When we talk about Barcelona, extravagant art and architecture always pop up in our minds. This cosmopolitan capital not only flaunts the notable Sagrada Familia church, but also several historic landmarks that you can find in the Gothic Quarter. With the well-preserved narrow medieval streets, Barri Gòtic is an area where you can observe the remains of the Romans city while enjoying Catalan arts, street food, and vibe. Are you ready to engrave an enchanting memory as you walk through the busy avenue La Rambla? Keep scrolling to reveal the list of activities to do in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter that will make you skip a heartbeat.
1. View more than 450 marine species at Barcelona Aquarium (from USD 30.0)
With more than 11,000 sea creatures and a 262-foot (80-meter) tunnel, this aquarium has an impressive collection of marine species–notably one of the largest in Europe. Situated at the top of the bustling La Rambla boulevard, L'Aquarium not only hosts sharks, rays, eels, and more than 8,000 fishes but also offers a marine education centre and small aquariums where visitors can learn about the minute details of ocean ecosystems.
Skip the Line: Barcelona Aquarium Ticket
Duration: 1 hour
2. Witness collections of distinguished Catalan artists at Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona
Posted by AssociacióMusical Eugènia Verdet on Monday, 4 May 2015
Founded in 1881, the Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona promotes all kinds of artistic and cultural activities. Some of the most notable Catalan artists such as Hermen Anglada Camarasa, Ramon Casas, Apel-les Mestres, and Joaquim Mir have been members of the institution that has become the home of a large documentary collection from the 19th and 20th centuries. Enter the astounding gallery at no cost and admire the cultural establishment through arts over the decades, watch concerts, films, or take a rare chance to join art classes in the circle.
Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona
Address: Carrer dels Arcs no 5, 08002 Barcelona
Website: Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
Price: Free
3. Have fun at Erotic Museum of Barcelona
Situated right in the front of La Boqueria Market on La Rambla, this unique museum shows how erotica has been evolving through centuries since the beginning of civilization. Approximately 800 items of both original and replicas are displayed in various rooms and spaces, showing a continuous chronology. It’s a place that can feed your curiosity about erotic culture from different times and locations either at your own pace, with an audio guide, or by joining a guided tour.
Erotic Museum of Barcelona
Address: La Ramba 96, Barcelona
Website: Erotic Museum of Barcelona
Opening hours: 10am - 12am (daily)
Price: 10 USD
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4. Relish the beauty of Basilica of the Holy Martyrs Justo and Pastor
This Gothic structure built around 1342 is known as the oldest Parish Church in Barcelona. People believe that the ancient church has been on the site since 300 CE, originally designed as a shrine to Castor and Pollux, twin figures of Greco-Roman mythology. Justus and Pastor, two Christian boys beheaded by the Roman Emperor Diocletian for refusing the belief in 304 CE, are now venerated at the church that bears their name. Come and admire the beauty of clashing architectural styles over centuries–from Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, to Neoclassical, all laced in a unique atmosphere.
Basilica of the Holy Martyrs Justo and Pastor
Address: Plaça de Sant Just, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Website: Basilica of the Holy Martyrs Justo and Pastor
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm; Sat: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 8pm; Sun: 10am -1pm
Price: Free
Barcelona Tour Guide
Perry Tours
Hello! My name is Perry, originally from the heart of Belgium, famed for its waffles and fries. However, it wasn't just the call of the Spanish sun that brought to Barcelona, but rather a captivating encounter with a German-Uruguayan beauty in Thailand. This led to the birth of our son in Ibiza, and eventually, more than two decades ago, I found myself in the vibrant city of Barcelona. My pa... Read more
Tours by Perry
5. Stroll through the interesting George Orwell Square
Also known as La Plaça Tripi, the plaza that is named after the British writer is one of the most interesting public squares in Barcelona. Orwell himself fought in Barcelona during the Civil War and captured the revolutionary spirit in his book, Homage to Catalonia. The square itself reflects all-class interaction with Leandre Cristòfol’s sculpture in the middle and bars in the surroundings. Walk around the area to feel the eclectic and entertaining vibe.
George Orwell Square
Address: Carrer de n'Arai, 9999, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Website: George Orwell Square
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Find Barcelona's best kept secrets at MUHBA Temple of Augustus
Walk around the Gothic Quarter to find the four columns from the Temple of Augustus standing inside a small medieval courtyard in Carrer Paradis. Like Barcelona itself, they have survived for over 2,000 years. Now becoming part of Museu d'Història de Barcelona, these 9-metre (30 ft) tall remains of the Temple of Augustus bear witness of the city’s history across centuries. Following its name, the temple was built in the first century BC to worship Emperor Augustus. Don’t miss the chance to see the magnificent ruins from the past!
MUHBA Temple d'August
Address: Carrer Paradís, 10, 08002, Barcelona
Website: MUHBA Temple d'August
Opening hours: Mon: 10am - 2pm; Tue - Sat: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 8pm
Price: Free
7. Discover secret locations within the remaining Roman city walls of Barcíno
The ancient Roman colony of Barcíno, dated between 1st to 4th century BC, is still visible today at the most surprising sites. Managed by the Museum of the History of Barcelona, the adjoining stretch of walls are now becoming parts of buildings like ramblers club, a shop, a café, and a civic centre! The only place where it is possible to enter the wall is the Ethnography and Folklore Ramblers Association (AEEF). It was common to make openings in the walls during the Middle Age. The site is now open to the public by reservation on weekdays (except Thursday).
Roman city walls of Bàrcino
Address: Carrer de la Palla, 16, 08002 Barcelona
Website: Roman city walls of Bàrcino
8. Pamper your palate at Milk Bar and Bistro
Finding a good place to eat while travelling can be quite a challenge. Milk Bar and Bistro is one of the top-rated restaurants at the Gothic Quarter where you can get tasty, bold-flavoured foods with global influences. With seasonal family-style menus, hearty atmosphere, and long operating hours, it becomes a favourite place to dine and hang out. From pancakes and smoothies to tapas-style food and ramen-noodle burger, you can find uniquely tasty brunch, lunch, or dinner options in one place!
Milk
Address: Carrer d'en Gignàs, 21, 08002 Barcelona
Website: Milk
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 2am; Fri - Sat: 9am - 2:30am
9. Chill out at Craft Barcelona
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Divendres fet Us esperem avui dissabte, obrim a les 12!
Posted by Craft Barcelona on Saturday, April 3, 2021
Conveniently located in a small street that connects Plaça Sant Jaume with Carrer Pietat where you can find the ancient remains of Temple Augustus, this bar is a perfect place to unwind after a long, tiring day. It has three different spaces from the central plant, the basement where you can enjoy live performances, to the private dining upstairs. If you’re looking for a place that feels like home to enjoy some cold drinks and skewers, make sure to visit this bar!
Craft Barcelona
Address: Carrer del Paradís, 4, 08002 Barcelona
Website: Craft Barcelona
Opening hours: Mon: 4pm - 2pm; Tue - Wed: 12pm - 2am; Thu - Sat: 12pm - 3am; Sun: 12pm - 1am
10. Learn about Jewish history at MUHBA - The Call (from USD 97.0)
Museu d'Història de Barcelona has several interesting tours and discussion sessions, one of those is The Call. At this exhibit, the museum showcases artefacts from the 13th to 14th centuries, including dishware with Hebrew characters, an illustrated manuscript, the Sarajevo Haggadah, and two tombstones with Hebrew inscriptions. Join the tour to experience how Europe’s largest and most notable Jewish communities were like. Enter the ancient synagogue, Call Mayor and Call Menor, and get the chance to taste Catalan-Jewish cuisines.
Jewish Quarter of Barcelona Private Tour with Hotel Pick-up
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
11. Browse through valuable cannabis art throughout centuries at Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum
In this most unusual museum, visitors will get the chance to explore the collection of paintings, prints, tools, and rare antiques that bring fascinating information about the history of the cannabis plant. The permanent exhibition lets you know how cannabis and hemp encouraged the development of clothing, medicine, sea travel, agriculture, and more. They have been part of human civilisation for centuries. Join the tour to get an audio guide and discover the 17th-century original paintings by David Teniers the Younger, Cornelis Decker, and Herman Saftleven.
Hemp Museum Gallery
Address: Carrer Ample, 35, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Website: Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum Barcelona
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 10pm | Sun: 11am - 8pm
Price: 9 EURO
12. Learn about the city's vibrant history at History Museum of Catalonia (from USD 8.67)
As the only preserved building of the old industrial port in Magatzems Generals de Comerç (MGC), the museum displays permanent and temporary exhibitions related to Catalonia’s history. It takes 45 to 60 minutes to explore. You can join educational or cultural activities later to learn more about Catalonia. Go to the museum’s terrace where The Restaurant 1881 and a bar lounge are ready to give you company to see the panoramic view of Barcelona.
Barcelona: History Museum of Catalonia Skip-The-Line Ticket
13. Marvel at Barcelona's refined architecture at Palau de la Música Catalana (from USD 23.84)
Take a guided tour to get a chance to explore Barcelona’s modernist architectural icon that is not open for public. Walk for a few minutes from Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya to reach the site. Explore the building starting from Rehearsal Hall of the Orfeó Catala where the choir has rehearsed regularly for over a century, see the foundation stone that was laid in 1905, admire the grand staircase, and get ready to be amazed with spectacular ornaments and colours as you enter the Main Hall. The tour ends with Palau’s organ accompanying your stroll with a short musical passage.
Palau de la Música Guided Tour
Duration: 50.0 minute
14. Wander around the charming Plaça Sant Jaume (from USD 27.11)
Discover the charm of the Gothic Quarter through the narrow lanes, hidden corners, and the notable Plaça Sant Jaume in a guided walking tour. Admire the enchanting beauty of historic monuments and charming architectures that stood since the Middle Age as you wander around. Then, take a moment to stop at Plaça Sant Jaume to watch a group of people doing different activities. See how tourists and street vendors interact in the alleys and hidden corners to bring your imagination back to the past centuries.
Barcelona 2-Hour Gothic Walking Tour
Duration: 2.0 hour
15. Admire Barcelona's Cathedral of the Sea (from USD 9.0)
Santa Maria del Mar Church is one of the most emblematic buildings in the city where you can take an in-depth look at the exhibited arts and learn about the medieval construction process. Explore the towers and interior of the church in a guided tour to discover hidden features behind the Cathedral of the Sea and enjoy the stunning city views from the rooftop terraces. Take more time to visit the crypt and galleries and embrace the beauty of this historical landmark.
Barcelona: Santa Maria del Mar tour with Towers & Rooftop
Duration: 45 minute
16. Spot the famous Bishop Bridge (from USD 27.0)
El Pont de Bisbe, built for the Barcelona International Exposition, is one of the most photographed sites in Barcelona. Architect Joan Rubió I Bellver who designed the bridge suggested that all non-Gothic buildings in the city should be replaced by new-Gothic ones. The local authority rejected the plan and only built the bridge that connects the Palau de la Generalitat to La Casa dels Canonges. Join a walking tour to know some interesting local legends and superstitions related to this majestic bridge!
Group or Private Barcelona Welcome: Old Town, Beach & Optional Sagrada Família
Duration: 180 to 270 minutes
Marvel at centuries-old structures and immerse in culture in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter
Everyone must agree that Barcelona is a city of art, culture, and history. Being one of the oldest parts in the city, the Gothic Quarter is a perfect spot to reminisce the glorious beauty of the Roman village and the well-preserved 14th-century buildings. As easy as it is to explore the borough on your own, you can gather interesting facts and local legends by joining guided walking tours. Follow our list of activities to assure you get everything that the city can offer, from ancient remains to the hottest local bars in town.
Admire the beautiful architecture of Barcelona Cathedral
Contributed by Tour Guide, Perry Tours
Barcelona Cathedral is renowned for its remarkable Gothic and Neo-Gothic architectural style. Construction on the cathedral began 720 years ago on the site of a Romanesque church, which originally served as an early Christian basilica. History enthusiasts can explore Museum of History of Barcelona (MUHBA) to discover archaeological artifacts from this site. Dedicated to martyr Santa Eulàlia, the patron saint of Barcelona, who suffered a torturous death in late Roman times, the cathedral houses her remains beneath the main altar.
History
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