In the last few years we have experienced a considerable boom of flea markets in all European capitals and, of course, Barcelona couldn’t be any less! Barcelona offers all kinds of street markets where you can find second-hand clothes, vintage decorative objects or the best gastronomy.
Likewise, street markets are always an excellent way to get to know the culture of an area first hand, getting mixed with the local people of the city and sharing experiences that often go beyond the market itself.
In this post we present the 3 most important traditional markets of the city. Markets in which you can find a little bit of everything, mixed and with no apparent order but with a unique charm that makes them essential in any visit to the city.
Bellcaire-Els Encants Market and Fair
Without a doubt, the oldest of all the flea markets in the city, has more than 7 centuries of history and is one of the oldest that still exist in Europe. After being located in different areas of the city, this September celebrated its fifth anniversary in its final location.
With an affluence of about 100,000 visitors a week, it has become the perfect place to buy anything you can imagine: old and second-hand furniture, antiques, second-hand and new clothing, old books and records, new and second-hand machinery and appliances, decorative items, household products, hardware, etc…
One of the main attractions is the public auction held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:00 to 9:00 in the morning.
You can find more information about this flea market in our blog post about Els Encants.
When: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 am to 8 pm
Where: Calle Castillejos, 158
More information: EncantsBCN.com
El Rastro de la Virgen
This flea market was born quite recently, in 2012, with the aim of becoming a meeting point for specialised sellers in the textile, arts and second-hand leather goods sector, all with the recycling as a background.
It is also possible to find objects of great value to collectors, such as limited editions of vinyls and books. A paradise for those who like to immerse themselves in each stall and look for the item their collection needs.
Activities such as concerts, DJ sessions or artistic events contribute to creating an excellent atmosphere.
When: The first Saturday of the month from 12-20h
Where: Calle de la Verge
More Information: Facebook El Rastro de la Virgen
Palo Alto
Palo Alto Market is the most stylish street market in the city, based on an international street market concept that stands out for the creativity of its offer combining technology and tradition in a single event.
The flea market takes place on the grounds of an old factory in the Poblenou neighborhood, rehabilitated and converted into studios and workshops for designers, creators and artists.
In Palo Alto Market you can find all kinds of art, vintage and hand-made articles, street food, music, street shows and much more.
Ticket price: 5-7€.
When: The first weekend of each month (except August) from 11-21h
Where: Calle dels Pellaires, 30 (Selva de Mar)
More Information: PaloAltoMarket.com
These are the 3 essential markets in Barcelona. Follow us on our blog and soon we will discover many more!
