Barcelona Chess Free Tour: History, Games & Tapas
The tour lasts 2 hours
Available in Catalan, English and Spanish
Description
Discover Barcelona through chess and enjoy an original introduction to the history, culture, and curiosities of this ancient game and its connection with the city. 1-hour tour, 1 hour of playing chess, drink, and tapas (included).
You will visit some of the most emblematic places around Arc de Triomf while learning how chess arrived in Catalonia, what role Barcelona played in its development, and which figures and tournaments left their mark on the city.
We will learn how Barcelona opened up to the world with the 1888 Universal Exposition and the 1992 Olympic Games. We will talk about medieval chess, the origin of the Catalan Opening, and the presence of chess in clubs, schools, and social spaces.
We will explore unique corners and share anecdotes while observing Barcelona as a giant chessboard. The final stop will be Bar 64, where we can play chess, chat and share some tapas.
On this free tour, we will visit:
- Arc de Triomf
- Passeig de Lluís Companys
- Parc de la Ciutadella
- Pond
- Cascada Monumental
- Mammoth
- Parc de l’Estació del Nord
- Sculptures by Beverly Pepper
- Bar 64
It doesn't matter if you've never played or if you're an enthusiast: you just need curiosity and a desire to discover Barcelona differently.
IMPORTANT
- The tour works on a pay-what-you-wish basis, with a recommended minimum contribution of €20 per person. It includes tapas, a drink, and gifts.
- To find me, look for the blue polo with the silhouette of Catalonia and a chess backpack.
Guide: Marc
Guiding since 2026I am a primary school teacher, passionate about chess and in love with Barcelona. Nowadays, I work as an activities coordinator at Catalunya Escacs Club, where I organise activities, classes and events to bring chess closer to people of all ages.
I was also the coordinator of the chess section at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Throughout my career, I have taught chess in schools, clubs and cultural centres, and I have also collaborated with the Catalan Chess Federation.
For me, chess is much more than a game: it is culture, education, creativity and a way of connecting with others. I also research the history of chess in Catalonia and its relationship with society and education.
I have also had the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world and take part in numerous tours. Through these experiences, I have discovered different ways of telling the story, culture and essence of a city.
That is why, with Chess Free Tour BCN, I want to leave my own mark on my home city, Barcelona. This experience brings together three of my greatest passions: chess, local culture and gastronomy.
I invite you to walk, play, enjoy some tapas and discover Barcelona through new eyes while sharing a great time together.
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How does a free tour work?
1
Choose and book
Select a tour, date and time. Booking is free.
2
Enjoy the tour
Go to the meeting point and live the experience with your guide.
3
Pay what you want
At the end, you decide how much to pay based on your satisfaction.
Free cancellation and booking

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