Private Market Tour, Paella & Sangria Cooking Class in Barcelona

Discover a Personalized Spanish Cooking Experience in Barcelona

For those looking to go beyond typical restaurant dining, this private market tour and paella cooking class in Barcelona offers a hands-on culinary adventure. Priced at $225 per person, the experience lasts around 4 hours and includes personalized instruction, fresh ingredients, and delicious local drinks. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic Spanish cooking from a knowledgeable chef in a relaxed, private setting.

The tour starts at Plaça de la Llibertat in Gràcia, a lively neighborhood known for its local charm. With group discounts available and mobile tickets, this experience is accessible and easy to arrange. The focus on small, private groups ensures full attention from the chef and an intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for celebrations or dedicated culinary exploration.

While the price might seem higher than some group classes, the personalized attention, quality ingredients, and the opportunity to visit a local market set this apart. It’s especially suited for those wanting a rich, immersive learning experience with a focus on Spanish traditions and flavors.

Key Points

• Private 4-hour experience with personalized cooking instruction in Barcelona
• Visit Mercat de la Llibertat, a local market favored by Catalans, for fresh ingredient tips
• Learn to make authentic paella from scratch, choosing from seafood, meat, or vegetarian options
• Enjoy sangria, tapas, and crema catalana as part of the meal
• Hosted by Chef Josh, with full attention and a focus on learning by doing
• Suitable for large groups, family celebrations, corporate events, and bachelorette parties

Visiting the Vibrant Mercat de la Llibertat in Gràcia

The experience begins at Plaça de la Llibertat, where a local guide leads you through the bustling Mercat de la Llibertat. This market is loved by Catalans for its authentic local vendors, including jamón specialists, olive stands, and salt cod purveyors. The guide, Chef Josh, shares insider tips on how to identify the best ingredients, enriching your understanding of Spanish food shopping.

This stop is more than just a shopping trip—it’s an opportunity to appreciate the culinary culture of Barcelona. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with Chef Josh’s personal knowledge, provides a rich introduction to Catalan ingredients and food traditions.

The Private Cooking Studio and Its Convenient Location

After selecting ingredients, the tour moves to a nearby private cooking studio. Located just upstairs from street level, the studio offers a comfortable, professional environment for hands-on cooking. There is a lift available for those with mobility needs, ensuring accessibility.

The studio’s setup allows participants to closely observe Chef Josh as he demonstrates and guides each step. The space fosters a casual, engaging atmosphere perfect for learning, tasting, and sharing stories about Spanish cuisine.

Step-by-Step Paella Preparation with Expert Guidance

At the heart of this experience is the paella-making class. Participants are encouraged to participate actively in preparing the traditional dish, with Chef Josh offering clear, friendly instructions. The class is designed to suit all skill levels, including those who have never cooked paella before.

Guests can choose from seafood, meat, or vegetarian paella options, ensuring the dish meets individual preferences. As the dish cooks, the group enjoys sangria and tapas, enhancing the social and cultural vibe of the session.

Chef Josh’s approach emphasizes learning by doing, making the process both fun and educational. The class typically concludes with a tasting of the freshly made paella, served alongside wines or more sangria in a beautiful kitchen environment.

Enjoying the Meal and Local Flavors in a Relaxed Setting

After cooking, everyone gathers around to enjoy the meal together. The setting is relaxed and conversational, with the host sharing insights about Spanish food, music, and culture. The inclusion of 1-2 glasses of sangria is standard, complementing the meal perfectly.

The experience also features a dessert course of crema catalana, providing a sweet finish to the culinary journey. The focus on local ingredients, authentic recipes, and personalized attention ensures a memorable, delicious meal.

Accessibility and Group Size Considerations

This tour is designed as a private experience for your group, whether it’s a family gathering, corporate event, or bachelorette party. The minimum requirement is four guests, or the equivalent payment for four people if your group is smaller.

The cooking studio’s location and accessible elevator make the experience suitable for guests with mobility needs. The entire class is hosted solely by Chef Josh or his colleague Andres when he is unavailable, maintaining a personal touch throughout.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation Policies

At $225 per person, this experience offers value for a personalized, culinary adventure. Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, and tickets are mobile-friendly for convenience.

It’s important to note that this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. This policy encourages careful planning but underscores the need to confirm your participation well in advance.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Barcelona

What makes this experience truly special is the combination of market visit, hands-on cooking, and personalized attention from Chef Josh. The small-group setting creates an intimate environment where learning feels natural and engaging.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide, the quality ingredients, and the delicious meal that results. The tour’s emphasis on authenticity, local culture, and interactive cooking makes it a rich, rewarding activity suited for foodies and curious travelers alike.

Perfect for Celebrations and Food Enthusiasts

This private class excels as a group activity for celebrations like family reunions, corporate events, or bachelorette parties. The fun, social atmosphere combined with authentic recipes makes it a memorable highlight of any trip to Barcelona.

This tour offers a personalized, immersive way to experience Spanish cuisine, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, taste, and learn. Its focus on quality ingredients, authentic preparation, and local culture makes it a standout choice for culinary explorers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Chef Josh can accommodate a vegetarian diet in his Spanish cooking class.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Plaça de la Llibertat, 23 in Gràcia and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Are drinks included?
Yes, 1-2 glasses of sangria are included in the price.

Can I participate if I don’t cook often?
Absolutely—this class is designed to be fun and educational for all skill levels.

What options do I have for the paella?
You can choose from seafood, meat, or vegetarian paella.

Is the cooking studio accessible?
Yes, there is an accessible elevator for those who cannot take the stairs.

How many people can participate?
The experience is private for your group with a minimum of four guests.

What if I need to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be canceled or changed once booked.

How do I book this experience?
Booking is available online, with confirmation generally within 48 hours and tickets as mobile tickets.