Barcelona is famous for its high-end shopping streets such as Portal de l’Angel and Passeig de Gracia and its shopping centres. However, with more and more people trying to reduce their carbon footprint and looking to a more sustainable future, second-hand shopping has not only become more popular but also more fashionable. Although sifting through items makes for a more timely shopping experience, if you have the patience you can find a range of interesting items at a fraction of their original price. Barcelona Connect explores some of Barcelona’s best flea markets…
Barcelona Flea Market (Els Encants Vells).
Situated in Plaza Glories it is Barcelona’s oldest and biggest flea market. It dates back to the fourteenth century and you can find anything there, from plants to power tools, both second-hand and new. Although it opens until 20:00 it is best to get there early as many of the stalls pack-up at around midday and this will also increase you chances of finding a bargain. Saturday is the busiest day so if you want to avoid large crowds it is wise to go on Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Negotiation is expected at this huge, open-air, chaotic market and it’s also fun so don’t just accept the first price you hear…haggle!
When: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 9:00 – 20:00
Where: 69 Avinguda Meridiana
Nearest Metro: Glories
More info: www.encantsbcn.com
Two Market Barcelona.
Everything there is €1 (or less!) so a trip to this flea market, which takes a place at l’Ovella Negra, Poble Nou, on the first Sunday of each month, won’t break the bank. You’ll find mainly clothes, accessories, books and music at this event which prides itself reducing waste by promoting reuse.
When: First Sunday of each month
Where: l’Ovella Negra, 78 Carrer Zamora
Nearest Metro:Marina
More info: www.twomarket.es
Lost & Found Market.
Combining gastronomy and music with shopping in Estacio de Franca, this flea market offers high quality, vintage, second-hand items while delivering a well-rounded, overall experience. There you’ll find a mix of clothes, art, comics, toys and the like.
When: 19th/20th March
Where: Estacion de Francia
Nearest Metro: Barceloneta
More info: www.lostfoundmarket.com
Fleadonia.
Organized by the bar/cultural association Freedonia and set in the heart of the Raval, this flea market takes place on the first Sunday of each month. A great excuse to go and explore one of Barcelona’s most diverse and cosmopolitan areas and to find some great deals on second-hand furniture, clothes, antiques, art and more.
When: First Sunday of each month
Where: Plaça Salvador Seguí
Nearest Metro: Liceu
More info: www.fleamarketbcn.com
El Flea.
Located by the sea near Drassanes metro every second Sunday of the month this beach-side market offers books, music clothes and fashion accessories. The philosophy behind the event is ‘one man’s garbage is another man’s gold and this is certainly you can certainly grab a bargain here whilst enjoying the friendly atmosphere.
When: Second Sunday of each month
Where: Plaça Blanquerna
Nearest Metro: Drassanes
More info:www.fleamarketbcn.com
