Barcelona Old Town & Gothic Quarter Small Group Tour





Description
Step back in time on this 2-hour guided walking tour through the heart of historic Barcelona. Wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town and Gothic Quarter, where the city’s Roman roots and medieval charm come to life. Explore hidden gems, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. Marvel at some of Barcelona’s most iconic monuments, including the majestic Plaça del Rei and the stunning Santa Maria del Mar, two jewels of the city’s rich architectural heritage. As your expert guide uncovers fascinating historical insights, you’ll feel the spirit of centuries past while walking through the ancient plazas and historic buildings. Whether you're a history buff or a curious traveler, this immersive experience offers the perfect opportunity to discover the secrets of Barcelona's past.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Immerse yourself in the past of Barcelona and wander through the narrow streets and squares of the mazy Gothic Quarter of Barcelona Old Town. Have a look to the Roman remains still visible in any corner of what was used to be a Roman village. In medieval ages, this small village grew in what is nowadays known as the Gothic quarter thanks to its great medieval and gothic architecture. Get lost in these alleys full of history and legends. This blend engenders a sparkling ambiance that brings people from whole around the world to visit this well-known part of the city.
Ciutat Vella means the "Old City" in Catalan, and refers to the oldest neighbourhood of Barcelona. It's here where you can discover the secrets of the Old Town of Barcelona while your guide tells you the stories about the city itself.
Have a walk on the lively Ramblas, probably the most emblematic avenue of Barcelona, full of bars, restaurants and street artists. The Boulevard in medieval times was a small sandy river used as a natural defense at the very limit of the old city walls and nowadays is one of the most lively spots of the city.
Enjoy the walk on the Rambla and enter the Boqueria market full of life, colors and elegant architecture. Take the chance to look around and taste a fresh fruit juice or to eat something on the way. Feel the gastronomic traditions of the Catalan people through the colorful and exuberant posts, or learn where the worldwide famous Iberian cured ham comes from.
Get to know Plaça Reial and its Napoleonic architecture, frequented by artists, bohemians and travelers enjoying some rest in one of the many terraces of the square. This big, open space became an indispensable meeting point in the middle of the Gothic Quarter and its narrow streets. Furnished with the elegant fountain de Tres Gracias and beautiful lanterns designed by a very young Gaudí on his first public assignment. With its gigantic royal palm trees, you can’t miss this sparkling and graceful square of Barcelona Old Town.
Pass by and admire the Barcelona Cathedral, known for its gargoyle sculptures at the top of the towers. Get impressed by this legendary building, known as one of the most outstanding Cathedrals of Europe, complemented by an interior space, very bright patio and towering columns. The Cathedral is devoted to a young virgin Saint name Eulalia and is seat of the archbishopric of the city.
El Born is maybe one of the few labyrinths in which you would not mind to get lost. Breathe in the unique atmosphere of this neighborhood, known for its fusion of old and new buildings. Stroll through very trendy squares where young and old love to be, and enjoy historical and cultural attractions such as the popular Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar or Palau de la Música Catalana.
The Basilica Santa Maria del Mar is considered the real cathedral of the Old Town since it has been founded and constructed in Medieval times by the people of the neighborhood themselves. It is an emblem of the Catalan Gothic art and a must-to-see spot of the Gothic Quarter.
End your walking tour near Palau de la Música Catalana and get attracted by this architectural pearl of Catalan modernism. The building, designed by Lluís Domenèch i Montaner, the teacher of Gaudi, is the only concert hall declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The architect built this wonderful music box where all the applied arts are combined: Sculpture, mosaic, stained glass and wrought iron.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 2 years old can join the tour free of charge, children between 3 and 8 are entitled of 30% off.
Reviews(1,799)
Laura was a wonderful tour guide. She has amazing energy and a wonderful sense of humor. Loved her mythology tidbits and the attention to the history and current day Barcelona
Great tour, Laura was our guide, very knowledgeable and pleasant.
Laura was amazing tour guide. It was a hot day but she found us great shady spots and was full of energy. Highly recommended for anyone new to the gothic quarter. She also gave us great restaurant recommendations
Edward was great- very informative and interesting.
Although we have been to Barcelona many times, this tour was our first trip into old town, Barcelona. The tour way exceeded our expectations. There wonderful history to learn about in the old town as well as fantastic historic buildings. Our tour guide Edu was absolutely fantastic. The old town tour is definitely something everyone should do at least once. We did add the little boat ride extension at the end of the tour and I would say that part isn’t necessary.. It’s just a little trip to an hotel on the beach and back to the harbor. Just skip the add-on and stay in old town and eat and shop at the end of the main tour. The main part of the tour was awesome!!!
Absolutely loved the walking tour with Edward his knowledge of the old town and gothic quarter was amazing loved his stories. The group I joined were all lovely people chatted lots even gave me recommendations which trips to do x
I would highly recommend this tour, our guide Steven was fantastic. He was very informative and entertaining. It was great value for money and we learnt so much about the city
Steven was really good as a guide, he really brought history to life!
Katty was wonderful ! So knowledgeable and fun to be around . We learned so much and were grateful to have her as our guide . It was comprehensive but just the right amount of time in this August heatwave .
Andrei was fabulous - informative, funny, great background information about the old city, its quirks and history - he kept us engaged the entire 2 hours. It is a lot of walking on the old streets so sturdy shoes are a must.



