Barcelona is a vibrant city, combining the best of modern innovation with an easy Mediterranean character. Its dynamic atmosphere, eclectic blend of architectural styles and the diverse nature of its main districts make it a fascinating place to explore. This half-day private guided bicycle tour aims to introduce you to some of the city’s finest landmarks, as well as hidden corners that you might otherwise miss. Riding through the waterfront Barceloneta area, with its cafés, bars and beaches, you’ll get a look at the city’s sun-drenched coast. You’ll then head inland to the Gothic Quarter to see a more historic side of Barcelona.
Your guide for the tour will meet you at your hotel, from where you’ll walk or taxi to the tour starting point. You’ll pick up your bicycles, be fitted with helmets and take off for a two- to three-hour ride around the city’s streets, taking in some of the main sights as well as quieter side streets en route.
Led by your local guide, you’ll get a deeper insight into the city as you ride. You start off in the Barceloneta area, where the city’s well-to-do spend their time relaxing in the cool Mediterranean breeze on the beach or in one of the many waterfront cafés or marinas. You’ll stop here for some snacks in a local tapas bar with your guide, who can introduce you to some of the region’s many specialties.
From here, you head to the Gothic Quarter with its winding narrow streets, peaceful squares and ancient buildings. At its heart is the grand medieval cathedral, which comes complete with its own resident flock of geese. Nearby are the remains of ancient Roman temples left from the city’s time as a focal point of the Roman Empire.
You’ll also get a chance to tour some of Barcelona’s pedestrian areas such as La Rambla, a series of five smaller streets connected as one long thoroughfare lined with shops and cafés.
While here, you’ll stop at another tapas bar for part two of your guide to regional Spanish food. When you’ve had a rest and some time to chat to your guide, you’ll return to the bicycle shop in the Gothic Quarter to bring back the bikes and continue your day at leisure.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Spain specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
Codorníu and Montserrat
Journeying around the Penedès wine region, you’ll discover the home of cava, Spain’s sparkling wine, on this full-day guided tour. Learn about its history and production, and tour the Codorníu estate, before continuing on to Montserrat to see the basilica, one of Spain’s major pilgrimage sites.
Dalí, Figueres and Girona
This full-day private tour from Barcelona takes you to Figueres, Salvador Dalí’s hometown and the site of his surreal museum, as well as the historic city of Girona, with its Romanesque and Gothic buildings and Baroque cathedral.
Gaudí’s Barcelona
The architecture and influence of legendary Modernist Antoni Gaudí are revealed on this guided half-day tour of Barcelona. You’ll visit three of his most renowned projects, rippling Casa Milà, his greenspace Park Güell and the Sagrada Família.
Paella cooking class and market visit
Learn to cook a traditional Spanish paella in Barcelona on this half-day course, which includes a visit to a local market. You’ll find out how to choose the best ingredients before putting them together in an engaging, hands-on day of activity.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
