Barcelona's Secret WWII History
While Spain was officially neutral, Barcelona was a vital hub. Discover the city's role as a 'nest of spies,' a refugee escape route, and a place haunted by the Spanish Civil War, the prelude to WWII.
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Uncover the best of WWII History the local Way
The best stories aren't found in guidebooks. Skip the crowds and unlock the hidden gems of WWII History with a private, personalized experience led by a local.
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Top thing to do to explore WWII History
5.0 314 reviews
Spy and Nazis in the Barcelona of the WWII and my great grandfather
2 hours | art & culture tours | Barcelona
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Reviews from guests about our tours and locals
- 5.0
A very pleasant surprise
"The tour was very interesting, Teo is not only a lovely lady but she is also a very knowledgeable person. Especially considering the price, I was a bit sceptical to join this tour, but I must say, that despite having been in Barcelona many times and being a good history amateur, I have learnt a lot from Teo and had a good time. "
- 5.0
Amazing slice of history, a great guide.
"A part of Spanish / Nazi history I never knew about. Very knowledgeable guide with amazing photos and documents to show us. Also some family history from that time. "
- 5.0
Teo, a Great Guide and Historian!
"We took the WW2 Spy tour and Teo was a wealth of very interesting information. Spain may have been officially neutral, but it was not neutral at all. We loved the connection of her great grandfather and the spy/double agents. She has maps, photos, documentation that she shares. However, it wasn’t just WW2, when we were at Passeig de Gràcia, she gave detailed explanations of Casa Battlló (Gaudí), Casa Museu Amatller (delicious hot cocoa), and Casa Lleó Morera. We wanted a mostly WW2 tour with a little architecture too. Very highly recommended tour! "
- 5.0
Fun, Interesting and knowledgablw
"From the minute we met Teo we knew we made the right choice. Not only did she convey a history story to us she also gave us great tips for our visit in Barcelona. She didn't rush the tour and gave us plenty of time. There were three of us from 15 to 50. Thanks Teo for a memorable morning. "
- 5.0
Living History
"Teo knows how to tell a great story, and she brings those skills to this tour through some of the most iconic sites in Barcelona. "
- 5.0
Teo was fantastic!
"Teo showed me interesting things about Barcelona (I did the Nazi and Spy tour). But she was also very adaptable to my needs and was incredibly friendly. Would go with Teo again. Highly recommendable!"
- 5.0
Great experience
"If you are a fan on military history or just want to learn more about the secrets of what was going on in Spain during world war 2 this is the tour for you."
- 5.0
The Tour
"This tour is very fun and interesting so is the tour guide! I'd say most people would like it. The history of such a small city was a very good experience in my opinion. I'd really recommend this to other people! "
- 5.0
PERFECT! Book it now!
"This tour is amazing. Teo is incredible and so kind and helpful as well as informative. Book it before it’s gone, you won’t regret it!"
- 5.0
Very informative and interesting!
"We really enjoyed our afternoon with Teo. She was great with our 5 y/o. She taught us not only about history but also general facts about the city and even gave recommendations. We were glad we did this tour!"
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- With A. Teo
Spy and Nazis in the Barcelona of the WWII and my great grandfather
5.0 314 reviews2 hours • art & culture toursfrom €42 per person
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Uncover Barcelona's WWII History
Journey beyond the beaches and Gaudí to uncover Barcelona's hidden WWII History. From Civil War scars to clandestine spy networks, every corner has a tale. Let a local guide reveal the city's secret past.
WWII History: The Civil War Prelude
The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) was a brutal dress rehearsal for WWII. Barcelona endured horrific aerial bombings by Nazi Germany's Condor Legion, testing tactics later used across Europe.
WWII History & George Orwell
Author George Orwell fought alongside anti-fascist forces in Barcelona. His book 'Homage to Catalonia' vividly captures the city's revolutionary spirit and political turmoil just before WWII.
Culture: Barcelona's Spy Cafes
Step into historic cafes like Els Quatre Gats or the now-gone Hotel Colón bar, once hotspots for Allied and Axis spies exchanging secrets over a coffee. Uncover this fascinating part of Barcelona's history.
WWII History: The Escape Route
Barcelona was a crucial link in the 'Lisbon Route,' a path for thousands of refugees, including Jews and downed Allied airmen, fleeing Nazi-occupied France. Their stories of survival are woven into the city.
Why is Withlocals the best place to book a tour?
Private & Personal
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You'll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
Tailored to your wishes
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Chat before you book
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Travel that supports locals
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
Feel good about where your money goes
You're choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Trusted by millions
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Secure & flexible booking
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that's okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.
Private & Personal
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You'll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
Tailored to your wishes
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Chat before you book
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Travel that supports locals
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
Feel good about where your money goes
You're choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Trusted by millions
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Secure & flexible booking
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that's okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.
Your Private WWII History Tour
Don't just read about history, feel it. A private tour is your key to unlocking Barcelona's secrets. Your local guide is ready to show you the hidden sites and tell the forgotten stories. Book your personalized WWII history experience today!