Savour Barcelona's markets
Sant Josep Market (La Boquería)
La Boqueria, or Sant Josep Market, invites you on a journey of the senses with the colours, aromas and sounds of its aisles. Founded in 1840, its roots date back to the 13th century, when street vendors sold their wares to travellers in this very spot.
Inside the market you’ll find a gastronomic explosion, from succulent fruit and vegetables to exquisite cheeses and meats. La Boqueria is a showcase for the wide variety of goods available in Catalonia, from local produce to exquisite imports from all over the world.
After visiting La Boqueria, take a stroll through the nearby Plaça de Sant Galdric, popularly known as the Plaça de les Pagès (Farmers’ Square), where you’ll find local farmers selling fresh fruit and vegetables.
Winner of the Market of the Year award in 2005 and voted the best market in the world by CNN in 2017, this is a must see for any visitor.
Mercado de St. Antoni
The Sant Antoni market, designed by Antoni Rovira i Trias and inaugurated in 1882, was completely remodelled in 2018 thanks to an innovative project by Pere Joan Ravetllat, Carme Ribas and Olga Schmid.
During the renovation work, Barcelona’s past was revealed in surprising ways: the Sant Antoni bastion, a section of the old medieval wall, a 16th-century farmhouse and a section of the old Roman road were discovered. These discoveries have been incorporated into the museum areas of the market, making it an essential stop for history lovers.
It is considered the largest market in Barcelona, as it combines three markets in one: the fresh food market, the “encants” market (an old Catalan name for a type of circular economy) and the Sunday book market… one of the true jewels of the city.
Mercat dels Encants
The Mercat dels Encants, officially known as the Fira Bellcaire, is one of the oldest street markets in Europe and covers an area of 15,000 square metres.
Often compared to other iconic European markets such as Amsterdam’s Waterlooplein or London’s Portobello, the Mercat dels Encants has its own essence that makes it one of the world’s great markets.
