How Much Is an Average Meal in Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, one of the most important things to consider is how much you’ll be spending on food. From tapas to paella, Barcelona has a rich culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. In this article, we’ll be discussing the average cost of meals in Barcelona and what you can expect when dining out in this vibrant city.

Breakfast

When it comes to breakfast, Barcelona offers a range of options from traditional Spanish fare to more western-style dishes. A typical breakfast in a café will cost around €3-€5, which includes coffee or tea and a croissant or pastry. For those looking for something more substantial, there are plenty of restaurants that offer a hearty breakfast for around €7-€10.

Lunch

Lunch is the main meal of the day in Spain and is typically eaten between 1 pm and 3 pm. A typical lunch menu del dia (menu of the day) costs around €10-€15 per person and includes a starter, main course, dessert, bread, and drink. Restaurants that cater more towards tourists may charge slightly more.

Tapas

Tapas are small dishes that are meant to be shared among friends or family. They’re a popular choice for lunch or dinner in Barcelona and can be found in most bars and restaurants. The average price of tapas varies depending on where you go but expect to pay around €2-€4 per dish.

Pizza

Pizza is another popular option for lunch or dinner in Barcelona. Depending on where you go, you can expect to pay around €8-€12 for a medium-sized pizza.

Dinner

Dinner is typically eaten later than other meals in Spain – between 8 pm and 10 pm – so many restaurants don’t open until 7 pm or later. A typical dinner in a restaurant will cost around €20-€30 per person. This includes a starter, main course, dessert, and drinks.

Paella

No trip to Barcelona would be complete without trying paella – a traditional Spanish dish made with rice, vegetables, and seafood or meat. Paella can be quite expensive in restaurants catering to tourists but expect to pay around €12-€15 for a small portion in a more local establishment.

Drinks

Alcohol prices in Barcelona are generally reasonable. A beer or glass of wine in a bar will cost around €2-€4 while cocktails can range from €6-€10.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of food in Barcelona is relatively affordable compared to other European cities. If you stick to local establishments and avoid tourist traps, you can easily enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.