Barcelona has plenty to see and do all year round, andwinter isno exception. The city is filled with a cosmopolitan buzz, and shoppers can enjoy browsing the markets andhigh streets looking for New Year bargains. You’ll also find plenty of delicious treats can always be found in the barsand restaurants for whenever you need a break. If youre thinking of a city break to start the New Year, Barcelona might just be the perfect destination.
This stylish and cosmopolitan city has it all, from the most popular brand stores in shopping areas such as Passeig de Grcia and Rambla Catalunya, to delightful little boutiques in Barcelona’s old town. The Born district, home to themagnificent Gothic church of Santa Maria del Mar is full of shops that offer Mediterranean inspired fashionby local designers.
Take a wander down streetssuch as Carrer dels Flassanders and Carrer del Rec you’ll find them back to back with interesting shops piled high with ladies fashion, artisan jewellery and trendy menswear. Mercat Princesa on Carrer Flassanders is a lovely place to stop for lunch or a coffee, if you’re in the Born.
Other good neighbourhoods for boutique shopping are the Gothic district and Gracia. High street chic can be found in Carrer Portaferrissa, just off La Rambla, whilst on LaRambla itself you’ll find Catalan designs at Desigual, Spanish boots of Spanish leather at Corbetto’s boots, and the department store El Corte Ingles.
If you prefer to concentrate all of your shopping in one small area then the convenience of a shopping centre will certainly appeal. This is city known for its architecture and elegance, and its shopping centres are no exception. Some of the most popular spots include Maremagnum, at the bottom of La Rambla, Glries, which is next to the iconic multicoloured gherkin building, and Las Arenas.
Las Arenaswas previously a bullring and its new incarnation as a modern shoppingand entertainment complex has preserved the architecture of the bullring. The top floor has several lovely restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy great views over Plaza Espanya and Montjuic.
Youll find huge discounts after the 6th January, with many shops offering up to 70% off or more. The sales generally continue until the end of February, or until stocks run out. Yes, Barcelona is a wonderful city to visit any time of year. But it does have a special charm about it during the winter holidays.
