Shopping in Barcelona

[FritziGreenEyes]

I am going to spend three days with DH in Barcelona next week. I've never been there but would love to buy some clothes and possibly make-up.

Apart from the obvious (Zara, Mango), where should I start?Can someone point me in the right direction, please?

Thanks!!!

you lucky thing! can't go wrong around the El Born area - look out for a gorgeous Danish shop called A Copenhagen, also wander down C/Flassaders for Cortana and Lisa Wixell. And for bargains check out Lefties which stocks 'leftovers" from zara, mango etc at low prices - there are a few around including in the Maremagnum Mall, Port Vell.

Hang on a sec!

You are going to Barcelona for three days ... and you want to go shopping?

There is so much more to do than shop! Honestly, it's not a leisure activity to compare with what else is on offer there.

LTEC your tips are just what I was hoping for. Thank you so much! Have already made a note of the shops/areas you mentioned. I think our hotel is close to El Born anyway.

Topsy and bibbity, of course we are going to do the whole cultural thing as well, but I just love to bring back some clothes from holiday. Every time I wear something I bought abroad, it reminds me of that holiday.

Best souvenir ever: Pair of Bally shoes I bought at Century21 in New York in 1999. I still have those shoes and occassionally wear them.

I know what you mean about memories- I have some fab boots from Madrid . But yes, a browse is good, but not going 'to shop'...but it sounds like you don't mean that, so sorry to come over as though you are some kind of philistine! I do think that local markets are fab though. Have you checked out a Rough Guide or similar? They often have some great tips.

Thanks, Topsy! Will check Rough Guide.

Hi Fritzi - I love, love, love Barcelona! Went last year for 3.5 days and its a good length of time to do culture and shopping! I loved the Sefra stores (think thats how you spell them!) - bit like the Spanish Next I suppose. There is a large one on the Place de la Gracia and one inside the el Cortes department stores. I picked up some lovely tops, all about 15 to 20euros.

One of the routes of the Tourist Bus (think its the one that goes to the football stadium - passes close to a large shopping centre - Spanish for The Triangle I think. We didnt go there and the weather was so lovely but maybe a good idea for a couple of hours?

Enjoy your trip - its one of may favourite cities.

OWW that sounds fantastic! It's our first trip abroad without DD and I'm really excited.

Have to decide now which clothes/shoes to take... Although I shouldn't fuss too much, because I can always stock up when I'm there

Lucky you - I went with a friend last year and 3 days away felt more like a week! We asked the hotel where to go for good tapas which is worth doing. We did sightseeing in the mornings and pottered around some shops in the afternoon. Comfy shoes are a must - and just ignore all the stylish Spanish women trotting around in elegant heels!! The tourist bus thing was a great way to see a lot of the city - can get quite busy tho at the main tourist attractions but lots and lots of buses are used so no major waits! You have probably heard about being careful with your bag and make sure DH doesnt carry wallet in back pocket etc. Bus from airport was easy too. Thinking about it, I think the shop I liked was spelt Sfera - nice kids clothes too. The Zara Homeware floor at one of the large Zaras was lovely too.

I have packed comfy shoes now, but also a pair of high heels for evening . Will report back next week and tell you about my purchases (if anyone is interested...).