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Vegan in Barcelona: A Perfect Day with Sightseeing and Food
Barcelona is a city that should be on everyone’s bucket list, but for vegans, it’s next-level. It’s hands down the best city in Spain for vegan food, offering everything from plant-based tapas to all-vegan sushi. And lets not forget iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia.
I spent five weeks exploring this incredible city, and even then, I never got bored. But if you’ve only got one day, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered with the perfect vegan-friendly itinerary, combining the city’s best sights with amazing plant-based eats.
All the restaurants I mention in this guide are 100% vegan. While there are plenty of vegan options places around the city, I prefer supporting fully vegan ones, and Barcelona has no shortage of them. That’s why being vegan in Barcelona is so amazing!
Perfect Vegan Barcelona Itinerary
1. Start With Delicious Vegan Breakfast
Let’s start the day with a delicious breakfast! My favorite all-vegan spot near Sagrada Familia is Cafe Equilibrium.
We’ve been there multiple times and tried almost everything from the breakfast menu. My personal favourite is the vegan omelette, while my boyfriend, Jack, really enjoyed the cheese toastie.
If you’re looking for more options, check out my guide to the best vegan breakfast spots in Barcelona for more tasty recommendations!
2. Marvel at La Sagrada Familia
Let’s start our sightseeing with Barcelona’s most iconic landmark: La Sagrada Familia.
It’s designed by Antoni Gaudí and construction began in 1882. It’s still not finished yet, but once it’s completed it will be the tallest Catholic church in the world. It’s truly the most unique church I’ve ever seen, both inside and out.
Tickets aren’t cheap, it’s the most expensive church I’ve visited, but absolutely worth it. Be sure to buy your tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly. For more tips on visiting, check out my blog post about Sagrada Familia.
If you’re a fan of Gaudí, you’ll find more of his work around the city. A guided Gaudí tour is a great way to see these sites and learn more about him.
3. Walk Down Passeig de Gràcia and La Rambla
Passeig de Gràcia is a major shopping street in Barcelona, but even if you’re not into shopping, it’s worth a walk. Two of Gaudí’s iconic buildings, Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, are located here and shouldn’t be missed.
Visiting the inside of both buildings is an option, but it’s pricey. If you’re considering Casa Batlló, check out my thoughts on whether the more expensive ticket is worth it.
As you continue, you’ll cross Plaça de Catalunya, a great spot to rest and take in the city’s energy. Just beware of the many pigeons! From there, you’ll reach La Rambla, a famous but, in my opinion, overrated street in Barcelona. Be cautious of pickpockets here.
If you’re vegan in Barcelona (or just looking for a refreshment), grab a fresh fruit juice from a vendor on La Rambla, or take a quick detour to Mercat de la Boqueria for a cheaper, but just as good, option.
4. Get Lost in the Gothic Quarter and El Born
Small alley in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona
The Gothic Quarter is the oldest part of Barcelona, and the best way to experience its charm is by getting lost in its narrow, winding alleys. Skip the bigger streets, you’ll miss out on the true atmosphere. Right next to it is the El Born neighborhood, which is just as beautiful.
In the northern part of the Gothic Quarter, there are four sights worth visiting.
- You can also walk underneath the Pont del Bisbe a bridge connecting two buildings.
- Stand in front of the cathedral of Barcelona.
- Check out an art piece by Pablo Picasso for free.
- Look into the pictures behind “the kiss“, a mural made out of thousands of tiny pictures.
5. Grab a Vegan Snack
Being vegan in Barcelona is super easy, especially in the Gothic Quarter. My favorite spots for a quick snack are Santa Vegana Barcelona and The Vegan Corner. Both of them serve snacks from the counter and are open in the afternoon (while many other restaurant take a siesta).
If you’re visiting between Thursday and Sunday, you’re in for a treat at Hanai Vegana. Their homemade vegan chocolate bars are absolutely amazing, the best I’ve ever had! They taste like Twix and Snickers for example, but better. Just don’t go too late, they sell out fast.
For more places to try, check out my guide to the best vegan restaurants in Barcelona.
6. Visit Arc the Triumph and Parc de la Ciutadella
Everyone has heard of the Arc the Triumph in Paris and in Rome. But did you know Barcelona has an Arc the Triumph as well? I didn’t before I visited the city.
The Arc the Triumph in Barcelona is located near the Parc de la Ciutadella and on the way to the park it’s definitely worth stopping at the arc. Both, the arc and the park, are some of the best things to visit in Barcelona for free.
The Parc de la Ciutadella is the perfect place to relax on the grass under a tree. You can relax a bit after the walking you’ve already done today.
Don’t miss Cascada del Parc de la Ciutadella in the park. This monument and fountain make for the perfect photo opportunity in the park.
7. Enjoy Some Beach Time
In every coastal city, I feel compelled to visit the beach. The beach in Barcelona is the perfect place to relax in the sand, go for a swim, walk along the shoreline or do some exercise.
Just keep in mind that the beaches can get really crowded in summer. But when I visited in late fall it was amazing, it was so quiet.
8. Get an Amazing Vegan Dinner in Barcelona
It’s time to head back to the city center by metro for dinner. Check Google Maps for the best line based on the restaurant you choose. Barcelona has plenty of incredible vegan spots.
- Best option for Spanish food is Bubita Sangria Bar. They serve delicious vegan paella, a variety of tapas, and even a vegan shrimp cocktail! Another great spot is La PerraVerde.
- If you’re in the mood for sushi instead of tapas, the most popular option is Roots and Rolls. For more recommendations, check out my guide to the best vegan Japanese restaurants in Barcelona.
- If you’re in the mood for vegan junk food I recommend the Vegan Junk Food Bar, they have amazing burger and fried goods.
🤩 Looking for something more unique? Try a vegan cooking class in Barcelona!
9. Watch the Light Show at the Magic Fountain
In front of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, you’ll find the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, which hosts a free nightly light and music show in summer. Check the schedule for up to date times, as times vary throughout the year.
The best spot to watch is from the stairs, where you can sit. You just need to arrive early for a good seat. If you want to stay dry, avoid standing too close to the fountain. You can bring your own snacks or buy drinks from vendors going through the crowds.
Map to the Vegan Itinerary for Barcelona
This itinerary is a lot, and by the end of the day, your feet might be aching. If it feels like too much for one day, you can always split it into two. Below, you’ll find a map with all the sightseeing and Barcelona vegan food stops mentioned in this post.
Best Time to Visit Barcelona
Barcelona is a very popular destination so it can get crowded, like really crowded. That’s why I would recommend visiting Barcelona in spring or fall. The weather is still very nice and you’ll avoid the summer crowds.
Winter in Barcelona is also a great option, with mild temperatures around 13-14°C and even fewer tourists. It’s an ideal time to explore and a fantastic place to spend New Years.
Things to Do If You Have More Time
To be honest, one day isn’t nearly enough to explore all the amazing things Barcelona has to offer. I spent a month here and still found new things to do! Here are a few more experiences you shouldn’t miss if you have extra time:
- Marvel at Park Güell: Designed by Gaudí, this park is one of the most affordable Gaudí sights in Barcelona. Wander through the vast grounds and admire the fascinating buildings scattered throughout.
- Take in the View: Head to one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
- Take a Day Trip: If you have a few more days, consider taking a day trip from Barcelona to explore more of the surrounding region.
- Join a Yoga Retreat: For a unique experience, combine city life with relaxation at a yoga retreat in Barcelona. They offer massages and an all-vegetarian buffet.
- Go on a Road Trip: If you have plenty of time, set off on a road trip through Spain. My personal highlight is Granada, a city in Andalusia that I absolutely loved.
Final Thoughts: Vegan Food in Barcelona
Barcelona offers an incredible experience for vegans, with its perfect combination of delicious plant-based food and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re exploring historic neighborhoods, savoring vegan tapas, or relaxing on the beach, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.
If you have more than a day, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered, from Gaudí’s masterpieces to stunning viewpoints. Ready to explore even further? Check out my 3-day itinerary for Barcelona to make the most of your time in this vibrant city!
If you’re looking for even more vegan-friendly destinations across Europe, be sure to check out my guide to the best cities in Europe for vegans.
Read more about Barcelona:
- 10 Absolute Best Free Things to Do in Barcelona
- Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary For an Epic Weekend Getaway
- 10 Must-See Gaudí Buildings In Barcelona (With Map)
- Best Gaudi Tours in Barcelona
- La Sagrada Família: The Most Famous Church in Barcelona
- Is Barcelona Overrated? Why I Don’t Think It Is
- Barcelona Viewpoints to Get the Best View of Barcelona
- The 13 Best Vegan Restaurants in Barcelona
- Best Vegan Breakfast in Barcelona in All-Vegan Restaurants
- Vegan in Barcelona: A Perfect Day with Sightseeing and Food
- Best Day Trips from Barcelona by Train
- Girona Day Trip from Barcelona by Train
- Dali Inspired Day Trip From Barcelona To Cadaqués
- A Day Trip to Andorra from Barcelona
- Epic Day Trip from Barcelona to Sitges by Train
- Best Day Trip from Barcelona to Zaragoza by Train
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