Barcelona is one of the most stylish cities in Europe. Its elegance can immediately be noticed in the architecture that rises from the streets of the Modernist Eixample district, the citys old town, and the innovative new developments along the seafront. This elegance also extends beyond the buildings and into many shops throughout the city.
If youd like to combine a sightseeing city break with some great opportunities for shopping then Barcelona is definitely an excellent choice of destination. From the grand Passeig de Grcia and its high fashion brands to the petite boutiques of the Born area and their unique, up-and-coming names, the Catalan capital has everything for true shopping indulgence. Here we recommend five of the best luxury shopping hotspots in and around Barcelona.
1. All the brands at La Roca Shopping Village
Located half an hour away from Barcelona, this is an essential visit for serious shoppers, and conveniently accessible by bus from Barcelona centre. More than 100 shops and several bars and restaurants make up this luxury shopping village, each offering discounts of up to 60%.
Youll find all the trendiest contemporary brands from Calvin Klein, G Star Raw and Diesel, to Barcelona labels Desigual and Custo Barcelona. Whether youre looking for clothing, shoes and accessories, sportswear or lingerie youll find a good selection of quality items to choose from here. Special events and promotions regularly take place too, which ensures a different shopping experience to your regular high street crawl.
2. Fashion and Style on Passeig de Grcia
Barcelonas smartest street stretches from Plaa Catalunya to Diagonal. Spectacular Modernist buildings such as Gauds Pedrera and Casa Batll catch your eye as you saunter along the wide boulevard.
Many international designers have established their flagship store along this prestigious street. Youll find Luis Vuitton, Prada, MaxMara and Gucci, as well as eclectic shoemaker Jimmy Choo, Burberry, and Chanel. Jewellery shops glitter with creatively placed diamonds in Bagus Joieria which has a 20 year history as well as renowned brands Cartier and Tiffany & Co.
3. Luxury Shopping along Avinguda Diagonal
If you take a left at the top of Passeig de Grcia, before reaching the five star Hotel Casa Fuster, youll find many more quality shops along this stretch of Diagonal and the top section of Rambla Catalunya.
The elegant Maisons du Monde offers innovative interior design ideas. Several bridal shops display spectacular princess dresses for that special day. There are even a few outlets tucked away in the back streets, such as Outlet Number One in Carrer Comte de Salvatierra, just off Carrer Balmes.
4. Boutiques in the Born
This part of Barcelonas old town has always been renowned for its creative boutiques and shops. In January 2014 it hosted the 080 Barcelona Fashion Show in the recently renovated Born market, which is now the Born Cultural Centre.
Take the metro to Jaume I and wander off Carrer Princesa into the narrow streets of this historic merchants district. Local fashion designers showcase their latest creations and you are sure to find many unique pieces here.
The Born is also starting to attract several big name brands, including Dolce & Gabbana and Custo Barcelona. Carrer Rec has several minimalist boutiques such as the impressive La Comercial, which stocks items by designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and Givenchy.
5. Enjoy la dulce vida in Carrer Major de Sarri
Known as the Zona Alta or high zone, for its geographical location above the Eixample district, the district of Sarri-Sant Gervasi is also one of the most well-to-do residential areas in Barcelona.
If youre looking for a slightly different and more relaxed shopping experience then we suggest you take a wander along the main street, Carrer Major, and explore some of the side streets that surround it. Youll find plenty of boutiques with good quality fashion, and Spanish designers you may not be familiar with. Get some fresh ideas for stylish home dcor and interior design, and stop off for a well earned coffee in one of the traditional squares as you watch the fashionable locals pass by in the catwalk parade of their everyday life.
