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Category: Discover

  • The best vintage and flea markets in Barcelona

    As the saying goes, one man/person’s trash is another’s treasure and these flea markets in Barcelona offer a trove of discoveries. Whether you’re hunting for vintage fashion, unique antiques, or quirky collectibles, there’s something to be found for just about everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best flea markets in Barcelona from monthly pop-up markets selling curated collections of Y2K fashion to permanent fixtures hawking antiques, furniture, and anything else you can think of.

    As dates and locations vary, make sure to follow them on social media so you don’t miss out on their events. Happy shopping!

    Best flea markets for second-hand and vintage clothing

    While you might already be familiar with some of Barcelona’s best vintage stores, these second-hand and vintage clothing markets are full of hidden gems at some of the best prices. Plus, as many of these markets also have DJs and food and drink on offer, they make the perfect weekend plan with friends.

    Flea Market Barcelona

    Once the organisers of El Flea, a monthly market located in Plaza Blanquerna (Raval), Flea Market Barcelona continues to hold second-hand markets now at different locations around the city. Their philosophy has always been about giving products a longer life, helping sellers get something in exchange for stuff they no longer need, and helping buyers pick up a steal. Their new monthly markets build on this by adding DJs, craft stalls, drinks pop-ups, and so much more to their original offer of second-hand clothing, accessories, books, and home décor.

    If you’re an artist, a collector, or you just have stuff to sell, you can book a store and join the community. Following their social media is the best way to know the exact dates and locations of their upcoming events.

    @fleamarketbarcelona

    Lost & Found Market

    Calling all vintage lovers, this one’s for you! With an exclusive focus on vintage fashion, accessories, and vinyl records, Lost&Found is a flea market in Barcelona that’s a must-visit for savants of unique, second-hand items. Follow them on social media to keep up-to-date with the latest news on when and where their next markets will be. Previous locations have included Estació de França and la Plaza de Mar in la Barceloneta. Head to one of their iconic markets and dig for vintage treasures while sipping on a cold beer or a natural wine and listening to your new favourite tunes. It’s a weekend plan that’s more than just having a vermouth at your favourite outdoor bar/terrace.

    @lostfoundmarket

    Markets Barcelona

    Markets Barcelona (formerly Two Market) is the ultimate destination for sustainable shopping. On top of their Poblenou vintage store, which is open Wednesday to Sundays, Markets Barcelona regularly holds two second-hand markets: Todo a 1€ and Todo a 5€, where you’ll find more than 1,000 kilos of vintage and second-hand clothing priced at only 1 or 5 euros each. Usually held on a Sunday at either Nau Bostik or the Ovella Negra in Poblenou, this flea market in Barcelona is all about recycling and reusing, and promoting a zero-waste lifestyle—perfect for those who want to shop sustainably while finding unique, pre-loved items. Find more info about dates and locations on the Markets Barcelona website, and follow them on social media to get a sneak peek of what to expect at each market

    @twomarkets

    Riera Baixa Market

    This street market in El Raval is a true destination for vintage fashion lovers, known for its relaxed vibe and cool finds. Open on Saturdays from 11 am to 8 pm, the streets in this edgy neighbourhood are lined with shops that open their doors and spill out onto the street, each vintage boutique offering a curated selection of clothes from different eras. Keep an eye out for special events like DJ sets and art installations. Plus, the El Raval neighbourhood is full of great bars and eateries, perfect for a post-shopping pit-stop to keep the vibes going into the afternoon or night.

    @rierabaixastreet

    Antique flea markets in Barcelona

    Els Encants Vells (Mercat Fira de Bellcaire)

    Els Encants, one of the largest and oldest flea markets in Barcelona, dates all the way back to the 14th century, selling everything from antique furniture and vintage clothing to electronics and books. Its unique charm lies in its blend of old and new, with stalls offering both second-hand goods and new items at bargain prices. Make sure to arrive early to snag the best deals and don’t be afraid to haggle! Vendors expect it and you can usually get a better price.

    Operates every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm.

    @encantsbarcelona

    Mercat de Colom

    The Mercat de Colom, formerly known as Mercat de Brocanteria Port Antic, is one of the most visited street markets in Barcelona. Operating for over 20 years, this market has been a go-to destination for antiques, collectibles, and other vintage goods. Discover vinyl, books, toys, vintage jewellery and bijouterie, antique silverware and coins, crystals, sculptures and paintings, cameras, pins, stamps, and a whole lot more. This iconic flea market in Barcelona is held every Saturday and Sunday (from November to February) and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (from March to October) in the Plaza del Portal de la Paz, next to the Columbus monument, just past Las Ramblas.

    El Mercat Gòtic

    You may have already stumbled across this small flea market in Barcelona located right in front of the Cathedral, selling everything from vintage jewellery, religious memorabilia, postcards, ceramics, dinnerware, toys, dolls, old coins, clocks, cameras, engravings, and more. With 28 exhibitors all selling unique and unusual treasures, this market is a paradise for lovers of antiques. Check out the official El Mercat Gòtic website for the full schedule as it changes each week.

    Mercantic

    And finally, just a short trip from Barcelona in Sant Cugat del Vallès is Mercantic, a massive antiques and vintage market that operates every day except Monday. From furniture and home décor to books and records, this market is a treasure trove that has something for everyone. There’s also the Vintage Fest: Held on the first Sunday of each month, there’s live music, food trucks, and special stalls. Plan a day trip—you’ll spend hours browsing this sprawling flea market, and then you have the cute town and beautiful monastery to visit while you’re there. It’s the perfect weekend plan!

    @mercanticsantcugat

    Whether you’re into vintage fashion, or antiques, or just love scoring a bargain, Barcelona’s flea markets offer a chance to discover unique items at some of the best prices. Plus, as buying local and second-hand is a great way to reduce waste, supporting these markets promotes more sustainable shopping. So, grab your shopping bags, wear some comfy shoes, and get ready to dig. Happy scavenging, fleabags!

  • Parks and gardens in Barcelona: Explore the city’s green spaces

    Barcelona is a city known for its beaches and iconic architecture, but what about its parks, gardens, and green spaces? With low rainfall throughout most of the year, Barcelona isn’t known for being the greenest city, with public areas typically consisting of stone plazas and playgrounds, a few trees, and little or no grass. But as always, if you know where to look, you can always find something special. In this article, we’ve listed the top green spaces in the city, from big parks to smaller gardens and leafy squares perfect for quiet reflection or meeting with friends.

    Parks in Barcelona

    Parc de la Ciutadella

    Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the city’s most accessible green spaces, a huge park in the centre of Barcelona that’s perfect for meeting with friends, going for a walk, sightseeing, or taking some time for yourself. Originally a military fortress, the park is now home to many attractions like the famous Cascada Monumental, an impressive gold fountain designed by Josep Fontserè, and a lake where you can rent rowboats and float on the water. This iconic Barcelona park also houses the Barcelona Zoo, the Catalan Parliament, and several playgrounds, making it the perfect destination for families. 

    Make sure to also check out the Umbracle, a modernist building also designed by Josep Fontserè and built by Josep Amargós between 1883 and 1887, a steel and brick structure that creates a kind of greenhouse, where plant species from 20 different countries have been planted and grow in rows under its arches.

    Parc de Cervantes

    Parc de Cervantes is a little further from the centre, located near the University of Barcelona in Les Corts. Wander through its winding paths that weave through an extensive rose garden, featuring over 10,000 roses of various species and colours—make sure to visit in spring, when all of the flowers are in bloom. Conveniently located near the Zona Universitaria metro station, this park in Barcelona is the perfect relaxed weekend destination. 

    Av. Diagonal, 706, Les Corts, 08034 Barcelona

    Jardins del Palau de Pedralbes

    Next to the Palau de Pedralbes, these gardens tucked away from the city centre are definitely worth the detour. Wander through tidy lawns, vibrant flower beds, fountains, and sculptures. With the historic Palau de Pedralbes as a backdrop, each garden has its own features, the main ones including the Fountain of Hercules, where water flows from a wrought iron dragon’s head, and a small pergola, both designed by Gaudí. If you’re looking for a peaceful park in Barcelona to spend a quiet afternoon, these gardens are the perfect retreat. 

    Av. Diagonal, 686, Les Corts, 08034 Barcelona

    Horta Labyrinth

    One of Barcelona’s oldest gardens, Horta Labyrinth is known for its stunning hedge maze, picturesque ponds, and sculptures. Its construction first started in 1798 for Catalan landowner and scientist Joan Antoni Desvalls Marquès de Llupià i d’Alfarràs, a neoclassical garden built across three terraces, featuring neo-Arabic and neo-Gothic elements. Over time, descendants of the marquis expanded the complex, adding a romantic garden with flower beds, squares, large trees, and a waterfall, as well as a water channel between the terraces of the neoclassical garden. The garden has been open to the public since 1971. 

    Located in the Horta-Guinardó district, this park is a favourite among families and couples, a beautiful leafy green space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Get lost in the labyrinth or explore the beautiful surrounding gardens with their fountains and flowers. 

    Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, Horta-Guinardó, 08035 Barcelona

    Parc Güell

    Parc Güell might be the most famous of Barcelona’s parks, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Admire its sculptures and stunning architectural features, and its views of the city and the Mediterranean. Key features include the serpentine bench that wraps around the main terrace and the colourful mosaic-covered dragon at the entrance, which has become a symbol of the park. 

    While Parc Güell does charge an entrance fee, you can enter the park for free with the city’s Gaudir Mes pass, which is available for residents and tourists alike. The pass is intended to enable any enthusiasts of art and culture to experience many of the city’s attractions either for free or with a discount. Simply make an appointment for a video call with the council to have your request processed, and enjoy attractions like Parc Güell, Montjuic castle, and more.

    Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona

    Parks of Montjuïc

    Montjuïc mountain borders Barcelona to the west, and is home to some of the nicest parks and gardens in Barcelona, as well as plenty of leafy trails that wind uphill to stunning viewpoints of the city. Some of our favourite gardens here include the Botanical Garden, which are divided into several themed sections, highlighting flora from regions like California, Chile, South Africa, and Australia. The botanical gardens are also free with the Gaudir mes pass, which makes visiting this garden even more accessible. 

    Another standout on Montjuïc is the Jardins Mossèn Costa i Llobera created in the 1970s to pay homage to Mallorcan poet Miquel Costa i Llobera. These unique gardens are situated in a part of Montjuïc that is protected from the northern wind, creating a microclimate with a temperature that’s two degrees cooler than the rest of the city, which allows for some 800 species of cactus and other succulent plants to thrive. 

    Parc del Turó

    Located in the Sant Gervasi neighbourhood, Parc del Turó is a peaceful park with green, winding pathways, picturesque ponds, a playground and recreation area with a table tennis table, and a small cafe that’s perfect for enjoying an afternoon drink in the shade. This park in Barcelona is also nearby some of the best specialty coffee spots in the Sant Gervasi neighbourhood. Get a flat white to-go and enjoy it at this serene spot. 

    Av. de Pau Casals, 19, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08021 Barcelona

    Gardens in Barcelona

    Jardí de la Fundació Julio Muñoz Ramonet

    A stone’s throw from the busy Avinguda Diagonal, this idyllic garden in Barcelona is a true oasis in the heart of the city. Located in the Sant-Gervasi neighbourhood, this once-private garden was commissioned in 1916 by Fernando Fabra y Puig, and built by renowned landscape architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier, who is credited for introducing the concept of the ‘Mediterranean garden’ to Spain. The garden, which features several terraces, rose-covered pergolas, and a central rectangular pond, surrounds the main house, a Novecentist-style palace designed by Enric Sagnier in 1917. In 1945, the property was purchased by businessman Julio Muñoz Ramonet, who later had the garden remodelled by Joan Mirambell i Ferran, introducing new levels and rearranging the layout. Following a lengthy legal battle after Muñoz Ramonet’s death, the estate was eventually gifted to the city and opened to the public in 2016.

    C/ de Muntaner, 282, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08021 Barcelona

    Jardins de Rubio i Lluch

    These gardens are located near the historic Hospital de Sant Pau, which between 1401 and 1926 was the general hospital of the city of Barcelona. Named after poet Manuel Rubio i Lluch, these gardens are a hidden treasure providing a peaceful space to rest and relax. 

    Hospital, 56, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona

    Barcelona’s parks and green spaces are an important part of the city’s landscape, offering a natural escape for rest, relaxation, and recreation. From larger parks like Parc de la Ciutadella and ones with great cultural significance like Parc Güell to smaller gardens like Jardins de Rubio i Lluch, there are many places to enjoy a bit of greenery. So, next time you’re on your lunch break, why not seek out one of these spots to explore something new?