21 Traditional Barcelona Souvenirs & Where To Buy Them
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Wondering what type of Barcelona souvenirs to bring home from your trip? Something authentic but practical, a little gift that brings back memories of your trip? Something that doesn’t break the bank? Well, hold on to your pantalones (pants in Spanish)… 🥸
My travel buddy Audra from Passports and Photographs has been to Barcelona more than a few times and has a passion for hunting down unique little souvenirs that make for great gifts. So this is her inside scoop on what to get that doesn’t suck or end up in the trash later, where to find traditional Barcelona gifts, and a few tips on how to make sure you’re not being swindled while shopping for souvenirs in Barcelona. Let’s dive in!
Forget the standard t-shirt or coffee mug. We’re going to explore all of the best and most authentic Barcelona souvenirs you can buy. My name is Audra, and I love me a good souvenir, especially from one of our favorite cities in Europe, Barcelona.
Here are my top picks, and I’ve chosen them because they are truly authentic Barcelona souvenirs, unique to the Catalan culture, wit, and way of life.
✅ Catalan Food – From cava to chocolate, walk through La Rambla Market, aka Sant Josep Market, aka La Boqueria, and take home as much as you can. Check the TSA requirements, but I’m sure you can check at least 2 bottles with no problem. Maybe skip the dairy products.
✅ Caganer Figurine (💩) – You probably haven’t heard of this before, but you’ll see them! It’s the most unique and authentic Barcelona souvenir – a mini pooping figurine. Why is this even a thing? I’ll explain later…🙈
✅ Anything Gaudi Art Inspired – The city of Barcelona would not feel the same without the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi, such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. A great Barcelona souvenir is anything representing his colorful mosaic work – I have a Gaudi tea mug at home!
✅ Barcelona Street Art – Street art always makes an excellent souvenir whether it’s a painting, a little sculpture, or a small print. I bought a few Barcelona cityscape prints from a street artist that I’ve framed and now make up a gallery wall in my bedroom!
Now let’s jump into the full list for your inspiration and education on what the heck some of these things are, and why they make for a fantastic souvenir from Barcelona.
Barcelona Souvenirs: Unique & Authentic
My husband and I have built a bookshelf at home to show off all of the treasures we bring back from our travels. Our bookshelf brings me great joy when I look at it, because it reminds me of all the amazing places we’ve been over the years. But there’s always room for more memories (and more souvenirs). Here are a few of our favorite souvenirs from Barcelona, in no particular order.
1. Anything Gaudí
Barcelona was home to Antoni Gaudi, the architect who is responsible for some of Barcelona’s most famous sites such as La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. These are probably on your list of things to see in Barcelona, so you can grab a little gift while you’re there!
Gaudi was known to use colorful mosaics in his designs and you can find all sorts of Gaudi souvenirs in his style. From mosaic lizard figurines, ceramic tiles and plates that I particularly love because they’re useful around the house, or even miniature replicas of Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.
I proudly sip coffee from a mug shaped like the Sagrada Familia, and I’ve purchased a Gaudi-themed puzzle for the family that may or may have not taken longer to put together than it has to build the church itself.
2. A Caganer Figurine 💩
So this souvenir will be the most unique item on my list, possibly on ANY souvenir list. A Caganer Figurine is very popular in Barcelona, and a tradition for Christmas.These figurines depict a person defecating. Yes, you read that right! The word “caganer” translates to “the crapper” or “the sh*tter”.
It’s a quiky Catalonia tradition that has been around for centuries. The pooping guy symbolizes fertility, prosperity, and good luck. The act of 💩 is supposed to be a symbol of fertilization of the earth. These figures are made of clay and the designs now include famous people such as sports figures, actors, and politicians. Nothing says ‘Tis the Season like a Caganer Figurine!
3. A Bota Bag
If you’ve never heard of this before, you’re not alone. A Bota Bag is a traditional Spanish leather drinking bag made from goatskin. Sounds pretty weird, huh? These bags have been in use in Spain for centuries to carry and store liquid. Before HydroFlask, there was Bota Bag.
They’re used to carry water or wine (liking it a little more now) and are generally used for outdoor activities such as hiking or camping, but choose your own adventure. Thinking outside the box here, maybe concerts or floating down a river.
How I Use It: If you don’t think you could ever bring yourself to drink from it, then you could just hang it on the wall as a decorative piece of art.
4. FC Barcelona Jersey
If you’re a soccer fan, then a Barcelona FC jersey is exactly what you need to level up! Head over to the official Barça Merchandising Shop to pick up a jersey, hat, scarf, kid games, and more. They don’t ship everything, so make sure you head into a local store while in Barcelona. Don’t worry about fashion faux pas – strut the streets like you just scored the winning goal.
Futbol Fan Warning: Wearing a Barça jersey might lead to spontaneous chants of “Barca! Barca!” from fellow fans.
5. Espardenyes Shoes
Espardenyes, also known as espadrilles, are traditional Spanish shoes that are very popular to wear in the summer. These shoes have a distinctive design: the upper part of the shoe is made of a canvas or cotton fabric which allows it to breathe while the sole is made from natural jute or other plant fibers – sort of like TOMS. Your feet will stay cool even if the rest of you is in the middle of a summer heat meltdown!
Espardenyes are super comfy and symbolize the laid-back Mediterranean style. They’re also quite practical – you can wear them with a dress, at the beach, and I’ve even seen guys on the streets of Barcelona dress down a casual suit with some Espardenyes. Oh yea, and they’re unisex!
6. Catalan Flag
Spain might have an official flag but if you want to show how much you love Barcelona, snag a Catalan flag as a souvenir. As a proud owner of a VIP ticket to the ultimate Barcelona fan club, you can drape yourself in the Catalonia colors while you wait for your café con leche to kick in.
This, I will admit, is the ultimate die-hard Barcelona souvenir, because it’s just not that practical – but who am I to judge?!
7. Flamenco Fan
Flamenco is a deep-rooted and iconic style of dance from the south of Spain, and the flamenco fan is an integral tool of expression (and cooling) used by the dancers. These handheld fans are adorned with intricate designs and are a beautiful representation of Spanish culture.
I have a couple of super unique Flamenco fans on my bookshelf of souvenirs, some from Barcelona, others from Malaga, Sevilla, and the Andalucian region of Spain. And since you’re in this hot ass country, you have an amazing portable breeze generator you can break out anytime you need it.
8. Barcelona Street Art
Buying local art and street art in Barcelona is like adopting a piece of the city’s spirit. I didn’t used to consider this a souvenir, but as soon as I saw some of the paintings and prints in Plaza Cataluña and La Rambla, even in the little shops in El Born neighborhood, I quickly changed my mind.
Now I have two handmade leather purses, an embroidered necklace made out of upcycled materials, three Barcelona cityscape prints, and a journal with my name embossed in the leather and the date I got it in Barcelona. Remember, art is subjective so trust your instincts and up your décor game from a local artist.
Barcelona Souvenirs: Food
My best advice is this – turn your suitcase into a snack sanctuary. Food souvenirs are like little edible postcards and the best part is they won’t sit on your shelf gathering dust.
PRO TIP: You can pack food in your carry-on and checked bag, just review the TSA restrictions. Off the bat, wine, champagne, and cheeses are allowed, you just have to pay attention to the quantities and the packaging.
9. Cava
You cannot leave Barcelona without bringing home a bottle of cava. Cava is a sparkling wine from the Catalonia region of Spain. It’s similar to Champagne but has its own distinct flavor, and is made from Spanish grapes. The flavor profile is that of crisp fruity tastes, with hints of citrus, green apple, and flowers.
TSA says you can bring up to 5 Liters per passenger, and if that’s not an invitation to buy local booze, I don’t know what is!
10. Jamón Iberico
When you visit Barcelona you will for sure see these giant legs of ham hanging in shop windows. The Iberian ham has been a part of Spanish cuisine for centuries and the slow process of curing the ham has been passed down for generations.
Jamon Iberico (Iberian ham) is usually served during parties and is always part of a tapa menu. Buying Iberian ham is like choosing a life partner – there are plenty of jamóns in the sea and, each one has its own unique charm. I’m getting existential about cured meats.
11. Cheese
Get ready to say QUESO! Spain has a rich tradition of cheese-making and you can find a diverse selection of cheeses in Barcelona. Go on a shopping spree for cheese in La Boqueria as you ponder the biggest decision of your life: does this one go with red or white wine?
12. Turrón Candy
Turrón is a sweet nougat candy made from almonds, honey, sugar, and egg whites. It’s pretty much the rockstar of Spanish sweets that makes all regular nougats bow down.
There are two main types of Turrón: Hard (Turrón Duro) and Soft (Turrón Blando). Turron Duro has a firm crunchy texture while Turron Blando is smooth and creamy. Both come in a bunch of different flavors such as cinnamon and citrus and are sometimes made with chocolate. This will definitely put a pep in your step – and give you a sugar high!
13. Cacao Sampaka
If you’re not a fan of nougats, maybe your taste buds will prefer something a little more fancy, like a Cacao Sampaka. Think Willy Wonka but with fewer Oompa-Loompas. Cacao Sampaka is a Barcelona-based chocolate company and their chocolates are so fancy, that they have their own red carpet events.
You can find these chocolates infused with flavors such as coffee, fruits, and spices. It’s a true chocolate experience that might have you wondering if it’s socially acceptable to take it as your plus one to a party.
Did you know that Barcelona has a chocolate museum? If you love chocolate then you definitely should head over to MX Museu de la Xocolata and learn about how chocolate is grown, how it came to Europe, and see all the amazing chocolate sculptures.
14. Olive Oil
The Catalonia region of Spain produces its own olive oil and this is one souvenir that won’t disappear as fast as those chocolates. Spain produces various types of olive oil, but you can find the local variety in Barcelona markets and specialty shops. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the highest quality and a true authentic Barcelona Spain souvenir. Your taste buds will be doing the flamenco in gratitude!
Barcelona Souvenirs: Cheap
If you’re on a strict budget and have to navigate the souvenir shops like a secret agent armed with a list of must-haves that won’t break the bank, then this list is for you. Remember – it’s not about the price tag, it’s about the memories.
15. Postcards
Postcards are cheap and so easy to take back home and have the magic of turning every traveler into a storyteller. I always grab at least one postcard that shows off the major sites to visit in the area as well as a postcard specific to a place we visit.
Here are a few ideas for what you can do with your postcards:
- Put them up on your fridge or a big corkboard in your office.
- Create a travel journal with your postcard. On one side of the page is your postcard, on the other side is a write-up about your experiences there.
- Do what I do: I write on the back of a postcard about my day while there – what I saw, where and what we ate, and anything that happened. Then I put them in a box, take them out, and reminisce about our trip whenever I want. Sometimes I even hang them up!
So scour the postcard stand and select the perfect one that makes your vacation seem way more saturated than it actually is – because let’s be real, only you will know the true colors of a place.
16. Christmas Ornaments
Nearly every souvenir shop sells these tiny little things that turn your Christmas tree into a scrapbook of your global travels. They’re fairly inexpensive and an ornament is the perfect sentimental keepsake from Barcelona. Hang it on your Christmas tree every year to remind you of all the amazing places you’ve been. It’s a fun way to relive those moments that hold a special place in your heart.
My Christmas tree currently holds hundreds of dollars worth of ornaments from around the world, and a few Target globes, and it’s the most festive little tree in the neighborhood.
17. Magnets
Magnets are a classic souvenir that is lightweight, easy to pack, and super affordable. It also serves a practical purpose whether on your fridge or a magnetic board, holding up all those Picassos your kids have painted. The hardest part will be trying to pick the perfect one so as to not compete with the artwork. 🤣
18. Barcelona Ceramic Tiles
A great Barcelona souvenir is traditional Spanish tiles, featuring colorful designs inspired by Gaudi’s mosaics. This is another one of my personal budget-friendly souvenirs. I have a collection from the many places I’ve visited and plan to make a side table with them for my patio one day. They are only about 3 inches in length and are easy to take back home.
Barcelona Souvenirs: Online (Amazon)
If you have a case of “souvenir amnesia” and forget to buy a souvenir, redemption is just a click away! Turn this souvenir faux pas into an online treasure hunt on Amazon. No shame in the online game!
19. Barcelona Coasters
Coasters are always a win, and these Barcelona Map Coasters are cute. Picture yourself hosting guests and subtly flaunting your navigational prowess as you casually mention how you can find Sagrada Familia blindfolded.
Plus, it’s also multifunctional. It’s not just a coaster; it’s a crisis-prevention device that protects surfaces from hot beverages.
20. Barcelona Tote Bag
A tote bag is a stylish carryall that’s more than just a bag; it’s a portable piece of Catalan flair! Get yourself an Amazon-delivered Gaudi-inspired tote bag that screams “why yes, I’ve been to the land of paella and flamenco.” It’s not only practical for the grocery store but it’s an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags.
21. Barcelona Inspired Phone Stuff
A Barcelona Phone Case is a sleek guardian of your device that’s also quite cute. Protect your phone while having a constant reminder of your trip to Barcelona. You can find them for iPhone and Android cell phones.
Best Places To Shop In Barcelona
I hope your credit card has no transaction fees because Barcelona is made for shopping. Here are the best places to shop and a few stores I like.
✅ Colmado Murra for wine, cheese, and cold cuts.
✅ La Manual Alpagatera is an espadrilles shoe shop I like.
✅ Ringels is a souvenir shop that specializes in art, Spanish cuisine, and wines. All of their products are made in Spain and their store sits about 500m from the front side of Sagrada Familia.
✅ Artgaudi is great for Gaudí inspired stuff.
✅ Nuestras Tiendas has four locations in Barcelona. They sell books, maps, frames, tote bags, keychains, jewelry, and more. Everything they sell is crafted by local artisans so you will definitely get an authentic souvenir.
✅ Santa Eulalia is an old-school Catalunian haute couture boutique store – great for my ladies shopping for cute clothes from Barcelona.
How To Pick A Good Souvenir From Barcelona
Picking a good souvenir involves a blend of personal preference, cultural connection, and practical consideration. Here are a few guiding principles for picking the perfect Barcelona Souvenir, from me to you.
✔️Find a Personal Connection
What you bring home as your souvenir is very personal. Choose something that has meaning to you whether it’s a piece of art or a soccer jersey. It should remind you of a good experience.
✔️Go For Local and Authentic
Take your time in souvenir hunting and try to get something made locally that reflects the culture of Barcelona. Buying locally supports the local artisans and businesses, and that’s always nice.
✔️Functional and Practical
Choose items that serve a purpose. Is what you’re buying useful? Will this souvenir stand the test of time? Try to buy something that is of good quality, and won’t fall apart a month after you get back home.
FAQ: Shopping for Souvenirs in Spain
Here are a few logistical questions that come up when shopping for a souvenir in Spain and Barcelona especially.
What is the most popular souvenir?
Barcelona’s top souvenirs are Cava, an FC Barcelona Jersey, and Park Guell Lizard figures. All of these can go in your check-on bag except maybe the Cava, which you will have to put in your checked bag or buy at the duty-free store after security.
What’s Barcelona famous for?
Barcelona is most famous for the architectural works of Antoni Gaudi which include his two most popular buildings: La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. Beyond that, Barcelona is famous for its soccer team, paella, tapas, and sangria, and the funny way they speak Spanish with a lisp. There’s a reason the dialect is unique in this way, but that’s a story for another time.
What souvenirs are found in Spain?
Spain has everything, and Barcelona especially is a souvenir shopping haven. Some of the most popular souvenirs from Spain include:
- Ceramics and Pottery, especially from regions like Andalusia and Valencia. Look for hand-painted tiles, vases, or plates with traditional designs.
- Spanish Fan (Abanico): They come in various designs, from simple wooden ones to elaborate, hand-painted ones.
- Flamenco Music Stuff: Accessories like castanets can be a unique gift. For those passionate about dance and music, a Flamenco skirt or a shawl might be an idea.
- Saffron and Spices: Spain is famous for its high-quality saffron, used in dishes like paella. Other spices, like smoked paprika, also make great gifts.
- Wine and Olive Oil: Spain is one of the world’s top wine producers, with regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero offering fantastic varieties. Don’t forget the high-quality olive oil, because where there’s wine, there’s oil.
- Jamón Iberico: A delicacy, appreciated by foodies worldwide. You can find beautifully packaged ham for easy transportation.
- Fútbol Memorabilia: For fútbol (soccer) fans, jerseys from FC Barcelona or Real Madrid are great gifts.
- Leather Goods: Spain produces excellent leather shoes, bags, and belts. Look for handmade items for a special touch.
- Traditional Jewelry: Spanish jewelry, often featuring intricate designs and sometimes incorporating elements like Spanish gold and Toledo steel, can be a wonderful gift.
- Espadrilles: Another item on our list, these comfy shoes are perfect for walking and exploring.
Each of these items offers a taste of Spain’s rich culture and traditions, making them perfect souvenirs for friends and family, and a way to remember your own Spanish adventure.
Is it cheaper to buy things in Spain?
Things in Spain are generally cheaper than in the United States for example. Groceries and clothing are among some of the most affordable things in Spain, which a lot of our Barcelona souvenirs list is crafted around.
Final Thoughts: The Best Souvenir From Barcelona
Remember, the best souvenir is the one that brings back fond memories and gives you a connection to the destination you were at. My top picks of authentic Barcelona souvenirs are:
✅ Catalan Food – From cava to chocolate, walk through La Rambla Market, aka Sant Josep Market, aka La Boqueria and take home as much as you can. Check the TSA requirements, but I’m sure you can check at least 2 bottles with no problem. Maybe skip the dairy products.
✅ Caganer Figurine (💩) – You probably haven’t heard of this before, but you’ll see them! It’s the most unique and authentic Barcelona souvenir – a mini pooping figurine. 🙈
✅ Anything Gaudi Art Inspired – The city of Barcelona would not feel the same without the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi, such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà. A great Barcelona souvenir is anything representing his colorful mosaic work – I have a Gaudi tea mug at home!
✅ Barcelona Street Art – Street art always makes an excellent souvenir whether it’s a painting, a little sculpture, or a small print. It’s an authentic expression of the local culture with a bonus of supporting a local artist! I bought a few Barcelona cityscape prints from a street artist that I’ve framed and now make up a gallery wall in my bedroom!
Take your time looking for your souvenir and choose one that genuinely speaks to you and your travel experience. The perfect gift doesn’t exist, but it should hold sentimental value in the future and spark amazing memories of your time in Barcelona.
