Tapas in Barcelona

Tapas is one of the most iconic traditions of Spain and there’s no place better to try these moreish dishes than Barcelona.

Tapas tours in Barcelona enable you to dive headfirst into the mouthwatering foods that form Catalan cuisine. You’ll also learn more about the origins of this custom and why it’s still considered an important part of the Spanish lifestyle today. These excursions are fun for all the family and a delicious way to explore the city.

Read on to discover more about tapas tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Barcelona.

Which tapas tours in Barcelona are best for you?

Barcelona tapas tour

Explore Spain’s tapas culture on this food tour through its thriving capital. On a tapas tour in Barcelona, you’ll wander the streets as the sun sets, dipping in and out of several of the city's most esteemed bars, and restaurants.

You’ll sample traditional dishes, such as patatas bravas — a dish of potatoes simmered in a spicy tomato sauce — as well as cured meats and creamy bechamel-filled croquetas. You can expect to gain a thorough introduction to Catalan cuisine from your foodie guide, who will fill you in on each dish you try.

Tapas tour in La Boquería & Santa Caterina markets

Discover Catalan cuisine through locals’ eyes at some of the most historic markets in the city. You’ll begin this tapas tour by visiting Barcelona’s oldest marketplace —  La Boquería — which was originally founded in the 12th century. Here, you can stroll through stalls filled with fresh produce, from vibrant vegetables to cured meats.

Moving on, you’ll visit a bar where you’ll taste several of the region’s most celebrated dishes before continuing to Santa Caterina Market where you can discover a range of local foods while admiring its neoclassical architecture. End your excursion by feasting on calamari, Iberian ham and patatas bravas at a local restaurant.

Are there any combos available with tapas tours in Barcelona?

Montserrat half-day wine and tapas tour

You’ll make the journey north out of Barcelona and into the Montserrat mountain range on this half-day excursion, where you’ll pay a visit to the Benedictine Monastery Santa Maria de Montserrat.

There, you can discover one of the oldest relics of Christianity — the “Black Madonna” sculpture — and try local dishes lovingly prepared by the monks who live in this mountainside monastery. You’ll then move on to an award-winning winery, where you can amble through pristine vineyards and taste Catalan wines.

Where will you go?

Barcelona tapas tours travel through the different districts of the city, exploring the food culture in each.

One landmark that draws foodie lovers in is La Boquería Market, which has been operating for over 800 years, when vendors would sell fresh meat to the townsfolk of Barcelona. Today, it is a worldly market, featuring stalls from every continent, filled with fragrant spices, cured meats and juicy fruits.

Other popular destinations on a culinary tour in Barcelona include the Pueblo Seco neighborhood, where you can find dishes traditional of the region, such as paella and croquetas.

What's the price range for tapas tours in Barcelona?

A basic tapas tour in Barcelona costs typically costs about €60 to €70 per person, while a tour that also includes a visit to La Boquería is a bit pricier, costing €90 per person.

Culinary excursions that venture north to the Montserrat mountain range usually cost about €80 per person and are limited to groups of 20 guests.

What's included?

Tapas tours in Barcelona always include the services of a friendly and professional guide who will lead you to the best restaurants and bars in the city. Each excursion varies in how many dishes you’ll be able to try, with some offering a selection of three tapas dishes while others provide you with up to 12 samples.

Usually, these types of tours also provide you with several drinks along the way, including local wine.

Where do they start?

Tapas tastings tours in Barcelona begin all over the city. Starting points are usually easy-to-reach destinations that are recognizable and central, such as Plaza Real. You’ll be able to see the meeting point of each excursion before booking so that you can arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long do they last?

Tapas tours in Barcelona ordinarily last between 3 and 4 hours, which allows plenty of time to visit several food vendors and sample a wide variety of Catalan treats. If you opt for a Montserrat tour, you can expect it to last approximately 7 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Tapas tours in Barcelona are typically not suitable for wheelchair users.

What time of day and year is best for a tapas tour in Barcelona?

The best time for a tapas tour in Barcelona is typically in the late afternoon and evening, as this aligns with the local dining culture and ensures a vibrant atmosphere. Some establishments may also offer tapas as early as lunchtime, which can be a great option if you prefer daytime activities.

While you can go on a tapas tour any time of the year, for the most authentic experience, plan your gastronomic excursion in Barcelona during local festivals, such as La Mercè in September, when the city is brimming with energy and local traditions are on full display.

Is it safe?

Yes, tapas tours in Barcelona are generally safe and most travelers can participate. Make sure to inform your tour operator if you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies (such as seafood, nuts or dairy).

Are children allowed?

Yes, children are generally allowed to join tapas tours in Barcelona, provided they are accompanied by an adult. While some tour operators do not have minimum age requirements, others may only allow children over 16 to participate.

Travel tips

• Remember that Barcelona is a city that tends to eat late, with many tapas bars opening at 8 PM and not hitting their stride until 9 PM or later. Plan your schedule accordingly.
• Part of the charm of a tapas tour is getting to experience a variety of dishes from different places. Order a couple of tapas and a drink, then move onto the next bar.
• Some bars operate on a self-service system, where you pick your tapas from the bar counter. In others, you order from a menu. Be observant and follow the local customs.
• It's easy to lose track of time (and the amount of wine you're drinking) on a tapas tour. Remember to stay hydrated and pace yourself to enjoy the experience fully.