Barcelona, Spain — Shopping
Shopping in Barcelona, Spain
Shopping is one of Barcelona's greatest attractions, with a bountiful 5km (3 miles) shopping strip, stretching all the way from the water's edge at Port Vell to Diagonal.
Markets
Barcelona’s main food market, La Boqueria, off Rambla Sant Josep, is one of the most visited sites in Barcelona thanks to its colorful myriad of fresh produce and local fare. Other recommended food markets include Concepció along Carrer Aragó and the Gastronomic Fair at Plaça del Pi for their variety of local products. For antiques and curios, visit the Els Encants market on Plaça de les Glories (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 0900-1900) or the antiques market held every Thursday (except in August) on Plaça Nova; typical handicrafts include Catalan black pottery, hand-woven baskets and Barcelona lace.
Shopping centers
International chains, designer shops and modern department stores can be found in the area around Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gracia and along Avinguda Diagonal. The most famous shop in the city is El Corte Inglés on Plaça de Catalunya - part of a national chain, considered to be Spain's leading department stores.
Key areas
La Rambla and the Barri Gòtic are popular places for tourists to hunt for souvenirs. For the ultimate in local style, try Barcelona's top fashion designer boutiques along Avinguda Diagonal.
Shopping hours
Standard shopping hours in Barcelona are Monday to Saturday 0900-2030, with many of them closed for lunch 1330-1700. Large department stores do not generally close for lunch.
Tax information
IVA (value added tax) of 16% is charged on most goods and services in Spain. Upon departure, visitors from outside the EU, who have been in the EU for less than 180 days, can get a VAT refund from the airport, on goods worth €90 or more.
