Barcelona’s Most Iconic Shops in the City Centre

Century-old shops are a part of the cultural heritage of the city of Barcelona. However, they are going through a delicate period. In 2014, a law on urban rents came into effect, allowing owners to freely increase the price of their rentals in Barcelona. In recent years, unfortunately, many magnificent emblematic shops have been forced to close.

On our scale, let’s help to preserve those that are still resisting by supporting their businesses.

• Here is our selection. But above all, keep your eyes up! While strolling through the streets of Barcelona, you will discover many other century-old shops. It’s impossible to list them all!

A typically modernist pastry shop on the Ramblas: Pastisseria Escribà (1820)

Pastisseria Escribà, located in an old pasta factory: Casa Figueras., was remodelled in 1902 in the heart of the Modernist period. Its architecture, decoration and creations make it a unique place.

A small terrace allows you to have a coffee on site or taste one of its refined cakes. Its prices are not cheap but you may want to treat yourself to a sweet break in the heart of the Ramblas.

• Then go up the Ramblas on the same pavement and above all, follow our anti-pickpocket tips. Just before arriving at the Palau de la Virreina you will discover the shop we talk about below.

A music store on the Ramblas: Casa Beethoven (1880)

This store specialising in scores also offers a significant choice of books and magazines about all styles of music. Its prices are a little high but music lovers will surely leave with the score they have been looking for ages…

La Ganiveteria Roca (1911) a magnificent century-old cutlery

Ramon Roca, the founder of this modernist establishment, probably never imagined that more than 100 years after its opening, it would have become a reference in the field of cutlery.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for among the thousands of models of mirrors, knives, scissors, razors and all kinds of sharp objects, it’s desperate. The displays are beautiful and the interior well stocked.

This shop has an old-fashioned charm that we are very sensitive to. It’s a pleasure to go in just for a look and to breathe in its peaceful atmosphere. You will surely be tempted to buy an item and its employees will be happy to advise you well!

An iconic hat shop: Sombrerería Obach (1924)

This little hat shop is the newest of our selection. Since it opened its doors in 1924 in a backstreet of the Gothic quarter, nothing has changed, its shelves and displays are original.

Are you tempted by a nice hat or a beautiful cap? Then go in! There’s nothing better to protect yourself from the Barcelona sun!

The more than two centuries old candle and wax shop: cereria Subirà (1761)

After the most recent, let’s talk about the oldest of Barcelona’s emblematic shops. Inaugurated in 1761, this shop has been run by the same family (the Subiràs) for over 250 years. Respect!

Well, I guess many of you came to Barcelona with another intention than to bring a candle back in your suitcase…

But who knows? Maybe you’ll be bowled over by the multitude of candles this shop offers. The setting is majestic, the atmosphere unusual. So, it’s definitely worth a visit!

A dried fruit shop and roastery: Casa Gispert (1852)

If you want to travel all your senses but especially your smell, push the door of Casa Gispert whose star products are roasted almonds and hazelnuts.

Don’t miss the visit of the oven where they continue to roast the dried fruits at the back of the shop: a small wonder! It’s one of our favourite century-old shops in Barcelona.

A nougat and ice cream shop: La Campana (1890)

Once you reach the commercial Princesa street, you will discover this nice shop specialising in artisanal turrón of excellent quality and in ice cream, in the summer.

The recently renovated shop has not lost much of its charm however its interior decoration is less traditional than before.

El Rei de la màgia (1881)

Close to La Campana, on the opposite pavement, stands, all dressed in red, El Rei de la Màgia (the king of magic).

A mystical atmosphere floats around him, which could give some people goosebumps. It’s a unique experience to enter this shop and discover its magic items for all audiences, budding or confirmed magicians! We highly recommend it! Children from 7 to 107 years old will love it!

Have a great trip into the past!