Mercat de la Boqueria, Barcelona Overview

Boqueria Market is a popular shopping hub in Barcelona. The landmark is located in the city centre and the best time to visit is early morning to avoid the crowd. This 2500 square meter market area offers everything from fresh vegetables, fruits, sweets, fresh juice, and more.

It was formally called the Mercat de Sant Josep. Visitors, locals, passersby, and many more make it a point to stop by the Mercat de la Boqueria at least once. While it is mainly a municipal market, it happens to be the ideal place to buy fresh produce and is distinctive for the burst of vibrant hues sees all around and within. What astonishes most shoppers and visitors is that the market goes back to 1586 when the location formerly held a Convent. It ranges across more than 300 stands, and there is something here for everyone. Mercat de la Boqueria proudly boasts of the high-quality products it offers which are also sent off to all major cafes and restaurants across the city. What’s more? The market plans to go global as it is the only market thus far, which keeps products from across the world.

Cafe and Pubs near Mercat de la Boqueria

The Market is no less than a day’s work, and this is why several unique cafes surround the vicinity. The most sought after eateries will keep you coming back for more. Mercat de la Boqueria is home to some of the best eateries in the city, providing the most authentic local cuisine.

1. El Quim de La Boqueria

Being a family restaurant, there is incredible warmth visitors feel as they enter. This eatery is known for unique combinations of egg dishes along with irresistible seafood. One of their signature dishes which is the baby squid cooked in ink is a must try.

2. Bar Pinotxo

Barcelona is famous for all things Catalan, and when it comes to Catalan cuisine Bar Pinotxo is the best place in the city. This gem has been explored by several celebrities and even has an open bar. The most popular dish here is the chickpeas and morcilla.

3. Bar Ramblero

This name will come to you several times as you enter the vicinity of Mercat de la Boqueria. With friendly staff and the best gambas, this is a must visit on any trip to the Market. The Bar is famous for dozens of pintxos lined up and the seafood platter is the best in the city.

Things to Do at Mercat de la Boqueria

The open market offers a variety of activities and produce to buy for both locals and first time visitors.

1. Treat Your Tastebuds

The Mercat de la Boqueria doubles as an open market and on the go eatery. It boasts that there is “literally nothing you will not find here.” With delicious local delicacies ranging from sweet to vegan, and even seafood, visitors love to spend their time hopping across food counter stalls. Family recipes go a long way here as many stalls are run by fourth-generation families.

2. Seafood and Meat Shopping

Meat Shop, Mercat de la Boqueria — Source

If you’re a seafood lover, the Mercat de la Boqueria is literal heaven. The market also offers fresh poultry, eggs of different sizes, and a special section purely for the Spanish ham. The stall owners have great expertise in providing the finest cuts and thinly sliced pieces.

3. Specialty Stalls

Handmade Chocolate Stalls, Mercat de la Boqueria — Source

Since Mercat de la Boqueria is home to food from all around the world, a diverse range of stalls offer everything from salts, spices, to pure olive oil, and even chocolates! Visitors enjoy a glass of wine while cruising the speciality stalls area and trying authentic dishes of Catalan cuisine.

Tips

It is advisable to visit the market early in the morning, when it opens. It gives visitors more room to comfortably explore the hundreds of stalls.
Make sure to carry lots of cash especially in change as many store vendors do not accept card payments.
It is helpful to learn some phrases in Spanish to make your way around the market area.
Be wary of your belongings and careful from possible pickpockets.

How To Reach Mercat de la Boqueria

The best and most convenient way to reach the market is through public transport -

By Metro - Take the L3 metro to the nearest station to the market.

By Bus - Bus 59/ V13 goes to the nearest bus station to the market.