Some people like to buy their clothes from H&M or Zara and their furniture from Ikea. Everything comes in various sizes, everything is priced, and new stock is guaranteed.
In a world where everyone is happy to dress the same and go home to similar looking apartments containing the same brand of budget Swedish furniture, this poses no problem.
But if you like your style to be unique and your home quirky or you just love a good bargain, then flea markets are a good alternative for you.
In this article of ShBarcelona, we invite you to discover the best flea markets in Barcelona.
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Where to find flea markets in Barcelona
Els Encants flea market Barcelona Spain
One of the biggest and the best flea markets in the city is the Encants market, which has been around since the 14th century, making it the oldest market in Europe. Els Encants is located at Carrer de los Castillejos, 158.
The Encants market is held in a huge open-air structure in the neighborhood of Poblenou with an interesting reflective ceiling that protects from rain and the sun and allows for some really cool photo ops.
All kinds of items are sold in this market, from vintage accessories to old telephones, from antique sofas to cheap cosmetics, and everything in between.
Photo by mingusmutter via Visualhunt
There is a lot of junk here that is difficult to imagine anyone wanting to buy, but if you have the conviction of a true bargain hunter then there are undoubtedly treasures and bargains to be found.
The size and chaos of the Encants market are part of its charm. You will be mixing with locals and tourists as you try to unearth a gem or two. Saturday is, of course, the busiest day, so it is best to avoid it if you can help it.
Auctions of antiques start very early, at 7 am, which is when the commercial buyers arrive. There is usually a second auction at noon when all the unsold goods drop in price.
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If the thought of Ikea repels you and you are interested in second-hand furniture, then the large hall is definitely worth a visit. There are usually some beautiful items such as light fittings and mirrors along with antique sofas and chairs available for sale.
The market supposedly closes in the afternoon, however, many of the vendors shut shop at around midday and go home, so it’s definitely worth setting your alarm early if you want to get a good look around and truly experience this most Spanish of flea markets.
Related article: Second-Hand Shops in Sant Antoni
Flea Market
Taking place very close to the Drassanes metro station and hidden behind the Maritime Museum, the Flea Market is one of the most popular ones of its kind in Barcelona.
From mid-morning until around 7 in the evening on Sundays you can visit the market and shop around for a good bargain and even offer to make trades.
Photo via Pixabay
The Flea Market has gained such popularity in Barcelona that it decided to create a second type of second hand market in the city, which they have dubbed Fleadonia.
This market takes place close to La Filmoteca de Catalunya, at Plaça Salvador SeguÃ.
Stamps and coins market
If you are philatelist or numismatist, then check out the weekly market that takes place on Sundays at Plaça Reial.
Photo via Pixabay
Even if you have no interest in collecting such things, this is an atmospheric market that is worth a visit even if just to take a walk around this beautiful plaza and sit for a coffee while you enjoy the ambiance.
This market takes place from 9 am to 2:30 pm.
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Mostra d’Art de Pintors del Pi
This is a little market which focuses on art, where you will find mostly Catalan artists amidst their easels, showcasing their talents in front of a beautiful old church.
If you are interested in purchasing some unique artworks at a good price, where the money goes straight into the artist’s pocket, then this is the market to go to.
Photo via Pixabay
They have watercolors, oils and feature all kinds of art from expressionism to surrealism although the focus is often on typical Spanish streets and landscapes.
This market is usually operational every day of the week except for Sunday, from 8 am to 8 pm, at Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol, in the Gothic neighborhood.
So, if you are in the mood for a rummage and don’t mind getting involved with your shopping experience then head to one of the city’s many flea markets and get yourself a bargain or two. Happy bargain hunting!
Are there any Sunday flea markets in Barcelona that you love visiting?
Tell us your tips for budget shopping at open air markets in Barcelona!
I’m a serious dealer.
I am in Barcelona mid March.
I need lots of stock.
My shop is in Brittany, France.
Where are the best markets?
What about shipping to France?
Hello Denise & Michael,
As a dealer I would seriously check out the different types of flea markets and then choose which one to visit, depending on what kind of stock you are looking for.
I have no information on shipping to France unfortunately.
Kind regards,
Daniella