Ice Cream in Barcelona: The Best Way to Satisfy that Cold Treat Craving! - Barcelona SAE Blog

Everyone loves ice cream, and on a hot summer day, there’s nothing better. When you get that special craving that can only be satisfied with a scoop of ice cream don’t worry, there is an ice cream shop on what seems like every corner in Barcelona! You will never have to walk far, and when you find it, you will suddenly have what will seem like an impossible decision to make. What flavor to choose?!

Everyone has their favorite ice cream flavor. Personally, I can always go for a coffee-flavored treat. However, the variety of ice cream in Barcelona is vast and it is worth trying as many different flavors as you can! There are of course the traditional flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. The common special flavors including cheese cake and cookie dough are also always an option. However, there are some that you may not be able to find at home, all of which are delicious. Some of my favorites are:

• Crema Catalana: Crema Catalana is a very traditional and popular dessert in the Catalan region of Spain, and is similar in appearance and taste to Creme Brulee. It has a custard base with flavors of lemon and cinnamon and is a perfect flavor for ice cream.
• Turrón: Turrón is a nougat-like dessert that is most commonly made with almonds. It’s a very popular treat during the Christmas season all over Spain, but during the summer it also a popular flavor in every ice cream shop.
• Pistachio: This may be a more common flavor one to find anywhere at home, but in Barcelona, it’s my favorite. Light green in color with chunks of pistachio nuts, the first time you give it try surely won´t be your last!

As I mentioned, there is an unlimited amount of places to find ice cream in Barcelona. Some of the regular ice cream stands are a bit more expensive in the more touristy areas like right by the beach, so if you can possibly wait. the same option (and perhaps better quality) is probably only about a ten-minute walk.

There is one ice cream shop by the beach however that I recommend trying. It is called Vioko and is located about two blocks up from the beach. It won’t be hard to find due to the fact that there is almost always a line, but the fast and very friendly service provided proves it’s well worth splurging a little extra. You pay first at the register for the size you want and then head over to where they are serving the ice cream to hand them your ticket and tell them your flavor. Another plus? They don’t skimp on the ice cream! Even a small is a very generous portion of fresh homemade ice cream to enjoy as you continue your walk down the beach.

¡Buen Aprovecho!

By Rachael Kacos
Program Advisor & Partner Relations Senior Coordinator
Barcelona SAE