Barcelona is famous for its gastronomy, and thousands of foodies flock to the city’s restaurants every year. The vibrant food culture is fueled by a series of historic markets selling the freshest produce supplied by local farmers and fishermen.
Each of the city’s neighbourhoods has its own food market, many of which are housed in large neo-classical or modernist-styled market buildings dating back to the nineteenth century. However, some of the markets can trace their history back to open-air food markets that have been taking place since the Middle Ages.
The best-known food market in Barcelona is El Mercat de la Boqueria, which dates back to 1217 when it operated as an open-air market located just outside the medieval city walls. Originally, the market mainly sold meat and derived its name from the word “boc,” meaning goat.
In addition to stalls selling fresh produce, La Boqueria is also home to a selection of tapas bars and small restaurants specialising in seafood, cured meats and other typical Catalan foods.
Although, in recent years, the market has become one of the city’s top tourist attractions, the quality of the food sold here remains high, and despite the crowds, many locals continue to shop here.
La Boqueria FAQ
Below are the answers to some of the most common questions about the Boqueria food market. If you have any additional questions that remain unanswered, please leave a comment, and I will get back to you shortly.
Where to eat at the Boqueria Food Market?
As mentioned earlier, there are several small tapas bars located inside the Boqueria market where you can sample some of the best tapas in Barcelona. Best-known of these bars are El Quim de la Boqueria, Kiosco Universal and Bar Central which are family-run businesses with a long history.
All three of these bars are extremely popular, so no matter what time of day you visit, you can expect to have to wait for a place at the bar. If you are short of time, there are other bars and restaurants at the market where you may be able to find a space and which also serve good food.
When does the Boqueria food market open?
The Boqueria food market opens from Monday to Saturday from 8:00 to 20:30.
The market remains closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Where is the Boqueria food market located?
The Boqueria market is located on the famous La Rambla boulevard, near Plaça de Catalunya.
Address: La Rambla, 91
How to get to the Boqueria food market
The nearest metro stations are Liceu (L3, the green line) and Catalunya (L1 and L3, red and green lines). The Bus Turistic hop-on, hop-off bus also stops nearby at Plaça de Catalunya.
Other attractions nearby
- La Rambla
- Barcelona Gothic Quarter
- Barcelona Cathedral
- Plaça Reial
- Palau Güell
Map
La Rambla, 91, Barcelona
