We truly believe that visiting local food markets in Barcelona is one of the best ways to get to know a culture and its people. Because they are true cultural and social treasures! So in today’s article we explore the diverse food markets in the city in different neighborhoods, and also what makes them so special in cultural terms.
One of the most famous food markets in Barcelona (if not the most): La Boqueria
Definitely the most popular food market in Barcelona, and a must-stop visit for all visitors. La Boqueria is actually the oldest farmer market in Barcelona, which keeps offering its clients and tourists an experience for the five senses: bright colors, sounds of a vibrant market, the most diverse scents… If you haven’t visited La Boqueria market yet, have a look at the article we wrote to get an idea of what you will find there: Most famous market in the city, la Boqueria
But there are other beautiful food markets in Barcelona you can’t miss either…
Today food markets in Barcelona consist of buildings (many of them are beautiful) hosting the commercial activity. A total of 39 food markets in the city, and among the most iconic:
Mercat de Santa Caterina
Mercat de Santa Caterina was the first indoor food market which was built specifically for this activity. Located near the city center, the beautiful building of this food market in Barcelona can’t go unnoticed while walking. You must stop by and go in to discover this vibrant market, where you can also have lunch or dinner (tapas are delicious).
Food market in Sant Antoni: Mercat de Sant Antoni
It has reopened recently, and it is definitely one of the food markets in Barcelona you should visit. Also, it is located in Sant Antoni, one of the coolest neighborhoods in Barcelona.
Food market in Gràcia: Mercat de la Llibertat
A small market in the heart of the Gràcia neighborhood. If you’re spending time in this area, we highly recommend exploring this hidden gem.
Food market in Esquerra de l’Eixample: Mercat del Ninot
This food market has also been remodeled recently. Besides fresh products and places to eat, you will also find outdoor shops of clothes, fashion complements, home products… Also a nice farmer’s market in Barcelona to stop by.
When visiting food markets in Barcelona: things to pay attention to
Buildings hosting farmers markets in Barcelona: city icons
You will probably feel the charm of these farmers markets in Barcelona before entering: they are beautiful on the outside as well. Historic buildings which get to create the perfect combination between art, history and food, all in one place.
The one-to-one communication
The relationship between shopkeeper and customer has nothing to do with that same relationship in large supermarkets. That might sound quite obvious, but the truth is that shopkeepers and customers end up building a nice and even familiar bond, which can be easily noticed when listening to the familiar tone of voice in their conversations. One of the things we like the most when visiting food markets in Barcelona.
Yummy seasonal products at food markets in Barcelona
Going to a local food market in Barcelona is the best way to know which are the seasonal products. Also it is an interesting form of getting to know what kinds of food are the most popular in that city or village. And one of the best things ever: new food discoveries. Going to a local food market in Barcelona (or wherever) definitely sounds like a plan to us.
The whole cultural imaginary
A food market is also a treasure in cultural terms (beyond food). Traditions, language, relationships… A different cultural environment filled with many social interactions from which we can learn a lot about people living in that area. We truly believe that food markets in Barcelona are one of the best places to dive into the history and the culture of this city.
Isn’t going to a food market when travelling one of the best plans? A lot of things going on behind the simplest of rituals: go shopping at a local food market.
Also, don’t forget to bring your shopping bag ;-)
