20 Best Barcelona City Tours (2024) – See All the Sights!

Exploring Barcelona through its city tours is like opening a book full of stories, history, and vibrant culture. There’s a tour for everyone, whether you’re into strolling through historic lanes or tasting your way through local cuisines.

I live in Spain and, even after all this time, every time I take a city tour in Barcelona, it feels like the city reveals a new secret to me.

So, what makes the best Barcelona city tours so special? Let me take you through the top tours that really make Barcelona worth visiting, with everything from the classic sightseeing tours to those unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that show a different side of the city.

Best Barcelona City Tours

1. Barcelona Half-Day Bike Tour

Who said getting to know Barcelona needs to be done on foot? Instead, hop on for the Barcelona Half-Day Bike Tour. 

This tour gives you the chance to cover some serious ground, including iconic sights that Barcelona is known for, such as La Catedral and Placa del Rei. And touring by bike is super chill, so you won’t need to worry about keeping up. 

This means you can keep your focus on soaking up the city’s amazing architecture and vibrant street life. Just don’t forget to bring your camera! 

2. Barcelona in One Day: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and Old Town with Hotel Pick-up

For those of you who want to see it all, the Barcelona in One Day tour is your golden ticket. It’s got everything: a trip to the fantastical Park Güell, a stroll around the historic Gothic Quarter, and of course, a visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia.

But the awesomeness doesn’t stop there. You’ll also get to ride around in style, taking in the city’s sights from the comfort of a luxury minivan. 

Plus, they’ll pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. Talk about traveling in comfort!

The icing on the cake? This tour also takes you to Montjüic Mountain for some panoramic views of Barcelona. 

3. Barcelona Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (24- or 48-Hour Ticket)

Okay, if you’re into charting your own course and want to see Barcelona your way, then the Barcelona Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour might be your best bet. Imagine cruising around on an open-top double-decker bus, wind in your hair, and a city full of treasures waiting to be explored – sounds fun, right?

This tour gives you the chance to visit the famous Sagrada Familia, which is pretty much the church to end all churches, it’s so impressive. You’ll also get to witness the unique mosaic-covered buildings and monuments at Park Guell, and if you’re a fan of Picasso, the tour takes you to the Picasso Museum that houses a big collection of his artworks.

Don’t forget to stroll down La Rambla and soak in the vibrant Barcelona nightlife. The medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter are a must-visit and you can hop off the bus to explore them anytime you like. 

4. Tapas and Wine Experience Small-Group Walking Tour

If you’re a foodie at heart, then let me tell you about the Tapas and Wine Experience Small-Group Walking Tour. Combining a pinch of history, a splash of wine, and a whole lot of tasty tapas, this Barcelona city tour is your ticket to seeing the city alongside its world renowned culinary scene.

You’ll stop by the city’s top tapas bars where you can sink your teeth into Catalan delights like ‘patatas bravas’ and ‘pan con tomate’. And of course, each tapa is perfectly paired with a local wine. It’s not just a meal; it’s a full-blown gastronomic experience.

And let’s not forget the walking part of this tour! You’ll explore Barcelona’s picturesque streets and squares, passing by iconic landmarks along the way. 

5. Full Day Private Tour with Sagrada Familia and Park Guell

If you’re keen on exploring Barcelona’s rich heritage, architectural marvels, and food scene, this tour will tick all your boxes. The Full Day Private Tour with Sagrada Familia and Park Guell aims to give you a comprehensive experience of what Barcelona has to offer. 

Doing a private tour while in Barcelona is ideal for those who want to pack as many highlights as possible into a single day, this tour ensures you maximize your time in the city, taking you through historic hotspots and Gaudí masterpieces. 

You’ll get to skip the long lines at Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, and a private guide will give you a deeper insight into these iconic landmarks. Included in your personalized Gaudí tour of Barcelona is lunch at a tapas restaurant, making your experience even more immersive and personalized (and tasty!).

6. Boat Trip, Cable Car Ticket and E-Bike Tour

For those who want to see Barcelona from every angle, the Boat Trip, Cable Car Ticket, and E-Bike Tour is a perfect fit. You’ll explore Barcelona by land, sea, and air, giving you a multi-dimensional perspective of this beautiful city.

Start with a guided e-bike tour around the city, heading to Montjuïc Mountain where you can admire the cityscape from a thrilling cable car ride. You’ll stroll around the Olympic Ring and the Montjuïc Castle, gaining a deeper understanding of Barcelona’s history.

Finally, cap off your tour with a great boat trip from the harbor to the Olympic Harbor. The views from the sea offer a fresh perspective on the city’s skyline. 

7. Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History

If you’re a foodie at heart, the Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History can’t be missed. This tour offers a mouthwatering journey through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, combining culture, history, and a variety of local tastes.

Join your local guide to explore four local hot spots, learning about the history behind classic tapas dishes while you sample them. From wine to cava and vermouth, you’ll enjoy an array of beverages that perfectly complement your food.

8. Barcelona Main Sights by E-Bike

The Barcelona Main Sights by E-Bike tour takes you on a guided exploration of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, giving you a chance to experience over 2,000 years of history. If you want a tour that combines a bit of physical activity with sightseeing, this is it.

Your journey begins at the Arc de Triomf, leading you through the historic neighborhood of El Born and on to the Basilica of Santa María del Mar. You’ll also venture into El Raval, another vibrant district teeming with culture and history.

9. Sagrada Familia and Barcelona City Sights Bike or E-Bike Tour

The Sagrada Familia and Barcelona City Sights Bike or E-Bike Tour is a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights. This guided 3-hour cycling tour lets you whizz through the city, taking in the culture, historical sites, and locals’ favorite spots.

You’ll pedal your way through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, feeling the city’s pulse, before heading to the serene green spaces of Parc de la Ciutadella. The tour also includes a trip to the city’s seafront area and the Port Olímpic Marina.

The climax of the tour, of course, is the world-famous Sagrada Familia. This tour will leave you awestruck by Gaudi’s yet-to-be-completed masterpiece. 

10. Barcelona Segway Sightseeing Tour

Up next, we have the Barcelona Segway Sightseeing Tour. This 2-hour tour will take you through Barcelona’s old and new neighborhoods, providing a unique and fun perspective on the city.

After a short training session to get you comfortable on your Segway, you’ll glide along the seafront promenade, absorbing the views and the Mediterranean vibe. The tour includes stops at the romantic streets of the Ciutat Vella and the Olympic Village’s tranquil gardens and open spaces.

The Segway tour doesn’t stop there, though. It also takes you to see cutting-edge architecture and hi-tech buildings, showing you how Barcelona continues to innovate and stay vibrant in the 21st century. 

11. Barcelona Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour

If you’re a history enthusiast, you can’t miss the Barcelona Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour. This small group tour takes you back in time as you wander through the atmospheric winding streets and absorb Barcelona’s rich history.

You’ll start your tour in the Gothic Quarter, where you can explore ancient Roman ruins and witness some of the best-preserved sections of the Roman wall in the world. Your tour guide will then lead you to the iconic landmarks like the Plaça del Reial and Barcelona Cathedral, explaining their significance along the way.

This isn’t just a history tour, though. You’ll also visit the lively Las Ramblas and the bustling La Boquería food market. 

12. Tapas and Wine Small Group Walking Tour

If you’re a foodie, the Tapas and Wine Small Group Walking Tour is right up your alley! It’s a fantastic gastronomic adventure that takes you through the El Born and Gothic neighborhoods.

This culinary exploration includes visits to four tapas bars, where you’ll be introduced to delicious Spanish culinary traditions. From Iberian ham to patatas bravas, to local cheeses, you’ll savor a variety of tapas and local wines.

The tour also gives you the chance to see some of Barcelona’s most historic neighborhoods, with their stunning architecture and charming streets. Plus, your guide will provide insights into the rich history of the area as you eat, converse, and drink! 

13. Gothic Quarter Walking Tour

For all the history buffs out there, this is a tour you won’t want to miss. The Gothic Quarter Walking Tour will take you on a journey back to the Middle Ages, unraveling Barcelona’s rich and complex history. 

Every corner you turn, every stone you step on tells a tale of the city’s past, making this an interactive and engaging experience. As you stroll through the narrow, winding alleys and charming squares of the Gothic Quarter, your guide will bring history to life. 

Not only will you get to explore Barcelona’s oldest quarter, but you’ll also gain insights into the city’s evolution from the Roman period through to the early 18th century. This isn’t just a history lesson, it’s an adventure through time!

The best part? This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, stuffy history tour. You’ll explore Barcelona through all five senses, letting the magic of the old city enchant you. 

14. Barcelona City Tour by Private Electric Tuk Tuk

Ready for a unique and fun way to explore Barcelona? Hop on this Barcelona City Tour by Private Electric Tuk Tuk and buckle up for an unforgettable tour of the city! 

With the wind in your hair, you’ll zoom past iconic landmarks like Sagrada Familia and La Rambla, all while listening to insightful stories from your knowledgeable guide.

What makes this tour really stand out is the intimacy of the experience. You’ll not only see the city’s major sights, but you’ll also get a close-up view of Barcelona’s vibrant street life. 

From the bustling markets to the lively cafes, you’ll truly experience the city’s pulse. You’ll even get a chance to explore the Olympic Port, a key site for the 1992 Olympics. 

15. Barcelona’s Dark History Night Tour

If you’re after a thrilling experience, the Dark History Night Tour is just the ticket. This isn’t your typical city tour; it’s a journey into Barcelona’s dark past, where you’ll walk the same streets once haunted by restless spirits and victims of medieval torture. 

As the sun sets, prepare to delve into the shadowy side of this vibrant city. The tour will lead you through the maze-like streets of El Born and La Ribera, districts steeped in history and mystery. 

You’ll uncover the stories of real-life tortures, executions, and victims of the Spanish Inquisition, all based on true historical facts. This isn’t just a tour; it’s an immersive storytelling experience that’ll give you goosebumps!

Though this tour reveals the city’s grim past, it also provides a unique perspective on Barcelona’s history. As you traverse the city under the cloak of darkness, you’ll hear tales that aren’t found in the guidebooks. 

16. Barcelona Private Tour with a Local

When you first step into a new city, it can be quite daunting. That’s where the Barcelona Private Tour with a Local steps in. 

This tour is perfect if you’re keen on understanding the city like a local, from knowing where to buy the freshest local product to learning how to navigate the city’s web of streets.

Your tour guide, a Barcelona resident, will help you explore the city’s corners, making travel more about the people you meet than just the places you see. The highlight of this tour is the personal touch, with your local guide eager to share tips and tricks to make your stay more rewarding.

Whether you choose to start the tour at your accommodation or meet at a central landmark, you’ll be introduced to the top things to see and do, all tailored to your interests. 

17. Night Tapas Walking Tour in Barcelona Old Town and Flamenco Show

If you’re one to enjoy history, flavors, and a good dance show, then the Night Tapas Walking Tour in Barcelona Old Town and Flamenco Show is the one for you. Lose yourself in Barcelona’s history as you explore the old town accompanied by a local guide.

In addition to a walking tour, you’ll experience a tasting of traditional Catalan dishes and drinks at a tapas bar. If you’ve always been curious about how to navigate a Spanish tapas menu, this is the perfect chance to learn and enjoy some appetizer-style dishes with a drink.

18. Sagrada Familia and Barcelona Full-Day Tour

If you’re eager to see Barcelona’s main sights, and especially the works of Gaudi, you should consider the Sagrada Familia and Barcelona Full-Day Tour. This tour offers you a chance to skip the line to gain entry to Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, and Park Güell.

The tour starts with a drive to Montjuïc, the site of the 1992 Olympic Games. Here, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the city and coast. 

Later, you’ll drive down to Plaça Espanya and past the Modernista buildings of L’Eixample. On this tour, you’ll also explore the Barrio Gótic, the oldest part of the city, with winding streets from the Middle Ages. 

19. Barcelona and Sagrada Familia Half-Day Tour with Hotel Pickup

If you’re looking for a shorter yet comprehensive tour, the Barcelona and Sagrada Familia Half-Day Tour with Hotel Pickup should be on your list. This tour allows you to discover Barcelona and the Sagrada Familia of Gaudí in just half a day.

You’ll see the top sights of Barcelona, including Old Town and Montjuic Hill, all while in the company of a small group. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickup, so you don’t have to worry about finding your way to the start location.

20. Kids and Family Walking Tour

If you’re traveling with kids, the Kids & Family Walking Tour is a fun and engaging way to introduce your little ones to the wonders of Barcelona. This interactive tour is specially designed to keep kids engaged and interested throughout the journey. 

The tour guide will share captivating stories, legends, and fun facts about the city and its history. You’ll be taken through the Gothic Quarter, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its narrow, winding streets and significant monuments. 

FAQs

Is the Barcelona Hop On Hop Off bus worth it?

Absolutely, the Barcelona Hop On Hop Off bus is totally worth it, especially for those who love the freedom of a DIY adventure. It’s like having Barcelona on a platter, ready to enjoy at your own pace. 

Whether you pick the 24 or 48-hour ticket, it’s a lifesaver when you want to see as much as possible without the hassle of navigating public transportation or expensive taxis.

The bus tour allows you to sit back, enjoy the sights, and choose your own adventure from the comfort of an open-top, double-decker bus. The hop-on-hop-off nature means you can visit the spots that pique your interest and skip the ones that don’t. 

Plus, you get to soak up facts about the city from the multilingual audio commentary. The major highlights include the iconic Sagrada Familia, the vibrant La Rambla, the Picasso Museum, and the charming Gothic Quarter. 

The buses run regularly, so you’re never stuck waiting for ages at a stop. In my experience, it’s one of the most stress-free ways to get your Barcelona bearings and see the city’s main attractions.

Are tours in Barcelona worth it?

Yes, tours in Barcelona are completely worth it in my opinion. Barcelona is an incredible city with a rich history and diverse architecture, and a tour can really help you appreciate it all. Plus, having an expert guide gives you an insider’s perspective that you just can’t get on your own.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Tours in Barcelona come in all shapes and sizes, from foodie tours that’ll have you munching on the tastiest tapas in town, to art tours that immerse you in the city’s thriving arts scene. 

Then there are the historical tours that take you through Barcelona’s medieval streets, giving you a taste of the city’s ancient past. Not to mention the architectural tours that introduce you to the iconic works of Antoni Gaudí. It’s like peeling back the layers of the city.

I always recommend tours to friends visiting Barcelona. They save you time figuring out what to see and where to go. 

Plus, they give you fascinating insights into the city that you wouldn’t get otherwise. So if you want to experience Barcelona to the fullest, I’d say a tour is the way to go!