Shopping
Shopping in Barcelona is a favorite pastime. Whether strolling along the elegant Paseo de Gracia or nipping in and out of trendy botiques in the Born, to go shopping here can be one of many things. Here you will find beautiful clothing, unique footwear, and interesting artwork as a herald to the city’s cultural and artistic demographic. Not only do the Spanish have an impeccable eye for style, but they are beautiful craftsmen as well. Thus, there are endless options for every taste. From designer purses to handmade scarves, antique books to original Picassos, this city by the sea does seem to have it all. The mission then, is to go out and find it!
Plaza Catalunya
The Plaza Catalunya serves as a great starting point for many outings, and most certainly for a day of shopping. From here, along the many streets that sprawl out from the square like spider’s legs, you can do your shopping for shoes, clothes, and accessories at many of the country’s national brands. Stores like Zara, Bershka, Mango, and Blanco all offer good essential finds at very reasonable prices. The main avenue of the Ramblas, the Ronda Universitat, and the Puerta del Angel are all main thoroughfares for fashion-finders. Of course if you’d rather get your exercise in the mountains, the mega department store El Corte Ingles can be found in the very Plaza Catalunya and requires no more than hopping on the escalator to explore its 7 floors of goods.
Shopping centres
Although popping in and out of stores while exploring the streets of the city is a great way to multi-task, there are several shopping centers within the city for those who prefer a no-nonsense day of shopping. Also, while most stores will remain closed on Sundays, the big shopping centers will be operating 7 days a week and are therefore great options for weekend travelers. Maremagnum and L’illa Diagonal are the two main malls, and are both easy to get to. Maremagnum is located in the old port and is home to countless shops of all types and price ranges, as well as restaurants, bars, and clubs. It can be accessed by Metro lines 3 and 4, Drassanes and Barceloneta stops respectively. L’illa Diagonal is a three-story mega complex which, like the former, affords a day’s worth of shopping and price-comparing on an endless array of items. Here too are plenty of restaurants and bar to refuel at throughout the day. L’illa Diagonal can be reached by Metro line 3, Maria Cristina stop.
Artsy and unique: Raval, Gothic and Born
If you’re seeking something a bit more unique and are willing to explore, then I would definitely recommend venturing into the dark, narrow streets of the Gothic, Raval, and Born neighborhoods. Each has its own character and offerings and is worth discovering on its own terms. The Raval, although until recently known more as a red-light district than for mainstream traffic, has recently been transforming itself as a hub for young artists, students, and immigrants ready to forge out their own enclave. Shops with handmade crafts and imported art can be found along Calle Fernandina, which juts out from the square in front of the MacBa. Another fun street is Carrer dels Tallers, just off the top of the Ramblas, where you can find record and poster shops, funky footware, and hippy stores selling typical lounge-clothing and accessories.
Crossing the Ramblas to the north and entering the Gothic Quarter is yet another ambience. Here you’ll find plenty of clothing, art, and jewelry stores, some more authentic than others as this neighborhood has been pretty much overrun by tourist flats and hotels and has likewise catered to this population. There are some interesting finds here though, such as a huge ceramic warehouse full of locally made pots, vases, plates, and tiles on Carrer dels Escudellers. Heading a bit further north, after crossing the Via Laietana, the ultra-trendy hood of the Born sits quietly and is full of hidden jewels along the ever so elusive side streets. Here many an up-and-coming Barcelonese designer has set up their storefront, showcasing original, beautiful, and usually pretty pricy creations.
Souvenirs
If it’s just a few souvenirs and postcards you’re looking for, the typical assortment of fans, flamenco-dancer aprons, bull figurines, and cookbooks can be found at just about any newsstand throughout the city. Prices shouldn’t vary much here and these are fun things to buy and of course make great gifts. (Who doesn’t want a spanish bull on their mantel?)
Watch out for pickpockets
In any case, it is important to remember that theft is a problem here so always be wary of your purse and belongings. Thievery here is a profession so if you are robbed you usually won’t be aware of it until after the fact. With that in mind, have fun while exploring this exciting city and its hidden surprises.
Conclusion: Shopping i Barcelona in 1-2-3
The pedestrian avenue Portal del Angel, right off of Plaza Catalunya, is the place to go for the usual spanish brands such as Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, and Mango. From here you might venture into the Gothic Quarter, then across the Via Laitana and into the Born for a bit funkier, alternative fare.
The Paseo de Gracia, leading upwards from the Plaza Catalunya, while beautiful, is mostly very upscale brands such as Gucci, Dolce & Gabana, and Loewe.
The Raval area, to the south of Las Ramblas, is quickly becoming known as an artists’ enclave and as such has more unusual items to offer.
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