Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)
Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)
Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)
4.5
About
Stroll through the historic center of medieval Barcelona and visit some of the city's most important political buildings and gothic architecture.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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The area
Neighbourhood: Barrio Gòtico (Barri Gòtic)
With its iconic, old-Europe streets and alleys, this picturesque neighbourhood is the very heart of Barcelona. It blends historic artifacts from its days under Roman dominion up through the Spanish Civil War with a vibrant modern-day culture of artisan shops and authentic culinary experiences. Avid explorers will be thrilled to discover quaint terraces and plazas brought to life by the many small bars and local musicians lasting late into the night. Fashionistas will be drawn to Portal de L’Angel, which is lined with well-known brand names and smaller boutique stands.
How to get there
- Jaume I • 3 min walk
- Liceu • 5 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
- TheLeongOhanaUnited States7,753 contributionsOld Town BarcelonaWe enjoyed staying close to the Old Quarter and walking through different parts every day. The small and rambling streets were filled with many old or historical buildings. Some buildings seemed like a jigsaw puzzle having been built by reusing pieces from different eras of Barcelonas history. There were lots of restaurants, bars to eat or drink along with churches, museums to visit and plazas to hang out and people watch or be entertained by street performers. We felt safe walking around here both in the day and night. Nighttime was much less crowded and quieter. It was also nice not seeing and hearing many cars due to the driving restrictions and narrows streets.Visited January 2024Travelled with familyWritten 11 February 2024
- Sophia SGeorgioupolis, Greece742 contributionsEl Barrio Gotico - un lugar magicoThe Gothic neighbourhood in Barcelona is very charming. It has narrow streets that smell of paella at night, interesting stories painted on different stones, people trying to sell all sorts of things and many nice secrets. I bought there a silk skirt on sale and ate alone s big paella that I can never forget. I also got blocked in the back of a shop trying on some clothes...with a Pakistani seller that spoke a bad English. But it was fun. The Santa Maria del Mar gothical church is a must for the top views of the Mediterranean Sea from its towers. I love the sea, I love this town. Barcelona has many stories to tell..... next time you come here! 🍋⚓🏖Visited March 2023Travelled with familyWritten 29 February 2024
- TarsisfariasFeira de Santana, BA119 contributionsSpend the day walking through the past!It's the most charming part of the city! Narrow streets full of life! Tapestries everywhere. The Cathedral of the Sea and Barcelona Cathedral are very close by. Also the Picasso museum and the Barcelona History Museum.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 March 2024
- David OGeneva, Switzerland5,094 contributionsAlrightThe Gothic Quarter has not evolved. The old buildings have remained intact and the small streets still exist. Modernity has not taken over this city. The alleys and cobblestones that Christophe Collomb knew, we today's tourists can also know them. As if we were there, in the Middle Ages.Visited January 2024Travelled soloWritten 16 March 2024
- Jools WYorkshire, United Kingdom75 contributionsMy favorite part of Barca.We LOVED this part of the city. Steeped in history, winding little streets with gorgeous balconies, little squares with cafes, shops and bars. The church is also stunning. A must see when in Barcelona away from the hustle and bustle of city lifeVisited March 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 20 March 2024
- dese2Auburn, New York3,629 contributionsBest area of the cityThis was our second trip to Barcelona, so we knew we wanted to stay in the Gothic Quarter. There is so much to see within easy walking distance. We saw Roman ruins, plenty of churches and great coffee shops and restaurants. Plenty to see and do. With the museums you get a chance to learn about Barcelona.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 3 June 2024
- dg2014jgMagnolia, Texas1,220 contributionsalways include this on your visitWhether you do a walking tour or just wander around, the Gothic Quartar is a must-do. Is it safe? Well, it is crowded, and it is in a big city, so you must use common sense. I've never had an issue and always just kept my wits about me.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 4 July 2024
- Igor64Concon, Chile4,193 contributionsReturn to Middle AgesA must-see for the County City. Walking through its narrow streets and wondering at its amazing buildings is going back to medieval times. Highlights include the beautiful Cathedral and the buildings in Jaume Square, where the beautiful City Hall building is located. A walk to have a minimum of 2 hours of time.Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten 12 July 2024
- Carrick M42 contributionsA Charming and Historic Gem in BarcelonaThe Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is a must-visit. Its narrow, winding streets are filled with medieval architecture, hidden courtyards, and vibrant squares like Plaça Reial. Highlights include the stunning Barcelona Cathedral and the Picasso Museum. It's perfect for exploring during the day and enjoying the lively nightlife. Whether you're into history, photography, or local culture, the Gothic Quarter is enchanting and unforgettable.Visited August 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 5 August 2024
- Madd HatterMartinez, California38 contributionsUnique neighborhood with lots of history!!Going to the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) was part of one of our tours. Awesome place area to visit and walk through. You can feel and see the history throughout which our tour guide provided plenty of history of it. Small streets and walkways add to its charm as they open up into squares. The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) is close to other historical sites and other tourist areas as well as its easy getting there with metro if needed. Plenty to see and shop and eat in surrounding area. My family and I walked all over the area easy to navigate and to enjoy everything that it provides. Like I mentioned it was part of one of our tours but no tour is needed as its a neighborhood you can easily just walk and enjoy without a tour guide and go at your own pace. We did that a few times as we visited the area plenty of times while there. Definitely a place to visit and see when in Barcelona and like pretty much anywhere in Barcelona I recommend.Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten 19 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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digitalroc
Calgary, Canada2,131 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
Once a Roman city with high walls and fortified towers, the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona dates back to over 2,150 years ago, and is one of the most talked about districts in the city. The Gothic Quarter was part of our 3-hour orientation of the city that was facilitated by a local guide. I really enjoyed the architecture, the history of the quarter, and the narrow medieval streets that make being in the Gothic Quarter very special.
Written 22 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeff W
47 contributions
Oct 2021
This is a great area to go and 'step back in time' even with the modern shops. Knowing that this was the actual city for hundreds of years with people packed within the walls is very eye-opening. I would recommend first walking the area in daylight to get familiar with certain areas and the basic layout. Recognize a few key structures or shops for reference, then go back in the evening when it really comes alive.
Written 25 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
886tinal
Seattle, WA251 contributions
May 2022
The winding alleys and lanes of the Gothic Quarter make for a fun place to wander. Plenty of places to eat, plenty to see. I recommend doing a walking tour, either with a guide or self-guided so you get the history and sites of importance. Then just wander a second time and delight at coming across the sites from the tour or seeing completely new lanes and buildings.
Written 27 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Californiadiehard
2 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
If you like graffiti & getting robbed &/or pick pocketed, go to Barcelona. The whole time we kept asking ourselves why people raved about this place. Trashy overall, with graffiti covered this city. A man got robbed & pushed to the ground right in front of my son & the bus tour guide was rather nonchalant about it.
Large number of tourists shops were filled with inappropriate merchandise.
Construction is being done all over the city right now (including sewer lines). Do yourself a favor & go to Madrid instead.
Large number of tourists shops were filled with inappropriate merchandise.
Construction is being done all over the city right now (including sewer lines). Do yourself a favor & go to Madrid instead.
Written 21 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Missaera
New Jersey123 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
This is one of my favorite areas of Barcelona. So nice to just walk around, get lost and admire its architecture. They kept its old town charm which is amazing. Lots of local restaurants, bars and shops. Some corners have cool art too. The Cathedral’s exterior here looks amazing. When we went there at night outside the cathedral there’s a flea market and a street show where this guy jumped above 3 standing people. Bottomline, I will pick this area to stay and stroll any day rather than La Rambla. This just has so much history.
Written 31 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alina L
Tel Aviv, Israel203 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
From the name of this block, one can already understand what kind of architecture can be found there - of course Gothic.)))) Relatively close together, somewhat gloomy walls of buildings adorn the auburn elements and mythical creatures. This is especially noticeable in the exterior of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia.
In addition to this attraction, the Gothic Quarter contains the following: The Royal Palace is the former residence of the Counts of Barcelona and the Kings of Aragon, the Royal Square is a square with solid neoclassical construction (18th century), the King's Square is in existence since the 14th century, the Place of Saint James, the remains of the Roman Wall, the ruins of the Palace of Octavian Augustus, the Basilica of La Merce, the "Four Cats" is an art cabaret, El Call is a medieval Jewish quarter, Santa Maria del Pi is a Gothic church (14th century), New Square, San Felipe Neri Square.
The block begins at Plaza Catalunya and extends from La Rambla to Via Laetana Avenue. The quarter is named for the surviving structures built in the Middle Ages, when Aragon was one of the most powerful powers on the Mediterranean.
So, if you want to dive deep into the centuries - the history of Barcelona, then - welcome to the Gothic Quarter, where it is visually presented.
In addition to this attraction, the Gothic Quarter contains the following: The Royal Palace is the former residence of the Counts of Barcelona and the Kings of Aragon, the Royal Square is a square with solid neoclassical construction (18th century), the King's Square is in existence since the 14th century, the Place of Saint James, the remains of the Roman Wall, the ruins of the Palace of Octavian Augustus, the Basilica of La Merce, the "Four Cats" is an art cabaret, El Call is a medieval Jewish quarter, Santa Maria del Pi is a Gothic church (14th century), New Square, San Felipe Neri Square.
The block begins at Plaza Catalunya and extends from La Rambla to Via Laetana Avenue. The quarter is named for the surviving structures built in the Middle Ages, when Aragon was one of the most powerful powers on the Mediterranean.
So, if you want to dive deep into the centuries - the history of Barcelona, then - welcome to the Gothic Quarter, where it is visually presented.
Automatically translated
Written 25 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
elsa s
2 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Our guide, Adriano, did a great job. He was easy to understand and, because the area was relatively quiet and uncrowded and our group was small enough, he could just use his voice (instead of the cheap audio system).
We especially appreciated some of his historical insights, particularly about Picasso's history with the 4 Cats restaurant. The tour was at a good pace and we appreciated the variety of what Adriano covered--history, architecture, art, food, culture/language, tourism . . . all around terrific activity and a great value. Highly recommend!
We especially appreciated some of his historical insights, particularly about Picasso's history with the 4 Cats restaurant. The tour was at a good pace and we appreciated the variety of what Adriano covered--history, architecture, art, food, culture/language, tourism . . . all around terrific activity and a great value. Highly recommend!
Written 29 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris
Bideford, UK118 contributions
Jul 2022
Make sure to allow time during your visit to discover the hidden magic of the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona. Here you will wander around narrow ancient streets to discover some of the oldest buildings in the city.
Don't be tempted to take a organised walking tour, but instead download a free one or use your trusty Lonely Planet Guide Book.
As always, take time to 'look up' to discover all the carved gargoyles that peer down at you.
Plenty of interesting little shops, market stalls, coffee shops and small bars to keep you fed and watered. But be sure to allow a good 1/2 days to discover all the hidden gems in this area of the city.
Don't be tempted to take a organised walking tour, but instead download a free one or use your trusty Lonely Planet Guide Book.
As always, take time to 'look up' to discover all the carved gargoyles that peer down at you.
Plenty of interesting little shops, market stalls, coffee shops and small bars to keep you fed and watered. But be sure to allow a good 1/2 days to discover all the hidden gems in this area of the city.
Written 2 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chibi・usagi
1,502 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
[Access]
Within walking distance from Plaza Catalunya
[Other]
As you head towards the cathedral from Plaza Catalunya, the old townscape suddenly appears, creating a nice area with a medieval atmosphere
The Frederick Marais Art Museum and other museums are nearby, so it's recommended to enjoy visiting them.
Within walking distance from Plaza Catalunya
[Other]
As you head towards the cathedral from Plaza Catalunya, the old townscape suddenly appears, creating a nice area with a medieval atmosphere
The Frederick Marais Art Museum and other museums are nearby, so it's recommended to enjoy visiting them.

Written 6 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Frenchgirl
Swanzey, NH324 contributions
Mar 2023
While the alleys and small streets are interesting, this is so highly touristed that it's almost not worth seeing. It's filled with touristy stores and alot of mediocre restaurants (although there are some real gems in there, too). If you are not comfortable in crowds, I would also caution that this area is very busy, even in the off-season.
Written 15 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Donde alojarse barato en el barrio gotico
Written 24 January 2023
This depends on your opinion of what is cheap. We stayed at Hotel Jazz C. de Pelai, 3, 08001. Its about 5 minutes walking to the gothic area. It was an excellent hotel.
I tried to translate using google translate:
(Esto depende de tu opinión de lo que es barato. Nos alojamos en el Hotel Jazz C. de Pelai, 3, 08001. Está a unos 5 minutos andando del barrio gótico. Fue un excelente hotel.)
Written 26 January 2023
Si io ho fatto il free tour con i ragazzi dell’ombrello italiano sono bravissimi e alla fine dai una mancia a piacere visita la loro pagina su Facebook
Written 5 February 2020
Looking for an airport pickup and half day tour for Tues morning 10/08. Any suggestions?
Written 5 October 2019
I reserved a shared airport shuttle service through Expedia. I took the Hop On/Hop Off bus tour but I think they only have full day tours. TripAdvisor posts many half day tours.
Written 6 October 2019
Barri gotic è semllicemente un quartiere molto caratteristico di Barcellona, quindi non è a pagamento ma conviene girarselo tutto, è pieno di negozi, bar e ristoranti particolari ed anche di musei ed atteazioni architettoniche.... Uno spettacolo.
Written 30 November 2019
Some people have said the Gothic Quarter has an odor cuz its old plumbing. Is this true?
I’d love to find a hotel in that area but I have a strong nose and week stomach! TY
Written 17 May 2019
I have visited Barcelona several times & never noticed an odor in the Barrio Gotic. I have not walked much in the area between the Placa Del Teatre & the port, & have not been there in the middle of summer. Never heard anyone else mention a bad odor.
Written 18 May 2019
How far is the Senator Barcelona Spa from the Gothic Quater?
Written 3 April 2019
I really don’t know didn’t try a spa in Barcelona but you can find it on google maps just set your direction
Written 13 May 2019
Ladies - footwear at night? Are high heels a no-no on the Gothic Quarter streets, or are the pavements flat enough to be able to wear them? Thank you
Written 4 February 2019
I would pick a reasonable heel rather than one u might teeter along on& also depends on how far u intend to walk far u walk some streets are cobbled or uneven I would go a bit more sensible & comfort
Written 4 February 2019
Is Gothic Quarter lively in the night time? Or is it dead?
Written 17 December 2018
Very lively - especially Friday and Saturday nights, but also during the week. As was mentioned, it's not a drunken party type atmosphere (at least in December, it's not). It is a lot of families and tourists from all over. If there is a futbol/soccer game, the restaurants and bars are a lot of fun.
Written 19 December 2018
How do we know we have arrived in the gothic district?
Written 29 August 2018
The narrow streets are a dead give away. The main Catholic Cathedral is in the middle of it all and the border is indeed Las Ramblas.
Written 29 August 2018
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