The Best Gluten Free Barcelona Guide 2024

Barcelona, Spain, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, effortlessly marries history with modernity. Barcelona has long been celebrated for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and, of course, its exquisite culinary scene. This beautiful city offers a surprising abundance of gluten free options, making it a fantastic destination for gluten and gluten free eaters. This guide will help you find the best places where to eat in Barcelona!

To reach Barcelona, travelers can fly into Barcelona Airport, the main international gateway to the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain. Alternatively, visitors can also arrive by train from various destinations within Europe, making Barcelona easily accessible by both air and rail travel.

Gluten Free Barcelona

On my first visit to this beautiful city, I did a ton of research into the best gluten-free restaurants and bakeries since I was traveling with my gluten-free son. I usually research all possible restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets at each location we are planning to travel to way in advance so that I don’t have to stress with finding an appropriate location once hunger hits! The good news is that Barcelona is extremely accommodating when it comes to dietary needs like celiac disease and food allergies. Many restaurants offer gluten-free menus or have gluten-free versions of traditional dishes. Let me guide you to the best places we visited (or planned to visit) and save you from doing all the research yourself! Welcome to Barcelona sin gluten.

Celiac Friendly Restaurants – Personal Recommendations

Here is a list of excellent places where you can dine without any gluten-related concerns.

Barcelona’s gluten-free bakeries are not just safe for celiacs—they’re culinary gems! From flaky croissants to indulgent donuts, here are must-visit spots to satisfy your sweet tooth. The following bakeries are incredible if you are eating gluten or are gluten-free. I highly recommend to visit them all.

• Pastelería Jansana Gluten Free – This charming bakery is dedicated gluten free and offers everything a celiac is dreaming about. Bread, pastries, muffins and cakes. This is a really great place, and I highly recommend it when visiting Barcelona.

I chose this cute bakery for breakfast on our first morning. And I was very happy I did! The display cases were filled with beautifully crafted pastries, bread, and cakes that were completely safe for my gluten-free son to enjoy. These moments are so special to me as a mom (who is always stressed about contamination when eating out). So seeing him taking his first bite of a buttery, delicious, gluten-free chocolate croissant is so worth it. And it reminded me how important it is to find places like this where he can feel included and experience the joy of food like any other child.

• M2 Gluten Free – They serve gluten free street food and offer a wide choice of different cuisines – Pizza, Burgers, Bowls and desserts. They deliver as well. You’ll find a dish for everyone which is a great advantage when you travel as a family. One wants a burger and the other wants pizza – you know what I’m talking about…

• Glutery – 100% gluten free and delicious. You can find Empanadas, Quiche, Bread, Cakes and Focaccia. And the best part is you can choose if you’d prefer lactose-free or vegan options as well. This place is great for a mid-morning snack or an afternoon bite.

• Gluten Tag – A 100% gluten-free bakery that offers sweet and savory items. You need to try the croissants…trust me you won’t be disappointed. Warm and flaky and just perfect!

• Cøliaki – a dedicated gluten free pastry shop with the most incredible croissants, cakes, donuts and so much more. They currently don’t have a website but you can find them on the interactive map. This place should definitely be on your to-do list!

• Messie Pizza – 100% gluten free pizza. Options include vegan and lactose free. You also find pasta, risotto, appetizers and salads and all of course without any cross contamination.

• Bodega Biarritz 1881 Tapas bar – a delightful culinary gem nestled in the heart of Barcelona. You’ll find the famous patatas bravas made with gluten-free ingredients and an assortment of cured meats and cheeses. Here you can savor the authentic flavors of Spain without worrying about gluten. 

• La Latina – 100% gluten free Tapas Restaurant with 2 locations in Barcelona. One of my favorites is croquettes with truffle mayonnaise. You will find vegan options on their rich menu as well.

• Zenith Brunch & Cocktails – Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, this charming eatery is committed to providing safe and delicious gluten-free dishes but they are not dedicated GF. The menu is clearly marked and the kitchen staff takes great care to minimize cross contamination. So if you are looking for gluten free pancakes or a savory gluten free brunch, Zenith has something for everyone.

• Arcano – From appetizers to desserts, Arcano’s gluten-free offerings are a testament to their dedication to inclusivity. You can savor a wide range of dishes, thoughtfully crafted to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.

• Aruku Sushi – 100% gluten free Sushi near La Sagrada Familia.

Gluten free in Barcelona is so easy and delicious and definitely worth a visit.

In addition to Barcelona’s mesmerizing food, the city is home to boundless beauty and historical significance and surprises travelers with a mesmerizing blend of architectural marvels, rich heritage, and artistic wonders. As you set foot in this enchanting Mediterranean metropolis, prepare to embark on a captivating journey through time and culture.

Day 1: Exploring Iconic Barcelona

Morning: Sagrada Familia

• Start your day by visiting Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s masterpiece. Teens will love the unique architecture and colorful stained glass inside. No visit to Barcelona is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia. Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece is a testament to architectural genius, with its towering spires and intricate facades. Step inside to bask in the ethereal light filtering through stained glass windows, and you’ll understand why it’s often considered Gaudí’s magnum opus.
• Tip: Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Nearby Gluten-Free Option:

• Aruku Sushi (100% gluten-free): A short walk from Sagrada Familia, this spot offers gluten-free sushi and Japanese dishes that are perfect for lunch.
• Cøliaki Bakery: Grab a sweet treat like donuts or croissants at this dedicated gluten-free bakery before or after your visit.

Afternoon: Park Güell

Head to Park Güell, a park designed by Gaudí. Teens can take Instagram-worthy pictures of the colorful mosaics and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Stroll along winding paths and take in panoramic views of the city while marveling at the artist’s imaginative vision.

Evening: Dinner at Messie Pizza

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Messie Pizza, a 100% gluten-free restaurant offering pizza, pasta, and risotto. Teens will love the casual vibe and comfort food.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning: Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral

• Explore the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets and medieval architecture. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral, and let the teens enjoy the bustling street performers and local shops.

Nearby Gluten-Free Option:

• Arcano Restaurant: Known for its warm, rustic atmosphere, Arcano offers a variety of thoughtfully crafted gluten-free dishes, ensuring celiac diners can enjoy authentic Spanish flavors with complete confidence.
• Hanai Vegana – Gluten Free & Vegan Bakery: This dedicated gluten-free and vegan bakery offers creative plant-based pastries.
• Bodega Biarritz 1881 Tapas bar: A gluten-free-friendly tapas bar in the heart of Barcelona, Bodega Biarritz serves classics like patatas bravas and cured meats, allowing celiac travelers to savor traditional Spanish tapas worry-free.
  

Afternoon: La Rambla and Boqueria Market

Stroll along La Rambla, Barcelona’s famous pedestrian street, and visit the vibrant Boqueria Market. Teens can enjoy the lively atmosphere, though gluten-free options here are limited. Afterward, visit Casa Batlló, one of Gaudí’s most striking designs, located nearby.

Nearby Gluten-Free Option:

• Zenith Brunch & Cocktails: A gluten-free-friendly spot with clearly marked menu items, offering brunch classics like pancakes and savory bowls.

Evening: Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

• Head to Montjuïc to watch the Magic Fountain light and music show. It’s a mesmerizing experience that teens will enjoy, especially at night.

Nearby Gluten-Free Option:

• Messié Sin Gluten Muntaner:
  A 100% gluten-free restaurant, Messié Sin Gluten Muntaner is a must-visit for celiac diners, offering an extensive menu of pizzas, pastas, and risottos, all crafted with care to avoid any cross-contamination.

Day 3: Arts and Adventure

Morning: Picasso Museum

• Visit the Picasso Museum to immerse yourselves in the works of one of Spain’s most famous artists. Teens interested in art will appreciate seeing Picasso’s evolution.

Nearby Gluten-Free Option:

• Pastelería Jansana Gluten Free: Make a quick detour to grab pastries or sandwiches to fuel your morning adventures.

Afternoon: Beach Time at Barceloneta

• Spend the afternoon relaxing at Barceloneta Beach. Teens can swim, play beach volleyball, or just enjoy the lively seaside atmosphere. Try renting bikes at Barceloneta Beach for a fun family adventure.

Additional Tips

• Transport: Use the Metro or hop-on-hop-off buses for easy travel between attractions.
• Snacks: Carry gluten-free snacks in case of delays between meals.
• Spanish Phrases: Teach your teens how to say “Sin gluten, por favor” (Gluten-free, please) to interact with locals.

Barcelona’s sightseeing combines history, culture, and innovation, promising an unmatched travel adventure. Allow the soul of this vibrant metropolis to leave an indelible mark on your traveler’s heart.

And for those with dietary needs, Barcelona’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity extends to its food culture. Celiac travelers and those with gluten sensitivities can indulge in the city’s rich flavors without worry. Barcelona welcomes you to a unique gluten-free culinary journey with dedicated restaurants and tapas bars. Explore Barcelona’s gluten-free offerings and let your taste buds savor the magic of this Mediterranean gem.

If you enjoyed Gluten Free Barcelona, you might like to read more about Madrid.