Barcelona is one of Europe’s most vibrant city break destinations. A rarity in that it combines elements of both a brilliant beach break with all the cultural, sightseeing and shopping opportunities that you’d expect from a city break, it’s a dream destination for those wanting to experience a best of both worlds getaway.
What’s more, Barcelona is exceptionally easy to get to from the UK. Affordable flights take under two hours, meaning that you’re in the heart of the city action before you know it! With our hotel in Barcelona city centre offering twin, double and family rooms for under €50 per night, holidays in Barcelona are within reach to those even on the strictest budgets!
There’s an unbelievable amount to do in the city, but one ‘must’ to put on your itinerary is a visit to a Barcelona market. It’s a fitting way to spend a few hours in this bustling, lively city, and offers an opportunity to leave the tourist trail behind and really get among the locals. Here are five of the best:
La Boqueria
Where: La Rambla
When: Mon – Sat
This market, located just off Barcelona’s most famous street, Las Ramblas, is its best known and the most popular with tourists. Pick up goodies for an al fresco picnic in the Parque de la Ciudadela or Park Guell, looking out for everything from rainbow coloured sweets to sheep heads as you shop!
Sant Antoni
Where: Ronda Sant Pau
When: Mon – Sat
If you want a food market experience that’s off the tourist radar the Sant Antoni food market is the one to head for. Stop and have a bite at the tapas bar in the middle of the market, for a rest from shopping.
Mercadillo de la Placa de Sant Josep
Where: Placa de Sant Josep
When: Every weekend
This art market is a great place to meet and enjoy the work of local artists – made all the better by its location in the shadow of the impressive Sant Josep church.
Fira Artesana
Where: Placa del Pi
When: 1st Fri and Sat of every month
This food market is wonderfully placed on a tiny church square in the labyrinthine gothic quarter of the city, and is well worth a look. Known as the ‘honey market’ it offers the opportunity to sample local, fresh, organic wares, including homemade cakes and honey-infused cheese.
Mercat del Enfants
Where: Placa de les lories Catalanes
When: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
No self-respecting bargain hunter should visit Barcelona without a trip to this, the city’s biggest and best flea market. You’ll find everything you could imagine among the wares here – from stunning antiques and secondhand ‘junk’ to new cosmetics and power tools. The mix of stalls here is bizarre, but the atmosphere is lively and buzzing.
As always in busy tourist areas, it’s important to keep your wits about you and your bag/wallet close when browsing markets. Stay conscious of who is around you and nothing will spoil your experience of haggling like a local, then enjoying your spoils in the sunshine!
