Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour

Exploring local flavours, one bar, one bite, one story at a time
When we think back to our favourite nights in Barcelona, one stands out — our Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour.
We started without a plan, just curiosity and a hunger to explore.
The idea was simple: pick a small bar, order a drink, enjoy some tapas, ask a local where to go next.
That one choice turned into an unforgettable evening full of flavour, laughter and local charm.

1. El Xampanyet – Carrer de Montcada 22

We began our Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour here, a tiny classic bar known for its house-made cava and anchovies.
The speciality: a flute of sparkling wine with anchovies, olive oil and bread.
By early evening there’s usually a line outside — locals and travellers waiting for a spot at the counter.
It’s lively, loud and the perfect place to start the night in El Born.

2. Bodega La Puntual – Carrer de Montcada (22)

Right next door sits Bodega La Puntual, a cosy favourite among locals. Shelves of wine and the smell of good cooking fill the air.
A must-try is the Tortilla Lea de Bacalao con Pan de Coca con Tomate — a cod omelette served on rustic tomato bread.
Pair it with cava or a Spanish red and feel how every true tapas route in Barcelona begins to unfold.

3. Bar del Pla – Carrer de Montcada 2 Barcelona

A short walk around the corner brings you to Bar del Pla, where tradition meets creativity.
Their croquetas — especially cheese and Idiazábal — are local favourites, and the patatas bravas come with a subtle twist.
The mushroom-and-wasabi salad surprises in the best way.
Slightly more refined, yet still grounded in the relaxed rhythm of El Born.

4. Euskal Etxea – Carrer de Montcada 3

Continue a few steps down the street to this Basque-style pintxos bar.
Small bites line the counter — take a plate, skewer a few and pair them with a glass of txakoli, the lightly sparkling Basque wine.
It’s informal, social and full of movement — exactly what a self-guided tapas tour in Barcelona should feel like.

5. Perikete – Carrer de Llauder (our favorite in this Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour)

A five-minute stroll from Montcada leads to Perikete, tucked away in a narrow side street near the port.
Inside, hams hang from the ceiling and laughter fills the air.
Order a vermouth on tap or cava and try their jamón ibérico, boquerones, or grilled prawns.
The team is warm, the music upbeat and time seems to stretch in the best way possible.

6. Bar Pimentel – Carrer dels Carders 11, Ciutat Vella

From here, wander back towards El Born and stop at Bar Pimentel.
This stylish yet easy-going spot celebrates seasonal ingredients — marinated sardines, grilled octopus, or vegetables cooked simply but perfectly.
It’s modern without losing its sense of place, a fine pause on any Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour.

7. Ziryab Fusion Tapas Bar – Carrer de Grunyí 5, El Born

Before ending your Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour, take a short detour to Ziryab Fusion Tapas Bar.
Hidden in a quiet alley, it blends Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern flavours with Catalan tradition.
Try the lamb tagine bites, hummus trio or smoked aubergine dip — each dish a creative contrast to the classic stops.
It’s intimate, stylish and a refreshing modern note before the finale.

8. Mundial Tapas Bar – Plaça de Sant Agustí Vell 1, Ciutat Vella

Return to the little square of Sant Agustí Vell for Mundial Tapas Bar, a relaxed institution where everyone feels at home.
Order a vermouth or cold beer, share tortilla, jamón or pimientos de Padrón and enjoy how conversations flow easily here.
It’s the kind of place where midnight arrives without you noticing.

9. La Plata – Carrer de la Mercè 28

If you still have energy, take a ten-minute walk toward the Gothic Quarter for one last stop at La Plata.
Open since 1945, this tiny bar serves only four tapas — fried fish, anchovies, tomato with onion and sausage.
Everything is simple, perfect and full of history.
Order a glass of vermouth, stand at the marble counter and feel the old soul of Barcelona.

Why this Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour works

All nine bars sit within easy walking distance around El Born and Ciutat Vella.
No taxis, no metro — just an evening route filled with flavour, music and the city’s glow.
The rhythm feels natural: eat, walk, discover, repeat.

Living like locals

The best part wasn’t only the food — it was the sense of connection.
Moving from one bar to another, chatting with people who love their city, made us feel part of Barcelona’s heartbeat.
It’s spontaneous, affordable and full of warmth.

Make your own Barcelona: DIY Tapas Tour

This idea works anywhere, but in Barcelona it shines.
Start in El Born, explore nearby bars, ask locals for the next stop and let curiosity guide you.
You’ll taste more than food — you’ll taste the culture.

Our advice for your Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour

• Start around 7 or 8 PM when locals fill the bars.
• Keep it walkable — El Born is perfect for that.
• Share 1–2 tapas per stop so you can keep going.
• Ask locals for their next recommendation.
• Stay flexible — the best moments happen unplanned.

Why we love this Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour

We’ve had countless nights out while travelling, but this one stands out.
The Barcelona DIY Tapas Tour connects you with people, flavours and the city’s rhythm.
It’s not about ticking boxes; it’s about slowing down, tasting the moment and letting the night unfold.
By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve lived a small piece of local life — and that’s what travel should be about.