Walking Tours in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most-visited cities in all of Europe thanks to its incredible architecture, long golden beaches, buzzing nightlife scene and world-class cuisine. With the Mediterranean Sea right on its doorstep and a plethora of exciting things to see and do, Barcelona is undeniably an ideal holiday destination.

Walking tours in Barcelona provide an authentic yet affordable way to familiarize yourself with the metropolis and its many attractions. With a local guide leading the way, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about Catalan culture and what makes Barcelona so special.

Check out our helpful guide on walking tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing activities in Barcelona.

Which walking tours in Barcelona are the best?

Tapas and wine walking tour in Barcelona

Taste delicious tapas paired with traditional local wines on this food-focused walking tour of Barcelona. Your local guide will introduce you to the foodie scene as you visit some of the city’s best tapas bars. Some of the specialties you’ll taste include Iberian ham and ‘pan con tomate’.

In addition to tucking into tapas, you’ll also learn more about various landmarks as you walk through the city. Some of the places that you’ll see along the way include the Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Colom, El Born, Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar and Palau Dalmases.

This small-group tour allows you to choose between an afternoon or an evening tour to accommodate your preferences and schedule. Get to know more about local cuisine so that you know what to order throughout the rest of your stay in the city!

Gothic and Born Quarters walking tour in Barcelona

Step back in time and watch the past come to life with this tour of Barcelona’s famous Gothic and Born Quarters. Follow your English or Spanish-speaking guide through picturesque city squares and winding alleyways as you learn more about the Middle Ages and beyond.

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is an interesting mixture of old and new, and within just a few minutes you’ll see what makes this area so special. Visit Santa Maria del Mar, Palau de la Generalitat, Bishop’s Bridge and Sant Jaume Square among many other attractions.

Your guide will tell you fascinating stories about the area that will give you useful insight into the area’s history, culture and cuisine. Brush up on your Spanish history and learn about events that you may have never heard of before!

Barcelona free walking tour

Meet your enthusiastic tour guide in the Plaza de Catalunya, in Barcelona’s city center. From here you’ll begin your 2-hour walking tour that starts by walking along Barcelona’s most famous street—  La Rambla.

You’ll walk through the Gothic Quarter, the Jewish Quarter and the Born district with your guide leading the way. These are some of the most pleasant and interesting neighborhoods in the city and you’ll see a wide array of city squares, boutiques, cafés, statues and other landmarks.

Your free walking tour of Barcelona ends at the Fosa de les Moreras. This is the perfect tour for first-time visitors looking to gain a broad overview of the city’s history and culture. You’ll see some of Barcelona’s famous sites and learn about what makes the cosmopolitan so unique.

Gaudí and modernism free walking tour in Barcelona

Antoni Gaudí is one of the most famous and influential architects to have come out of Spain, and his most famous works can be viewed all over Barcelona. He is known for his unique approach to design, stunning facades and clear links to modernism.

The tour begins at the Manzana de la Discordia, where many fascinating works can be found. Some of the impressive architectural sights that you’ll see in this area include Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, among others. Next, you’ll hop on the metro to your final destination.

The tour ends at one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks—  the Sagrada Família, which is praised for being one of the greatest modernist buildings in the world. While this 2.5-hour tour is free, there are audio guides for hire and you’ll also need to pay for your own metro ticket.

Picasso walking tour in Barcelona

Immerse yourself in the colorful world of Picasso with this fascinating 2-hour walking tour that shows you around Barcelona’s bohemian districts. You’ll get to explore the neighborhood in which Picasso grew up in and learn about this iconic artist’s fascinating life and career.

The tour begins by visiting the Els Quatre Gats restaurant, where many artists and intellectuals used to meet. Next, you’ll make your way to the Architects’ Association building, the Llotja de Mar (where Picasso studied) and finally the Picasso Museum.

The walking tour includes a tour of the museum, where you’ll see some of Picasso’s most iconic pieces and learn more about the evolution of his revolutionary style. His later works, which include ceramics and engravings, are particularly interesting to see in person.

Which places will you visit?

Barcelona is such a large and diverse city that each walking tour tends to focus on a different aspect or area of the metropolis. You’ll find that some tours stick to the Gothic Quarter, while others explore Gaudí’s architecture in the city center or focus on trendy tapas bars.

The great thing about the diversity on offer is that there is the perfect walking tour for everyone. No matter whether you’re into sports, architecture, art, food or a little bit of everything— you’re certain to find the ideal walking tour for you.

Before booking a walking tour in Barcelona, it is a good idea to check specific itineraries to ensure that they align with your interests and preferences. If more than one type of walking tour takes your fancy, no one is stopping you from booking two or more!

What are common prices for walking tours in Barcelona?

Basic walking tours in Barcelona tend to cost between €20 and €30 per person. These tours don’t include any added extras but you’ll be led by a professional guide and gain an introduction to the city. Longer, more comprehensive walking tours may cost closer to €70 per person.

Food-focused walking tours in Barcelona usually cost around €100 per person, which includes several food and wine tastings. These tours are also usually slightly longer than your basic tour, as you’ll be visiting various tapas bars along the way.

What is included?

Basic walking tours in Barcelona are usually solely inclusive of your local guide and any entry fees that you may encounter along the way. Anything extra, such as food, drinks and souvenirs, you’ll need to pay for yourself.

Food-focused walking tours are typically inclusive of several food and wine tastings, and that is why these tours usually cost slightly more than standard tours. You won’t need to pay for any of the food and wine you taste during the tour.

There are a few ‘luxury’ private walking tours that are inclusive of hotel transfers, a professional guide and a meal.

Where do they normally start?

Walking tours in Barcelona usually begin at central landmarks such as Placa de Sant Jaume, Hotel Olivia Plaza and Plaza Cataluña. In most cases, your guide will provide a brief description of themselves so that you can easily identify them.

Remember to arrive at the starting point at least 5 minutes early so that you don’t keep the other tour participants or your guide waiting. Decide how you will reach the meeting point (public transport, walking or taxi) ahead of time.

How long do they typically last?

The typical duration of a walking tour in Barcelona is anywhere between 2 and 4 hours. Longer tours are great for those looking to gain a comprehensive experience, but can be taxing for those who are not used to walking long distances.

What's the best time of day for a walking tour in Barcelona?

The best time for a walking tour in Barcelona will depend on the type of walking tour you’re interested in. Architectural tours that visit Gaudi’s most popular works are best taken in the morning so that you can visit these attractions without them getting too busy.

In contrast, tapas and wine walking tours are best enjoyed after dark so that you can experience that authentic after-work atmosphere that Barcelona is known for.

Book your walking tour in Barcelona for the beginning of your stay in the city (preferably your first day). Walking tours act as practical introductions to the city’s attractions and Catalan culture, and you’ll also gain an understanding of the city’s layout.

Are there any combos available with walking tours in Barcelona?

Helicopter, sailing and walking tour in Barcelona

Discover the incredible city of Barcelona by land, air and sea with this unforgettable experience. Walk through the charming city streets, take a helicopter tour over Barcelona to enjoy panoramic views and embark on a sailing cruise on the Mediterranean Sea to see the cosmopolitan from a slightly different perspective.

Gourmet tapas walking tour with flamenco show in Barcelona

Visit some of Barcelona’s most popular tapas bars with your knowledgeable guide— tasting delicious local delicacies along the way. Your evening ends at a flamenco bar in Plaça Reial, where you’ll get to listen to flamenco music and be treated to a 45-minute flamenco show.

Walking tour with Montjuïc Castle and cable car in Barcelona

Explore Barcelona’s many diverse neighborhoods with your professional guide before you head to the Montjuïc Cable Car, which offers incredible views of the city. You’ll also visit the magnificent Montjuïc Castle and its infamous dungeons.

Bus and walking tour in Barcelona

Get a comprehensive overview of the city of Barcelona with this half-day experience that teaches you to navigate the city’s bus system. See some of Barcelona’s most iconic attractions in a leisurely and comfortable way.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothing (preferably activewear) for your walking tour in Barcelona.
• Book your walking tour in Barcelona ahead of time to secure your spot on the excursion that most appeals to you.
• If your walking tour takes place during the day, remember to wear sunscreen and bring sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring extra cash along with you should you want to tip your guide or purchase souvenirs.