Visiting Barcelona for the first time is certainly a sensory feast. There are vibrant streets and bodegas to discover, iconic architecture and rich history, along with the Mediterranean Sea vistas to enjoy. Visitors find an abundance of sunshine, beauty, and culture wherever they turn! When looking to buy in Barcelona, touristy trinkets and cheap fridge magnets just don’t do the Catalonian capital justice. We are here to help you choose the best gifts that reflect the spirit of this unique city and its regional roots.
Eber Brown on UnsplashCeramics and Tiles
Barcelona is a place like no other. It boasts a distinct Catalan identity and international accessibility. Gaudí’s fantastical works, the city’s sunlit boulevards, and the rhythms of everyday life inspire. So when choosing gifts or keepsakes from your trip, skip the generic. Aim to find handmade items and local treats. Hand-painted ceramics and colorful mosaic tiles are quintessential symbols of the city. Barcelona is home to Modernisme, a Catalonian local spin on Art Nouveau. Find these trencadís treasures in artisan shops dotting the old city. Park Güell and Casa Batlló’s gift shops also offer some great unique finds!
Turrón and Treats
You don’t need to wait for the holidays to enjoy this traditional Catalonian Christmas treat. Turrón is a nougat made in the classic sugar, honey, and almond flavor or in dozens of other variations: chocolate, crema catalana, and fruit blends. Travelers can buy some of the best turrón at Vicens, a family business that opened its doors in 1775. Casa Colomina is another one-stop shop for turrón and other traditional treats, open since 1908. The classic turrón duro is hard nougat typically made with whole almonds. Jijona or soft turróns are generally a creamy texture with a full, nutty taste.
Traditional Catalan Footwear
Local Barcelona artisans and designers are creating traditional and reimagined espardenyes, a classic Catalan shoe. This durable and stylish footwear, traditionally worn by peasants and dancers, is made from canvas and jute. Rooted in regional identity, you can typically see people of all ages wearing espardenyes, from toddlers to adults alike. La Manual Alpargatera is a workshop dating back to 1940 in Barcelona. With a tagline like, “a legacy that lives on in every stitch,” this keepsake reflects Catalan tradition and promises to be a memorable gift.
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Vermouth, Cava, and Regional Wine
Catalonia is a region recognized for its excellent wines, vermouth (vermut), and cava. Winemaking in the area dates back more than 2000 years ago. Steeped in tradition and diverse terroir, the wines range from bold reds with minerality, made from grapes grown in slate-rich soil, to crisp whites, rosés, and dry cava. Locally crafted vermouth is a tasty traditional gift option to bring home for friends and family, as long as you remember to bring a bottle back for yourself! Wines from nearby regions like Priorat and Penedès are solid choices for enjoying a true taste of Barcelona at home.
Senyera Souvenirs
Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, and the Senyera is the traditional flag of this region. The Senyera, a design that includes four red stripes on a golden-yellow background, is an important symbol of Catalan identity and pride. It is one of Europe’s oldest flags still in use today. Legend has it that during the 9th century, a king dipped four fingers in a wounded Catalan count’s blood, then drew four lines on his golden shield. Many souvenirs and keepsakes display the Senyera and celebrate Catalonia’s bold spirit: scarves, tote bags, jewelry, and more.
