Where to Shop in Barcelona: The Ultimate Guide

It’s no secret by now that chic, stylish Barcelona is a shopper’s dream come true.

The even better news: the diversity and variety of the Catalan capital makes it easy to find anything and everything you could possibly want.

Glitzy luxury brands? Quirky, eccentric boutiques? Handcrafted artisanal goods? You name it, Barcelona’s got it. This guide to where to shop in Barcelona will help you navigate the city’s best commercial areas like a pro.

Barcelona shopping districts

Passeig de Gràcia

We can’t talk about where to shop in Barcelona without first mentioning its premier shopping avenue: the majestic, magnificent Passeig de Gràcia.

Envisioned as Barcelona’s most elegant street—a place for the 19th century bourgeoisie to see and be seen—it remains impeccable even today. Graced by two Gaudí masterpieces, Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, it exudes chicness while retaining a certain Catalan charm.

Shopping scene: You’ll likely recognize many of the brand names that line Passeig de Gràcia in the form of stylish storefronts. Iconic international fashion houses such as Versace, Prada and Louis Vuitton can all be found here. Additionally, you’ll also see the flagship stores of many Spanish brands, such as Zara.

Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol

Looking for a more offbeat option for where to shop in Barcelona? Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol is calling your name.

Though best-known for its weekend art market, the plaza also provides an authentic glimpse at the everyday lives of Barcelona locals—a rarity in the increasingly touristy historic center. It serves as a meeting spot for residents of the Catalan capital setting off to shop, grab coffee, or simply take a walk with friends.

Shopping scene: As the aforementioned art market may have had you guess, this plaza boasts an unmistakably bohemian vibe. Check out the independent boutiques and artists’ shops in the area surrounding the square.

El Raval

A onetime no-go area that’s become a vibrant and fascinating area in its own right in recent years, El Raval is far from Barcelona’s prettiest neighborhood. It’s gritty, loud, and a far cry from the bright, boisterous charm of the neighboring Gothic Quarter.

And that’s exactly why we love it.

There’s always something happening in this eclectic neighborhood, one of Barcelona’s most diverse and multicultural. Expect a more alternative, artsy vibe here, and cheaper prices across the board compared to the city’s other central districts.

Shopping scene: From gorgeous, locally made clothing and accessories to offbeat record and book shops, El Raval just about has it all. Particularly of note is trendy Calle Riera Baixa, reminiscent of London’s famed Camden district.

SEE ALSO: The Perfect Self-Guided Food Tour in El Raval

Avinguda Diagonal

In a similar vein to Passeig de Gràcia, which it intersects, Avinguda Diagonal gives off an undeniably chic vibe. As its name implies, it bisects the city diagonally, unintentionally creating a fascinating divide in its wake.

To the south of this famous street lie the Barcelona neighborhoods most visitors know: the Gothic Quarter, Born, Barceloneta and the like. But head north, and you’ll find yourself exploring a totally different side of town. (We’re particularly partial to the Gracia neighborhood, which lies just north of the iconic avenue.)

Shopping scene: Avinguda Diagonal follows the same theme as neighboring Passeig de Gràcia, featuring dozens of big-name brands.

Shopping malls in Barcelona

Diagonal Mar

While on the subject of Avinguda Diagonal, let’s head down to the easternmost end of the street, just blocks away from the beach. Here, you’ll find Diagonal Mar, one of Barcelona’s newest and most modern shopping centers.

With dozens of shopping and dining options in addition to an 11-screen movie theater, this place really does have it all. Still not convinced? As a leading participant in the effort to reduce single-use plastics and protect seas and oceans, their environmentally friendly initiatives alone make them worth visiting.

Centro Comercial Arenas

Bullfighting was banned in Catalonia in 2010, but Barcelona’s former bullring remains a must-visit spot. It’s since been converted into one of the city’s top malls, Centro Comercial Arenas.

In addition to your standard shops, restaurants, and movie theater, this impressive mall is also home to a running track and a spectacular rooftop terrace with views across the city.