Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5.0
(6)

Barcelona Half-Day Experience: Landmarks, Delights & Paella!

Embark on our Barcelona Half-Day Tour to uncover iconic landmarks alongside our personal favorites.

Get one for discounts, free admission to museums and more!

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Starting your experience at 'Cafe Mauri', authentic treats, great coffee and a wonderful window display
  • Wind through the streets taking in the culture and the stories they hold, I was never once bored here
  • Next, a stop at Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrara. Why? You have to find out. One not to be missed
  • Move on to visit Casa Batlló which is often referred to as the ‘House of the Dragon’ you’re going to want to take photos. Share them with me
  • Then it's a stroll through the La Boqueria Market where we will sample some local delights and amazing surroundings
  • Never in one place too long, you’re off to, visit the Cathedral of Barcelona to find out why it rivals La Sagrada Familia
  • The big finish - an immersive Paella Cooking class with a traditional meal
  • A busy experience but one that takes in the best of the city culture, tradition and cuisine. I’m jealous I'm not coming with you

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Per person
Hosted experience lasting up to 6 hours
Private and tailored to your group only
Immersive walking experience between stops
4 item market food budget (budget can be increased at your request)
Paella cooking class with meal
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations)

What’s not included

Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Additional food and drinks
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Mauri, Rambla de Catalunya, 102, Eixample, 08008 Barcelona, Spain

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

This experience is led by an experienced and knowledgeable local host, selected by me to deliver the experience exactly as I lived it. (With a little more of course). There are some great stops included but just moving around this city will provide you with an experience that others would envy.

 

You’ll start your experience with a visit to 'Cafè Mauri', offering an outstanding selection of tarts, cakes, canapés, and other treats - all authentically Spanish. I loved starting my mornings here. The window display alone is a feast for the eyes and the surroundings invite you to watch the world go by.

 

Next, i’ve planned for you to make a stop at Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, one of Gaudi’s last great works. Make sure to ask your host why it has two names! It’s fascinating and so imposing. 

 

You’ll want to stay longer, but there is so much more to see.

 

You go on to visit Casa Batlló which is often referred to as the ‘House of the Dragon’. You’re not going to go in this time (but you should another day). Hear the stories of this magnificent building and get close to the facade to feel how it mirrors the waves of the sea.

 

This is a great place to get some photos, ask your host, they know the best spots!

 

Camera roll full? Good - time for some more treats. Take a stroll through the La Boqueria Market, an absolute must for anyone who even remotely considers themselves a foodie! Sample some local delights and enjoy the surroundings of La Rambla. It will be hard but leave some room, there is paella later.

Your penultimate stop on this adventure, your host will take you to visit the Cathedral of Barcelona. Not to be confused with La Sagrada Familia. Why would I send you here instead? Steeped in history, dark, almost foreboding, coated and sculpted in fine, fine detail. You won’t be disappointed. A masterpiece in the region.

 

Finally, the big finish. You end off your experience with an immersive Paella Cooking class, discover Paella -  Catalan style. the original "Catalan arrossada". You make it and get to enjoy eating it, washed down with beautiful homemade sangria.

 

It’s a busy experience but one that leaves you full and fulfilled. Relax now knowing you’ve immersed yourself in the best local culture, history and cuisine.

 

This experience is set out as I would do it, please feel free to tailor to your specific interests.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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What travelers think of this experience

Patty May 2025

We had a great time on this walking tour wi the Alan! He was very knowledgeable and enjoyable. The sights were spectacular and the market was our favorite!

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Patty May 2025

Alan was enjoyable and very knowledgeable about the city.

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Theodore May 2025

Anna was right on time and very knowledgeable about the history and architecture of the city. We made the mistake of scheduling when many shops were closed for siesta. She was still able to make it a very enjoyable trip for myself and wife. Thank you.

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Evelyn J May 2025

Great experience and Frederico was so knowledgeable and interesting. Took us places that we would never have found on our own. Enjoyed the entire experience.

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Terri May 2025

Exceptional guide, wonderful experience. Alfredo Sanchez was everything a guide should strive for interesting, humorous, experienced and kind. Our foodie tour was never dull, a culinary delight & the best of times. He made the Gothic quarter of Barcelona memorable. Would highly recommend Alf for any age group, outing or size.

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Terri May 2025

Our experience was made special because of our guide Alfredo Sanchez. He was gracious, personable and experienced. A well guided tour with explanations of culture, history and food was excellent. Our topas restaurants selection and assisted food selections were high quality and authentic. We would highly recommend a tour with Alf. We had a great time.

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