Barcelona Activa and Barcelona City Council recently launched an innovative new scheme designed to promote responsible and local consumption in the city’s central Ciutat Vella district. The digital catalogue created to celebrate its launch, Shopping in Ciutat Vella, brings together 34 different establishments known for their commitment to all things sustainability, talent and social impact. The publication, which organisers hope to update on a regular basis, promotes local commerce and has the backing of our hotels in the centre of Barcelona, where the catalogues will be shared with our guests, encouraging them to shop at local businesses during their stay.
But the catalogues aren’t just a directory of places to shop, they’re really an invitation to discover the heart and soul of Ciutat Vella with itineraries taking visitors through the most symbolic and historic neighbourhoods in Barcelona. Each is home to retail outlets that represent a better, fairer consumption model that connects people with local products, promoting the circular economy and more conscious, ethical tourism. Find out all you need to know below!
Explore and support local businesses in Barcelona
From our HCC Montblanc hotel, or any of our hotels in Barcelona for that matter, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the historic streets of Ciutat Vella, exploring the sustainable and socially-responsible shops included in the Shopping in Ciutat Vella catalogue as you go. In just a few minutes, you’ll be able to discover unique hidden treasures in El Raval, the Gothic Quarter, Casc Antic and Barceloneta. It’s the perfect opportunity to support local businesses and explore the more authentic side of Barcelona.
Here, everyone – whether they’re a local resident or just passing through – is encouraged to support the initiative. So join the call to explore the historic neighbourhoods of Barcelona in a more conscious, responsible way as you discover hidden gems and contribute to a fairer, more balanced world. The various businesses taking part in the initiative offer a wide range of products and services for all tastes.
You’ll find specialty food shops offering local products, shoemakers committed to artisanal craftsmanship, jewelers with exclusive city-made designs, and authentic handmade souvenir shops. Additionally, there are bookstores with a strong cultural focus and restaurants highlighting locally sourced ingredients, promoting environmentally friendly consumption. This variety ensures a unique experience with every stroll through the neighborhoods. Don’t miss out!
Sustainability and Talent at the Heart of Barcelona
The included businesses are true benchmarks of sustainability and social commitment. Through responsible practices and deep community roots, these establishments not only drive the district’s economic development but also promote a more ethical and environmentally respectful consumption model. Every purchase directly supports local talent and socially impactful initiatives.
From sustainable fashion to handcrafted products and unique territory-based experiences, these shops guarantee visitors an authentic memento of the city while supporting the hardworking individuals behind each business. Their efforts enrich Barcelona’s cultural diversity.
A Project with Vision and Impact
The Compra en Ciutat Vella catalog is just the beginning of a broader strategy to ensure the economic benefits of tourism positively impact local communities. By integrating and promoting small businesses, the initiative strengthens their visibility and guarantees their role as a cornerstone of Ciutat Vella’s identity.
Access to the catalog has been made easy through various promotional tools. At HCC Montblanc, we’ll provide all the information you need to access the digital catalog. Informative postcards have been distributed at strategic points, particularly in La Barceloneta, leveraging the influx of tourists during major events like the America’s Cup. Participating businesses also proudly display posters highlighting their involvement in the initiative.
Explore the Iconic Neighborhoods of Ciutat Vella
Ciutat Vella offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct charm. The catalog invites you to explore El Raval, El Gòtic, El Casc Antic, and La Barceloneta, discovering emblematic shops committed to sustainability and the essence of Barcelona’s community spirit.
- El Raval: A vibrant mix of eclectic shops showcasing the neighborhood’s multicultural essence, from contemporary art to alternative fashion.
- El Gòtic: A traditional experience with long-standing shops offering artisanal products and unique souvenirs.
- El Casc Antic: Including Sant Pere, Santa Caterina, and La Ribera, this area is perfect for finding high-quality local goods, from organic foods to handcrafted jewelry.
- La Barceloneta: Close to the sea, this neighborhood blends shops and services that capture its maritime spirit.
Barcelona remains a global leader in proximity tourism, and this initiative exemplifies how to support local talent in the city. Join the movement and experience alternative tourism today!
