Mercats de Barcelona

Barcelona's Mediterranean character is faithfully reflected in the lively atmosphere of its mercats municipals. These mirror popular Barcelona, its human relations and rich Mediterranean gastronomy.

The local cuisine belongs to the Mediterranean tradition and is one of the most typical and best-known aspects of Catalan culture. If you go round Barcelona's markets, you can experience for yourself the colours, smells and tastes of the ingredients that produce this tasty food. You can also experience the natural, neighbourhood atmosphere of daily life in the city.

There are some forty markets to choose from and where you can get a good look at Barcelona's residents as they go about their daily lives. Some are a must for newcomers to the city, while others reflect the atmosphere of their local neighbourhood. There are also street markets with a special charm: the traditional craft and antique fairs. So come and take a look at our fairs and markets. You will be amazed!

For a number of years now, Barcelona has been carrying out major renovation work at all the markets, which means on your next visit to the city you can enjoy the excellent results of what has been done so far.

Many markets have been totally renovated. Historic buildings with an artistic value have been restored, while the services and products they sell have been modernised. These are 21st century markets that have kept their ancient charm and tradition.

Let's not forget about the architectural splendour to be found in some of these markets, in particular such historically interesting Modernista buildings as La Boqueria, La Concepció, El Ninot, Sant Antoni and others, including the old market in El Born, an archaeological exhibition in the old Ribera neighbourhood set under the market's Modernista iron structure.

Suggestions

Markets you should visit

You can choose one or more markets, depending on how long you are going to be in the city and your interest in them, but you should definitely go to La Boqueria, on the Rambla, and the new Santa Caterina market, next to the cathedral. You will fall in love with them!