Enjoy the Boqueria market 10 min walking distance from Hotel Continental Barcelona
Barcelona is known for many things, and its eclectic collection of sumptuous foods is certainly at the top of the list for many visitors. While there are plenty of restaurants which will serve up a tasty plate of “tapas” or provide you with a cold glass of homemade gazpacho on a hot summer’s day, there is nothing like experiencing what a large Barcelona food market known as “La Boqueria” has to offer.
Why has La Boqueria become an emblematic fixture throughout Barcelona, what you can expect to encounter, and how can the team at Hotel Continental ensure that you make the most out of what this amazing opportunity has to offer? Let’s take a deep dive into a combination of history, culture, and mouth-watering treats for all ages.
A Rich Past
Official known as the “Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria”, La Boqueria is one of the largest public markets within the Barcelona metropolitan area. It is located in the Cuitat Vella (Old City) district, and more than 20 million people frequent this market every year.
Believe it or not, the Boqueria Market in Barcelona was first mentioned in a text dating back to the year 1217. At this time, it represented a means for local vendors to sell meat. The footprint of La Boqueria continued to expand over the centuries, and it is thought that the name is derived from the Catalan term for goat “boc“. Therefore, La Boqueria can be roughly translated into English as “the place that sells goat meat“. Its strategic location relatively close to the port also provided opportunities for vendors from abroad; enabling Barcelona to represent one of most diverse destinations throughout the Middle Ages.
La Boqueria was officially recognised as a Barcelona food market in 1826, and local architect Mas Vilá began constructing the Modernist structure that now covers the internal stalls. It is also said that its current metal roof has existed since 1914. It’s therefore easy to appreciate why La Boqueria is one of the most well-known attractions that Barcelona has to offer.
What About the Food?
The good news is that your Barcelona food experience will involve much more than goat meat. La Boqueria is home to more than 200 food vendors. Some of these hail from the city while others arrive from far-off locations (such as Latin America and the Far East). Either way, there is indeed a flavour here to suit every palate.
There are still plenty of meats to be found here; many offering a freshness and quality that is simply not possible when visiting everyday supermarkets. However, meat is far from the only options. Visitors will come across many other types of produce including:
- Seafood
- Countless varieties of olives
- Sweets (ideal if you will be visiting with children)
- Organic eggs
- Fruits and vegetables
- Cheeses
- Fresh bread
La Boqueria and Hotel Continental: The Best of Both Worlds
Hotel Continental Barcelona is nestled within the heart of La Rambla, and only steps away from La Boqueria. Although we cannot trace our history as far back as this emblematic market, our property has nonetheless existed for nearly 100 years. This has enabled the Hotel Continental to represent a mainstay of the local community since 1931. We have likewise had the pleasure of catering to famous guests including George Orwell and John F. Kennedy; a clear indication of our status. Guests can likewise enjoy second-to-none amenities such as:
A Decidedly Convenient Location
The good news is that arriving here could not be more straightforward. All of the locals are familiar with the location of La Boqueria market in Barcelona, so help is never far off. It can be found along the famous pedestrian thoroughfare of La Rambla, and only a ten-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya. The closest metro stops to this market are Drassanes (Line 3), and Jaume I (L4). Note that bus and taxi services can likewise be used to arrive here. Convenience is therefore never called into question, and this brings up another important point.
- A free 24-hour buffet.
- Early-bird bookings.
- Seasonal offers.
- A selection of immaculate rooms.
- Balconies overlooking La Rambla.
- All the modern amenities that guests have come to expect.
We also take a great deal of pride in our knowledge of the local area. Would you like to learn more about La Boqueria? Feel free to ask one of our English-speaking staff members. Curious to appreciate the best sights on and around La Rambla? We are just as eager to provide additional assistance. Whether you will be arriving with friends, family members, or happen to be travelling solo, Hotel Continental Barcelona will cater to a variety of needs.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Even those who are not foodies will certainly appreciate all that this Barcelona food market has to offer. Boasting a history that can be traced back for nearly two centuries, and an entirely unique atmosphere, there is perhaps no better way to experience the heart of Barcelona.
Please feel free contact us if you require additional information, or if you would like to confirm a reservation. Be sure to bring a healthy appetite, as we are certain that you will be coming back for seconds!
