Barcelona Tapas Food Tour in El Born

Taste your way through the Catalan capital on our award-winning Barcelona Tapas Tour. We handle the details so you can skip the crowds and enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine made by locals. Food is central to Catalan culture, and there’s no better way to experience it than by sharing tapas with fellow foodies. Over two and a half hours, you’ll visit four top tapa spots across the Gothic Quarter and El Born, sampling classic small plates and local drinks while uncovering hidden cultural gems. Along the way, see Roman ruins, charming squares, and landmarks like the Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar. From patatas bravas and pimientos de Padrón to crispy fried fish, croquettes, paella, and a traditional Catalan dessert, you’ll taste the best of Spanish and Catalan gastronomy, paired with wine, vermouth, and cava. Perfect for friends, families, and solo travellers, this social experience is the ideal way to meet fellow food lovers and discover Barcelona like a local, with a local guide.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   15 min

   Meet your friendly local guide at Pl. de Correus, 1, near the main post office in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Look for the yellow Carpe Diem Tours flag or sign. Please arrive 10 minutes early, as the tour begins promptly and no refunds are available for late arrivals.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   20 min

   At the heart of Catalan cuisine, the Gothic Quarter is a must-visit for any foodie. Explore Barcelona’s oldest neighbourhood through its flavours, starting at a family-owned tapas spot. Sample Spanish classics like croquettes, patatas bravas, and pimientos de Padrón, perfectly paired with a glass of local wine.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   15 min

   This family-owned bodega has been doing things the right way since 1945. With only four tapas on the menu, it showcases the no-frills soul of Spanish cooking. Just steps from the port, we’ll eat like the sailors did long ago, sharing cones of crispy boquerones, sampling traditional Catalan butifarra sausage, and washing it all down with a pour from a porrón and a glass of Spanish vermouth. *Due to seasonal holidays, weekend availability, and weather conditions, we may not be able to go to this spot but we will compensate by ordering additional food at another stop or replacing this spot with another venue.*

4. 4

   Stop 4

   10 min

   We’ll wander through the city’s oldest neighbourhood marvelling at former Roman walls and towers on our way to the next food stop.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   10 min

   After leaving the Gothic Quarter we'll head to the bohemian El Born where we'll wander down picturesque alleyways, window-shopping at artisanal shops and art galleries.

6. 6

   Carrer de Montcada

   15 min

   Learn the story behind tapas in the lively setting of a classic pintxos bar, inspired by the Basque Country. Then dive in, selecting your favourite pintxos straight from the bar.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   5 min

   Before our final stop we'll see one of Barcelona's most stunning basilicas.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   30 min

   We’ll return to the Gothic Quarter for the grand finale: a hearty paella, a glass of sparkling cava, and a classic Spanish dessert that will make you fall in love with Barcelona all over again.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Alcoholic beverage will only be offered to travellers who are 18 or older
• Gluten-free or vegan diets cannot be accommodated. However, vegetarian options are available. Please inform the activity provider about dietary restrictions in advance

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.