Barcelona is a city known for many things: vibrant city life, chilled beach vibes, great shopping, stunning architecture – hello Gaudi! – and of course, delicious food. Not only will you find the typical Spanish dishes like paella and tapas, but there’s also some Catalonian specialities thrown in there too, a nod to the strong Catalan identity in the city.
If there’s one thing that we all seem to love, it’s visiting a market in a new city. And even better than general markets are the food markets. It’s a great way to not only pick up something delicious to eat but also offers a chance to experience the local culture and discover new local dishes.
Barcelona is no different, and in fact there are a huge number of food markets in Barcelona to check out. From small neighbourhood markets to the big, bustling La Boqueria, they all have delicious food on offer and are worth taking the time to explore.
Food Markets in Barcelona
This is by no means an exhaustive list of all of the food markets in Barcelona, just a mere selection of some of the best ones in the city. If you’re limited on time, it’s still very worth visiting at least one of the markets. Food is such a core part of the culture in Spain, and there’s such a great vibe in the markets alongside really delicious food, it would be time well spent!
Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria
One of, if not the best food market in Barcelona, the iconic Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, commonly known as La Boqueria. This market is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Located just off the La Rambla, La Boqueria is the heart of the Barcelona food market scene and if you’ve heard of one market in Barcelona, it’ll be this one.
La Boqueria dates back to the 13th century, making it one of Barcelona’s oldest markets. It started life as an open-air market with temporary stalls for local farmers to sell their produce in the city. Over the years the stalls were moved to different locations, before settling back on the site and gaining a roof. Even as far back as the 1800s there are records showing there were 200 stalls in the market, so it’s been a lively, vibrant market for centuries!
As you stroll through through the numerous aisles, you’ll find many stalls with fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meats, empanadas and local delicacies. Don’t miss out on trying some freshly squeezed fruit juice or a cone of jamón ibérico.
And if you’re in the mood for something more substantial, head to one of the tapas bars inside the market for a plate of patatas bravas or grilled seafood. The bars are small and have a handful of stools so you can sit and eat there. La Boqueria is absolutely a must visit in Barcelona, and one of the top food markets in Spain!
If you only have time to visit one food market in Barcelona, it should be La Boqueria!
Be sure to keep your belongings close at La Boqueria, there are a lot of people and it’s a pickpocket heaven if you don’t pay attention to your things.
Location: La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am – 8:30pm
Mercat de Sant Antoni
The beautifully renovated Mercat de Sant Antoni is located in the Eixample district, offering a more local vibe compared to the tourist crowds in La Boqueria. The building itself is a stunning example of 19th-century iron architecture, and the market is divided into three sections: food, clothing, and the Sunday book market.
The food section at Mercat de Sant Antoni is the real draw for visitors checking out Barcelona’s food markets. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and seafood, to baked goods and gourmet products. Drawing on the Catalan culture in Barcelona, one of the highlights at Mercat de Sant Antoni is the assortment of Catalan specialties like butifarra (a type of sausage) and calcots (a seasonal green onion).
If you’re visiting on a Sunday, be sure to check out the book market outside for some unique finds.
Location: Carrer del Comte d’Urgell, 1, 08011 Barcelona
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am – 8:30pm
Mercat de la Concepció
Mercat de la Concepció, also known as the ‘Flower Market’, is a feast for both the eyes and the stomach. Yep, don’t worry, just because they have flowers doesn’t mean they don’t have food! Located in the Eixample district, this market is housed in a gorgeous Modernista building that draws the eye from the standard buildings surrounding it.
Inside, you’ll discover a wide variety of fresh flowers, plants, and, of course, delicious food. The market offers an impressive selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, as well as specialty products like artisan cheeses and gourmet chocolates. Be sure to check out the flower stalls outside for a colourful and fragrant addition to your visit.
Location: Carrer d’Aragó, 313-317
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 8am – 8pm, Monday and Saturday 8am – 3pm.
Mercat de la Llibertat
Sitting in the heart of the Gràcia neighborhood, Mercat de la Llibertat is a market that takes a little more effort to visit but definitely shouldn’t be missed. It’s been serving locals since 1888 and boasts a charming, old-world atmosphere in an iron and glass structure that’s a great example of Modernista architecture.
Mercat de la Llibertat offers a great selection of fresh produce, meats, and seafood. It’s also an excellent place to visit if you’re after things like organic foods and local delicacies.
After shopping, take a stroll through the surrounding streets of Gràcia, known for their bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of boutiques and cafes. It’s a little out of the centre of the city, but it’s one of the neighbourhoods that has a stronger Catalan vibe than the centre of Barcelona and less tourists.
Location: Plaça de la Llibertat, 27
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am – 8:30pm, Saturday, 8am – 3pm
Mercat de Sant Andreu
Moving away from the tourist areas of central Barcelona, there’s more of a local, neighbourhood feel at Mercat de Sant Andreu in the Sant Andreu district. This market is smaller and less crowded, offering a more relaxed shopping experience. It’s also the perfect spot to get a taste of local life in Barcelona.
Here, you’ll find fresh and affordable produce, meats, and fish, as well as a selection of cheeses and charcuterie. The vendors are friendly and if you’ve brushed up on your Spanish or Catalan, are always willing to share tips on how to prepare traditional Catalan dishes.
After exploring the market, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Sant Andreu neighborhood, known for its quaint shops and cafes. The area immediately surrounding the market is really pretty with the archways!
Location: Carrer de Sant Adrià, 28
Opening Hours: These vary depending on time of year, but generally open from 8/9am until lunch time.
Mercat de Santa Caterina
Tucked away in the El Born district, Mercat de Santa Caterina is a vibrant and modern market that’s hard to miss, thanks to its eye-catching, colourful, wavy rooftop. This architectural gem, designed by Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue, sits on the site of a former convent, blending history with modern day.
Inside, you’ll find a bustling collection of stalls offering fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies. The market is known for its friendly vendors and high-quality products, making it a favourite among locals. Be sure to sample some traditional Catalan treats like escalivada (roasted vegetables) or freshly prepared seafood dishes. After exploring, take a moment to enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Mercat de Santa Caterina is a true culinary treasure in the heart of Barcelona, and a great alternative to visiting La Boqueria in terms of proximity to the city centre and offering a more local vibe than the tourist hotspot.
This is one of my favourite food markets in Barcelona because it’s so easy to fit into a day of sightseeing in the city centre, and it’s got a lovely local vibe that La Boqueria is missing.
Location: Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16, Ciutat Vella
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7.30am – 3pm with a late opening on Friday until 8pm.
Mercat de la Sagrada Familia
Just a stone’s throw from Gaudi’s iconic basilica – a must visit in Barcelona! – Mercat de la Sagrada Família offers a welcome escape from the tourist crowds. This local market is a favourite among residents for its fresh, high-quality products.
Inside, you’ll discover a wide variety of stalls offering fruit, vegetables, fresh seafood, and an ever-enticing selection of fresh meats. The market also has a number of gourmet stalls where you can find delicious cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked goods. It’s the perfect spot to have a look around, pick up some picnic supplies and head to the nearby park for a leisurely lunch with a backdrop of La Sagrada Familia.
Location: Carrer de Padilla, 255, Eixample
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7.30am-2pm, with late opening Tuesday to Friday until 8pm.
Mercat del Ninot.
A little out of the main tourist area, Mercat del Ninot. is housed in a gorgeous building with an impressive red brick front. Inside, the huge, airy space offers a comfortable home to all the different food stalls. You’ll find all the usual offerings like fresh meat and seafood, cooked deli meats and fruit & vegetables.
As with all the best markets, there are also ready-to-eat food stalls, offering yummy goods to take home or a stool to enjoy a meal in the market at the stall.
Mercat del Ninot. really is a one stop for everything kind of place. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the main market area, head downstairs and you’ll find a supermarket to cover all the rest of your shopping needs!
Location: C/ de Mallorca, 133, L’Eixample
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am – 8pm, Saturday 8am – 3pm
Food Market Tours
There are a few tours out there that visit the different markets, and whether they’re worth booking on to and spending out on is definitely down to personal taste. All of the markets in Barcelona are pretty easy to get to and the food is generally really affordable, apart from La Boqueria – tourist hotspot so tourist prices!
If you’re a budget traveller or just generally confident getting around by yourself then you probably won’t get your money’s worth from the tour, but if you prefer to explore with a guide and not have to work out what to sample then there are plenty of food tours out there to choose from!
This list doesn’t even cover all of the food markets in Barcelona. There are so many to explore, eat at and just indulge in the market lifestyle that you definitely won’t go hungry! Whether you’re a real foodie looking for the interesting and unique flavours and dishes, or like me just love to have a look and try some new foods, there really is a market for everyone in Barcelona.
The best way to find Barcelona’s best food market? Put on some comfy shoes, grab a metro ticket and get out exploring them all! It’s the only way, right? Enjoy!
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