Top 5 Markets in Barcelona

Officially called the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, this centrally located market—situated just off La Rambla—opened back in 1853, and offers a literal taste of what makes the Catalan capital tick. Peruse the many stalls of produce, meats, fish, and pastries; then, once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a stool at one of several open-air bars to sample some tapas. Most Barcelona city tours stop at La Boqueria.

Opened in 1848, the recently refurbished Mercat de Santa Caterina in the La Ribera district can be easily recognized by its colorful, undulating rooftop. The traditional interior teems with food stalls and restaurants, including the excellent Cuines Santa Caterina, a great place for a market-inspired meal.

Local shop here for produce, meats, and fresh seafood, along with home goods and other products. Traditional tapas bars serve up local flavors.

The Encants Vells (Old Charms) flea market, located near the Torre Agbar, is the largest of its kind in Barcelona. With more than 500 stalls plying their wares, it’s heaven for treasure hunters on the lookout for bargains on secondhand items and antiques of all sorts.

Housed in a lovely historic building near the Sagrada Familia, the Mercat de la Concepcio is most famous for its colorful and fragrant flower market, but shoppers will also find wines, olive oils, baked goods, and fresh produce.