An eco-weekend in Barcelona
We won’t lie to you, the Catalan capital isn’t winning any prizes for greenest holiday destination and like all big cities it has a pollution problem. But you can still make your trip more environmentally friendly. Read on to find out how!
Arrive in Barcelona: minimising your CO2 emissions
Traveling on a plane is not environmentally friendly, but there are other ways to get to Barcelona.
Bus: Although it takes longer than the train, the bus is a particularly economical alternative.
Car sharing: whether you’re a driver or passenger, car sharing is a very nice solution that allows you to make savings and reduce your carbon footprint. See our article Coming to Barcelona by car or by car-share, to find out more.
An eco hotel
Look no further, we have found a rare pearl: EcoZentric. This central 2 star hotel really has everything: considered decor, friendly staff and a policy of environmental respect at every turn. Find out more in our article on EcoZentric!
- Student budget? Sleep Green youth hotel has the same concept as EcoZentric and even received an EU eco-badge.
Non-polluting transport
A very green way to discover Barcelona is by bike. And if you’re not very active, don’t worry as there are electric bikes too!
- If you’re not too inspired by bikes, and you’re taking public transport to explore the city then check out our article on transport fares in Barcelona by clicking here. It will save you a few headaches!
Nice tours
It is impossible to come to Barcelona without seeing these sites:
We also recommend walking through the areas of Gràcia, the Born and the Raval. The atmosphere is particularly pleasant and you’ll find heaps of boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants offering KM0 food.
Finally, what would you say to a stroll in the mountains with a view over Barcelona? Because there’s a breathtaking view from the Carretera de les aigües that we think you might like.
Organic and vegetarian restaurants
Fancy a snack? You might be interested in our selection of vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona. And you’ll see it doesn’t cost the earth to eat healthily!
Responsible shopping
Vintage clothes shops
What’s greener than giving a second life to forgotten possessions? Barcelona is a vintage paradise.
For clothes we recommend Riera Alta street in the Raval. It’s vintage heaven! Also take a look at Flammingos Gallery, just a few streets away. But avoid it between 1pm and 4pm as the boutiques are often closed then.
Barcelona flea market
You will find amazing decoration accessories at Barcelona’s flea market, Mercat de les Encants, just by the Torre Agbar (Jean Nouvel’s emblematic construction). The old market, located in this area for a very long time, was recently re-modelled. It now has a very impressive rooftop classed among the city’s most impressive architectural creations.
Mercantic, very charming flea market
If you have time to get out of the city, do not miss Mercantic at Sant Cugat, just outside Barcelona. With its little houses in coloured wood, it almost reminds one of Portobello Road market in London. Furthermore, it’s open every day of the week.
Environmentally friendly brands
If you prefer to buy new, you’ll love Home on Earth. It’s a little boutique that sells decoration accessories and various organic teas. The items are very unusual, and made from natural materials such as wood and coconut. It’s one of our favourite places and there are two stores in Barcelona: one in the Raval and one in the Born.
You should also take a look in one of the many Natura outlets to uncover a little gift, scented candle, clothes or accessories. Their selection is very pretty and Natura has been engaged in many environmental and humanitarian programmes for many years. To find out more, read our article on Natura.
