I’m pretty sure if the Sex and the City girls took a trip to Barcelona they would be seriously impressed with the extent of shopping available. There’s something for everyone – with glamorous wide boulevards and winding romantic side streets, the classic glamour mixing effortlessly with the one-off unique boutiques creating a diverse blend all can appreciate and enjoy.
With the exciting developments gathering pace at Camiral we thought we would look into the other ways to fill your days while in residence. Certainly for ‘golf widows’ it’ll be a popular option to investigate what nearby Barcelona has to offer, in particular the 3 main shopping areas for some extravagant spending or window shopping – Barcelona has it all.
1. Passeig de Gracia
Located in the central part of the Eixample district, stretching from Plaça Catalunya to Carrer Gran de Gràcia
For true indulgence head to the Passeig de Gracia – the ‘Bond Street’ of Barcelona – abundant with designer brands you’ll find yourself completely spoilt for choice. Pay a visit to Chanel, Cartier or Louis Vuitton and once you’ve exhausted yourself and achieved a true retail therapy kick, there are a number of fantastic restaurants and cafes with scenic terraces from which you can relax and watch the world go by.
2. Avinguda del Portal de L’Ange
Located near the famous square Plaça de Catalunya
One of the busiest streets in Spain and another treasure trove of popular (and more affordable) boutiques. Here you can find high street favourites Zara, H&M and Berksha not forgetting Spanish department store El Cortes Ingles which is a haven for women’s fashion all under one roof. It’s not just the shops that will impress – at the end of the street you’ll find yourself transfixed by the stunning cathedral, a dramatic example of Catalan gothic architecture. After a day shopping treat yourself to an ice-cream from one of the authentic gelateria’s in the area and give your feet an opportunity to rest while soaking up the atmosphere.
3. Las Ramblas
Located between Barri Gòtic and El Raval, it connects Plaça Catalunya in the centre with the Christopher Columbus monument at Port Vell.
Sometimes likened to Camden in London, Las Ramblas has a vintage vibe – it’s the perfect place to pick up new music or casual / bohemian clothing as well as admire the street performers. The shops have been positioned with tourists in mind but it’s still a favourite spot for the locals too. Venture off down the side streets and find yourself immersed in a completely different Barcelona. Peruse the flower markets and make sure you get to La Boqueria Market – Spain’s finest food & drink market, it’s a spectacular sight and here you can pick up a range of Spanish delicacies to take home and enjoy at Camiral.
