while spending amazing holidays in the world-famous capital of catalonia, that combines ancient historical remains, the latest innovations of the new millennium, unique cultural heritage and spirit, there is a number of “must” things to be discovered and experienced. one of this “must” things to do – is to travel across the markets of barcelona, to feel their buzzing atmosphere and life, trade there with the local sellers, try fresh traditional food and get some souvenirs or local products along with the unforgettable experiences.

the newest, most impressive and first covered market in barcelona is santa caterina market.

final renovation of santa caterina was performed in 2005 by the architects enric miralles and benedetta tagliabue. unique architectural idea of the market – multicolored ceramic roof in the shape of wave(the structure of the building is wooden), impresses the visitors from outside and invites them to check what is hidden underneath.

santa caterina market originally was built in 1845 on the former site of the convent of santa caterina – here was the name taken from. spacious market was the main food supplier for the citizens and people from barcelona´s outskirts during the post-civil war period.

at santa caterina you will find the freshest seafood of hundred spieces – do not leave the market without buying some!

santa caterina is a bright place with numerous stalls along with good restaurants and tapas-bars. do not miss the lunch in cuines santa-catarina restaurant – they are worthy to taste!

address :             francesc cambó, 16

working hours:   mon 7.30am-2pm; tue/wed 7.30am-3.30pm;

thu/fri  7.30am-8.30pm; sat 7.30am -3.30pm

(may be other timings in summer time).

the other market in bacelona, that is known worldwide, is la boqueria. la boqueria is located in the gothic district, on the famous las ramblas street. obviously, it is a great attraction for all the visitors of the city, but la boqueria still a place with many locals who come for shopping. la boqueria has retained her authentic traits and charm, together with the traditional way of things to be done and sold.

la boqueria is the oldest operating market in europe. the official name is “mercat de sant josep” given by the carmelite convent, that once occupied this place. “la boqueria” from another hand, came from the name of medieval goat meat (“boc” in catalan) market, which was formed  here in the late 19th century.

very popular and highly reccomended bars at la boqueria are “pinotxo de la boqueria” na “el quim de la boqueria”, that present authencity and good spirit. though bars are often crowded, difficult to hesitate one-two drinks with traditional tapas.

stalls full of delicious sweets and chocolate masterpieces, as well as various ”turron” (have you already tried it?). here you will welcome you to try and buy their products.

nowadays at la boqueria can be taken culinary courses, taught by the best chefs and sommeliers, that combine theory and practice.

la boqueria market performs as an informational center referent to all the food and cooking concerns.

enjoy the walk around the market, and if you are a bit tired, is a good idea to get a portion of vitamins – in the market are many fruit stalls selling plastic glass with fruits or freshly made natural juices and cocktails!

address:             la rambla de sant josep

working hours:   every day from 8am to 8:30pm.

closed on sundays.

another big and really nice market in barcelona, that preserves its magnificent architecture and tradition style,  is sant antoni. this market is located in raval quarter and it is much bigger than boqueria. moreover it differs with the less amount of tourists.  this market is always very live, fresh and full of locals.

building was designed by antoni rovira i trias in 1882. just above the entrance to the market you can see the barcelona coat of arms with the bat on the top, and the year the market was built.

on sundays around the market there are plenty of stalls with books and coins, here you will find assortment of various old collections of stamps, magazines, postcards and etc.

at the moment due to renovation, market is moved to the part-time premised located nearby.

 adress:                ronda sant pau/carrer comte d’urgell

working hours:   mon-thu 7am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-8.30pm;

fri-sat, 7am-8.30pm;

sun 8 am -15 pm – book and coin market.

walking around the markets do not forget to watch your bag and trade for the best quality and price!