Shula R.

This was one of the more beautiful neighborhoods in Barcelona on a whole. Surrounded by remnants of the old city wall, inside is filled with beautiful architecture housing shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels, daycares, government centers, and places of worship. Be aware as pickpockets are known to be in heavy tourist areas like these. We were in a gift shop paying and watched someone outside steal a shirt from right near the doorway. When we tried to explain to the store employees what just happened at first they didn't understand and then they were kind of like it happens sometimes. Be sure to take your time to stroll through all the streets and stop by the Barcelona Cathedral. It's not Sagrada Familia but still gorgeous on its own. You do need a ticket to go inside (there may be some days/times exceptions) but it's still quite a sight from the outside. At the time we visited there was a little garage sale of sorts going on out front. Very neat thibThe government square is also an impressive sight with pop up installations varying. No trip to Barcelona would be complete without a trip to this neighborhood!!

Helen H.

The Gothic Quarter is the historic center of the old city of Barcelona. I walked down several of the small streets. I grabbed some churros while I was here. Points of interest include Barcelona Cathedral, Pont del Bisbe (Bishop's Bridge), and "The World Begins with Every Kiss" mural.

Ray L.

This is the best place to spend hours or days when visiting the city. You can totally immerse yourself and get lost in all of the winding alleys that make up this huge area. They are filled with high end luxury shops to small specialty and souvenir shops. It's pretty safe to stay on the cathedral side of Las Rambla but crossing over to the Raval district is very distinct and can feel little unsafe. Gothic quarters has some very cool historic structures which include the cathedral of Barcelona. The shops open around 11 to 12pm and stay open until 12 midnight.

Phil S.

Barcelona Spain - Gothic Section is a medieval section of town w/very narrow streets. The quarter encompasses the oldest parts of the city of Barcelona, and includes the remains of the city's Roman wall and several notable medieval landmarks. Walking through this area is taking a walk back in history through the narrow streets. The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona dates back over 2,000 years and is one of the most talked about neighborhoods in the city Our first night in Barcelona we went to our 25th anniversary dinner @ Brugarol in The Gothic Section. The food @ Brugarol was absolutely amazing. Many of the streets in the gothic area are very narrow, too narrow to allow cars to drive through. We spent several hours just walking through the maze of streets lined w/shops, restaurants & bars. When we had more time we went back to the Gothic Quarter & found a small leather goods store. We bought a number of items. All of the products are produced in Spain. My wife bought 2 purses (she needs more purses (NOT) & a belt. I bought 2 belts for $10 euros each & a wallet for $8 euros. The woman who worked there was able to take the belts, cut them and custom fit them for us. We were able to barter & negotiate a lower price & she willing worked w/us. All told 2 purses, 3 belts & a wallet for less than $70 euros for everything. It's a fascinating walk back in time to a bygone era, unfortunately many of the shops have closed due to COVID but there was still plenty of things to see w/so much history.

Phil C.

At every turn it's a breathtaking view of the past. Roman architecture towering over your head, with small alleyways, leading you to new adventures. Some alleyways can smell ripe. So, be aware. The streets have unfortunately, been tagged by graffiti. However, look beyond these elements and it's a journey and discovery extravaganza.

Robert S.

You can't visit the Catalan capital without strolling through the famous Barrio Gótico. The cobblestone streets of the Gothic Quarter are home to the Cathedral of Barcelona and the political hub Plaça de la Generalita. This is one of the oldest and most beautiful districts in Barcelona. A labyrinth of narrow streets full of atmospheric bars, restaurants and shops, the neighborhood is part of the wider old city and is situated right in the heart of Barcelona, stretching from the famous Rambla to Via Laietana. I took a picture of the Cereria Subirà which was created in 1761 as a candle shop. Since then, in this family business they have been crafting candles and fostering the traditional methods of working with wax...it's the oldest store in the city. I loved walking around the old buildings, seeing the old stores, tasting some of the nice pastry shops and having some really god food throughout.

Andrea U.

A labyrinth of medieval buildings, squares & narrow cobblestone built over Roman ruins. This rests on top of the first Roman settlement with the early 1st century. Sights here are the Abutment de Barcelona, religious builds, Temple of Augustus, Can Marti, & Museum of the History of Barcelona,

Sanjay G.

This is one of the best parts of Barcelona, and worth taking the time to explore. The gothic quarter is the medieval city of Barcelona. It grew around the ancient Roman town of Barcino which is Barcelona's oldest area. There are lots to see, from the world heritage listed Palau de la Musical to the spectacular gothic cathedral, to the Picasso Museum The Gothic Quarter has been the spiritual and secular center of the city. Remains of ancient Roman buildings are still found here (you can see parts of the old Roman walls) , but the Middle Ages are best represented by the historic monuments packed into this quarter. Of course this neighborhood is incomplete without Gaudi's creation. Gothic architecture, the medieval cathedral stands on Monte Tabor, the highest point in the town center. Fact: The Gothic Quarter is where Christopher Columbus was received by the Catholic Monarchs after his first voyage to the New World. 3-4 Hours would be more than enough to cover this area. The gothic quarter is free to visit and best seen on foot because tour buses cannot drive through the narrow streets. Go for tiny winding streets, stuffed full of history and opportunities for aimless wandering.

Yuko H.

I enjoyed walking around this area, especially narrow alleys. Steer sughs are so small, got lost many times but ended up discovering interesting area. Wear good walking shoes and be prepared to walk a lot. I felt safe walking around during a day with a big camera around my neck.

Michael S.

Barri Gòtic (aka El Gòtic aka the Gothic Quarter) is a perfect place to start your first Barcelona experience. Visitors are immediately transported to a different time and place while strolling along rain-soaked narrow, winding cobble-stoned alleys between charming hidden public squares (plaças) and medieval-style towering churches. This fairy tale is real and you're in it at Barri Gòtic. Who cares if much of Barcelona's oldest district isn't really that old or from medieval times? Not me and neither should you, so, here's a few recommended things to do in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter: * Behold Catedral de Barcelona Called the Barcelona Cathedral or officially the Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia (or Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), this Catholic sanctuary has a historic crypt and impressive array of prayer chapels as well as 13 geese at the Well of the Geese (Font de les Oques) completed in 1448. * Stroll down Carrer del Bisbe Bishop's Street is home to the Pont del Bisbe (Bishop's Bridge) that connects the medieval palace Palau de la Generalitat with Casa dels Canonges' (Canon's House). The bridge is neo-Gothic-style, but actually wasn't built until 1928. Next door is the government hub at Plaça Sant Jaume. * Take in history at Plaça del Rei The imposing Palau Reial Major (Royal Palace) was site of Catalan royalty from the 13th-15th centuries and this plaza is where you'll find the Palatine chapel of Santa Agata and the Museu d'Historia de La Ciutat (City History Museum) to discover ruins of the ancient Roman city Barcino from the 1st - 5th century. * Relax at Plaza Del Pi This popular plaça is filled with artists and dominated by the church of Santa María del Pi with its large multicolored rosette window. The beautiful plaza is a good place to try Barcelona's famous Mató cheese. * Escape at Plaça Sant Felip Neri This quieter and perhaps more romantic plaza sits under the watchful gaze of the Baroque church of the same name (Sant Felip Neri). A little fountain in the middle and war-scarred walls in the shade of the acacia trees calms visitors with a silent respect lingering over the square. * Explore nearby La Rambla This busy tree-lined pedestrian walkway will liven up your tour and provide a chance to visit the historic La Boqueria open air market for local tapas foods like Jamón Ibérico plus fresh fruits, seafood, breads, and more. La Rambla is also the perfect place to start or end your visit at one of the 3 metro stops.

Pat C.

The city center of Barcelona during medieval times. There are structures going back as far as when the region was a Roman settlement. Many a narrow corridor leading into open courtyards surrounded by intricate carvings, sculptures ; perfect little spots to enjoy an expresso and take in its history, architecture, and overall esthetic value. Continue on foot to visit Picasso's hometown and birthplace, but beware of pickpockets and travel light.

Eric B.

The Gothic Quarter is the centre of the old city of Barcelona. It stretches from La Rambla to Via Laietana, and from the Mediterranean seafront to Ronda de Sant Pere. Despite several changes undergone in the 19th and early 20th century, many of the buildings date from Medieval times, some from as far back as the Roman settlement of Barcelona. Remains of the squared Roman Wall can be seen within this area, as can El Call, the medieval Jewish quarter. The Barri Gòtic retains a labyrinthine street plan, with many small streets opening out into squares. Gayle and I enjoyed getting lost within this dense grid and around every corner seemed to be new shop, cafe, or interesting architectural feature (especially around the Cathedral).

Tanja N.

Gothic quarter is one of the oldest districts in Barcelona or Barcino the way the town was called during ancient Roman times. This is where the Romans laid claim to the land and built their first settlement, which was fortified by the addition of a thick wall that rose up to a full 60 feet . The remains of the wall can be still seen today. It is very charming and medieval looking with labyrinths of narrow streets full of restaurants and souvenir shops. It is definitely a heart of the city and should be included in your itinerary.