Barcelona Shopping Guide – Gràcia

Barcelona Shopping Guide – Gracia

Discover the Boho-chic Boutiques of Gràcia

We’ve already uncovered some unique places to shop in beautiful Born, now we want to reveal the fabulous boutiques located in gorgeous Gràcia. Keep reading for your Barcelona shopping guide to Gracia.

The Born is on the tourist track in the Old Town, while the independent boutiques and sassy shops of Gràcia are often left undiscovered by people passing through Barcelona. Here, we share some of the most unique shops Barcelona has to offer that are usually only frequented by the city’s fashionistas.

Gràcia, located towards the top of the city, is also home to Parc Guell and is one of the city’s most interesting and eclectic areas. This bohemian area feels like a different world compared with Passeig de Gràcia, and this is partly due to the fact that it was an independent town until the late 19th Century.

Full of trendy bars, restaurants and shops, Gràcia is the ideal area for those who are looking for something a little bit different – and for those who like exploring shops off the main tourist track. With it being so accessible from the city centre, there really is no excuse not to explore the boho-chic shopping experience that this charming little neighborhood has to offer.

Philo Boutique

In keeping with the originality and authenticity of the area is the uber-chic boutique, Philo. In the area that goes hand-in-hand with discovering new styles, this boutique could not be better placed.

With a strong 50’s influence, this beautiful space specializes in boho-chic, mixing vintage style with functionality. Bringing together brands from Milan, London, and Paris, their carefully selected ranges are aimed at dressing ‘women with personality’.

Details: (@philoboutique), Carrer Montseny 21, 08012 Barcelona

Retro City

If vintage is more your vibe then don’t miss Retro City. It is a floor-to-ceiling vintage lovers’ paradise crammed with accessories, shoes, hats, bags, and of course clothes – many of which are completely wacky and super fun.

This shop is extremely easy to miss however so keep your eyes peeled. There is no sign and its plain exterior can mislead even the savviest shopper as there is really no indication of the endless amount of goodies that lie within.

Details: Travessera de Gracia 154, 08012, Barcelona

BOO

Boo is the perfect place if you’re shopping with the other half as it offers top-range fashion for both women and men. This personalised boutique with a thirst for the 50s, carries a wide variety of fashion labels sourced from Scandinavia to The States.

This boutique is famous in the area for its deer-themed design decor and eclectic collections of homeware, art, books, accessories, and of course clothes, both international and independent.

Details: (@boostories) Carrer de Bonavista 2, 08012 Barcelona

Verdejade

The creative and enticing window displays at Verdejade are usually enough to lure shoppers inside. This charming spot offers a wonderful range of goodies for the home including artwork, crockery and handmade decorative feature pieces. Don’t miss it!

Details: (@@verdejadetienda) Carrer Ramon y Cajal 11, 08012 Barcelona

La A

Selling lovely lifestyle objects, this sweet little place sells all sorts of wondrous bits and bobs from hand-cut wooden letters, to ornate hanging orbs. This place gets a big thumbs up for anyone looking to deck out their homes with interesting and unique knick-knacks.

Details: (@laabotiga), Carrer de L’olla 86, 08012 Barcelona.

There are many more fantastic shopping experiences and boutiques in Gràcia, so let yourself be guided by local recommendations. However, if you want to discover the lesser-known corners of Barcelona, for shopping and city exploring, let us take you on a private tour of Barcelona.

This blog was originally published in September 2019, and updated in October 2023.

Exploring Catalonia: Cities, Hiking, Mountains, Beaches

day trip to girona from barcelona

We love exploring Catalonia and all it has to offer. In this post, we will point you in the direction of some amazing experiences that the region has to offer from the cities to the beaches, historical sites to mountains. Let’s unpack what this great region has to offer.

Five Great Historical sites in Catalonia

For history buffs, Catalonia is a real treasure chest! Throughout its history, the region has been invaded by and is home to Iberian tribes, Greeks, Romans, Vikings, Visigoths, Moors, and more.  A few of these left visible marks that remain to this day. Especially the Romans, diligent “constructionists” as they were, left their mark, including:

The Roman Circus in Tarragona

The city of Tarragona, or Tarraco as it was named by the Romans, was the Roman stronghold on the Iberian Peninsula. Built around the time of Emperor Domitian (1st century AD), the ruins of the circus are among the most well-preserved outside of Rome. The arena once held about 30,000 spectators, and it is a unique place to lose yourself in history.

The Ancient City of Empúries

The ancient city of Empúries is two cities in one: one Greek and one Roman. The Greeks came to the northern coast of Catalonia around the 6th century BC and lived peacefully while trading with local Iberian tribes. The Roman conquest of Hispania was kicked off here in 218 BC.

This didn’t, however, end the Greek settlement, and the Romans and Greeks coexisted in Empúries until the 3rd century when the Greeks abandoned the area, and the Romans focused their power in the Barcino (Barcelona) and Tarraco settlements.

The Girona Cathedral

The Catalans have always been renowned for their stonemasonry and Gothic architecture in Catalonia bears strong witness to this. The Girona cathedral might today be most famous as “a prop” in the Game of Thrones, and, while you come for the celebrity status, you stay for the craftsmanship!

The cathedral has the world’s widest Gothic nave, spanning 23 meters. It’s an impressive piece of architecture in a beautiful setting, the old town of Girona, and just one of the many gems to be found in the city.

Besalú – Medieval Town & Bridge

With a plethora of medieval towns in the region, picking out one for special mention is not easy! We land on Besalú, as the location on the banks of the Fluviá River with access across an angled Romanesque bridge, gives the town an edge on “the competition”. The town held an important role in the early Middle Ages with Wilfred the Hairy (yes, that’s really his name!), seen as the unifier of Catalonia, was a count of Besalú.

Montserrat Monastery

A day or half-day trip to the sacred Montserrat mountain is many people’s favourite choice for a day out from Barcelona. With its serrated peaks, this is a mountain that stands out from its (flat) surroundings! It’s considered a sacred space, and a Benedictine Abbey occupies the centre stage here, hosting the Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary – a candidate for the site of the holy grail.

There’s a cable car that will take you to the top and connects with the railway that will take you from the centre of Barcelona to the cable car. If you have a few hours more to spare and feel in good shape, you can hike to the top as well. If this sounds tempting, check out our half-day tour to Montserrat.

Mountains: Three Hiking Trails in Catalonia

For a hiking enthusiast, Catalonia is a genuine paradise! You can challenge yourself on the highest peaks in the Pyrenees or go hiking through lush valleys and green fields. Here we recommend three routes that do not demand mountaineering experience or climbing equipment.

These are suitable for anyone, but you should always check the weather forecast. Also, be informed about the nature of the route, wear appropriate clothes, and bring enough food and water. These excursions are only accessible by car.

Pedraforca

The peak of Pedraforca, at 2,506 meters, is the highest of the Pre-Pyrenees. We recommend a route that starts on the parking of Mirador del Gresolet (1,530 m) and takes you to the very top, a good kilometre higher. This is a round trip that takes about 5 hours for an experienced hiker. The view from the top is spectacular!

Difficulty: Medium/High. The route takes you through some tough terrain with some easy climbing towards the top (no extra equipment needed). It’s not recommended for the inexperienced.

Montseny

Montseny is the closest mountain hike option from Barcelona, and it’s a good one. The mountain has two peaks, Turó de l’Home, and Les Agudes, both standing at 1702 metres. There are natural routes to take you to the top(s), but we suggest an easier route that nevertheless offers great views, from Santa Fe to Empedrats de Morou and back.

The “empedrats” are some unusual rock formations from which one has a splendid view of Montseny. This route offers you the possibility of spending a couple of hours in the mountain air. Upon returning to Santa Fe having a traditional lunch in one of the restaurants on the mountain is recommended.

Difficulty: Low. Suitable for anyone.

Vall de Núria

The Núria valley has a special significance for Catalans as, in addition to being the setting for several Christian myths, the Catalan statute of autonomy was drafted here in 1931. Núria is a beautiful valley at 2000 meters (6,600 ft) above sea level that also serves as a ski resort in the winter.

The start- and end-point of the route is the small mountain village of Queralbs from which the “old road” to the valley is well-marked. If you are not too keen on a full-day hike in the mountain, there’s a cable car that will take you to the Núria sanctuary from the village of Ribes de Freser.

Difficulty: Medium. There are no complicated stretches on the route, but the full round trip takes about 7- 8 hours, so you need to be in shape!

Three Beaches for Watersports and Sunbathing

Blue sky, sun-drenched days, clean water, and white sand beaches – all ingredients of most people’s idea of a perfect vacation. Catalonia does offer all of these, from the southern part of the region to the French border. Here we focus on the fantastic Costa Brava, north of Barcelona, stretching to the French border.  Besides sunbathing, it is a great area for kite surfing, kayaking, and windsurfing and we offer experiences like a Yacht charter or a full Costa Brava tour and sailing experience.

Platja d’Empúrias

This is our northernmost option. If you should visit the historical site of Empúrias, you shouldn’t miss this beach! Hundreds of metres of white beach, which never gets overcrowded (except in the busiest summer weeks) – a rarity in Spain! Also recommended is a lunch stop in the nearby Medieval village of Sant Martí d’Empúries.

Platja de Pals

Only accessible by foot, leaving the car in nearby Sa Riera, this beach is another alternative for enjoying the sun and the beach with some elbow room. This is also a spot with highly favourable wind conditions for kite and windsurfing.

Platja Castell

This beach is one of the better alternatives for renting a kayak. The Costa Brava coastline is full of small beaches, caves, and general natural splendour to explore. This beach, with not a hotel or tourist accommodation in sight, is surrounded by pine forest and rocky cliffs and sheltered from the stronger winds.

Three Catalan Cities

Barcelona is, naturally, “the great diva of Catalonia”, always drawing all the attention to itself. So, it is easy to ignore the virtues of its neighbours! Here are three cities that are worth hopping on the train for:

Tarragona

As mentioned earlier, Tarragona was the Roman stronghold before “the diva to the north” grew in importance and became the centre of Catalonia. More than the Roman circus, Tarragona has a charming old town, inviting beaches, and a selection of shops and restaurants that are not likely to disappoint anyone.

Sitges

Also located in the Tarragona region of Catalonia, Sitges is another lively coastal town that is well-known for hosting as annual international horror-film festival as well as being a favourite hot spot for the gay community. The city is welcoming to all visitors who enjoy walking the narrow streets, through historical neighbourhoods with white-painted houses down to the white beaches.

Girona

The cathedral, the Arabian baths, the Jewish quarter. In old town Girona you’re always stepping on historic ground! It makes up for not being on the coast by having two rivers flow through it. Besides taking in the city view by walking on the city walls (9th-14th century), there are numerous museums, galleries, and historical buildings to visit for a good dose of cultural history.

Once that is taken care of, shopping for local products and eating local food will surely leave you with fond memories of Girona! We’d like to take you on a Girona tour that includes a visit to the nearby Figueres Dalí museum.

Thank you for joining us on this short round trip to Catalonia. If you like us to assist you in organising your Barcelona visit, please get in touch.

Originally published Sept 2, 2019, and updated on Dec 6, 2023.

Top Day Trips from Barcelona

day trips from barcelona

Looking for top day trips from Barcelona? Many people visit Barcelona to take in the fantastic sights of the city without realising that there are many incredible sights only a short journey away. Here are our top five unmissable places which are just a short train or car ride from Barcelona. Who knows, they could well become the highlight of your stay!

Girona

The capital of Costa Brava is bursting at the seams with culture and history. The warren of winding streets, ancient arcaded houses, stunning churches, medieval baths, and charming squares are always bustling with something interesting to see and do.

With many attractions, festivals, restaurants, and cultural events all year round this medieval city is the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring. It is often viewed as a mini Barcelona so is an ideal day trip to get lost and observe the local life and culture in relaxing and welcoming surroundings.

Montserrat

Montserrat is a totally unique place. The Benedictine Monastery dates back to around 880 AD when it’s reported that shepherds witnessed a bright light descending from the sky and could hear angels singing. They shared their experiences with others who went to the same spot and reportedly witnessed the same thing.

A vicar was then brought to the scene and had the same visions; he concluded that the visions were a sign from God. When they explored the location further they found a cave and within the cave was an image of the Virgin Mary. From that moment on the cave became a holy sanctuary for religious pilgrims.

Not only is the monastery one of the most beautiful in Europe, nestled into the imposing rock face but the natural beauty that surrounds it makes it a fantastic destination for mountain trekking and taking in the breath-taking views over Catalonia.

Don’t miss the wonderful boy’s choir that performs at 13:00 every day and it’s also worth queuing to see the Black Madonna and join in the pilgrim tradition of kissing or touching her hand as a blessing.

Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is well worth jumping into a car and exploring. It is famous for its endless coves, bays and beaches, terraced vineyards, and gastronomical importance.

There is something for everyone in the Costa Brava whether you’re looking for art history and culture, walking and outdoor activities, or whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway. Costa Brava was the birthplace and stomping ground for Salvador Dali and there are three amazing museums including his home in the stunning Cadaques.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to just take in the beauty of the area the coastline is exceptionally beautiful offering wonderful walks, world-class golf courses as well as a whole host of water sports.

It is also a foodie heaven and is home to the highest concentration of Michelin-starred chefs in all of Spain. The selection of locally produced wine is also a major reason why this is such a popular destination for people looking for a tantalisingly tasty trip away.

Dali Museum, Figueres

As previously mentioned the Costa Brava is packed with art and culture and none is more famous than being the birthplace of Salvador Dali. Figueres is the town where Dali grew up and is now home to the Dali Museum which boasts the most extensive range of his work.

The town itself is just 15 minutes by car from the beaches of Costa Brava and as it is not as touristy as Barcelona the city offers a relaxing atmosphere, a beautiful old town, low-key cafes and restaurants and even a castle.

Of course one of the main reasons people visit Figueres is to go to the Dali Museum and take in his work in all its surrealist glory. The museum itself is the largest surreal object in the world and inside houses some of his most famous pieces including ‘Rainy Taxi’ and the ‘Face of Mae West Which May Be Used as an Apartment’. This fantastical art experience is a must-see as you explore the mind of a surrealist genius.

Check out our Dali and Figueres tour

Sitges

Sitges, located 35kms south of Barcelona, is renowned for its film festival, carnivals, and beautiful beaches. It is sometimes referred to as a mini Ibiza and has become one of the most gay-friendly places in the world.

Sitges has 4kms of beaches with a wonderful 20th-century colonial sea-front promenade. It offers a wide range of sports and watersport activities including sailing regattas, beach rugby, and an annual triathlon.

There is always something going on here from art exhibitions, film festivals, carnivals, music concerts, firework displays so it has a really vibrant atmosphere. It is equally loved by young people looking to party as it is by families looking for a family-friendly location. Sitges has always been known for its ‘open-minded’ nature of both the locals and visitors so it is a truly welcoming place where everyone is made to feel at home.

Read more about our excursions from Barcelona.

Top 5 Luxury Rooftop Terraces in Barcelona

Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona Luxury Rooftop Terraces

Barcelona is brimming with beautiful, luxury rooftop terraces – you just need to know where to look. Most terraces start their season in May until around October, often with entertainment or other types of activities available to members of the public.

To help you make the most of the coming season, we’ve created a short list of some of the most luxurious rooftop terraces in the city, perfect for discerning visitors looking for hot spots that offer style and sophistication.

Mandarin Oriental

The Mandarin Oriental in Passeig de Gràcia is arguably one of the most prestigious hotels in the city. From the staggeringly beautiful entrance, all the way to its roof terrace – every part of this hotel is a sight to behold. The attention to detail is what makes this such a sophisticated venue to spend some seriously glamorous time.

The roof terrace called Terrat is luxury and indulgence at its best and offers panoramic views across Barcelona and up to the surrounding mountains. Reserved exclusively for guests prior to 19h, it’s a must for those looking for the city’s most sophisticated sundowner.

Hotel Duquesa De Cordona

Located between the beach and the old town, La Terrasaa del Duquesa offers a premium position overlooking Barcelona’s marina. This chic city rooftop terrace is one of the most relaxing spots in the city and a great place to watch the sun go down, with music and DJ performances from Friday to Sunday. The creative bar staff will also be able to whip you up a range of delicious cocktails fit for royalty.

Hotel Pulitzer

This fashion-forward hotel is a mere hop, skip, and a jump, away from, well, everything. The Pulitzer Terrace(main picture) offers rooftop indulgence in a surprisingly peaceful environment. Renowned for its trendy fashionista crowd and located near Plaça de Catalunya, this rooftop terrace is the perfect place to escape to if you need a break from the mayhem of the city centre. With live music available from May to October, see the

Casa Fuster

One of the most beautiful buildings in the city is the Casa Fuster Hotel. Located at the top of Passeig de Gracia, this stunning building has housed some of the most famous faces to ever visit the city – and we promise that The Viewpoint Terrace will not disappoint. The grandeur of the building creates the perfect backdrop for a sophisticated night out and sitting proudly at the top of the main avenue of Barcelona, the views are staggering.

Hotel Condes de Barcelona (Alaire)

The Alaire Terrace of the Hotel Condes is a crowd favourite. Also located in Passeig de Gracia, its panoramic views over the city and out to Sagrada Familia are breathtaking. If you’re looking for sophistication and class (within a slightly more affordable price bracket), this is the place for you. There is often live music and this spot has a great energy to it, which usually guarantees a top night out.

Let us set up a private guided tour of Barcelona that caters to your specific interests! We can also book rooms in fabulous hotels in Barcelona for your group.

This post was originally published on Sept 5, 2019, and updated on April 28 and May 22, 2023. 

Barcelona Restaurants with a View

book restaurants with a view over barcelona

Dining in Barcelona restaurants is undoubtedly one of the most popular pursuits of the city by tourists and locals alike. But dining with a great view always adds a special dynamic to your dining experience.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, or just a place to enjoy the city views, Barcelona has it all. From sky-high restaurants with dazzling city views right down to eating on the water, we have hand-picked a diverse selection of restaurants with a view for every mood. Barcelona/Catalan cuisine is cutting-edge, and a great view can spice up your meal!

Panoramic City Views: Mirablau

Mirablau is often described as ‘the place to be seen’ in Barcelona as it draws in a glamorous crowd looking for that unique combination of outstanding views and a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Through its floor-to-ceiling glass windows is a stunning panoramic view of the entire city glimmering below. It’s the ideal place for an early evening cocktail as it opens at 7pm, but make sure you make yourself at home as it is best enjoyed later on in the evening when the city lights are at their most “illuminating” and the music is playing.

By the Sea: Martinez

At the other end of the city, halfway up the other famous mountain: Montjuic, is the fantastic Martinez restaurant.  As the entire restaurant is seated outside this is the ultimate in al fresco dining. It still however appeals to diners in the cooler months as they supply cosy blankets and heaters to ensure you still enjoy the outdoor dining experience without feeling the chill.

As Martinez is nestled into the cliff of Montjuic it is a unique setting as the imposing mountain towers above you the sprawling harbour and the Meditteranean sea lie beneath creating an impressive contrast. Specialising in Paella and rice dishes, this restaurant has carefully selected a range of creative set menus offering some unique twists on the traditional dish.

Historical Location:  Babilonia Gaudí – Sagrada Familia

We couldn’t possibly cover the city’s best dining views without including one with a view of arguably the most iconic view of the entire city. Babilonia is located, smack bang in front of the stunning Sagrada Familia and offers a fantastic selection of tapas and Mediterranean food.

The restaurant has a very cosy, home-from-home feel so this is a great place for families too. With a heated terrace and a privileged location, the restaurant can be enjoyed all year round.

People watching: Citrus – Passeig De Gracia

Recently renovated, this modern and stylishly decorated restaurant sits proudly on the prestigious Passeig de Gracia. Citrus Restaurant and Sushi Bar offers beautiful views of the street below through its enormous windows. It also offers very competitive prices for its luxurious location.

Citrus gives off an upscale and exclusive first impression, whilst offering a very personal and welcoming service. The waiters are attentive and friendly and the menu offers a very generous vegetarian selection.

Sea Views: Bestial

This modern and sophisticated space boasts a beautiful view of the sea and offers fine, but unpretentious, cuisine. The Bestial terrace itself is sprinkled with twinkling fairy lights which gives it a very romantic setting and the Italian-inspired cuisine is always fresh.

They also do fantastic cocktails so this is a great spot to unwind with a drink and spend some time socialising before settling down to dine.

Barcelona is a gourmand’s dream

Catalan cooking tradition has spawned several generations of world-class chefs, many of whom have their own restaurants in Barcelona.

For instance, world-class chefs Ferran Adriá and his brother, Albert, have several restaurants in Barcelona. After closing their temple of experimental cuisine, El Bulli in northern Catalonia, they now have a tapas bar, Tickets.

Furthermore, the brothers Roca whose Celler de Can Roca in Girona is consistently on a list of the best restaurants in the world, have Roca Moo in the Hotel Omm in downtown Barcelona.

Whether you are looking for fine dining at the uppermost level or prefer to eat on a more modest budget, Barcelona has it all. If you’re travelling in a group, or with colleagues, we will be happy to set up a group dining experience for you.

Contact us at info@barcelonatours.net or call +34 935 008 226.

Primavera Sound 2023 – Barcelona Edition

Primavera Sound Barcelona is an annual music festival that has traditionally been held in Barcelona, Spain but has also expanded in recent years to Porto, Portugal, and this year, to Madrid, Spain.

It’s also one of the most anticipated music events on the festival calendar and attracts music lovers from all over the world who come to see some of the biggest names in music perform live in the sunny beachside city of Barcelona.

The 2023 edition of Primavera Sound is set to be another incredible event, with a stellar lineup that features some of the most popular and talented artists in the industry.

When and where is it?

Running from May 29 until June 4 at the Parc del Fòrum, Primavera Sound 2023 promises to be a memorable week-long party for music fans.

The outdoor venue by the sea provides the perfect backdrop for an incredible lineup of performers.

Who’s performing?

One of the standout acts at this year’s festival is the legendary British pop duo, Pet Shop Boys. With a career spanning over three decades, Pet Shop Boys have released some of the most iconic pop songs of all time, including “West End Girls” and “It’s a Sin”. Their live shows are known for their elaborate stage productions and incredible visuals, making them a must-see act at Primavera Sound.

Another major draw at Primavera Sound 2023 is the English alternative rock band, Blur. Known for their distinctive sound and charismatic frontman, Damon Albarn, Blur have been a beloved band since the 1990s.

Another big name at this year’s festival is Rosalía (pictured), a Barcelona native and global sensation in recent years thanks to her unique blend of flamenco music and modern pop sensibilities. Her performances are known for their energy and passion, and she is sure to be a huge hit with the home crowd.

Halsey is also set to perform at Primavera Sound 2023. The American singer-songwriter has also become a sensation in recent years, with hits like “Bad at Love” and “Without Me”. Her powerful vocals and emotional lyrics have won her a legion of fans, and her performance at Primavera Sound is sure to be a highlight of the festival.

Other notable acts on the lineup include New Order, Darkside, Depeche Mode, Diplo, Calvin Harris, and Kendrick Lamar. These artists represent a wide range of musical genres, from post-punk to hip-hop, and will ensure that there is something for everyone at Primavera Sound.

What else is happening in the city?

Beyond the music, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore the city of Barcelona and all that it has to offer, from its stunning architecture to its vibrant nightlife.

See some of our day Activities, or get in touch with BarcelonaTours if you need tickets for city attractions, or would like to arrange extra activities during your stay.

Tickets and Attractions

Overall, Primavera Sound is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for music lovers around the world. With a lineup that includes some of the biggest names in the industry, as well as up-and-coming artists from a variety of genres, there is sure to be something for everyone.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Pet Shop Boys or a newcomer to the world of Rosalía, this festival is the perfect opportunity to experience live music at its very best.

What to do in Barcelona in April: Fairs, Markets and Love

Barcelona in April is a springtime delight. Although we have our fair share of showers, the days are warmer and longer, and there’s plenty to head outside for.

With temperatures averaging 20 degrees and a stunning blue sky overhead, you can walk around in the afternoons without a coat and extra layers in your bag or backpack.

While you’ll find the streets a little busier, particularly over the Easter weekend, Barcelona is still a brilliant choice for a trip away in April. From fairs and celebrations, to the Catalan Valentine’s Day, we’ve got it all covered in this handy blog.

Palo Market Fest – Artesanal Market

When: April 1 and 2, 2023

Where: Calle Pellaires, 30  (Selva de Mar neighbourhood)

Price: 5€ (buy your ticket online, available on the Monday before the event)

Website: https://palomarketfest.com/en

This market is one of the best in the city and takes place just once per month.

In a world where buying local is becoming increasingly difficult, Palo Alto showcases shops, restaurants, and independent designers from Catalonia and other parts of Spain, in a fun and relaxed market setting.

Try delicious food and drink and shop for locally-made clothes, bags, shoes and toiletries over the course of the day. There’s also live music and DJ performances, as well as pop-up bars, so you can while away the afternoon, before heading out for the evening.

Mercat de la Terra Barcelona (Slow Food Barcelona)

When: Every Saturday from 0900-1500h

Where: Parc de las Tres Chimeneas in Barcelona, Avenue Paral·lel, 45, Poble Sec

Price: Free entry

Website: https://slowfood.barcelona/

This is a farmer’s market organised by Slow Food Barcelona which has been around since 2015. Each weekend, hundreds of people visit to taste food, learn more about local gastronomic culture and generally enjoy themselves.

This market is a reference for responsible consumption, local produce, organic agriculture and sustainability, with more than 40 producers represented.

Part of the Earth Markets network of Slow Food International, you won’t want to skip this if you’re a real foodie.

Día de Sant Jordi (Saint George’s Day)

When: Sunday, April 23, 2023

Where: The whole city will be celebrating

Price: The price of a red rose, a good book… and maybe a nice dinner!

Love is in the air and so is the smell of roses. The streets of Barcelona are filled to the brim with the red flowers of romance and you’ll find that there are also more booksellers than usual. What could be the cause of so much amorousness? Isn’t Valentine’s Day in February?

Barcelona’s St Valentine’s Day aka Saint George’s Day

British readers will know that Saint George is the patron saint of England, but he is also the patron saint of Barcelona and Saint George’s Cross also forms a part of the flag of Barcelona.

The legend is the same: a dashing knight rescues a damsel in distress from an evil dragon, but the day is characterised by exchanging specific gifts: roses and books.

The gifting of roses is more self-explanatory. The books came about as Shakespeare and Cervantes – two great authors and playwrights – were said to have died on April 23.

Traditionally men gifted roses to women, and women books to men, but nowadays most couples gift each other both books and roses. So, if you’re with your sweetheart in Barcelona on el día de Sant Jordi, don’t panic about what to buy! You’ll be able to purchase a rose and a book on Las Ramblas, the central street in Barcelona.

50a Feria de Abril de Catalunya (50th April Fair)

When: April 21 – May 1

Where: Esplanada del Forum (Parc Forum: Pl Fòrum, 1)

Websites: Barcelona.cat and FECAC.com

At the time of writing, there was still very little information published about the event, so please check the official websites above for more!

If you find yourself in northern Spain instead of southern Spain at the end of April, you can still capture some of that Andalusian magic at the 50a Feria de Abril de Catalunya.

Easter (Holy Week) is a huge celebration in the southern community of Andalucía, with a combination of religious solemnity and colourful frivolity in the streets. Semana Santa, or Holy Week, sees the whole community come together to pray and also to party at the Feria de Abril de Sevilla.

While it pales in comparison in terms of size, the Feria de Abril de Catalunya is organised by the Federación de Entidades Culturales Andaluzas en Catalunya, or FECAC for short, a group dedicated to bringing Andalusian traditions to Catalonia.

They bring as much authenticity to proceedings as possible and invite all of us to share in the cultural differences and festivities of another part of Spain. Expect exhilarating rides and games, delicious food, the music of southern Spain (including the world-famous music and dance style Flamenco), with bright colours all around.

Other April ideas

If you’re not here for the Feria de Abril de Catalunya but still want to experience Flamenco, we also offer an amazing Flamenco experience in Poble Espanyol. See our blog on Flamenco in Barcelona for more.

This blog was originally published on March 15, 2019, and updated on March 14, 2023.

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