Shopping in Barcelona: which quarter is best for you?
The different quarters of Barcelona all have their own special characteristics, and the same is true of the shops and boutiques which choose to, ahem, set up shop there. Each area has its own definite personality. Read on to find out which one is for you!
If you’re looking for… big name brands
Your starting point: Plaça Catalunya. Ready… steady… SHOP!
Portal del Angel (Gòtic)
Head into the Gothic quarter along the pedestrianised Portal del Ángel. You’ll find branches of Zara, H&M, Mango, Massimo Dutti, Oysho, Uterque, Calzedonia and a whole host of other famous names.
The prices in many of the big Spanish chains are 30% cheaper on their home turf than elsewhere, all year round. If that doesn’t make you want to spend, spend, spend, nothing will!
Passeig de Gràcia and Rambla Catalunya (Eixample)
Head over to the other side of Plaça Catalunya to continue the adventure. You’ll find some of the same shops as on the Portal del Àngel, but also a whole host of luxury retailers and plenty of terraces for a well-earned break.
Note that you can get back onto one of the tree-lined avenues through the Bulevard Rosa shopping centre, then head back to Plaça Catalunya via Rambla Catalunya, which is also a shopper’s paradise.
If you’re looking for… typical local products
Prefer to take a different approach and get your shopping fix like a local? Your mission will take you into some very different areas.
Born
Follow your instincts and take your pick from any of the little streets running off the Passeig del Born. Given the number of quirky little shops in the quarter, you’re sure to find something that takes your fancy!
The quarter is full of shops which are less well known, but worth the detour. Even if you don’t buy anything, Born is a great area for window shopping, with its quirky and original displays.
If you’re looking for… vintage style
Fan of vintage and retro pieces? Barcelona has what you’re looking for! There are a few shops of this type in the Born quarter, but you’ll find a wider choice elsewhere.
Gràcia
Gràcia is the heartland of boho Barcelona, and a number of vintage shops have opened there in recent years, each one more attractive than the next. Offerings include both second-hand clothes and accessories and new, retro/boho style pieces.
The best place to start is on the Travessera de Gràcia and the surrounding streets.
Raval
Like any self-respecting “alternative” quarter, the Raval is home to a whole host of weird and wonderful shops with a shared focus on creativity. Of course, some of these shops are vintage boutiques. Start on Carrer de la Riera Baixa, then head back towards Carrer dels Tallers. Something is sure to catch your eye!
Opening times
- Large chain stores are generally open from 10am to 9pm.
- Smaller shops are usually open from 10am to 1.30 or 2pm, then from 4.30-5pm to 8pm. Siesta time is not meant for shopping!
