modern styles. Here you can see the magnificent views of Plaça Espanya while shopping in some of the most popular commercial stores such as Miss Sixty, Mango and United Colors of Benetton. You can also take a break and grab a bite to eat on the rooftop café.

Metro stop: Espanya (L1 and L3).

• El Corte Inglés: Known as the biggest department store group in all of Europe, El Corte Inglés is one of the most famous shops in Spain. Featuring several floors, each one playing host to a different department, in this store you’ll find women’s fashion, men’s tailoring, toys for kids, a supermarket, home appliances, technology and cell phones, and even a restaurant. You’re likely to come across several El Corte Inglés stores on your trip, but Plaça Catalunya has one you just can’t miss.

Metro stop: Catalunya (L1 and L3).

• Maremagnum: Fancy shopping, dining, sightseeing, and relaxing all in one day? Located at Port Vell, the Maremagnum mall offers a unique shopping experience enhanced by all of the other activities available on this artificial island, including an aquarium and an IMAX cinema. There are more than thirty shops in this mall, plus a brand new floor of restaurants serving up everything from tapas to seafood platters.

Metro stops: Drassanes (L3) and Barceloneta (L4).

Unique Boutiques

• El Born: This neighborhood is the ideal place to find some quirky items. The main streets include Carrer de la Princesa and Carrer de l’Argenteria, but antique, thrift, and vintage stores can be found in the winding alleys of this chic area. El Born is the perfect place to wander around and stumble upon pre-loved treasures, and we recommend you stop by ‘Le Swing’ on C/ Rec for some timeless pieces.

Metro stop: Jaume I (L4).

• El Gòtic: From the high-street shops that line Portal de l’Angel such as Zara and Mango, to the one-of-a-kind boutiques on Carrer d’Avinyó, shopping in this beautiful Barcelona ‘barrio’ is a unique experience, and one that ensures everyone will find something to exhibit their individual style. Keep your eyes peeled for ‘Cirkus’, a Japanese sushi bar/fashion store on C/ Avinyó.

Metro stops: Jaume I (L4), Drassanes and Liceu (L3).

Markets in Barcelona

• Els Encants Vells (Mercat Fira de Bellcaire): This flea market is the largest open-air market in Barcelona and is a great place to discover some second-hand gems. You’ll find everything from watches and jewelry to books and records in this outdoor treasure trove.

Metro stops: Glories (L1) and Encants (L2).

• La Boqueria: This historic market in Barcelona dates back to 1217 and is one of the city’s most famous places for food shopping. This vibrant, colorful market is home to over 100 vendors selling fresh fruit, seafood, meats and spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or the savory ingredients for a traditional Spanish feast, La Boqueria is your one-stop shop.

Metro stop: Liceu (L3).

Souvenirs

If you’re in search of a token of your time in Barcelona, then Las Ramblas is an absolute must-visit. With various art and craft stalls to the south of this famous street, plus plenty of shops lining the avenue itself, you will be sure to pick up something to remember your stay in Gaudí’s city here.

Metro stops: Drassanes (L3), Liceu (L3) Catalunya (L1 and L3).

La Roca Village Outlets

Looking to retreat from the busy city for a short while? Just outside Barcelona you’ll find La Roca Village,a small outdoor outlet mall located just 40 minutes away from Barcelona. This mall offers big discounts in more than 100 different men’s, women’s, and children’s designer clothing boutiques, as well as home furnishings and lifestyle stores. To get to La Roca Village, simply hop on The Shopping Express, a private coach service that transports shoppers from Barcelona city center to this fantastic outlet center! Find out more at www.larocavillage.com.

Shopping in Barcelona is a great experience, and is the perfect way to sightsee too, as many of the best shopping areas are located near the most famous attractions in the city like La Pedrera and Las Ramblas. One of the best times to enjoy a shopping trip in Barcelona is around the holiday season as the Catalan capital lights up for Christmas. Plus, around January 7 each year, the winter sales begin, giving you the ideal opportunity to grab some bargains in Barcelona.