Barcelona, a cosmopolitan city, well known for its rich collection of extraordinary markets. Let's be honest; there's no denying, the city has some of the best food markets around, not only within Spain but throughout Europe. The gastronomical offerings are out of this world; take for example La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest food markets. Although I love talking about culinary treats and could exhaust the topic to no end, I´m on an entirely separate mission. That is, to
and share with you a wide assortment of markets that contribute to the vibrant offerings of the dynamic city I now call my home. Without further ado, get ready to enjoy the
, and a few extras that cover it all no matter your tastes or interests.
Barcelona’s Flea Markets
Second-hand markets are plentiful in Barcelona. There’s often a stigma around shopping second-hand but, I say, you’d be crazy not to browse Barcelona’s markets! Unbelievable deals, unique treasures, and not to mention, a great way to spend some free time.
Mercat Encants Vells
What’s one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. The Mercat Encants has got to be the best place in the city to buy all those obscure items you can’t find anywhere else. It is by far, the largest and most well known Barcelona flea market. Whether you’re looking for new, old, or random, they have it all. You can buy anything from books, collectibles, vintage clothing, fabric for curtains, underwear, doorknobs, you name it!
*Hoping to strike a deal? Head over mid-day for the best bargain.
*Visit on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to join in on the antique auctions (07:00 & 12:00)
When: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday (09:00 - 20:00)
Where: Carrer de los Castillejos, 158, 08013 Barcelona
1 Euro Market
The spirit of reducing, reusing and recycling is felt at Barcelona’s cheapest second-hand market. Clothes, books, accessories, homewares and other second-hand nicknacks are waiting to be discovered at this unique venue.
When: 1st Sunday of every month (10:00 - 19:00)
Where: L'Ovella Negra del Poblenou Zamora 78, 08018 Barcelona
Here are a few extra of the best markets in Barcelona markets to pique your interest
Fira de Nautamismo - Rare collector's items, stamps, coins, nautical treasures, old books, and other gems. Check it out, every Sunday between 10:00 -14:00 hidden around Plaça Reial.
Plaça Blanquerna - For those looking for an excellent bargain or trade on second-hand items, head behind the Maritime Museum anytime between mid-morning until 19:00, every second Sunday.
Fira Artesana - I love this local market. Full of traditional Catalan treats. Great for those in particular who love cheese! The first Friday & Saturday of every month (mid-morning to early afternoon) in Plaça del Pi.
Hip Outdoor & Food Markets
Palo Alto
The best pop up outdoor food market in Barcelona. If you’re looking to escape the center for your market excursion, I would highly recommend visiting the Palo Alto market. Imagine street market, mixed with trendy design, gourmet food, workshops, and live music. Of course, food is always on my mind, and a visit to this market never disappoints! Feed your cravings with a selection of gastronomic gourmet options all served out of hip-looking food trucks, what’s not to love? Although you have to pay 4 € at the door to enter, in my opinion, it’s completely worth it.
You can easily spend the whole afternoon or evening here. There’s ample lounge space to relax with a drink or bite to eat. The vibe of Palo Alto makes you feel as if you're hosting a massive backyard garden party with all your friends. There’s plenty more to enjoy than excellent food; you can also shop at any one of the local stands where vendors sell a variety of items such as jewelry, clothing, handmade crafts, and art.
*Buy online from Palo Alto, and only pay 3 €. Also, entrance is free for residents of Diagonal Mar-Front Marítim and Poblenou!
When: 1st Weekend of every month (11:00 - 21:00) *Closed in August
Where: Carrer dels Pellaires, 30, 08019 Barcelona
Club Monumental
Similar in style to Palo Alto, the Club Monumental market offers an assortment of gastronomic treats combined with activities for kids and live music. During the evening, a DJ kicks it up a notch to get you in the party mood. The entrance cost is 3€ until 16h, after, the price to enter rises to 8€. The venue, what use to be an old bullring, is without a doubt one of the most symbolic and unique in the Barcelona market scene.
When: Last weekend of every month (Saturday - 12:00 to 23:00, Sunday 12:00 to 22:00)
Where: Plaza de Toros Monumental, Gran Via de les Corts, Catalanes, 749, 08013 Barcelona
Art / Vintage / Artisan
I personally love the tiny markets within the city center. One of my favorite ways to spend a morning or afternoon off is by grabbing a cup of coffee from one of Barcelona’s top cafes and wandering through the old and windy streets of the Gothic or Born neighborhoods. It was on one of these such days where I stumbled upon the next few markets.
Mercadillo de la Plaça de Sant Josep | Art
Featuring an art display with around 15 local artists, this art market in Barcelona has a unique and friendly feel to it. Although the size is quite small, you could spend plenty of time perusing the selection of inspiring pieces. The diversity covers various mediums so whether you’re stopping by to shop for an oil painting, or want to stroll through the canvas prints, the market is sure to please!
When: Every Weekend (Saturday: 11:00 - 20:00, Sunday: 11:00 - 14:00)
Where: Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol, 08002, Barcelona
Lost and Found | Vintage
A Barcelona market specializing in vintage accessories and fashion, old records, antiques, and original decor. More than a market, Lost and Found is a creative space for all to enjoy.
When: Once every four months. Visit their official site for upcoming schedules
Where: Location changes between Estación de Francia and Moll de la Fusta
Allada Vermell Market | Artisan
The Allada Vermell market, making its home in the Born district, features a selection of
handmade arts and crafts. This is the ideal place to shop for unique gifts. Once you’ve finished exploring the market, anyone with a sweet tooth can head over to the Museo de Chocolate while art lovers can marvel at the works of Pablo Picasso at the
Picasso Museum.
When: Every Saturday (10:30 - 21:00)
Where: 1 Allada Vermell, 08003 Barcelona
Mixed Markets of Barcelona
For a little bit of everything, head over to two of my favorite markets in Barcelona.
Mercat de Sant Antoni & Dominical de Sant Antoni
Barcelonians throughout the neighborhoods of Sant Antoni, Poble Sec, Raval, and L’Eixample are rejoicing at the
reopening of the Mercat de Sant Antoni, and so am I! For the last nine years, the popular modernist designed market that sells clothes, antiques, and a wide selection of food, has been under construction and as a result, occupying temporary spaces in the area. As of late, residents and tourists alike can enjoy the newly reopened market, housed in the
most impressive steel framed building in Barcelona. Larger in size than La Boqueria but far less touristic, the Mercat de Sant Antoni, offers a unique and local Barcelona market experience. Stop on by for some
traditional Spanish tapas, at what in my opinion is the best Barcelona food market, and while you’re there shop the outdoor stalls during the week for a variety of goods. Don't forget to buy
Sagrada Familia Tickets or Tour.
* Information tidbit: During the restoration, archeological discoveries were made, exposing what appeared to be a portion of an ancient road that ran to Rome.
When: Every day (closed on Sunday) - 08:00 to 20:30
Where: Carrer Comte d'Urgell, 1, 08011 Barcelona
Also, if you visit the market on a Sunday, you can pass through the famous Dominical de Sant Antoni, otherwise known as the second-hand book market. Everything from authors like Ernest Hemingway, to books on traditional Catalonian villages, historical texts, Spanish cuisine, children’s literature, fictional works, and more can be found amongst the stalls. Magazines, video games, and movies are also sold. There are so many hidden gems here. If you’re looking for your next read, take a stroll over to this Barcelona market and indulge in the marvelous world of literary texts.
When: Sunday morning (book market), Mon-Fri (varied goods)
Where: Carrer Comte d'Urgell, 1, 08011 Barcelona
Mercat de la Concepcio
Built in 1888, the modern-concept historical building houses
one of the oldest markets in Barcelona. Known by the locals as the 'flower market', the colorful Mercat de la Concepcio effortlessly puts a smile on my face every time I pass by. Yes, I know what you may be thinking, what’s so special about flowers right? Well, when you live in a flat in the center of
Barcelona, flowers and green spaces are hard to come… now do you see why I brighten up when passing this vibrant flower market?
Now, if flowers aren’t your thing, don’t worry, there’s plenty more to be enjoyed here in addition to the sweet aromas of perennials. Try the local made baked treats, stop by and pick up a bottle of fine wine, or do your weekly grocery shopping. Last but not least, you can even purchase online and have your goods delivered! I would recommend still stopping by though, the experience in itself is a treat for the senses. The Mercat de la Concepcio is a local's favorite and one of the best markets in Barcelona!
When: Monday & Saturday (08:00 - 15:00), Tuesday & Friday (08:00 - 20:00)
Where: Carrer Aragó, 313-317 08009 Barcelona, España