Shopping in Spain vs. USA: A Guide to Popular Brands in Spanish Malls

For American expats in Spain, shopping malls offer a mix of international brands, Spanish fashion staples, and homeware stores. While Spain has many familiar brands, some well-known U.S. retailers don’t exist here—or operate under different names.

At 247 Expat Insurance, we help expats adjust to life in Spain, from health and home insurance to everyday expat lifestyle tips. This guide breaks down the brands you’ll find in Spanish shopping malls, categorized by men’s, women’s, kids’, homeware, and department stores.

Major Shopping Malls in Spain

• El Corte Inglés – Spain’s biggest department store, with luxury fashion, electronics, and home goods.
• La Cañada (Marbella) – A popular shopping center with Zara, H&M, Apple, and luxury brands.
• Gran Via 2 (Barcelona) – A mix of affordable and high-end stores.
• Plenilunio (Madrid) – Fashion, entertainment, and home brands.
• Puerto Venecia (Zaragoza) – One of Spain’s largest malls, featuring Spanish and global retailers.

Shopping in Spain blends global brands with Spanish staples, offering great fashion, homeware, and lifestyle stores.

For a list of the biggest shopping centres in Spain take a look here.

Brands You’ll Find in Spanish Malls – Categorized

Women’s Fashion Brands in Spain

Spanish brands like Zara, Mango, and Stradivarius dominate women’s fashion, offering trendy, affordable styles.

Men’s Fashion Brands in Spain

Spanish men’s fashion brands focus on smart-casual wear, with options ranging from formal styles to street fashion.

Kids’ & Baby Brands in Spain

Zara Kids, Mango Kids, and Mayoral are Spain’s go-to brands for stylish and affordable children’s fashion.

Homeware & Furniture Brands in Spain

Spain’s homeware brands offer elegant, minimalist designs, with Zara Home leading the market for stylish home décor.

Department Stores & Luxury Shopping in Spain

El Corte Inglés is Spain’s biggest department store, with sections for fashion, electronics, and homeware.

Shopping Differences – USA vs. Spain

• Store Layout – U.S. malls are larger, while Spanish shopping centers are more compact.
• Sales Seasons – Spain has two major sales periods: January (Rebajas de Invierno) and July (Rebajas de Verano).
• Store Hours – Many Spanish stores close for siesta (2 PM – 5 PM) and may close on Sundays.
• Luxury Shopping – Spain has more accessible high-end brands, with lower prices on luxury goods like Loewe, Balenciaga, and Carolina Herrera.
• Returns Policies – Stricter in Spain compared to the U.S.‘s flexible return system.

Spain’s shopping experience is more relaxed and seasonal, with a focus on quality over convenience.

How 247 Expat Insurance Helps American Expats in Spain

Moving to Spain? 247 Expat Insurance provides:

• Health insurance – Private coverage meeting visa requirements.
• Home insurance – Protect your property in Spain.
• Car insurance – Spanish car insurance for U.S. expats.
• Travel insurance – Coverage for trips between the U.S. & Spain.

📩 Get a free quote today!

Disclaimer

Brands and store availability vary by location. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice.