barcelona

Hello, barcelona

Impressive architecture and hip restaurants meet a sunny Spanish climate and beautiful beaches. This has transformed Barcelona, in just a few decades, from a rough port city into one of Europe's — if not the world's — premier destinations. Stroll along La Rambla and Passeig de Gràcia, admire Gaudí's masterpieces, visit the colourful Market of La Boqueria, lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter, bask in the sun at Barceloneta beach, and discover some of the city's vibrant late-night haunts while you're at it.

Shopping

The Shopping to Visit

Woman staring at a shopping window at Avinguda del Portal de l'Àngel, Barcelona

Avinguda del Portal de l'Àngel

Avinguda del Portal de l'Àngel is a crowded, pedestrian-only avenue in the heart of Barcelona, known as one of the best addresses for shopping in the city. Throughout this long avenue, which stretches from the always busy Plaça Catalunya to the historic Gothic Quarter, you'll find plenty of global retailers such as Bershka, Pull & Bear, H&M, Desigual, another El Corte Inglés, Zara, Disney Store, Massimo Dutti, Benetton, as well as a handful of eateries.

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Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia

If you're looking for some serious fashion shopping, then make your way to Passeig de Gràcia, the parallel street, Rambla de Catalunya, and the surrounding district. You'll find all the big international fashion names here, including Spanish greats such as Adolfo Domínguez, Armand Basi, Groc, and the leather specialist Loewe. More economic alternatives such as Zara, Mango, and Massimo Dutti are also represented here. You can also find a good selection of trend-conscious designer fashions at Noténom.

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Large department store in Barcelona

El Corte Inglés

Spain's department store colossus is both loved and hated, but successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to offer most things to most people. Designer fashions, their own low and medium-priced lines, enormous perfumery and make-up departments, accessories, toys, children's and baby's clothes, art materials, souvenirs, food and delicatessen, household furniture and decorations, electrical goods, books, and a range of services can be found here. The largest El Corte Inglés in Barcelona is situated in Plaça Catalunya.

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Flea market in Barcelona

Mercat dels Encants

Mercat dels Encants is a long-running flea market selling countless treasures under a mirrored roof location near the imposing Agbar Tower. Also known as Barcelona's Encants Vells or Mercat de Bellcaire, the Mercat dels Encants is one of the oldest markets in Europe, dating back to the fourteenth century – a great example of Barcelona's commercial dynamism. Here you will find everything from books, jewellery and clothing to furniture, art, and random knick-knacks. Come early to find the best-hidden gems and prepare your best haggling skills.

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woman on a escalator in a shopping mall, Barcelona

Arenas Mall

Housed on a site of a former bullfighting ring near Montjuïc, Arenas de Barcelona is a beautiful shopping complex boasting plenty of shops, eateries, a cinema, a large supermarket, and best of all, a 360 rooftop view of the city.

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Boqueria market

Mercado La Boquería

Visiting the La Boquería Market, halfway down La Rambla, is something of a must. The historic and colourful market is one of the city's main attractions, and it offers everything when it comes to food – from fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and sweets to meat, fish, and cheese. The place is also popular for lunch, a quick bite, or a refreshing glass of cava.

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