Shopping at barcelona: Best Shops in Barcelona – Barcelona shopping Guide

Everything You Need To Know About Shopping In Barcelona

Most travelers associate Barcelona with late nights, the beach, and amazing food and wine. Visitors to the Catalan capital will be shocked to discover Barcelona is a shopper’s paradise. You certainly have the classic European boulevards lined with souvenir shops, designer stores, and obvious international brands. But the number of (cool) shopping malls, markets, fashion boutiques, and iconic local brands from Catalan designers is astounding, and just another reason to take a trip to Barcelona. 

Depending on how much time you have in town, and where you are staying, you can either stay near Barcelona’s Old Town, which is centered around the Gothic Quarter and El Born neighborhoods, or you can head up the coast or out towards the mountains for the more relaxed neighborhoods.  If you’re in the city center, check out the Passeig de Gracia or portal, which are two of the best shopping streets in Barcelona. Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to get around Barcelona; and many of the shopping centers outside the city center have free shuttle services. However you plan to spend your time in this amazing city, Barcelona’s shopping scene will have you covered. Here are a few of the best destinations for shopping in Barcelona: 

The Best Spots for Shopping in Barcelona

Corte Ingles

This seven-story department store is located in the city center and pretty much covers all your bases. Men’s and women’s fashion stores are plentiful, with both international luxury brands and smaller boutiques lining the halls. There are also swimwear, makeup, jewelry, and just about everything you can expect a department store to carry. While the vibe is slightly corporate compared to Barcelona’s other shopping malls and markets, this is a one-stop shop and its central location is vital for any traveler who needs a quick-fix for a new outfit or replacement swimsuit, etc. 

The small but well-curated food court has a number of outstanding options, as the Spanish take their food too seriously to allow mediocre fast-food restaurants and expect their people to accept it! 

Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol 

This plaza is famous for hosting an art market every weekend, but this offbeat shopping center is certainly worth checking out if you’re looking for an interesting shopping experience. Being slightly off the beaten path, you’ll see more locals than tourists walking around, but veteran travelers and hardcore shoppers certainly make their way to this square. There are also many art galleries and independent boutiques surrounding the square, so it’s certainly worth exploring the neighborhood if you find yourself in need of some quirky swag to bring home!

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La Maquinista

The location of this shopping center could not be better. It’s in the heart of Barcelona’s Old City between the Gothic Quarter and the trendy Born neighborhood. Because you’ll most certainly be sightseeing in the Gothic Quarter and bar-hopping in Born, it’s an easy place to stop in for window shopping or a full-blown shopping spree. La Maquinista is a semi-outdoor mall, so the atmosphere is pleasant and it’s easy to navigate. If the weather isn’t cooperating, and you’ve already spent most of the day in museums, there are 3D movies played at La Maquinista’s theater. 

The shops are a mix of familiar international brands and some local boutiques. There is also a grassy area on site that makes for an excellent place to stop and relax in between stores, and there are restaurants as well, but the street food and tapas bars in the Born neighborhood are the best options. 

La Roca Village

If you’re renting a car and driving through Spain, it’s certainly worthwhile to stop by this outlet on the city’s outskirts. The Village has nine locations throughout Europe, and the Barcelona location is one of the best discount malls in Spain. La Roca Village specializes in luxury brands, and this massive complex is home to hundreds of outlet boutiques. Many of these stores are small and local businesses, which gives the shopping experience a unique boost.  

La Roca Village is only half an hour outside the city center, so even if you don’t have access to a car, there is a free shuttle that makes the trip worthwhile. Deals this good on merchandise of this quality are almost unheard of. 

Diagonal Mar

Located in the Poblenou District where Avenida Diagonal and the beach intersect, the Diagonal Mar is one of the largest shopping centers in Barcelona. There are many designer labels, luxury boutiques, homeware, and cosmetics stores throughout the mall, and their well-curated food court is nothing to scoff at. You can dine on Spanish tapas or sushi, and there is a German Biergarten on-site that’s open late. This mall is only a few minutes from the beach, so going for a dip or walk by the water post-shopping spree makes for a perfect afternoon. 

Pedralbes Centre

This upmarket shopping center offers an astounding number of quality stores, especially given its central location in Barcelona’s financial district. The vibe here is very upscale, with designer boutiques and luxury stores being the main focus. If your trip to Barcelona coincides with the holidays, you’ll be lucky enough to find the Christmas pop-up has an ice rink. 

Las Arenas

When many people think of Spain, the colorful spectacle of bullfighting and the ornate arenas come to mind. Since the practice has been outlawed in Catalonia for decades, Las Arenas has been repurposed to become a shopping center. The historic arena is incredibly well-maintained with original archways and details being preserved to give shoppers the feeling that they are in an actual bull-fighting arena. 

The shopping center is located on the Plaça d’Espanya, at Avenida Parallel, and the top floor of the arena provides wonderful views of the city and the Montjuïc mountains. There is an excellent restaurant and bar scene in the neighborhood for some post-shopping sustenance. This is one of the most distinct shopping experiences in the world. Regardless of what you’re looking to purchase, it’s absolutely worthwhile. 

The Best Designer Stores in Barcelona

Lurdes Bergadà 

Originally getting her start in Barcelona during the 1979s, Lurdes Bergadà is one of the most prodigious Catalan designers. Her abrasive and distinctive style has helped her make a name for herself around the world. Expect darker colors, washed denim, and other features that wouldn’t seem out of place at an edgy New York rock club in the 80s. Her two boutiques are located at Plaça de Santa Maria, and Rambla de Catalunya

Santa Eulalia

This luxury brand has been an institution in Catalan high society since 1843, and it’s a prestigious brand the world over. Located on Passeig de Gràcia, this wonderful boutique represents peak elegance in a city that has become increasingly casual. While there are familiar designs from Burberry and Saint Laurent, you’ll also find some fresh threads from up-and-comers in their “pop up” section. While women’s clothing is their main focus, expect some of the best perfume, jewelry, and accessories in Barcelona as well. 

Angle Store 

This company’s main focus is to curate ethical women’s and men’s fashion in a sleek and upscale setting. The minimalistic aesthetic permeates throughout the entire collection. Pieces range from casual wear to formal wear that’s functional and comfortable. Either way, expect elegant simplicity. The goal here is a timeless style, sourced ethically and sustainably. This Carrer dels Mirallers boutique certainly achieves this goal. 

L’Appartement

This furniture and home decor boutique has dialed in its approach. Modern and minimal aesthetics that can go in just about any kind of home. Vibrant colors are common, but the designs are clean enough that any piece bought here will not clutter a room at all. The furniture offerings here are for thoughtful interior decorators, and anyone with a good eye for design will find themselves in heaven at this Carrer d’Enric Granados boutique. While it may be difficult to bring a couch back home, there are many smaller decorative pieces that are more than worth having to pack.

Tot-Hom

This family-run store has been gaining business from window-shoppers for more than 50 years. Their vibrant window displays and trustworthy demeanor lure potential customers in from Carrer de Balmes and their outstanding selection of haute couture staples seal the deal. Tot-Hom is certainly an upscale store, so popping in to see what kind of deals you can find might not be the best approach. 

Coquette

Located on Carrer del Bonaire in the must-visit El Born neighborhood, this store features eclectic aesthetics and reasonable deals. The actual store’s design is a work of art, with raw features like baked stone pillars, metal beams, and a cement floor clashing stylishly with chandeliers, velvet furniture, and florals throughout the space. The actual clothing on sale is just as cool. Streetwear, luxury items, and a bespoke brand of accessories make this the perfect shopping destination for twenty-somethings and anyone who knows where the trends are going. 

The Best Vintage Stores in Barcelona 

La Principal Retro & Co

Located on the iconic Carrer de Ferlandina in the trendy El Raval neighborhood, this pocket-sized vintage store offers used designer clothing at reasonable prices. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, unless the store is too busy, will offer personalized assistance in finding the perfect vintage fit from their well-curated collection. Clothing and accessories are generally from the ’80s and ‘90s so there isn’t the huge “flower-power” vibe that permeates most vintage stores, so expect to find cool clothing that isn’t too zany. If you find yourself shopping in El Raval, this should be your first stop. 

Le Swing Vintage 

Located in El Born, this vintage boutique focuses on upscale designer threads. Everything from this store comes in impeccable condition, and many items have been restored to “brand-new-ish” quality. Everything in the store is either French or Italian, and slightly expensive. But the rarity and exclusivity of the pieces they’ve curated certainly justify the prices. 

Holala Vintage

Just a stone’s throw from Plaça de Catalunya, this store is the flagship location of the Holala vintage empire. Expect a vast collection of well-reserved pieces that range from funky to elegant, and prices that range from bargain-bin to reasonable. If you’re on a budget, this is one of your best bets for secondhand threads!

Flamingo Vintage Kilo 

With a few locations throughout the Gothic Quarter and El Born, it’s likely you’ll encounter one of these vintage stores without even trying. The staff has been sourcing Americana-inspired vintage clothing for decades, and their outstanding selection certainly reflects their diligence. The prices are reasonable, and the style is versatile (especially if you’re flying back to the States after your last serving of croquetas). 

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The Best Shopping Streets in Barcelona

Rambla De Catalunya 

This is Barcelona’s most iconic and most chic street. While the gorgeous architecture and bustling energy might distract you from window shopping, you’ll find dozens of designer shops and flagship stores for some of the world’s biggest fashion brands. Elegant and truly international, you’ll feel inspired by the fashionable people walking down La Rambla, and perhaps inspired enough to stop by one of the hundreds of upscale boutiques! Regardless of your shopping goals, a stroll down La Rambla is an absolute requirement for any trip to Barcelona.  

Portal de l’àngel

This famous street is the perfect walking destination (there are literally no cars allowed) for shopping in Barcelona. For once, it’s a one-stop shop. There are boutiques, restaurants, cafes, street performers, and even sporting stores for a Lionel Messi jersey (in case you can’t make it to the FC Barcelona Stadium Camp Nou). Portal de l’àngel gets pretty busy in the afternoons, so if crowds aren’t your thing, grab a coffee and stroll down this iconic walkway in the morning before everyone wakes from their paella and Estrella-induced comas. 

Passeig de Gracia/ Paseo de Gracia 

While Passeig de Gracia might not have the most original roster of retailers, it’s certainly one of the most reliable when it comes to luxury and quality. Expect the usual suspects in terms of international companies with a presence on Passeig de Gracia. If that’s your thing, then you might want to set a budget before turning onto this street from Plaça de Catalunya or stumbling out from El Corte Ingles, because this stretch has just about everything! 

Calle Avinyo / Carrer d’Avinyó

This winding little street is the antithesis of Passeig de Gracia. Not that both don’t have their merits; it’s all about what you’re into. If you’re into small, easygoing strolls without too much retail pressure, then this Gothic Quarter strip is perfect. There are tapas bars and paella restaurants, quirky souvenir shops, and adorable boutiques for clothing and home decor. It only takes about 10 minutes to walk the whole way, but it’s worth the small time investment if you want a breather from all the crowds. 

Carrer de Ferran

Calle Ferran, which is just off La Rambla, is one of the more quaint streets in the Gothic Quarter. There are dozens and dozens of quality boutiques, and a massive number of pubs, tapas bars, and amazing restaurants. There are designer stores, vintage shops, gift shops, and many more. It’s worth a detour off La Rambla, and you’re more than likely to find a nice cafe or pub, and getting some shopping done in between is just gravy on top. 

Conclusion

With the amazing architecture, beaches, and cuisine, shopping should absolutely not be your only goal in Barcelona, but there are so many distinct areas that have incredible shopping experiences. One of the nice things about shopping in Barcelona is that the neighborhoods and main thoroughfares are enjoyable to explore, which makes the sometimes fruitless errand of buying clothes more palatable. Luckily, Barcelona shopping has both attractive settings and amazing stores. So go explore, maybe buy something, and let Bounce take care of the luggage! 

Where to Shop + 2023 Shop Lists

The best shopping in Barcelona can be a tough sell with all that culture around the city.

I mean, who needs Gucci when you’ve got Gaudi, am I right?

At the end of the day though, nothing quite makes a holiday like coming home with suitcase stuffed of treasures – so let’s figure out where to shop in Barcelona!

Best Shopping Areas in Barcelona: Where to Shop in One Shot

For shopping in Barcelona you have two main streets: Passeig de Gracia and Portal del Angel.

Both start at the famous Plaça de Catalunya, right dab in the centre of the city.

The metro station for either street is Catalunya (red and green lines).

Here’s a quick preview of these two main Barcelona shopping streets:

Portal del Angel

Is shopping cheap in Barcelona? Well, Portal del Angel is your best bet for all the fast fashion staples without breaking the bank.

This 250 meter long Barcelona shopping district runs downhill from Plaça de Catalunya (towards the water), and it’s one street over from Barcelona’s most famous street: La Rambla.

Lost? Look for the neon thermometer lurking above the street and the sea of shoppers and their bags.

You’ll find all the best Barcelona shopping deals at major clothing stores like Pull and Bear, Zara, Massimo Dutti, Springfield, Benetton, H&M, Bershka, Mango, and more.

This Barcelona shopping area is also a cool place to find local shoe shops, mobile phone retailers, and even the Disney Store.

Passeig de Gracia

All the luxury shopping in Barcelona goes down on Passeig de Gracia – the highest grossing shopping street in Barcelona. – it’s the city’s answer to Rodeo Drive.

You’ll find this Barcelona shopping street walking uphill (towards the mountains) from Plaça de Catalunya.

This is an amazing street for world class architecture – it’s here that you’ll find La Pedrera and Casa Batllò.

For designer shopping there’s a lot to choose from like Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Gucci, Diesel, Burberry, Jimmy Choo and many more. There are also great jewelry and accessory shops like Bvlgari, Cartier, Rolex, Chanel, and Swarovski.

You’ll also find the Apple Store for free Wi-Fi.

Barcelona Shopping Malls

Diagonal Mar

Variety: ★★★☆  Central: ★★☆☆  Atmosphere: ★★★☆

If for some reason you wanted to combine a day at Barcelona’s beaches with shopping this is it.

You’ll find this shopping mall about 300 meters from the famous Mar Bella beach.

The main draw here is that its Barcelona’s most central Primark location – a great place for insane clothing deals. It’s also a who’s-who of clothing shops and fast food restaurants.

Address: Avinguda Diagonal 3.

Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).

Website: Diagonal Mar Shopping Mall.

Centro Comercial Glories

Variety: ★★★★  Central: ★★☆☆  Atmosphere: ★★★☆

The best Barcelona shopping mall because it’s brand new and it’s got great variety.

This is without a doubt the best place for clothes shopping in Barcelona. It has over 160 shops including a cinema and a flagship Carrefour Hypermarket. There’s also a great selection of both fast food and gourmet restaurants.

To get there grab the red line of the metro and get off at Glories.

Address: Avinguda Diagonal 208.

Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).

Website: Glories Centro Comercial (Spanish only).

Las Arenas Shopping Centre

Variety: ★★★☆  Central: ★★★★  Atmosphere: ★★★★

I can safely say this is the only shopping mall in the world found in an ex-bullfighting arena.

Stepping into the multi-story area and seeing all the modern shops, sleek escalators, and glass elevator shafts is an amazing contrast. Here it’s all about mid-range fashion and some of Barcelona’s best restaurants.

If you’re looking for some great shopping and a drink with a view come here.

Go to the top of the arena via the escalators (don’t pay for the elevator) for a great view of Plaça de Espanya and Montjuic. Time your visit with a trip to the Magic Fountain Show for an added bonus.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 373.

Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).

Website: Las Arenas Shopping Centre.

L’Illa Diagonal

Variety: ★★☆☆  Central: ★★☆☆ Atmosphere: ★★★☆

If you’re looking for shopping near Camp Nou stadium this is the one.

This one too boasts a mass of big box stores including electronics giant FNAC and Barcelona’s second Primark location. There’s also a concentration on higher end fashion here, and it has even dubbed itself the ‘fashion shopping centre of Barcelona’.

What I like about this place is the high end food court downstairs where you can get tons of typical local food products.

170 shops in total.

El Triangle

Variety: ★☆☆☆  Central: ★★★★  Atmosphere: ★★★☆

The most central Barcelona shopping mall is unfortunately its most limited.

Right above La Rambla at Plaça de Catalunya is at aptly named El Triangle for its noticeable triangular shape – you’ll find about 20 shops to choose from here.

This is the place to go for electronics and multimedia as it’s the flagship store of Spanish gadget and entertainment retailer FNAC.

Other popular stores include Foot Locker, Urban Outfitters, Massimo Dutti, and Brazilian sandal wizards Hawaianas.

If you’re missing home badly there’s also a Starbucks.

Address: Pl. de Catalunya 1-4.

Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).

Website: El Triangle.

Maremagnum Shopping Centre

Variety: ★★☆☆  Central: ★★★★  Atmosphere: ★★☆☆

The convenience of this medium sized Barcelona mall is what brings people in. Just walk all the way down La Rambla and across the mini bridge over the water to the mirrored building that’s famous for being the only mall open on Sunday.

You’ll get all the clothes shopping classics here like H&M, Lefties, Pull and Bear, Mango etc. There are also some great gift shops and the Barcelona FC Official Store.

If you’re visiting Barcelona during Easter and other holidays, this is your only sure bet to shop.

Address: Edifici Maremàgnum, Moll d’Espanya 5.

Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.

Barcelona Department Stores

El Corte Ingles

As far as traditional department stores in Barcelona go look no further than the legendary El Corte Ingles. It’s actually the only department store left in Spain. It’s also the largest in Europe.

The nine floor flagship location can be found in Plaça de Catalunya. Here you’ll find pretty much anything under the sun in high end shopping to basic furniture to electronics and the city’s most celebrated supermarket.

Other locations are found at Portal del Angel or at 617 Avinguda Diagonal (Maria Cristina metro, green line L3).

Hours: 9:30 am to 9:30 pm (closed Sunday)

Website: El Corte Ingles.

Outlet Shopping in Barcelona

La Roca Village

This luxury outlet shopping village with over 100 shops is found about 40 minutes northeast of Barcelona in a town called Santa Agnès de Malanyanes.

Here you’ll find premium outlets offering discounts of up to 70% off regular stores.

There’s a great atmosphere with the cool mosaics and deco tiling. They’ll also give you a tax refund if you’re a non-EU citizen. A great location to combine with a trip to the nearby beaches of the Costa Brava.

It’s great if you’ve rented a car but there’s also a Sagales bus leaving from Calle Casp 34 (near metro Urquinaona) or the Estacio del Nord.

Return tickets cost €19.00 aboard or €18.00 if bought online.

La Roca Buses run once an hour from 9 am to 8 pm. Tickets include a shopping guide, free WiFi, and discount booklet.

Address: La Roca Village, s/n.

Hours: 10 am to 10 pm daily.

Website: La Roca Village.

Boutique Shopping in Barcelona

Pinza’t

This artisan shop is famous for its hand-painted technical bags made from recycled lorry materials like seat belts and buckles.

35 different street artists decorate the unique pieces here. These double-stitched bags are great for cameras, ‘bike ready’, and practically indestructible.

There’s only one location of this sustainable and fair trade shop and it’s found in the Born district of Barcelona – the perfect place to pick up a gift for a loved one.

Address: Carrer de Grunyí 7.

Hours: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm (Mon-Fri).

Website: Pinza’t.

Lydia Delgado

One of the biggest names in Spanish fashion. The slogan ‘the bohemian side of elegance‘ really applies to the chic, feminine collections and colourful accessories you’ll find at the designer’s only shop just steps away from Passeig de Gracia.

Get in touch and make yourself an appointment to find the perfect look with their style consultants.

Address: Calle Séneca 28.

Hours: 10 am to 8:30 pm (closed Sunday).

Website: Lydia Delgado.

Imanol Ossa Design Art

If you can make a lamp out of it chances are Imanol Ossa has done it. You can’t go wrong buying one of the designer lamps made here using items found in the street of Barcelona’s rough and ready Raval neighbourhood.

In using anything from drum cymbals to chemistry beakers to wood trunks the consumer is left with a truly unique gift that won’t be found anywhere else.

Also check out the jewelry and hand made furniture.

Address: Carrer Peu de la Creu 24.

Hours: n/a.

Website: Imanol Ossa Design Art.

Souvenirs

I’ve got an entire post dedicated to shopping for souvenirs in Barcelona.

In it you’ll find not only what to buy but where to buy it.

In general I would advise avoiding cheap shops which sell the traditional stereotypes: bull t-shirts (bullfighting has been banned in Catalonia), Spanish flags, Mexican sombreros, and flamenco outfits.

Here’s a few quick ideas:

Galeria Maxò

This space dedicated to art and creativity is the brainchild of owner Maxò.

Here you’ll get cute little wooden picture frames with three dimensional images inside. Typically the images feature top Barcelona attractions.

My Italian colleagues have posted a beautiful photo album of the shop so you can get a better idea. The price of each frame is around €20.00

Address: Carrer del Portal Nou 29 (El Born) or Carrer de Petritxol 18 (El Gotico)

Papabubble

This shop isn’t too Barcelona but in my opinion warrants a visit, if even just for the sensory experience.

Papabubble is an artisanal candy factory with some impossibly unique shapes and tastes which can even be customized to your liking.

Your tastebuds will thank you!

Address: Carrer dels Banys Nous 3 (Liceu metro station)

La Bufanda

It’s hot here! So this cute accessory shop is ideal for bringing home a cute little Spanish fan.

Prices range from €19.00 to €39.00 depending on the models. There is ample selection and some of them are even hand painted.

Here you’ll also find scarves and hats which make great gifts for just about anyone.

Address: Carrer del Pi 2 (Liceu metro station).

Vidrio Sanjuan

Here’s a real glass factory found in the heart of Poble Espanyol.

You’ll find a ton of items here from large sculptures to trinket souvenirs. You’ll watch the glass blowers make the products right in front of you, moulding Barcelona-themed objects with pliers and adding colourful powders.

Barcelona FC coach Pep Guardiola actually had a replica glass Champions League trophy made here. This shop has also made glass destined for mega attractions La Sagrada Familia and the Catalan Music Palace.

The ovens here reach 1400° centigrade – watch out!

Best Shopping in Barcelona Tips

  • Most retailers should accept Visa credit/debit but keep a bit of cash just in case.
  • Unlike Canada/USA the sales tax is included in the price – so no surprises!
  • Wander around El Born for your best shot at finding stylish boutique shops.
  • Go to Calle Tallers in El Raval for all your second-hand/vintage needs.
  • Check out some of Barcelona’s best markets for local goods.
  • There are many Oxfam charity shops with one near Sagrada Familia (Carrer de Provença, 478).
  • Check out Calle Verdi in the Gracia district for independent clothing shops.

Shopping Hours in Barcelona

As a general rule shopping hours in Barcelona are between 9:30 am and 9:30 pm.

There are always exceptions. Don’t expect to shop on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day. Barcelona shops are also generally closed on September 11 for the National Day of Catalonia.

Be warned that some smaller shops take a siesta between around 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

I’ve tried to include the shopping hours when possible but make sure you double check in the links provided.

Sunday Shopping in Barcelona

The unfortunate fact is most shops in Barcelona are closed on Sunday.

This includes nearly all supermarkets and most retail shopping.

If you’ve got a Sunday emergency and need something like a phone charger I suggest wandering around attraction-heavy locations like Sagrada Familia. Or anywhere in El Raval where there are a ton of mobile shops.

For supermarkets the one chain open on Sunday is OpenCor/SuperCor – but expect to pay about 10% more. They’re open late night typically until 1:00 or 2:00 am.

Need food late? Check out the OpenCor location finder for the nearest one to you.

If you’re going to go shopping in Barcelona on a Sunday your only choices are La Roca Village and Maremagnum Shopping Centre – more on them later.

Tax Refunds for Non-Eu Citizens

If you’re not living in the European Union and intend to bring your shopping back to your country of origin you are entitled to a tax refund of the 21% Value Added Tax (‘IVA’ in Spain) on products like clothing, electronics etc.

This does not apply to Barcelona’s best bars, restaurants, and accommodation.

To qualify ensure that:

  • You shop at stores offering the Tax Free Shopping Service (90%+, with stickers in window).
  • You spend more than €90.15.
  • You present the appropriate paperwork/products from the shop at customs at the airport.

At this point you’ll be given cheques to be redeemed at the Bureau de Change in your currency.

Not leaving through the airport? You’ll need to request a VAT Reclaim envelope from the shop. You’ll be able to present this at customs, get them stamped, and mail them back to the Madrid Claim Office to be refunded.

For more tax refund info check out the info on the airport’s website.

Barcelona Shopping FAQ

What to shop in Barcelona?

Being a major European city, Barcelona is home to all the major fashion chains and big box stores you could ever imagine. You should go to the Barcelona shopping areas of Passeig de Gracia or Portal del Angel to get the highest concentration of shops. Also, boutique/souvenir shopping in areas like the Born is encouraged.

What time do shops open in Barcelona?

Expect Barcelona shops to open slightly later than in countries like the United States, Canada, or England. In general you’ll find most major chains to open at about 10:00 am or 11:00 am.

What time do shops close in Barcelona?

In Barcelona city centre the shops usually close around 8:00 pm or 9:00 pm depending on the store. It is always advised to check the hours of a shop before visiting if it is later on in the day.

Are shops open on Sunday in Barcelona?

Generally no. While you will find places like pharmacies, corner stores, and souvenir shops open, the majority of places to shop in Barcelona close on Sundays – with the exception of the Maremagnum Shopping Centre which is open on Sunday.

Where to shop in Barcelona for clothes?

The main clothing shopping area of Barcelona is on Portal del Angel, just below Plaza de Catalunya (the main square in the city centre). You may also want to go to El Corte Ingles department store situated in the same area.

What is the main shopping street in Barcelona?

The main shopping street in Barcelona is Passeig de Gracia. The highest amount of goods sold is found on this street, and it’s famous for high end luxury brands like Dolce and Gabbana and Bvlgari.

Still Wondering Where to Shop in Barcelona?

If you’re still not sure about shopping in Barcelona make sure you get in touch in the comments below.

And don’t be afraid to join the shopping discussion by first giving me a like on Facebook and then joining my group I’m Off to Barcelona – here you can ask any questions, air out grievances, and chat with thousands of Barcelona travelers.

Anything goes!

Shopping in Barcelona: complete guide

1.
The main shopping areas of the city

2.
Sales and discount periods

3.
What else is remarkable shopping in Barcelona

Shopping in Barcelona is a business that requires advance preparation. For those who want to usefully spend not only their money, but also their time, I have prepared useful information about the best shopping areas in Barcelona and the main discount periods, and I am also ready to give free advice: how, where and at what time it is better to go shopping to Barcelona.

The main shopping areas of the city

I conditionally divided them into three, not taking into account stand-alone shopping centers.

Central zone

Of course, the center has the largest number of stores, ranging from favorites by many to fashionable ones:

  • Zara
  • Mango
  • Massimo Dutti
  • H&M Dolce & Gabbana
  • Yves Saint Laurent
  • Chanel

But you should keep in mind that it is in the center that the largest number of tourists who want to shop for nothing.

Passeig de Gràcia, located above the central square of Catalonia, is recognized as the most fashionable artery of the city. Shopping in the Catalan capital is in full swing here.

Parallel to Passeig de Gràcia is the equally remarkable Rambla de Cataluña. Down from Plaza Catalunya there are two more major shopping streets:

  • Portal de L´Angel
  • Pelai
What you can buy in Central Zone

Mainly stores of both mass market format and fashionable boutiques are represented:

  • Zara
  • Mango
  • Massimo Dutti
  • H&M
  • Dolce & Gabbana
  • Armani
  • Yves Saint Laurent
  • Chanel

Spanish designer shops are almost non-existent here.

How to get to the Central Zone

Getting to the Central Zone is easy – in the very center of the city, Cataluña or Passeig de Gràcia metro stations. Walking from one street to another – no more than 5 minutes.

Barcelona’s Old Town – extravagant shopping in Barcelona

Barcelona’s Old Town is also home to a wide variety of shops. Mostly well-known local brands are presented here, as well as inexpensive designer items and vintage.

What you can buy in the Old Town
  1. So, on Avinyó Street in the center of the Gothic Quarter there are shops that will not leave indifferent the most inveterate fashionistas (Cheap Monday, American Apparel, Adidas Originals). There are also many local handicraft and vintage shops.
  2. And in the Bourne district on Rec and Bonaire streets, there are La Commercial stores that combine world famous brands such as Sonia Rykiel, Paul Smith and Alexander McQueen.
  3. In addition, in Born, in the same place, on Rec Street, you can find many very interesting things by local, Spanish designers, such as Menchén Tomás.
How to get to the Old Town:

From the Jaume I metro station, on the left side of Via Laietana is the Born district, on the right side is the Gothic Quarter.

Western zone

Here I mean the districts:

  • Eixampe
  • Sarrià-Sant Gervasi
  • Gracia

This area is especially popular with the bohemian locals. There is a very high concentration of fashion boutiques, designer stores and shops, as they say, “for the general consumer.”

What you can buy in the Western zone

For designer things, go to Gracia on Carrer del Torrent de l’Olla, La Perla and Verdi streets. In the nearby St. Gervasi-Santaló simply rolls over the number of well-known Spanish brands.

How to get to the Western Zone

Gracia is located north of Eixample, 10 minutes by metro from the city centre. The metro stop is Fontana. District Gervasi-Santaló is located above Gracia. You can get there by FGC trains (depart from Plaza Catalunya).

Sales and discount periods

Sales in Barcelona take place in two periods – in winter and summer, on clearly fixed dates. From the beginning of January to the beginning of March, as well as from the beginning of July to the end of August, you can shop here with significant savings

Go shopping in Barcelona during sales

As a rule, at the very beginning of sales, discounts in Barcelona stores are 25-40%. The second wave is coming after 2-3 weeks (here already individually, depending on the stores). So, by mid-February prices fall by 50-75%. However, it should be understood that the range of goods and running sizes by this time also fall clearly in direct proportion to prices – no less than 75%.

What else is special about shopping in Barcelona

All shops are open from 10 am to 8 pm. Sunday closed. During sales in Barcelona, ​​it is best to go shopping in the morning. And preferably right from their opening – many people love shopping in Barcelona. At this time, there are not so many people yet, you will not have to stand kilometer-long queues in the fitting room, and no one annoying will snatch your favorite pair of shoes of the latest size from your hands.

Well, if none of the options suits you, go to La Roca Village – the best outlet near Barcelona. You can order a shopping tour in La Roca Village on the link on the official ticket platform.

  • How to avoid queues at Barcelona attractions. Tickets for the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell skip the line.
  • How not to be deceived by local taxi drivers. Order a taxi in advance with fixed rates online. The most reliable service for ordering a taxi is KiwiTaxi .
  • Guided tours of Barcelona with locals will help you get to know this city for real. The best way to get comfortable in an unfamiliar city is to walk around it with a person who has lived here for many years.
  • We advise you to take out travel insurance so that there are no unpleasant surprises while traveling to Barcelona.
  • Barcelona City Pass is a one-stop card that makes organizing your holiday in Barcelona easier and saves you a lot of time and money.
  • Barcelona hotels: are our selections and recommendations.
  • Bus Turistic is a tourist bus and a great way to get to all the necessary monuments of Barcelona quickly, with a breeze and comfort.
  • Drimsim is a universal international SIM card and a free travel application. Best prices, fast internet and worldwide calls.

Shopping in Barcelona: shopping guide around the city

1.
Where are the lowest prices

2.
Where is the best place to go for branded items?

3.
How to shop in Barcelona: tips

Barcelona is an amazing city that will be interesting to visit for art and history lovers as well as for shoppers. For several years now, travelers have been attracted to this city as the best destination, where you can easily combine benefit and pleasure. Travel agencies also arrange special shopping tours for those who intend to make the most profitable purchases in Barcelona.

In the event that the purpose of your trip to the Catalan capital is to visit cultural and historical places and purchase brand new items. Then you can combine these two desires and go to one of the addresses marked below.

Maremagnum shopping center

Everyone has a practical attitude to make profitable purchases, so there is nothing unseemly in the fact that a significant number of people are interested in places with budget branded clothing. Of course, finding inexpensive items from luxury brands in Barcelona will be a difficult task. However, for many people, “everyday” brands of the order Zara, H&M, Mango and others are more priority. Stores of these brands are easy to find in large shopping centers.

In the Maremagnum shopping center, located in the city center, you can buy clothes of the middle price range from Mango, H&M.

In El Corte Ingles, the most heard and preferred place for shopping by the locals themselves, it is possible to find many shops with flashy, unconventional clothes for everyday outings. This mall is located on Placa de Cataluña. The Diagonal Mar shopping center presents both mass-market brands and some premium brands.

Where are the lowest prices

If you want to save as much as possible when shopping in Barcelona, ​​then you should pay attention to outlets with the cheapest prices. Just to visit these outlets, most travelers go to Barcelona.

They keep discounts throughout the year and can reach up to 60-70%, the choice is very large, their location is quite convenient. Only one minus – you will need to spend a lot of time on effective shopping in order to go through all the shops and try on all your favorite things.

Outlet La Roca Village

40 kilometers from the city is the most popular outlet La Roca Village, which is open from 10.00 am to 21.00 pm. A sort of village with a hundred boutiques of the most diverse brands. You can get to it from Plaza Catalunya by bus for €12. Read more about the outlet and how to get there in this article.

Viladecans The Style Outlets

Viladecans The Style Outlets is a city of sales. At the moment, the area of ​​the outlet is 19800 sq. meters, by 2020 it is planned to expand to 26,500 sq. meters. More than fifty shops, things for every taste and a lot of additional bonuses. Excellent location and a wide range of offers from leading brands with discounts of 30 – 70%.

Read more about the outlet and how to get there in this article.

Heron City Barcelona

Heron City Barcelona Commercial Center has outlets for the following brands:

  • Mango
  • Bershka
  • Levis
  • Diesel
  • Funky Fish
  • Pull&Bear and many others

In addition to outlets and shopping centers, budget shopping is also possible on Portal de L’angel. Here you can find not so famous brands (Stradivarius, Massimo Dutti, Calzedonia), which, however, do not lose in quality to the more famous ones.

Where better to go for branded items

Shopping in Barcelona is quite comfortable. Travelers do not need to wander around the city looking for one or the other boutiques, as in the very center of the city there is a shopping street called Barcelona Shopping Line, where buses run. Its source is from Las Ramblas and ends at La Diagonal. It is 5 kilometers long. By purchasing a ticket from the driver once for this route, it is possible to travel on it all day. Bus stops are located at the most prominent retail outlets.

Here you can buy clothes of various brands. On the Rambla de Cataluña there are shops with legendary Spanish brands, such as “Custo” and “Desigual”. The Pelai street, only 100 meters long, will appeal to young people, because there are a lot of inexpensive shops with youth brands on it.

If you are in the category of people for whom saving a few tens of euros on shopping in Barcelona is not so important, then on Passeig de Gracia you can find a significant selection of boutiques with things from the latest collections of brands of order:

  • Chanel
  • Armani
  • Dolce&Gabbana
  • Woman’s secret
  • Cartier
  • Luis Vuitton
  • Miss Sixty and others

Luis Vuitton on Passeig de Gracia

In addition to Passeig de Gracia, La Diagonal offers equally efficient shopping from:

  • Gucci
  • Versace
  • Calvin Klein

One of the most prominent shopping centers is L’Illa, on its territory there are shops of famous brands. It can carry out original shopping in Barcelona and the most demanding shop lover. But keep in mind that the prices here will be much higher than those in the outlets.

How to shop in Barcelona: tips

Remember about tax-free. Carry out shopping in Barcelona from €90, keep the receipts that you will be given in the store, do not unpack your purchases and return back from 10 to 21 percent at customs control.

Deciding to devote time to shopping, organize your day competently:

  1. Sunday is a priority to devote to rest, like all Spaniards.
  2. On weekdays, you can go shopping from 9.30 am.
  3. At lunchtime, again focusing on the Spaniards, organize yourself a rest until 17.00, and then continue shopping with fresh energy until late in the evening.

If you are looking for discounts on shopping in Barcelona, ​​then keep in mind that the winter sales period is from January to March, and summer sales are valid from July to August. However, you don’t need to really hope for August, since nothing human is alien to the Spaniards, and they also need to rest, which is what they do in August. Because most of the stores will not work.

We recommend shopping at La Roca Village Outlet. Don’t forget to buy tickets for tour online in advance using the link .

  • How to avoid queues at Barcelona attractions. Tickets for the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell skip the line.
  • How not to be deceived by local taxi drivers. Order a taxi in advance with fixed rates online. The most reliable service for ordering a taxi is KiwiTaxi .
  • Guided tours of Barcelona with locals will help you get to know this city for real. The best way to get comfortable in an unfamiliar city is to walk around it with a person who has lived here for many years.
  • We advise you to take out travel insurance so that there are no unpleasant surprises while traveling to Barcelona.