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Traveling solo as a vegan can be both an exciting adventure and a bit of a challenge. I set out to explore the vibrant streets of Barcelona. I had to find the best vegan restaurants, cozy cafes, and safe, welcoming places for women to stay. Here’s all I learned from my trip. It has tips for solo vegan adventurers, including where to eat, stay, and explore in this amazing city!
Top 5 Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Barcelona
- Flax & Kale: Modern, Instagrammable, and health-focused. What to Order: The Buddha Bowl and cold-pressed juices were a perfect energy boost after a day of exploring Gaudí’s masterpieces! Why I Loved It: As a solo traveler, I felt completely at ease enjoying a quiet meal on their rooftop terrace. Perfect for taking a breather and people-watching. Pro Tip: Make a reservation for sunset dining—it’s stunning!
- Veggie Garden Casual, funky, and full of backpackers and solo travelers. What to Order: The thali plate! It’s packed with flavorful Indian-inspired vegan goodness. Why I Loved It: Their outdoor seating is perfect for solo diners. It’s full of friendly chatter from fellow vegans. You won’t feel out of place dining alone here. Budget Friendly? Definitely! Great for affordable solo meals.
- Teresa Carles: Cozy, warm, and welcoming. What to Order: Their famous plant-based paella is a must-try! Why I Loved It: This spot felt more intimate—perfect for a relaxing dinner after a day on the go. Plus, their dessert selection will make any vegan swoon! Pro Tip: It’s a great place to bring a book or journal and unwind.
- Rasoterra: Upscale, refined, and perfect for a solo evening out. What to Order: Their seasonal tasting menu has creative vegan dishes, made with local ingredients. Why I Loved It: Sometimes, as a solo traveler, you want to treat yourself! Rasoterra’s service was friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home. Pro Tip: Ask about their wine pairings for the full experience.
- Brunch & Cake: Bright, cheerful, and full of charm. What to Order: The avocado toast topped with edible flowers (yes, really!) and their vegan pancakes. Why I Loved It: This was my go-to for starting the day. Indoors or on the patio, it was a great place to plan my day over a delicious breakfast. Pro Tip: Go early to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.
Solo Female Travel Safety in Barcelona
Traveling alone as a woman in Barcelona is mostly safe, but there are always precautions to keep in mind. Here are some tips based on my experience:
- Stay in the Gràcia or El Born districts: These neighborhoods are charming, safe, and full of local flavor. Plus, they offer easy access to both vegan eateries and tourist attractions.
- Avoid late-night walks alone. Barcelona is lively, but, after dark, stick to well-lit streets. Consider using ride-sharing apps like Cabify or Free Now.
- Pickpocket alert: The city is known for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas like Las Ramblas or the metro.
- Stay at female-friendly places. Look for hostels with female-only dorms or boutique hotels stay at Casa Gràcia Hostel.
Things to Do as a Solo Female Traveler in Barcelona
- Wander Through Park Güell: Gaudí’s famous park is a must-see. Spent a morning wandering the park and admired the colorful mosaics and stunning architecture. It’s the perfect place to snap some beautiful photos and enjoy a quiet walk.
- Take a Vegan Cooking Class: Want to learn how to make vegan tapas? Book a cooking class on Airbnb Experiences. It will be a travel highlight! Met other solo travelers and cooked with locals. You will learn to make plant-based versions of traditional Spanish dishes.
- Relax at the Beach: Grab a smoothie from Surf House and go to Barceloneta Beach. It’s the perfect place to unwind, journal, or just people-watch. Early mornings are less crowded if you prefer a quieter experience.
Solo Travel Tips for Vegans
- Plan meals in advance. Research vegan restaurants and map them. This way, you’re never far from a good plant-based meal. Apps like HappyCow were lifesavers during my trip.
- Stay hydrated and snack smart. Carry a reusable water bottle, and pack vegan snacks, like energy bars or nuts, to stay fueled.
- Embrace solo dining: It can be intimidating at first, but cafes and restaurants in Barcelona are very welcoming. Bring a good book or strike up a conversation with the staff—they’re often happy to chat!
Solo Travel Tips for Vegans
- Plan meals in advance. Research vegan restaurants and map them. This way, you’re never far from a good plant-based meal. Apps like HappyCow were lifesavers during my trip.
- Stay hydrated and snack smart. Carry a reusable water bottle, and pack vegan snacks, like energy bars or nuts, to stay fueled.
- Embrace solo dining. It can be intimidating at first. But, cafes and restaurants in Barcelona are very welcoming. Bring a good book or strike up a conversation with the staff—they’re often happy to chat!
Final Thoughts: Barcelona for Solo Vegan Travelers
Barcelona is a vibrant, solo-friendly city with plenty of vegan options to explore. For any plant-based traveler, it’s a must-visit. Indulge in vegan tapas, sip coffee at a cafe, or enjoy a solo walk through the city’s charming neighborhoods. If you’re planning your next adventure, don’t miss my guide to A Foodie’s Guide to Small-Town Charm in Ashland, Oregon for more inspiration on food and travel!
Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!
