What to Buy in Barcelona: The Best Souvenirs

Souvenirs are a wonderful way to keep your travel memories alive and remember the beautiful moments you experienced. Some people buy them to commemorate a special occasion, while others collect them as a hobby. There are also those who buy them to support local artists or to offer them as gifts to loved ones.

If you're planning a visit to Barcelona and are wondering what the best souvenirs to pick up from this wonderful Spanish city are, then this article is for you. Below you'll find suggestions for souvenirs that cater to all budgets and preferences. Take a look!

Don't postpone that trip you've been dreaming about any longer! Book your flight tickets and off you go to Barcelona!

Gastronomic Souvenirs

#Ratafía

Ratafía is a traditional Catalan liqueur, made from green walnuts, nutmeg, and a variety of aromatic plants and herbs. Besides being an excellent after-dinner drink, it also pairs wonderfully with desserts.

Depending on the region of production, the liqueur is made from aguardiente (firewater) flavoured with a mixture of local fruits, nuts, and herbs. After mixing the ingredients, the liqueur is left to mature for approximately 40 days. The result is an intense, flavourful, sweet, and versatile drink.

In addition to its use as an after-dinner drink, Ratafía can also be used in cooking, as a marinade or sauce. It is produced not only by large companies but also by locals, with many families having their own unique recipes passed down through generations. Ratafía is a wonderful and delicious souvenir for yourself or for someone who loves spirits.

# Saffron

For cooking enthusiasts, an excellent gift from Spain is saffron. Saffron, also known as 'red gold', comes from the Crocus sativus flower and is used as a spice and colouring agent.

In Spain, the La Mancha region is known for its dry climate and is the main saffron-producing area. Spanish saffron is typically grown on small family farms and is characterised by its intense flavour, aroma, and vibrant red colour. It is widely used in Spanish dishes such as paella and arroz con pollo.

Saffron is a unique and exquisite souvenir that shows appreciation and care. There are various types of saffron and many brands offering products at different price points. In Barcelona, you can purchase saffron from large supermarkets, local food markets like La Boqueria, or specialised food stores such as Casa Gispert. Casa Gispert is located near the Santa Maria del Mar church in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter.

# Turrón

Turrón is a traditional sweet treat enjoyed during the festive season across Spain. It is a type of nougat made from almonds (or other nuts like hazelnuts, pistachios), honey, eggs, and sugar.

There are two main types of Turrón:

– Hard Turrón (turrón duro) which has a firm and crunchy texture.

– Soft Turrón (turrón blando) which has a softer, chewier texture.

Turrón is believed to have been introduced to Spain by the Moors and has since become a beloved sweet. It is consumed as a dessert or snack on its own, or paired with Spanish sherry or hot chocolate.

You can find Turrón in Barcelona in many places. Mercat de la Boqueria has several stalls selling Turrón. Casa Colomina, a family business since 1908, is known for its handmade nougats and has a shop in Barcelona's historic centre. Torrons Vicens, who have been making nougat since 1775, have shops all over Barcelona, including in Plaza Sant Jaume, La Pedrera, Las Ramblas, Carrer de la Boqueria, and near the Sagrada Familia.

# Sangria

Sangria is synonymous with Spain. It is an alcoholic beverage with its roots in Spain and Portugal. Only these two countries are permitted to label their products as Sangria.

The basic recipe includes red wine mixed with local fruits (such as oranges, peaches, berries), lemonade or soda, and sweetened with sugar and orange juice. Each recipe may have slight variations, but the combination is always delicious and popular with both locals and tourists.

A bottle of Sangria makes a nice souvenir and you can get it from any liquor store or from the duty-free section at the airport.

# Olives

Spain is one of the largest olive producers in the world, with regions such as Andalusia, Catalonia (known for its Arbequina olives), Extremadura, Valencia (with varieties like Manzanilla, Gordal, and Empeltre) and Murcia. Each region has its own unique flavour and characteristics. You can buy olives from Mercat de la Boqueria on La Rambla, at stalls such as Olives i Conserves Graus, Olives Francesc, and Soley Boqueria. Alternatively, you can visit Casa Gispert in Barcelona's Born neighbourhood, which offers a wide selection of olives, nuts, and dried fruits.

# Olive Oil

Spain is the largest producer of olive oil in the world, with various categories such as extra virgin olive oil, virgin, plain olive oil, and organic. Many regions are known for the high quality of their olive oils, including Andalusia, Catalonia (known for Siurana olive oil), Valencia (with Serra de Mariola olive oil), Extremadura, and Castile-La Mancha (with Montes de Toledo olive oil). Each region has its own flavour profile, and olive oils are a significant part of their cuisine and culture.

In Barcelona, you can find high-quality olive oil in most supermarkets, specialised stores, or local markets. La Boqueria market on La Rambla is an excellent place to find a wide variety of olive oils. Also, at Oli Sal in the Gracia neighbourhood, you'll find a great selection of extra virgin olive oils, while at El Corte Inglés department stores, you'll find olive oils from various regions of Spain.

# Cheese

Spain boasts over a hundred different types of cheeses, from soft and creamy to hard and crumbly, made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk, or a combination thereof. Some of the most popular Spanish cheeses include Manchego, Idiazabal, Tetilla, Cabrales, Roncal, Zamorano, Manchego Viejo, and Mahón.

Each cheese has its own unique flavour and texture and forms an important part of Spanish gastronomy. In Barcelona, you can visit Can Luc, a small shop in the Gracia neighbourhood, which offers over 100 varieties of cheeses from Spain and Europe. There you will also find wines, beers, cured meats, crackers, jams, and condiments to accompany your cheeses.

You can also buy local Spanish cheeses from La Boqueria market or from Formatgeria La Pineda, a popular Catalan cheesemonger offering handmade cheeses.

# Spanish Biscuits and Baked Goods

For lovers of fine food, a tin of Spanish biscuits and sweets is an excellent way to bring a taste of Spain home with you. There are many different brands offering local, traditional biscuits, and you can find them in local markets or supermarkets.

A popular choice is the light and delicious biscuits and sweets from Dona Jimena. Beautifully packaged in a hexagonal box and individually wrapped, they include four types of biscuits, all made with wheat flour and ground almonds, flavoured with crunchy almonds, egg yolk, anise, or cinnamon.

Delicious and delightful, they make an excellent gift for yourself or for someone back home.

# Romesco

Romesco sauce is a classic local red sauce you'll often encounter as you sample Barcelona's cuisine. The sauce is traditionally prepared with roasted tomatoes, onions, peppers, garlic, and almonds.

The addition of spices and herbs can vary from place to place, but we particularly like it when the sauce contains smoked paprika. The sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and seafood, making it an ideal addition to any kitchen back home. While you can find jars of romesco sauce in Barcelona's supermarkets, nothing compares to the authentic, homemade version.

You can find this sauce in traditional food shops and markets such as La Boqueria. There, cooks prepare the sauce on the spot using recipes passed down through generations. It's a souvenir that won't last forever, but your friends and family will love the history and flavour it holds.

# Penedès Wine

The Penedès wine-producing region stretches from the Serralada mountain range to the Mediterranean Sea. Located a short distance from Barcelona, it has been producing wine for over 1300 years.

Today, there are several renowned wineries in the region, but perhaps the most famous wine originating from it is the sparkling wine Cava. Made from Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarello grape varieties, Cava is gaining increasing fame, rivalling the international recognition of champagne.

Souvenir Items from Barcelona

# Caganer Figurine

The Caganer figurine is a traditional element of Christmas decorations in many Catalan homes. Made from clay or porcelain, it depicts a figure wearing the red Catalan hat, the barretina, in a defecating posture. The origin of the Caganer is unclear, but it is believed to date back centuries. The figurine is placed in the Nativity scene at Christmas and is thought to bring good luck and prosperity.

Originally, the Caganer depicted a peasant, but today you can find figurines of famous personalities such as athletes, politicians, actors, and singers. You can buy them from souvenir shops, Christmas markets, or specialised stores such as Caganer.com, which has been making handmade figurines since 1992. They have shops in various locations in Barcelona, including the Gothic Quarter and near the Palau de la Música Catalana.

# Handmade Photo Frames

Antoni Gaudí's stunning mosaic artworks adorn all of Barcelona, from the gigantic salamander in Park Güell to the interiors of Casa Batlló and the colourful Casa Vicens. The same style is captured in these handmade photo frames, which are like small works of art themselves. With their colourful designs that honour Gaudí's mosaic art, these frames are ideal for showcasing your favourite memories and make an excellent addition to any home. You can find them in many souvenir shops or in the gift shops at places like Casa Batlló.

# Books

Acquire a piece of Barcelona's history with a book about the city. Whether it's illustrated books, books about architecture, or the city's history, there's something for everyone. If you love cooking or know someone who is passionate about food, a wonderful souvenir would be a cookbook featuring the best dishes of Spanish cuisine. It would certainly be appreciated as a gift.

# Flamenco Dancer Figurine

Flamenco is a Spanish dance characterised by hand-clapping (palmas), percussive footwork (heel clicking), and intricate hand and body movements. It combines passion and drama and is truly captivating to watch a flamenco performance. A female flamenco dancer, the bailaora, wears the traditional flamenco costume, the 'traje de flamenca'. The dress is fitted at the waist with short sleeves and the skirt is decorated with ruffles. Accessories include a scarf or shawl and jewellery, while the hair is tied in a bun and adorned with flowers. The flamenco dancer figurine is a wonderful souvenir that you can find in almost all markets. Beautifully crafted with attention to detail, these ceramic figurines make ideal gifts.

# Soft Toy Flamenco Dancer

If you're looking for a souvenir for a small child or for someone who collects soft toys, then a plush flamenco dancer doll is an excellent choice. These dolls are dressed in traditional flamenco costumes and are a lovely souvenir to take home from Spain.

# Jewellery

If you were captivated by Gaudí's abstract and organic designs and want to incorporate them into your daily look, you'll love the jewellery inspired by his work. You can find these in selected jewellers or at the gift shops of Casa Batlló. You'll find lovely earrings and bracelets inspired by the organic shapes Gaudí used in his buildings. These pieces of jewellery make wonderful items and are ideal as souvenirs or gifts to remember Barcelona by.

# Pericón Fans

If you've watched a flamenco performance, you'll surely have seen the artists holding a large, ornate fan. This fan is called a Pericón and is a typical accessory in flamenco performances.

Typically made of wood (the frame) and fabric (silk, cotton, or poplin), the fan is decorated with colourful designs and held by dancers during flamenco performances. It adds an extra element of style and elegance to the dance. Pericón fans are sold as souvenirs and are available in various colours, designs, sizes, and materials. You can find them in many souvenir shops in Barcelona, at Mercat de la Boqueria, or at Mercat dels Encants.

# FCB Merchandise

If you're a Barcelona fan or want to get a souvenir for someone who loves football, visit one of the many Barça stores. There you'll find all the official team merchandise, including limited edition jerseys, toys, watches and jewellery, scarves and hats, balls, sunglasses, and signed memorabilia from top footballers. There are many official Barça stores in Barcelona, such as at Camp Nou, La Rambla, and near the Sagrada Familia.

# Spanish Bull Figurine

Toro Bravo refers to a breed of cattle from Spain, known for its large size, muscular build, and characteristic horns that curve upwards and outwards. These bulls, also known as Spanish Fighting Bulls, were traditionally used in bullfighting in Spain.

Upon entering any souvenir shop in Spain, you'll find colourful figurines of the Spanish Bull. Whether made of metal or ceramic, these figurines represent bravery and ferocity and make wonderful souvenirs. These figurines come in solid colours, painted with colourful designs, or crafted with 'trencadís', a unique type of mosaic used by Gaudí in Catalan Modernism.

# El Drac (The Dragon)

In Park Güell, you'll find Gaudí's famous ceramic sculpture, known as 'El Drac'. Made from colourful mosaic tiles and approximately 4 metres long, this sculpture is inspired by a mythological dragon and represents strength and dynamism in Catalan culture.

With its intricate details, textures, and colours, the lizard climbing a staircase is one of the most photographed spots in the park and one of the symbols of Park Güell. It's no coincidence that replicas of this mosaic lizard are found in every souvenir shop, whether as fridge magnets, keychains, or mini sculptures.

# Chocolates

Chocolate is always a popular gift for friends, family, or even yourself. It's delicious, easy to transport, and offers a wonderful cultural experience, making it an ideal souvenir.

Spanish chocolate stands out for its high quality and rich flavour, and it's used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Barcelona is considered the gateway for chocolate into Europe, as the first shipment of cocoa arrived in Spain around 1520. In 1777, the first mechanical chocolate production workshop was established in Barcelona.

Today, you can find many chocolate brands in Spain and purchase delicious chocolates in Barcelona from various places. Visit Cocoa Sampaka in the El Born neighbourhood or the historic Fargas store, operating since 1827, in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. It is particularly known for its bonbons and handmade chocolate.

Another noteworthy visit is La Colmena, one of Barcelona's oldest patisseries, operating since 1849, offering a wonderful selection of dark and milk chocolates.

# Ceramics

Spain is renowned for its traditional, handmade ceramics. From plates and pots to decorative items, Spanish ceramics are usually hand-painted and feature vibrant colours and designs that combine historical heritage with modern touches.

Throughout Spain, you will find small artisan workshops run by local craftsmen, who create ceramic gifts and souvenirs inspired by Spanish art, as well as by designers such as Gaudí and Picasso.

In Barcelona, ceramic art is omnipresent, with the Modernist movement having breathed new life into this tradition. Inspired by Antoni Gaudí, artists add rich colours and abstract designs to their works. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter to discover shops selling ceramic bowls, plates, and figurines, such as Gaudí's emblematic lizard.

If you want to learn and create your own ceramics, you can participate in an artisan workshop and create unique works of art.

# Porcelain Figurines

The history of porcelain figurines in Spain dates back to the Arab occupation in 1300. It quickly evolved into a high art form, with the secrets of their creation passed down through generations. Although we know they are made from hard porcelain, the glazed finish remains a trade secret.

In Barcelona, two families stand out in this field: Nadal and Lladro. Nadal specialises in children's figurines depicting sports and various activities, while Lladro has gained global renown and can ship its porcelain figurines to any destination.

# Art Nouveau Jewellery

The history of Art Nouveau jewellery in Barcelona began in the 1830s. During this period, the city was filled with silversmith and goldsmith quarters, with many craft shops preserving the tradition to this day. One such example is Casa Ametller, which creates unique jewellery combining traditional Catalan techniques with a Mediterranean influence. For over 150 years, Tomas Colomer has been at the forefront of Catalan jewellery making. This place is ideal for finding gifts, especially rings and necklaces, for your loved ones.

# Barretina

Few Barcelona souvenirs are as traditional as the red barretina. In the Catalonia region, these characteristic red woollen caps were a common sight until the mid-20th century. Although no longer as widespread in fashion, their rich heritage deeply connects them to Catalonia's history. The barretina, a symbol of Catalan identity, is often worn during traditional dances. Painters, such as Salvador Dalí, believed in the barretina's power to unite the community. One of the best places to buy a traditional barretina is Sombreria Obach in El Call, the old Jewish Quarter.

# Panot Tiles

Like the barretina, panot tiles are synonymous with Barcelona. While the city's impressive landmarks, such as the Sagrada Familia, draw attention, if you look down, you'll notice the unique designs of the panot tiles. Two of the most famous designs are the Flor de Barcelona and the Gaudí. The former serves as a guide sign along the Ruta el Modernismo route, while the latter, created by Gaudí, is found on Passeig de Gracia. Shops like Panot in the Gothic Quarter sell these famous tiles.

# Espardenyes

The beautiful and durable espardenyes have been an integral part of women's wardrobes in Barcelona for years. You might know them by the name espadrilles. With the warm Mediterranean climate, these lightweight sandals are perfect for exploring Catalonia.

Most espardenyes feature a natural jute sole, and although many are flat, you can also find those with higher heels that will elevate your outfit. They are ideal for a night out at one of Barcelona's wonderful rooftop bars or as a gift for a shoe lover. Thanks to their popularity, you'll find a huge variety, especially on popular shopping streets like Passeig de Gràcia and Portal de l'Angel.

# Flamenco Castanets

When people from Andalusia came to Barcelona, they brought with them the art of flamenco. By the late 1800s, flamenco culture had flourished, allowing local artists to develop their craft.

Today, you can find flamenco music and fashion all over Barcelona, but there are also more unique ways to bring the love of flamenco home with you. One of our favourites is flamenco castanets. These picturesque musical instruments consist of a pair of hollow shells connected by a string. With a wide variety of clicks and rattles, the music will always accompany you.

# Best Places to Buy Souvenirs in Barcelona

Beyond the specific destinations mentioned above, you might be wondering where the best places to buy souvenirs in Barcelona are. Here are some of our favourite shopping streets.

Carrer de l’Argenteria

On Carrer de l'Argenteria, you will find unique and traditional gifts. Although it is small, it is filled with handmade products from artisan shops, where you can find the perfect authentic souvenir.

# Carrer de la Princesa

Travellers interested in Barcelona's modern yet authentic fashion should browse Carrer de la Princesa. There, in addition to boutiques, you'll find local, creative shops featuring artworks and Catalan music.

# Carrer del Tallers

On Carrer del Tallers, you'll find all sorts of eclectic and vintage items. The bustling street (also filled with excellent restaurants!) features cosy bookstores, craft shops, and classic Gen X clothing, music, and memorabilia.

Barcelona is a city full of vibrancy, culture, and history, and its souvenirs reflect this uniqueness. From beautiful Art Nouveau jewellery and traditional espardenyes, to delicious Spanish wines and unique flamenco castanets, every item carries a piece of the Catalan soul. Whether you're looking for something traditional like the barretina or a more modern piece of art, Barcelona has something to offer every visitor.