At Musik Boutique Hotel, we love it when our guests experience Barcelona beyond the typical tourist attractions. That’s why, in addition to offering you a modern and cozy stay right in the Born district, we invite you to explore one of the city’s most delicious and authentic traditions: Barcelona’s centenary bars.
Barcelona stands out not only for its architecture and culture but also for its rich culinary scene—especially when it comes to tapas. From the classic pa amb tomàquet to innovative contemporary creations, the city’s bars are the perfect place to savor the true essence of Barcelona. In this Barcelona guide, we present 20 historic bars that have stood the test of time, each with its own legacy and a tapas offering that remains a benchmark.
If you’re looking for an authentic place to eat or a bar nearby where you can enjoy timeless tapas, this list will help you dive into Barcelona’s history through its flavors.
The best and oldest bars in Barcelona
Barcelona is a city rich in history, and much of that tradition is reflected in its oldest bars, where every corner has a story to tell. If you’re a lover of gastronomy and places with character, you can’t miss these iconic spots in the city. From the oldest taverns to the trendiest modern bars, Barcelona offers a culinary experience for every taste. If you’ve ever wondered “where can I find bars near me?” or “where can I eat something authentic in Barcelona?”, this guide has you covered with the best recommendations.
These centenary bars not only serve delicious tapas but have also witnessed key historical moments in the city. If you’re looking for places to eat that combine tradition and flavor, this tour of Barcelona’s most historic bars is perfect for you.
And if you’re eager to keep exploring authentic Catalan cuisine, don’t miss our selection of the best restaurants in El Born.
La Cova Fumada (1944)
La Cova Fumada is famous for its traditional tapas and cozy atmosphere. Opened in 1944, this bar is especially known for its bombas—a delicious tapa you simply can’t miss when visiting Barcelona.
Photo: La Cova Fumada
Address: Carrer del Baluard, 56, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Bar Marsella (1820)
One of the city’s most iconic bars, Bar Marsella has witnessed countless historical moments since it first opened in 1820. Famous for its absinthe and bohemian vibe, this bar has long been a meeting place for writers and artists over the years.
Photo: Bar Marsella
Address: Carrer de Sant Pau, 65, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
If you love bars with personality, you’ll enjoy our guide to bars and terraces with cocktails and views in Barcelona, perfect for experiencing the city from another perspective.
La Confitería (1912)
Founded in 1912, La Confitería is a bar that perfectly combines elegance and tradition. With décor reminiscent of Barcelona’s old confectioneries, this spot is ideal for enjoying tapas and cocktails in a truly unique atmosphere.
Photo: La Confitería
Address: Carrer de Sant Pau, 128, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Can Culleretes (1786)
One of Barcelona’s oldest bars, Can Culleretes opened its doors in 1786 and is renowned for its traditional Catalan cuisine. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy tapas and classic local dishes, this is the perfect spot.
Photo: Can Culleretes
Address: Carrer d’en Quintana, 5, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
7 Portes (1836)
Since 1836, 7 Portes has been a true icon of Barcelona’s gastronomy. Its specialty is rice dishes, but its tapas menu is also one of the most extensive in the city. A perfect place to enjoy a typical Catalan meal.
Photo: 7 Portes
Address: Passeig Isabel II, 14, 08003 Barcelona
Don’t miss the best places to eat paella in El Born, an unmissable experience for true food lovers.
Casa Almirall (1860)
With more than 150 years of history, Casa Almirall is a modernist bar that has preserved its essence over the decades. Here, you can enjoy an excellent selection of tapas and cocktails in an atmosphere full of character and history.
Photo: Casa Almirall
Address: Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 33, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Cafè de l’Òpera (1929)
Located right across from the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Cafè de l’Òpera is the perfect spot for an aperitif before or after a show. Founded in 1929, this bar exudes sophistication and offers an excellent selection of tapas and drinks.
Photo: Cafè de l’Òpera
Address: La Rambla, 74, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Los Caracoles (1835)
Founded in 1835, Los Caracoles is one of the city’s most traditional restaurants. Its specialty is snails, but the tapas menu is extensive and delicious—perfect for enjoying a typical Barcelona lunch or dinner.
Photo: Los Caracoles
Address: Carrer dels Escudellers, 14, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
For more local flavor, don’t miss our guide to street food in Barcelona, ideal for those who love eating casually while exploring the city.
El Xampanyet (1929)
Famous for its cava and tapas, El Xampanyet is a must-visit bar. Founded in 1929, this lively and welcoming spot is perfect for enjoying a glass of cava paired with some of the best tapas in the city.
Photo: El Xampanyet
Address: Carrer de Montcada, 22, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Boadas (1933)
Boadas is one of Barcelona’s most classic bars. Founded in 1933, this elegant establishment specializes in high-quality cocktails and tapas. If you’re looking for a stylish place to enjoy a drink and some tapas, Boadas is the perfect choice.
Photo: Boadas
Address: Carrer dels Tallers, 1, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Casa el Molinero
Casa el Molinero is a traditional bar that has preserved its authentic charm over the years. It’s the ideal place to enjoy genuine tapas and high-quality Catalan cuisine.
Photo: Casa el Molinero
Address: Carrer de la Mercè, 13, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Can Solé (1903)
With more than 100 years of history, Can Solé is a restaurant specializing in seafood and fresh fish. Its tapas menu is excellent, and the atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed meal in Barcelona.
Photo: Can Solé
Address: Carrer de Sant Carles, 4, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Viader (1870)
Founded in 1870, Viader is a bar known for its embutidos (cured meats) and traditional tapas. Located in the heart of El Born, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Catalan gastronomy.
Photo: Viader
Address: Carrer d’en Xuclà, 4, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
El Sortidor de Filomena Pagés (1908)
Dating back to 1908, this bar is known for its warm atmosphere and excellent selection of tapas. El Sortidor de Filomena Pagés is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional meal in a venue steeped in history.
Photo: El Sortidor de Filomena Pagés
Address: Plaça del Sortidor, 5, Sants-Montjuïc, 08004 Barcelona
Colmado Múrria (1898)
Founded in 1898, Colmado Múrria offers a unique experience with its wide variety of traditional tapas. Located in the Gràcia neighborhood, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of good wine or a craft beer.
Photo: Colmado Múrria
Address: C/ de Roger de Llúria, 85, Eixample, 08009 Barcelona
Els 4 Gats (1897)
One of Barcelona’s most famous bars, Els 4 Gats has been a meeting place for artists and bohemians since it first opened in 1897. This modernist bar is the ideal place to enjoy tapas in an atmosphere brimming with history.
Photo: Els 4 Gats
Address: Carrer de Montsió, 3, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
Muy Buenas (1924)
Founded in 1924, Muy Buenas is known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent selection of tapas. Located in the El Raval neighborhood, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy an evening of tapas.
Photo: Muy Buenas
Address: Carrer del Carme, 63, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Bar Electricitat (1908)
Established in 1908, Bar Electricitat is one of Barcelona’s most traditional bars. With its wide variety of tapas and an impressive wine list, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal or an aperitif.
Photo: Bar Electricitat
Address: Carrer de Sant Carles, 15, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Antigua Casa Rafael
This bar has been operating for over a century, offering traditional tapas and a warm, family-style atmosphere. Antigua Casa Rafael is the perfect place for those seeking an authentic Barcelona experience.
Photo: Antigua Casa Rafael
Address: Travessera de Gràcia, 28, 08021 Barcelona
La Font del Gat
Located in Montjuïc Park, La Font del Gat is the perfect bar for enjoying an outdoor meal. With its peaceful and picturesque setting, it’s a unique spot to relax and savor delicious tapas.
Photo: La Font del Gat
Address: Avinguda Diagonal, 418, Eixample, Barcelona
Discover the essence of Barcelona from Musik Boutique Hotel
If you’re staying at Musik Boutique Hotel, you’ll be right in the heart of El Born—one of Barcelona’s most vibrant neighborhoods, surrounded by historic bars and iconic landmarks. After a day of exploring the city, there’s no better way to unwind than by enjoying traditional tapas in one of these centenary bars. And if you prefer to start your day with energy, don’t miss our guide to the best brunch spots in El Born.
Whether you’re looking for bars in Barcelona to enjoy classic tapas or a place to savor authentic local food, these venues offer a unique experience that will transport you back to old Barcelona. Don’t miss the chance to relive the city’s history while tasting the tapas that have stood the test of time!
Also, take a look at our guide to the Best Bars in El Born, where our hotel is located.
We invite you to discover Barcelona in a different way—by staying at Musik Boutique Hotel and exploring these historic bars that are part of the city’s very soul.
