The oldest remnants of the city can be found in the Gothic Quarter, a maze of medieval streets and charming squares. Here, you’ll encounter traces of the ancient Roman city, alongside an array of stunning medieval buildings.
At the heart of the Gothic Quarter lies the area around the Barcelona Cathedral, the historic Jewish Quarter, and the political hub, Plaça Sant Jaume. This is also the most popular spot for tourists, brimming with history and vibrant energy.
Where?
The Gothic Quarter is nestled between Las Ramblas and El Born.
How to get there?
You can easily reach the Gothic Quarter by metro. The nearest stations are Plaça Catalunya (L1/L3), Liceu (L3), Drassanes (L3), Jaume I (L4), and Urquinaona (L1/L4).
Top attractions
Don’t miss the Barcelona Cathedral, Las Ramblas, Plaça Reial, Plaça Sant Jaume, Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, and El Call, the historic Jewish Quarter.
Content Table
- The 5 best things to do in the Gothic Quarter
- Food and Drinks in El Gòtic
- Shopping in El Gòtic
- Other interesting things to do in El Gòtic
- Where to stay in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
- History of the Gothic Quarter El Gòtic
The 5 best things to do in the Gothic Quarter
The gothic cathedral
Explore this stunning Gothic masterpiece, including its 28 chapels and the serene cloister with its symbolic 13 white geese.
The old Jewish Quarter El Call
Discover the historic Jewish Quarter, with its narrow streets and hidden history, offering a glimpse into medieval Barcelona.
Plaça Reial
Relax in this beautiful square, known for its elegant arcades, palm trees, and lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
La Rambla
Stroll along this lively boulevard that borders El Gòtic, where you can experience street performances, markets, and vibrant city life.
Plaça Sant Felip Neri
Visit this tranquil, hidden square with a poignant history, marked by the scars of the Spanish Civil War, and home to a beautiful baroque church.
Food and drinks in El Gòtic
While wandering through the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find plenty of great spots to grab a bite or enjoy a drink—if you know where to look. Here are some of my top recommendations.
Coffee spots
For a perfect cup of coffee, Torradors Bon Mercat Llibreteria is my go-to spot in El Gòtic. I often stop by to pick up freshly roasted beans and can never resist a cup of their expertly brewed coffee. Another charming spot is Caelum, where you’ll find delicious cakes and other sweet treats.
Lunch and Dinner
For a traditional Catalan afternoon snack, known as a merienda, head to Oviso. Their crêpes are divine, and they offer a great value lunch menu. For a more substantial meal, Restaurant La Pau is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s staffed by hospitality students, giving them valuable first-time experience in the industry.
Bosco is another good choice, offering Mediterranean dishes in a setting that resembles an ancient Roman or Greek temple—great for sharing dishes with friends or family.
If you’re craving something truly special, Brugarol Barcelona is a must-visit. They serve a unique blend of tapas with Japanese influences. However, it’s popular, so be sure to reserve in advance.
For classic Catalan cuisine, Los Caracoles and Can Culleretes are two of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in the city, both offering authentic and affordable dishes.
For tapas, La Plata is the place to be in El Gòtic. It’s a favorite among locals, and the staff is always welcoming. Also, don’t miss the Sensi tapas restaurants scattered across Barcelona. My favorite is Sensi Bistrot, located right in El Gòtic, offering a range of creative and traditional tapas.
A well-known tourist spot in El Gòtic is Els Quatre Gats, the famous artist café where Picasso held his first two exhibitions and designed the menu. Here you can have tapas or enjoy traditional Catalan dishes.
Drinks
Oviso isn’t just great for a merienda—it’s also a perfect spot to stick around for a drink or cocktail. The lively atmosphere keeps going late into the night.
L’Ascensor, named after the building’s modernist lift, specializes in gin and tonic, offering a uniquely local experience.
For a fun bar-hopping experience, start at Bar Manchester, known for its tempting happy hour deals—a great place for a date or a night out with friends. Just a short walk away is El Bombón, a must-visit for lovers of Latin music, where you can also grab a bite.
Shopping in El Gòtic
The narrow streets of El Gòtic are perfect for a delightful shopping experience. Here are some of the best places to shop in this historic neighborhood.
For popular retailers like Zara, Mango, and Bershka, head to Barcelona’s main shopping street, Avinguda del Portal de l’Àngel. You’ll also find El Corte Inglés, Spain’s answer to Harrods, along with other well-known brands such as Decathlon in the side streets.
If you’re after something more unique, explore the streets around Carrer d’Avinyó and Carrer Banys Nous. These areas are treasure troves of handcrafted shoes, artisan lamps, figurines, and a variety of design and vintage boutiques. Fun fact: Did you know that espadrilles are traditional Catalan footwear? You’re sure to find them here!
For unique design and home decor, visit El Ciclo. The owner creates stunning lamps and home accessories from recycled bicycle parts. His lamps are now hanging in homes all over the world.
If you’re looking for a shopping mall, El Triangle at Plaça Catalunya is a great choice. This shopping center is home to stores like Urban Outfitters and Sephora.
Other interesting places in the Gothic Quarter
Plaça de Sant Jaume
This central square is the heart of Barcelona’s political life, housing both the City Hall and the Catalan government’s seat. It’s a key location for various city events and offers a glimpse into the political and historical significance of the Gothic Quarter.
Temple of Augustus
Discover the remnants of this ancient Roman temple, which once stood at the center of Barcino, the Roman precursor to Barcelona. The well-preserved columns offer a fascinating peek into the city’s Roman past.
Arxiu de la Corona de Aragón (Archive of the Crown of Aragon)
Located in the historic Palau del Lloctinent, the Arxiu de la Corona de Aragón is an architectural gem with its Gothic and Renaissance elements. The building features a striking facade with ornate details, reflecting the grandeur of the Crown of Aragon.
Plaça del Rei
This historic square is surrounded by medieval buildings, including the Palau Reial Major, which was the seat of the Catalan Counts. It’s a picturesque spot rich with history, ideal for immersing yourself in the medieval ambiance of El Gòtic.
Pont del Bisbe
The iconic Bridge of Sighs, or Pont del Bisbe, is a neo-Gothic bridge that connects two buildings in the Gothic Quarter. Known for its picturesque beauty, it’s a popular spot for photography and offers a glimpse into the architectural charm of the area.
Museu Frederic Marès
One of Spain’s most important sculpture museums, Museu Frederic Marès features an extensive collection of sculptures and artifacts. The museum’s courtyard, adorned with colorful orange trees, creates a picturesque setting for its impressive exhibits.
Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA)
Explore Barcelona’s rich history through the city’s archaeological remains and exhibits at this fascinating museum. The MUHBA offers insights into the evolution of Barcelona from its Roman origins to its present-day form.
Arxiu de la Ciutat de Barcelona (Old City Archive )
Housed in the Casa de l’Ardiaca, a Gothic building with a beautiful facade, the Old City Archive is a stunning example of medieval architecture. The building features intricate stonework and a charming courtyard
Where to stay in the Gothic Quarter
Hotel The Serras
This five-star boutique hotel is located in the Barrio Gótico and overlooks the old port: a prime location! The sea and the beach are within walking distance. The stylish rooms are fully equipped. The library is located on the middle floor and on the roof you can take a dip or enjoy a cocktail (and the view).
Prices, reviews, deals, current information and availability: The Serras
This intimate two-star boutique hotel offers delightful views of the ancient Roman city walls and the Barcelona Cathedral. While the rooms are not particularly spacious, many feature charming, authentic Spanish balconies. Each room is stylishly decorated and comes with a basic private bathroom.
With its excellent price-to-quality ratio, this hotel provides great value for a comfortable and picturesque stay.
Prices, reviews, deals, current information and availability:The Moods Cathedral Boutique Hotel
Room Mate Pau
Our top pick among the Room Mate Hotels is Hotel Room Mate Pau. Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, just a short 50-meter walk from the bustling Plaça de Catalunya and La Rambla, this hotel offers a prime location with modern style. Hotel Room Mate Pau boasts a contemporary design with playful touches, such as quirky white faces that double as seating.
While the rooms may not be overly spacious, they are well-appointed with private bathrooms and ample storage space. Overall, this hotel offers excellent value for money, making it a fantastic choice for both comfort and convenience.
Prices, reviews, deals, current information and availability: Room Mate Pau
Hotel Neri
Nestled on the quaint and picturesque Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, one of Barcelona’s most idyllic spots, stands a medieval palace dating back to the 7th century. This historic building now houses the 4-star boutique hotel, Neri. The hotel’s 22 rooms have been stylishly renovated to combine historic charm with modern amenities.
Guests can unwind on the rooftop terrace, complete with comfortable lounge chairs, or seek refuge in the cozy lounge or reading room if the weather is chilly. With its enchanting setting both indoors and outdoors, Hotel Neri stands out as one of the most romantic hotels in Barcelona.
Prices, reviews, deals, current information and availability: Hotel Neri
Hotel 1898
Situated on the bustling La Rambla, just 200 meters from Plaça Catalunya, Hotel 1898 is a luxurious four-star retreat perfect for unwinding after a day exploring the vibrant city. Housed in the former palace of the Marquis of Comillas, the hotel exudes elegance and offers a range of upscale amenities.
The hotel features a rejuvenating spa with an indoor pool, while the rooftop terrace boasts spectacular city views from its lounge beds and swimming pool. The classic interior design adds a touch of timeless charm to the hotel.
Rooms are meticulously maintained, with housekeeping service twice daily. For a brighter experience, be sure to request a room with an exterior window, as those facing inward can be quite dark.
Prices, reviews, deals, current information and availability: Hotel 1898
History of the Gothic Quarter
El Gòtic is a labyrinth of medieval streets and charming squares, interspersed with remnants of the ancient Roman city and remarkably well-preserved medieval buildings. During the reign of Emperor Augustus, this area was chosen to establish a new colony. The old Roman forum was located where Plaça Sant Jaume now stands.
Today, El Gòtic is home to Barcelona’s municipal offices and the Casa de la Ciutat, the city’s town hall. The district also houses the Royal Palace, where figures such as Christopher Columbus were received upon his return from the Americas.
Wander through the romantic medieval streets and alleys that have largely survived through the centuries. Notably, El Call, the old Jewish quarter, is a stunning example of this historical richness. Amidst the medieval buildings and structures, you’ll encounter archaeological digs from the Roman era and Gothic architecture from later centuries.
