Viva el Mercat de la Boqueria 🥳!!!
One of our favourites experiences to enjoy while you’re in town. Meet wonderful people. Eat fantastic food. What else?
The experience
Come and meet the local producers who passionately bring the best of their products and enjoy an authentic tapas experience paired with local wines in one of the most traditional bars in the market. Imagine strolling through colorful stalls, letting yourself be carried away by the aromas and flavors that make the Mercat de la Boqueria such a special place. We would love to share with you the history and traditions that surround this iconic location.
Book now and join us in this culinary experience that will surely make you fall even more in love with Barcelona. We look forward to seeing you!
Mercat de la Boqueria – History and Overview
The Mercat de la Boqueria, also known simply as La Boqueria, is one of Barcelona’s most iconic and historic markets. Located just off La Rambla, the market dates back to the 13th century when it started as an open-air market for meat sales. It gradually grew over the centuries, and in 1853, the iron structure that still stands today was officially completed.La Boqueria has always been more than just a place to shop—it’s a social and cultural hub where locals and visitors alike gather to experience the heart of Barcelona’s food scene. Today, it hosts over 300 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal products, and it remains a symbol of the city’s rich gastronomic heritage. Steeped in tradition yet full of innovation, La Boqueria continues to offer a diverse range of products, from traditional Catalan ingredients to exotic goods, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
Itinerary
Start time: 10:00 AM
10:00 AM – Meeting point and welcome: The tour begins at the main entrance of Mercat de la Boqueria, where you’ll meet your guide. After a brief introduction to the market’s history and legacy, we’ll dive into its vibrant aisles.
10:15 AM – A journey through the market’s origins and history: We will explore the oldest stalls while the guide explains how the market has evolved from the Middle Ages to the gastronomic hub it is today. You’ll hear anecdotes about long-standing vendors and learn about the architecture and design of the market.
10:45 AM – Visit to local stalls: We’ll visit several specialized stalls, offering a variety of local and exotic products—from fresh fruits to charcuterie and seafood. You’ll have the opportunity to meet some of the vendors and hear the stories behind their artisanal products.
11:15 AM – Tasting of fresh products: We’ll pause to enjoy a selection of delicacies, such as Iberian ham, Manchego cheese, and local fruits. All accompanied by explanations about the products and their origins.
11:30 AM – Free time for shopping: You’ll have 30 minutes of free time to explore the market on your own and shop if you wish. This is the perfect opportunity to pick up fresh local products and unique culinary souvenirs from your visit to La Boqueria.
12:00 PM – Tapas and wine at a traditional bodega: We’ll reconvene to wrap up the experience at a traditional bodega inside the market, where you’ll enjoy a selection of typical tapas paired with fine Spanish wines.
12:30 PM – End of the experience: We’ll conclude with a final chat, sharing recommendations for other gastronomic spots in Barcelona and tips for further exploring the city.
Conditions
We kindly ask all participants to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a smooth beginning of the tour. If you arrive late, the tour may start without you, and no refunds will be provided.
Any purchases made during the free time in the market are at the participants’ own expense and are not covered by the tour price.
We are not responsible for any lost or stolen items during the tour. Please keep an eye on your personal belongings at all times.
This tour requires a minimum of participants to take place. If this number is not reached, we reserve the right to cancel the tour and offer a full refund or reschedule for another date.
The tour is subject to cancellations or schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions or special events. We will notify you in advance and offer an alternative date or full refund if necessary.
Included
🌍 Expert Local Guide: Gain insights from an expert guide knowledgeable in the rich history and culture of La Boqueria.
⏰ 2-Hour Guided Tour: Enjoy a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of the iconic Mercat de la Boqueria.
🥘 Traditional Tapas Tasting: Savor delicious traditional tapas at a market bodega, experiencing authentic flavors.
🍷 Spanish Wine Tasting: Indulge in several local wine options during our delightful Spanish wine tasting experience.
🛍️ Free Time to Explore: Take 30 minutes to explore and shop at the market on your own, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
📚 Bilingual Guided Explanations: Receive guided explanations in English and Spanish (other languages available upon request).
Not included
Personal purchases made during free time at the market.
Transportation to and from the meeting point.
Tips for the guide (optional).
Personal travel insurance or lost item insurance.