When visiting Catalonia, do as the Catalans do and forget shopping at big supermarkets. Instead, go shopping at your local market. The sights and the sounds are far more appealing than the regimented aisles of a supermarket, and you can pick individual produce yourself, and in some cases even try before you buy! Whether it’s a new handbag, pair of sunglasses or some fresh juicy tomatoes for your evening salad in your Barcelona holiday rental, here are a few tips about the best markets in the city.

 

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La Boqueria

La Boqueria is perhaps the most famous covered market in Barcelona. Located just off La Rambla, it is the easiest to reach for tourists, as well. This is the place where Michelin-star chefs come for their produce and where the fresh fruit, squeezed juices and colourful vegetables are always popular with visitors to the city. Stock up for an evening in or a beach or park picnic.

Sant Antoni Market

Sant Antoni market is a food market slightly outside of the centre and open from Monday to Saturday. The variety of fruit, vegetables, fish and cheese is exquisite, and you can stop for tapas at the central bar if you need a break!

Mercadillo de Placa de Sant Josep

This is a wonderful place to visit if you are looking for artwork for your villa in Barcelona. Artists line the streets with their easels, painting in water colours and oils while taking in the local landscape. If you fancy having a special caricature drawn in the evening, you will find the artists on La Rambla.

 

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Mercat del Encants

At the largest flea market in the city, you can pretty much buy anything from power tools to vases and antiques. Don’t expect it to be well laid out as it has more of a car boot style feel to it. There are bargains to be had if you arrive early, but whatever time of day, don’t forget to bargain with the vendor!

Mercat de la Concepcio

If you would just love a bunch of fragrant flowers to brighten up your Catalonia villa rental, head for this flower market. You may discover beautiful flowers you haven’t seen before that are grown in this region of Spain.

Visiting local markets is always a fun morning out. Regardless of whether you buy anything it is worth going just to envelop yourself in the kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, and pick up a souvenir or tasty treat while you are there!

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