Barcelona Old Town Tapas Tour: Vermouth, Bites & Hidden Gems

Barcelona , Spain

Barcelona Old Town Tapas Tour: Vermouth, Bites & Hidden Gems

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

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About this experience

Join this food envy-inducing Barcelona tour for three hours of sightseeing and food tasting. Join locals as they indulge in the fine art of eating and drinking, something Spaniards are champions at. By the end of the tour, you'll not only be familiar with some local tapas and drinks but also with some hidden secrets of the Old Town. The small-group food tour is limited to a maximum of 12 guests.

Available options

Small Group Tapas Tour

Private Tapas Tour

What's included

Explore the Gothic & Jewish Quarters with a local guide

Taste 8 traditional Catalan tapas, including croquettes, patatas bravas, and more

Get insider tips on the best local bars & eateries

Discover hidden gems & authentic neighborhood spots

Enjoy 4 local drinks — beer, vermouth, wine & more

See iconic sights like the Cathedral & Picasso’s artwork

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your local English-speaking guide and begin your journey through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Kick off the evening at a historic bar with a cold local beer and your first taste of authentic tapas. As you stroll through the atmospheric medieval streets, you’ll learn about the area’s rich history and hidden corners. Your next stop is a family-run bar, where you’ll sample Catalan cold cuts and the beloved pa amb tomàquet, paired with a glass of wine — just like the locals do.

Next, step into the heart of the Jewish Quarter, where a hidden bodega with a charming cellar awaits. Sip on a glass of vermut or cava and dive into a delicious spread of homemade croquettes, patatas bravas, padrón peppers, and sausage in cider sauce. Along the way, you’ll uncover stories of the neighborhood’s layered history and learn how these flavors reflect Barcelona’s culinary traditions.

Stop 3

Stop at one of the Gothic Quarter’s most peaceful and poignant hidden squares. Here, you’ll learn about its tragic history, admire its baroque architecture, and discover how this quiet corner reflects Barcelona’s layered past

Continue your walk through the Gothic Quarter as your guide unveils the secrets of Pont del Bisbe — one of Barcelona’s most photographed spots. Learn the legends behind its neo-Gothic design and discover why locals say walking beneath it brings either luck… or mystery.

Pass by the historic 'House of the City', home to Barcelona’s City Council, and uncover its role in the city’s civic life. Nearby, enjoy a surprise local sweet — a delicious treat that adds a final touch of flavor to your evening walk.

Stop 6

As the tour winds down, pass by the majestic Barcelona Cathedral and catch a glimpse of a striking Picasso artwork tucked into the cityscape. Your final stop is a traditional vermouth cellar — a beloved local spot where you’ll enjoy a glass of vermouth, a must-try drink that captures the spirit of Barcelona’s social culture.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

132 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

480 reviews

5★

468

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Is there a minimum age to join the tour? Yes — guests must be at least 14 years old to participate. This ensures everyone can fully enjoy the experience, especially the local drinks and evening atmosphere.

Is alcohol served to all guests? Alcoholic drinks are served only to guests aged 18 and over, in accordance with local regulations. Non-alcoholic options are available upon request.

How much walking is involved in the tour? This tour covers approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) on foot through the charming streets of the Gothic and Jewish Quarters. Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated on this tour? This tour offers a well-balanced gastronomic experience featuring traditional Catalan tapas. While some venues may not cater to all dietary needs, the tour is suitable for vegetarians, lactose-free, and non-celiac gluten-free guests. Please let your guide know in advance so they can assist where possible.

Can the itinerary or food offerings change? Slight changes may occur depending on the opening hours and crowd levels at the bars and restaurants visited. Rest assured, all venues are carefully selected and of equal quality, so you won’t miss out. Food inclusions may also vary based on availability, but the experience remains delicious and authentic.

Meeting point

At Metro Station Liceu (Meet outside at the glass elevators - on street level). Your guide will be wearing Intrepid Urban Adventures red sign. If you come with the Metro, please take the exit Teatre Liceu.

Important notes

Check-in Time
You must arrive at least 5 minutes prior to tour meeting time. The tour will begin on time and your check-in time is important. Out of respect for the other passengers we won't be able to accommodate late arrivals.

Dietary Notes
This tour was created as well- balanced and thoughtful gastronomy experience (local Tapas) and features visits to establishments that are not always able to cater to all dietary requirements. This tour is suitable for vegetarians, lactose free, and gluten free (non-celiac) customers. For any specific dietary request, we need to know 24 h before the tour start time by emailing us at barcelona@urbanadventures.com

Dress Code
Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

Additional Information
We reserve the right to change both the route and places visited within the tour. Food inclusions are subject to change, dependent on availability on the day.

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About Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. It seamlessly blends medieval history with modernist masterpieces, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Sagrada Família

Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, a stunning basilica that combines Gothic and Art Nouveau forms. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit.

Architecture 1.5-2.5 hours €26-€34 (depending on access to towers)

Park Güell

Another Gaudí masterpiece, this park features colorful mosaics, whimsical structures, and beautiful city views.

Architecture 1.5-2 hours €10 (Monumental Zone)

La Rambla

A famous pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, street performers, and the famous La Boqueria market.

Street 1-2 hours Free (shopping and dining costs vary)

Casa Batlló

A unique building designed by Gaudí, known for its surrealist design and colorful façade.

Architecture 1 hour €35-€45 (depending on the tour)

Gothic Quarter

The historic heart of Barcelona, filled with medieval streets, ancient buildings, and hidden plazas.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pa amb tomàquet

Bread rubbed with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, often served as an appetizer.

Snack Vegetarian

Fideuà

A paella-like dish made with short, thin noodles, seafood, and saffron.

Main Course Contains seafood

Crema Catalana

A Catalan version of crème brûlée, made with egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon.

Dessert Vegetarian

Patatas Bravas

Fried potato cubes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Montserrat Water sports in Barceloneta Rock climbing Beach lounging in Barceloneta Spa treatments Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak season offers pleasant weather and is ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The crowds are manageable, and the city is vibrant with festivals and events.

20°C to 28°C 68°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Catalan, Spanish
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Barcelona is generally safe, but like any major city, it has its share of petty crime and scams. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.
• Be cautious of fake petitions or distractions to steal from you.

Getting there

By air

Barcelona-El Prat Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Sants Station, Estació de França

By bus

Estació d'Autobusos Sants, Estació d'Autobusos Nord

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around quickly and affordably.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Eixample Gràcia Barceloneta Gothic Quarter El Raval

Day trips

Montserrat

50 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A stunning mountain range with a historic monastery, offering hiking, scenic views, and religious sites.

Girona

100 km from Barcelona • Full day

A charming medieval city with a well-preserved Jewish Quarter, a stunning cathedral, and a rich history.

Sitges

40 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its beaches, nightlife, and historic sites.

Festivals

La Mercè Festival • Late September Sant Jordi • April 23 Festa Major de Gràcia • Mid-August

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
Try local specialties like pa amb tomàquet, fideuà, and crema catalana at local markets and restaurants.
Use the T-Casual pass for unlimited travel on public transportation, which is more cost-effective than single tickets.
Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, and keep an eye on your belongings.