17 Unique Barcelona Souvenirs That Your Friends Will Love (By Locals and Visitors)
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Looking for the absolute best Barcelona Souvenirs to bring home to your friends and family? You’re in the right place.
Barcelona’s streets are riddled with local shops, luxury stores, and tourist traps! If you’re looking for something spectacular to bring home – something that they’ll actually love – I’m here to help!
I’ve been visiting Barcelona for years – and for the last few years – I’ve been living here! You could say I know a little bit about the city.
So, I’ve put together a list of gifts. Ones that have meaning, stories, and use. Don’t just go scrounging the airport for a last-minute idea. Consider your favorite people and find the perfect gift for them with this list of souvenir ideas!
1. Panot De Barcelona Gifts
El Panot de Barcelona is one of the city’s most iconic symbols. This concrete tile, typical of the streets of the Eixample neighborhood, measures 20×20 cm and is decorated with a flower of four petals.
This beautiful tile has been on the streets of Barcelona since 1906. Some people believe the Panot de Barcelona was designed by Modernist architect Josep Puig I Cadafalch, but there’s no written proof of it.
Its timeless and beautiful design makes it perfect for decorating many Barcelona souvenirs like coffee cups, t-shirts, and more. A more original souvenir with the Panot de Barcelona is this small purse with the Panot design. It’s ideal for storing coins or a couple of folded euros, which you should have on your packing list.
This purse is made of leather (although other materials are possible) and it will be a cute reminder of your trip to Barcelona. While I love this idea, you can also get something smaller with the pattern if you don’t have a ton of room!
2. A Gaudi Mosaic-Style Cup
If you are looking for a unique but useful souvenir from Barcelona for friends or family, a Gaudi mosaic-style cup is a great option. These aren’t very expensive, and you will make sure your souvenir isn’t stuck in the back of a drawer and is used.
However, it is also a good souvenir for yourself! Every time you take a sip of your morning tea or coffee, you can appreciate Gaudi’s architectural style and love for tiles, which can be seen in works like Park Güell or Casa Batlló. It will definitely take you back to your travels in Barcelona.
If you are on a hunt for these types of cups, you can find them in many souvenir shops across Barcelona, but you are less likely to find them in other Spanish cities like Malaga or Seville.
3. A Paella Pan
If you’re a foodie then a paella pan is a fantastic option to bring home. Paella is a classic Spanish dish! While it originated in Valencia, Barcelona is a great place to try paella and learn how to make it. Sitges is one of my favorite spots near the city to try it, and just a short day trip from Barcelona.
A paella pan is the only way to make paella properly, and if you took a paella cooking class in Barcelona during your trip, you’ll have the recipe and technique to take home with you as well.
This souvenir works well for anyone who loves to cook or eat. I’ve brought back lots of wonderful memories from Barcelona to impress friends and family with this delicious (and famous!) dish.
You can find paella pans at any ferretería hardware store in Barcelona, as well as some larger supermarkets with a kitchenware section. You can even find them at the airport if you are looking for a last-minute souvenir!
4. Catalan Honey
If you'd like to bring home a locally produced gift from Barcelona, Catalan honey is the perfect idea. In the wonderful nature around Barcelona, many beekeepers produce organic honey.
So you can find different kinds of honey in Catalonia – from wild mountain honey to eucalyptus honey.
It's a great gift for anyone who values handmade, natural products, no matter if you want to bring home something for your family, your friends, or yourself.
Honey is also an important ingredient in some local Catalan dishes, such as fried eggplants drizzled with honey. Go find it in your favorite tapas bar!
You can usually buy Catalan honey in small organic stores and at local markets. Markets are the perfect place to head to, especially when you're interested in hidden gems in Barcelona.
On weekends, there are many outdoor markets in different parts of Barcelona. Besides, Mercat de Sant Antoni is also a great place to look for Catalan honey.
5. Espardenyes (Espadrille)
If you're on the hunt for a quintessential Barcelona keepsake, consider the iconic Espardenyes. These stylish yet comfy shoes have been a local favorite for centuries and are still extremely popular with Spanish women from Madrid to Valencia and beyond.
The defining characteristic is the sole made of rope or reeds. The upper is traditionally canvas but can vary in material. Espardenyes can be flat or wedges and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
For the ultimate souvenir shopping experience, head to La Manual Alpargatera, a legendary espardenyes workshop in the Gothic Quarter. Castaner is another wonderful shop to check out.
If you don’t find what you are looking for in either of these, stroll Las Ramblas. You will find many shops and boutiques selling Espardenyes in all different sizes, colors, patterns and price ranges.
Espardenyes are a wonderful way to return home with a piece of Barcelona’s culture and look great doing it. You will get tons of wear out of them as they are comfortable and versatile. Every time you wear them you will be reminded of the fabulous city of Barcelona!
6. Catalan Pottery
Catalan pottery has traditionally been made from the unique clay that is found in the mountains of northeastern Spain along the France border.
Artisans used this clay to originally create handmade pieces and left them natural to show off the beautiful terracotta hues. Then they evolved to glazing them with bright colours and interesting patterns.
The pottery can be easily found in artisan shops or at markets and much of it is uniquely designed so if you see one you like, be sure to purchase it at that time as it is likely not something that will be duplicated (making this a truly unique option!).
My friend Kim of Explore Your Bucket List says pottery definitely reflects the festive spirit of Barcelona, making it a wonderful souvenir to bring home. With so many options – plates, bowls, mugs in all shapes, sizes, and colors - it is the perfect keepsake or gift to give.
7. Catalan Wine
Spain is renowned worldwide for its good, full-bodied wine, which is why the Catalans are also very proud of the excellent wine from their region.
While you may enjoy a glass or two during your trip to Barcelona, a bottle of wine also makes for an excellent souvenir for loved ones back home (e.g., friends, relatives, work colleagues, and, of course, for yourself to enjoy a glass of Catalan wine while looking through pictures of your Barcelona trip).
In addition to typical red wine, one of the most popular drinks among Spaniards, Catalonia is primarily known for producing white wine and sparkling wine, like the world-famous Freixenet.
Prices for wine vary greatly depending on the kind you choose, so this can be a budget friendly option. You can buy a single bottle in any supermarket for around €5. If you want to buy good quality, the cost is around €15-20. However, for high-end wine, there is practically no upper price limit.
Protect your wine with these reusable wine travel protectors - they work like a charm. I usually keep a few laying around to send home with friends that want to bring wine back to the states.
8. Abanicos
A lovely souvenir from Spain is the traditional hand held fan called the abanico. The Abanico has been a Spanish fashion accessory for over five centuries. These fans are adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors.
Designs can range from floral patterns to scenes from Spanish culture. Each one is a unique work of art! The abanico is deeply rooted in Spanish culture. Flamenco dancers often incorporate the fans into their performances as a symbol of grace.
Best of all, abanicos are designed to provide relief from the heat during the hot summer. You’ll spot Spanish women moving through the streets with abanicos in hand.
You and your family members will definitely appreciate having your own fan to stay cool as you take in the sights or enjoy Spanish tapas - especially if you're visiting July-September.
Albanicos can be found in many shops in the Gothic Quarter, and along Las Ramblas, says my friend Linda at On to New Adventures. So while in Spain, purchase an abanico to beat the heat while you are there, and bring a piece of Spanish culture back home!
9. Caga Tio
Caga Tio is the most popular toy in Barcelona at Christmas. Every household with children in Catalunya needs to have one!
It’s a log that locals create and believe it will poop Christmas present if they feed it well.
Each December, children either buy Caga Tio or create their own one. They find a log, paint a pretty face on it, and cover it with a red blanket.
Afterward, they feed it daily and take care of it until Christmas.
On Christmas Eve (24th of December), children come and beat Caga Tio up with sticks while singing a traditional song:
Caga tió
hazelnuts and nougat
do not fall herrings
they are too salty
poop nougats that are better
After, Caga Tio poops the Christmas presents for the children. So, it’s a Catalan Santa Claus.
You can buy Caga Tio at any Christmas market in Barcelona. It’s an interesting souvenir that will make every kid happy. You can even try implementing this Catalan Christmas tradition at your home.
10. Postcard
While it may seem dated or obvious, postcards make great souvenirs because it's personal and allows you to jot down memories for your loved ones. It's small and budget-friendly and won't take up any space in your suitcase!
Whether sending them to friends or using them as a mini travel journal, postcards are practical and heartfelt reminders and updates of your trip.
11. Turron
The Spanish delicacy makes for a great dessert - and everyone at home will love it. There are many different flavors, so you can find something for every taste. It is quite sweet, so everyone with a sweet tooth will appreciate the taste for sure.
You can buy Turron year round in Barcelona, although it is technically part of a Spanish Christmas tradition.
Turron can be found anywhere in Barcelona. Most touristic shops have it, especially at the airport or the cruise port.
But there are a couple of shops in Barcelona that only sell turron. I suggest going there for a small tasting before you commit to anything, says my friend Sabrina at New Mexico Insider.
12. Christmas decorations from Käthe Wohlfahrt
Finding unique souvenirs while traveling can be difficult since many places sell the same items. However, in Barcelona, you can easily find some fun and unique souvenirs.
One of the most unusual souvenirs are Christmas decorations from Käthe Wohlfahrt. It’s the cutest little shop selling Christmas decorations all year long. As soon as you enter the shop it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland, even in the middle of Barcelona’s hottest August days.
Another cool thing about this Christmas decorations shop is that it’s nestled in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, making it a hidden gem within one of the best areas in the city.
Strolling through the cobbled streets of the historic Gothic Quarter is one of the best things to do in Barcelona for free, and popping into the magical Christmas shop just makes the experience even better.
Christmas baubles or decorations are the perfect Barcelona souvenir for Christmas lovers of all ages, so you can remember your holiday each year during the festive season.
13. Spices
A practical (and tasty) souvenir to bring home from your trip to Barcelona is spices.
Spices are the perfect souvenir for friends and family who love to cook. They’re also a great way for you to recreate flavors of the delicious dishes you enjoyed in Spain. Food memories are some of the best!
Paprika is one of the most widely used spices in Spanish cuisine. It’s made from red peppers, which give paprika its distinctive dark red color. Or splurge and bring home some saffron and try your hand at making a paella! Try taking a cooking class to learn how to take advantage of all the flavors.
There are many markets in Barcelona where you can buy spices. The most impressive food market is La Boqueria – you can’t miss it if you’re exploring La Rambla. Besides spices, you can find a wide array of fresh produce, chocolates, and jamon iberico!
Visiting markets when you travel is an amazing way to experience local flavors whether you're spending a week in Spain or a day in Lyon!
Best of all, spices are light and easy to pack, even if you’re only traveling with carry-on luggage.
14. Flor de Barcelona jewelry
Flor de Barcelona jewelry is an elegant and classy souvenir to bring home as a memory from your girls’ getaway to Barcelona or for your girlfriends at home.
Flor de Barcelona, also known as Panot de Barcelona, is the flower motive found on the concrete tiles of the streets of Barcelona and has become iconic in the city.
The jewelry with the iconic motive comes in many different forms and sizes, including earrings, necklaces, and rings.
Most of the places selling the Flor de Barcelona jewelry are small local businesses. So while buying something special for your mum, sisters, or best friends at home, you can also support local Barcelona entrepreneurs.
My favorite place selling the flor de Barcelona jewelry is Marteliè. The designs are simple and the products good quality. However, you will find the jewelry in many small shops in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona.
The Flor de Barcelona jewelry is a great option if you are looking for a small, less touristic souvenirs to bring home from Barcelona.
15. Artwork
You absolutely cannot come home until you’ve purchased some artwork from Barcelona. You will find so many different beautiful works of art around the city. From Sagrada Familia to Parc Guell and Casa Batllo to Las Ramblas, there's no shortage of unique art surrounding the city.
Whether you’re purchasing this for yourself or for a loved one, artwork suited to the taste of the person you’re buying for will forever be appreciated. This is a perfect souvenir to take home and hang on your wall forever. You can even start collecting street art from each country you visit.
You can find various pieces of Barcelona artwork at many tourist attractions, but keep your eye out for some street artists too.
Street artists are one of the best places to purchase artwork no matter which country you’re visiting - you know that the money is being well spent on an original piece of work.
Fun Barcelona pro tip: If you purchase street art, share your new artwork from Barcelona on social media and tag the local artist.
16. Gaudi Mosaic Bull Figurine
A Spanish delicacy with a Barcelona twist - this mosaic bull figurine in the style of Antonio Gaudi. You will take home a piece of Barcelona's unique art. This figurine reflects the rich artistic atmosphere of the city and the influence of Gaudi, Barcelona's most famous Catalan architect.
His work defines Barcelona's architecture. Gaudi's famous technique is a type of mosaic made from broken tile shards. It is emblematic of many of Gaudi's works, the most notable being Park Guell.
The bull in Spain is not just any animal. It is a cultural symbol. It represents strength and passion in Spanish culture and tradition.
This souvenir is suitable for anyone who appreciates art and architecture or loves Spain and its cultural symbols, says my friend Maria at Map And Camera
You can find such souvenirs in gift shops all over Barcelona, especially near Gaudí's famous landmarks, in the Gothic Quarter, or along La Rambla.
17. Chocolate
From Barcelona street food to gourmet tapas to sweet treats, the capital of Catalan is a great destination for foodies. And for chocolate lovers, it is heaven.
Whether they’re dipping churros into chocolate, drinking hot chocolate for breakfast, or snacking on all kinds of bars, Catalans are obsessed with chocolate.
After all, chocolate, or xocolata as it’s called in Catalan may not ever have made it to Europe without Barcelona. More than 500 years ago, it was the first city on the continent to receive cocoa from Mexico.
You’ll see lots of chocolate shops in downtown Barcelona, even international brands from other countries. Hold out for one of the Barcelona brands like Chocolate Amatller.
Founded in 1797, this gourmet chocolatier mixes cocoa with oranges, strawberries, coffee, caramel, many kinds of nuts, and much more. Don’t know which one to buy? No problem, you can sample just about anything in their shop near Casa Milà.
Even More Ideas
- FC Barcelona Merchandise: For football fans, items like jerseys, scarves, or other memorabilia from FC Barcelona can be a prized souvenir.
- Catalan Donkey (Ruc Català) Souvenirs: The Catalan donkey has become an unofficial symbol of Catalonia. You can find it in various forms, from stickers and keychains to plush toys.
- Cooking skills! Take a cooking class and learn some authentic Catalan recipes to bring home
- Salt and pepper shakers: to go with those new cooking skills!
- Spoon rest: make sure their kitchen is fully stocked!
- Custom Magnets: This is one of my favorites: I get small custom magnets with my favorite photos of my trip to hang on the fridge.
- Espresso cups: If the coffee mug is just a little too big
- Porcelain Figurines: High-quality porcelain figurines from brands like Lladró or Nao, often depicting traditional Catalan scenes or famous Gaudí works, make elegant gifts.
- Magnets: Refrigerator magnets featuring landmarks, maps, or themes of the visited area are popular for their decorative and utility value.
- Keychains: Like magnets, keychains are small, portable, and often depict miniature versions of famous landmarks or cultural icons.
- T-Shirts and Clothing: Apparel that features city names, local sports teams, or regional jokes makes for a wearable souvenir.
- Shot Glasses: Collecting a shot glass from different places visited is a fun (and small) way to reminisce about travels during daily routines.
- Coins and Currency: Foreign currency or special commemorative coins is a low-cost souvenir option that holds historical value.
- Tattoos: for that permanent vacation feeling
- Stamps: For philatelists or even casual collectors, acquiring stamps from a destination is a lightweight and distinctive memento.
- Maps and Brochures: Free and informative! Maps and brochures from the visited areas are great for shadow boxes or even used in scrapbooks.
- Snow Globes: These decorative items often feature miniature scenic representations and are a whimsical way to remember a place by.
- Local Crafts: Items like pottery, weaving, or woodwork that are unique to the region and showcase local craftsmanship.
- Tea or Coffee: Specialty blends or beans that are local to the region can provide a sensory reminder of the destination through taste and aroma.
- Recipe Books: Cookbooks that focus on local cuisine allow you to recreate and enjoy the flavors of their journey at home.
- Tea Towels: Kitchen towels featuring local landmarks like Sagrada, recipes like Paella, or culinary themes are fun reminders of your travels
- Olive Oil: High-quality, locally produced olive oil is a flavorful souvenir to bring home as a new accessory for your kitchen.
- Modernist Tiles: Inspired by the modernist architecture of Barcelona, these tiles can be used as coasters or wall decorations.
- Salvador Dalí Inspired Items: Though more closely associated with Figueres, Dalí's influence permeates Catalonia.
- Caganer Figurines: These traditional Catalan Christmas nativity scene figurines are quirky and humorous souvenirs.
- Montserrat Liqueur: A herbal liqueur made by the monks of the Montserrat monastery
- Rare Books or First Editions: Especially those found in local languages or detailing regional history - perfect for your BookTok friends!
- Local Snacks and Sweets: Unique treats that can’t be found elsewhere, but make sure it can be brought back on the plane (ie: no pork or cheese)
- Interactive Art Kits: DIY kits related to a traditional craft or art form from the destination.
- Artisanal Soaps and Beauty Products: While this isn't my favorite to bring home, if you have friends or family that love collecting soaps, this is a great option.
- Astronomical Souvenirs: Like a star map from a significant night or location.
- Panellets: These are small almond balls covered in pine nuts, often eaten during the All Saints' Day festivities. They come in various flavors, including chocolate, coffee, and lemon.
- Fruits en Almívar: Seasonal fruits preserved in syrup, often served as a light dessert or snack.
FAQ:
What is worth to buy from Barcelona?
It's worth buying plenty of amazing food, art, and tickets to historic sites. In terms of things to bring home, wine, honey, oils, figurines, and jewelry are all popular.
What souvenirs are in Barcelona?
The most popular souvenirs in Barcelona are anything with Gaudi's art, such as mugs, posters, or figurines.
You'll also find jewelry and decor with the famous Flor de Barcelona symbol.
Nonperishable foods like honey, wine, and oils are also popular.
What to shop in Barcelona?
Clothes, purses, figurines, art, and cooking supplies like spices, wine, and oils are all frequently shopped for in Barcelona.
What's Barcelona famous for?
Barcelona is famous for it's most popular attraction, The Sagrada Familia. It's also known for famous artist, Antoni Gaudi's many works of art. And of course, Spanish tapas and cava wine.
Barcelona is also a beautiful coastal city on the Mediterranean. It's known as a party city with all-night beach clubs and fun.
Summary: Best Souvenirs to Bring Home From Barcelona
When visiting Barcelona, you can find a variety of unique souvenirs to take back home for everyone. For the foodie, consider bringing back some saffron, olive oil, or a bottle of Spanish wine.
Art lovers might appreciate a print from one of the city's many galleries or a handmade fan.
For fashionistas, look for espadrilles or jewelry inspired by Gaudi's architecture. If you're on a budget, small items like a tin of smoked paprika or a ceramic tile magnet make great gifts. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute airport shopping and make sure to pick souvenirs that suit your loved ones' tastes.
There's a unqiue souvenir option to bring home from Barcelona for every type of person, every friend and family member, and on any budget.
There are options that will take up more space or no space in your suitcase, depending on what you want to bring home.
Whatever you do, be sure to decide before you go so you're not stressing with last minute gifts at the airport! Hopefully this list has everything you need to wow your friends and family when you return.
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