The Encants Vells in Barcelona, also known as the Mercat de Bellcaire, is one of Europe’s oldest flea markets (Glories Market), which dates back to the 14th century. In 2013, El Encants moved to a spectacular new three-story building just opposite the Agbar Tower.
Inside the iconic mirrored canopy are 500 stalls. Similar to a particular market in dreams and movies, this flea market offers an endless amount of quirky items for sale, a mixture of a junk shop, antique fairs, old school market, and jumble sale all in one place.
Along with vintage books, furniture, cameras, ornaments, and clothing, stalls offer modern clothing, furniture, decorative things, tools, hardware, and gadgets-Not to add two bars/cafés, small antique stores, and an electric bike shop.
The mix of unique architecture and the hustle and bustle, as well as the range of goods on offer and excellent views of the Agbar Tower, make the Encants market a fascinating site to discover.
What to Expect in Glories Market
1. It’s a massive and fascinating complex
The market’s new location spans 15,000 square meters and is flanked by broad pathways. It features boutique merchants and prefabricated booths. The huge space accommodates 100,000 every week.
The stalls and stores form a gentle sloping, continuous circle; the multileveled design follows the usual shopping center model. As you go up or down the levels, it’s hard to tell which one you’re on. In addition to the stairs, the building contains an escalator and elevators to benefit those with mobility issues.
Something is refreshing about the openness of the layout here; it’s easy to walk around, even if you’re a bit worn out from all that shopping.
2. They feature an extensive selection of new products
Flea markets are famed for their second-hand items, but Encants Vells offers many new things.
Everything from jewelry to pet supplies to lighting fixtures to beds to household appliances, it’s all up here. This place is certainly not for bargain-hunting only. Tourists will find some must-have souvenirs in this market.
3. There’s something for everyone here, so you’ll never get bored
So many things to do—from browsing antiques to checking out handmade clothing or sampling sweets—you could spend your vacation here and still not see it all.
4. There’s a public auction
The market’s warehouse space, filled with goods in their original packaging, is open to the public on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays between 8 to 9:30 am. You can buy second-hand goods at different prices; the items are either new or used.
These auctions are perfect for people who like shopping for clothes, shoes, and accessories. If you like to take part in the auction, you must first register with the auctioneer.
5. You can eat here too!
This market is famous for its fare. If you are the kind of person who loves to eat, the food zone should be your first stop. There are many food stalls where you can have a drink and eat.
You can enjoy meat plates or tapas or try authentic Spanish dishes like paella or tortilla de patata. The prices are very affordable here too!
6. The market sometimes puts on events and entertainment
From time to time, the market hosts events like live performances and concerts. It is a fun place for anyone who likes live music and performances.
You can enjoy local bands or other talented artists. The shows often include fireworks and treats for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to verify the schedule in advance if you want to catch a big event like this.
Visiting Encants Vells Tips
- When looking for antiques or one-of-a-kind things, it’s best to arrive early.
- Saturday is often the busiest day of the week, so be prepared for little pushing and shoving.
- Try and haggle for the best deal.
- They’ve increased security, but keep an eye out for pickpockets!
Location
The new Encants Vells market is at the junction of Av. Meridiana and C/Castillejos, just across the La Plaça de Les Glories.
How to Get There
The closest metro station to Encants is the Glories metro station on the metro red line L1.
Opening Times
Barcelona Flea Market opens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Tourist Sites Nearby
- Agbar Tower
- La Rambla de Poblenou
- Disseny Hub Barcelona
Author’s Note
The Encants Vells market is an extensive and diverse place to look for anything and everything. It’s a great place to spend your time and take in Barcelona’s attractions as well as its food and local culture. With its affordable prices, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
This market is definitely worth the visit. The Encants Vells is one of Barcelona’s most recognizable landmarks, so visitors to this city will not want to miss out on this opportunity to visit one of the country’s oldest markets.
Find out the best places to see and things to do in Barcelona in our travel articles. Here are a few to get you started.
- La Rambla: The Best Things to Do in Barcelona’s Most Famous Street
- The 15 Most Delicious Markets in Barcelona to Visit as a Foodie
- Montjuïc Castle Segway Tour in Barcelona