A shining Eixample of Barcelona shopping

Barcelona prides itself on being fashion conscious and you will quickly notice its classy style displayed all around the city. The shopping alternatives available to visitors rival the best cities in the world and our NH Collection Barcelona Podium and NH Collection Barcelona Calderón hotels, just a 15-minute walk door-to-door, sit in the neighborhood of Eixample, the perfect area to allow you take advantage of this.

Local and International Labels

Stepping out of our Calderón hotel you have the option to take a wander along Passeig de Gràcia, a stretch we simply describe as “shopping heaven”. Here you’ll find a wealth of brand names – both Spanish and international – and you’ll also have the chance to stop off for tasty refreshment between purchases. More than a kilometer in length, the street has already welcomed the likes of Tiffany’s, Valentino, Cartier, Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana but still allows a focus on exclusive national brands, which make up more than half the total.

And the chic Passeig de Gràcia not only provides you with excellent shopping opportunities but also with the modernist architecture that graces the street and adds to your experience. Marvel at Gaudí’s impressive construction, Casa Milà, also referred to as La Pedrera. Even the distinctive streetlights deserve a mention, and have been in place since the very beginning of the 20th century thanks to designer Pere Falqués i Urpí. Crossing to Rambla de Catalunya, which runs parallel, you’ll find even more choice as well as an abundance of tempting food stops.

If brand names are not so much your passion then you really must take a look at the nearby area of El Born. The streets are home to numerous independent local designers and you’ll pass by lots of inviting boutiques and trendy shops that will give you the chance to go home with a unique item from your visit. La Coquette is a fabulous example of what is on offer for hip ladies’ fashion while the stunning La Comercial is worth the visit even if you walk out with nothing.

Fresh market delights

For a bustling market vibe, La Boqueria (Mercado de San José de la Boquería, to give it its full name) is the place for you. It sits on the famous Las Ramblas street and is best enjoyed mid-morning when it’s a hive of activity. Even just a saunter between the throng of stalls is worth the trip – it is one of Europe’s largest food markets after all - leaving you with memories of distinctive smells and vibrant colors. Keep your eyes open too for vendors selling delicious snacks to keep energy levels stocked. From choices ranging from oven-baked pizza by the slice, to paella, ham and the legendary bocadillo sandwiches, you can then wash it all down with one of the many freshly squeezed fruit juices on offer.

If you can, try some of the freshly prepared seafood from Marisc Nineta and compliment it with a glass of your favorite white wine from the market’s vast selection. A deliciously interesting visit all round and for those who want even more from their experience, there are tours available to give a full insight into the inner workings of the famous marketplace.

As you can see, the district of Eixample and its surrounding area have more than enough on offer to keep your shopping needs intact, making our NH Collection Barcelona Podium and NH Collection Barcelona Calderón hotels perfect bases for purchasing, or just window-shopping, adventures.

About Hugo Lamelas Madrueño and Gemma Puig

Hola! I’m Hugo Lamelas Madrueño and I’ve worked for NH Hotels for over 8 years. I’m from Barcelona originally and am now part of the Guest Relations Team at the NH Collection Barcelona Pódium Hotel- i love helping our guests find out more about my home town, and look forward to recommending places to you!
I’m Gemma and I’ve been part of the NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón team since the beginning of 2016, in charge of the Guest Relations Department. Making our guests happy is what I like, it’s so rewarding!