Gothic Quarter

Local Flavor · Barri Gotic

Gothic Quarter

Local Flavor · Barri Gotic

2

Ciutat Vella, Barcelona, Spain

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Highlights

In the heart of Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter enchants with its medieval charm, winding cobblestone streets, vibrant bars, restaurants, and centuries of history around every turn.  

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Ciutat Vella, Barcelona, Spain Get directions

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Jul 25, 2025

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Barri Gòtic

"Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is where you’ll find the charm and essence of the city. The narrow streets with small balconies and cobblestones will take you back in time, as well as satisfy the craving most tourists have about seeing Barcelona as it appears in all the pictures. Las Ramblas is the city’s most popular stretch, so the best time to stroll here is early in the morning before most tourists are awake. Drop by Carrer del Bisbe and take a photo of the iconic bridge bathed in the soft morning light. You’ll get lost a lot in the Gothic Quarter because all of the streets look the same, but don’t panic — just enjoy the walk and remember to look up to see the locals chilling on their balconies." - MATADOR_NETWORK

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/europe/spain/barcelona/neighborhoods/
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@artnet

"For a dip into Barcelona’s contemporary art scene, walk through the narrow stone streets of the Barri Gòtic, where pedestrians flock to galleries such as Galeria Mayoral and Joan Prats, two stalwarts that anchor the local art scene."

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Thaovi T.

Yelp
Super cool area to walk around - tons of history, winding alleys, hidden courtyards, and random little shops and tapas spots. It definitely has that old-world charm that makes Barcelona feel special. I wouldn't necessarily stay in a hotel right in the Gothic Quarter. It's fun to visit, but the rooms tend to be small, dark, and overpriced for what you get. We ended up staying just outside the border of the Gothic area and got a much better place for the money -- quieter too, but still just a short walk in. Definitely worth exploring during the day (and maybe coming back at night for drinks), but save your hotel budget for somewhere with a little more space and comfort.
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Daren R.

Yelp
Most of my adventures through the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona were of historic buildings and churches which are surrounded by retail shops and unique tapas and cafe eateries. The wife and I got the pleasure to take a four hour food and wine tour throughout the Gothic Quarter providing us the opportunity to taste true Barcelona at four different locations. The area has a dark, wet and slightly unsettling gloomy atmosphere with lots of unsanctioned wall graffiti, although gave it added character to the area.
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Helen H.

Yelp
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.
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Shula R.

Yelp
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!!
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Ray L.

Yelp
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.
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Phil C.

Yelp
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.
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Robert S.

Yelp
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.
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Phil S.

Yelp
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.
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Andrea U.

Yelp
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,
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Benny H.

Yelp
Pretty cool section of the city. The Goth Quarter looks like something from ancient times and it's pretty cool. I felt like Quasimodo was going to swoop out of the blue and steal my lunch. A very interesting spot to visit. Ton of landmarks, restaurants, and shopping. Plus, strange people. If you come to Barcelona, this is a must for a visit.
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Sanjay G.

Yelp
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.
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Yuko H.

Yelp
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.
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Blue A.

Yelp
This is one of my favorite neighborhoods of any city I've ever visited. The architecture is gothic and stunning. There are so many little side streets filled with restaurants, shops, coffee shops and landmarks. You'll find the Cathedral of Barcelona in this neighborhood. While I never went inside the outside is gorgeous. I stayed in the hotel right across the street from it. Id walk by it every single day. Take an hour and just walk through the neighborhood. No plans. Just an hour of aimless wandering. Grab a coffee. Maybe some churros. And just zig zag through the narrow, winding streets while taking in the amazing architecture. You won't regret it.
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Michael S.

Yelp
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.
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Tanja N.

Yelp
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.
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Kevin W.

Yelp
The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona was a neat little square with a ton of neat buildings and architecture. Lots of tiny streets and walkways to get lost through but easy to navigate. The Gothic buildings were my favorite part. I love the medieval feel of the area. The highlight of the quarter is the Barcelona Cathedral There is also a cool little bridge, Carrer del Bisbe. Very touristy site but not overly crowded. Lots of little shops and food vendors. Great place to grab a bite and soak in some Spain culture.
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Matthew H.

Yelp
I could spend all day in the Gothic Quarter. So much history, so many cool stores and amazing restaurants too. Great people watching.
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Pat C.

Yelp
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.
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Eric B.

Yelp
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).
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Casey M.

Yelp
Great place to get lost in with its narrow winding alleyways, who knows what's around each corner, you might find the pont del Bisbe, cat Fernando Botero, and how can you miss Barcelona cathedral! Just wander and take it all in is my opinion.
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Richard F.

Yelp
We really enjoyed visiting the old Gotic area in Barcelona. You have to go down some of the very old side streets to really get a feel for the area. The old buildings that were built centuries ago and the architecture is something to see. Don't pass up the little shops and the small restaurants. There's a lot of hidden treasures to see here.
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Norman W.

Yelp
The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona must not be missed as it gives an insight into this cities past. Wonderful architecture and ironwork in balconies and street lighting. Narrow alleyways which open onto unexpected squares. The guide book mentions antique shops. Unfortunately, many of these have closed behind graffiti clad shutters or have been converted into more modern mobile phone outlets. But, the walk is an education.
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Saira K.

Yelp
This is the Gothic Quarter or neighborhood. Very pretty buildings and streets. You feel like you're going back in time. Check out the Museu d'Història de Barcelona to see remains of the Roman city. Lots of people, cafes, shops, and vendors.
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Kat T.

Yelp
One of the places I love in BCN. Barri Gòtic is awesome. Of the many historic places to visit. Yes it is soooo touristy but what part of BCN isn't. Lots of stores and restaurants. Just try not to get charged tourist prices by the restaurants. Love the history of this area. Love the streets so narrow and cozy. No cars or Moto or even bikes in certain places. Now u wonder where do the cars park? How far will they have to walk just to get to work or home. Crazy.
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Toshi I.

Yelp
This is a fun area. We visited the Picasso Museum and it was an easy stroll to the Barcelona Park, Arc de Triomf and Barcelona Cathedral. There are so many bakeries/pattisseries and tapas places to choose from. I love the Gothic style architecture and maze-like alley entrances. Definitely recommend!
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Denise C.

Yelp
The Gothic Quarter is worth visiting in Barcelona. The streets have old stones. There are narrow streets to walk on. It feels like the Old World whereas a lot of Barcelona feels very modern. There's a lot of historic buildings to see. We visited the Picasso Museum. Barcelona was once Barcino. There's a building you can visit with old historic foundations of the old city. Tour guide took us through here.
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Nadia Z.

Yelp
It been called a Jewel or a Heart of Old Town... To me, it's a Soul. It speaks to you...no, it sings to you, in old pavings of narrow streets, in warm stones of the building facades, in sculptures and bridges, in marquees and lamp posts, in iron detailing and mosaic plaques... No tours, no guides needed - you just have to get completely and hopelessly lost in its timeless labyrinths of streets. Every street, every turn, every square you wander into, has something to show you, something to make you stop and look, in awe to the history and beauty of this area. Narrow streets lead to endless Churches and Casas, with quiet courtyards, fountains and benches. Plaça Reial, the Cathedral, Santa Maria del Pi, Plaça del Rei, Sant Lu... Street artists performances, plaza concerts, painters with their canvas - all can be found at the streets and plazas on sunny day. People here are friendly, and cafés are plentiful - a beautiful place to spend a day, or two, or three. I want to stay here forever.
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Melissa N.

Yelp
Really cool area and creepy feel (on a cloudy day). So amazing to be able to stroll the narrow streets and see such beautiful architecture with so much history. Lots of souvenir shops to discover while wandering between the buildings. As my fiance said, it's like playing a game like Assassin's Creed and not wanting to miss anything so we ended up doubling back and exploring all the little streets to find out where they lead. Had a nice time walking around this area. There were some areas that required special entry, but just walking through and getting those pictures are great too.
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Qype User (Timina…)

Yelp
'Gothic Quarter' in Catalan, this is the centre of the old city in Barcelona and a popular tourist area (though less touristy than La Rambla (http://www.qype.co.uk/place/81027-La-Rambla-Barcelona) . A lot of the buildings - like the Barcelona Cathedral and nearby buildings - date from the medieval era. Remains of the old Roman fortification wall and aquaduct pillars can be seen and are well signed. The Barri Gòtic has millions of twisting, turning, streets, a real labyrinth. I enojyed just wandering around, slipping into whatever bar looked good. Lots of streets lead to pretty squares. Given the small, old streets and the volume of pedestrian traffic, much of it is closed to cars.
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Rachel M.

Yelp
As a current resident of Gothic Quarter, I might be slightly biased but I have to admit that I love living here. It is one of the older areas of Barcelona and is a quaint, cobblestoned area with colorful graffiti on every other door. The area looks as if someone built a ton of tall, rickety buildings and squished them all together and only remembered at the last moment to leave narrow pathways for humans to traipse through. The scene is incredibly lively. I can step out of my apartment at 2am in the morning and be surrounded by a ton of people roaming around or just hanging out in groups on the streets. Some of the funnier experiences I've had include men standing on the street corners with the pretense of selling 1 euro beers in their hand -- but really, they're going to end up muttering "weed, coke, MDMA, weed, coke..." to you if you pass by closely enough, which are the real goods they're trying to sell. Bars, fruit juice stands, and local eateries are in abundance here. No itinerary is needed to appreciate this area. I'd just let myself get lost in the Gothic Quarter maze and see where I end up.
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Geoff P.

Yelp
This place was so wonderful and enjoyable. You should highly make a point to go here. It was so nice to actually put my map away for once and just be able to turn any which way I wanted and just explore and have fun. You will come across some cool little shops, a delicious fresh chocolate place, and a Vietnamese place which was great. Really pay attention to all the details on the buildings and churches. Oh and definitely visit Tucco Real Food which is close by!
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Lauren N.

Yelp
My favorite area in Barcelona. The architecture is beautiful. The market is really fun. There's lots of fresh fruit and juices. Grab a drink and walk around. It's easy to get lost because everything can start to look the same. There's lots of fun shops with local artists and hole in the wall places to eat. I'd pick here over tourist covered Las Ramblas any day.
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Luis C.

Yelp
Such a beautiful and scenic area with so many shops, restaurants and spots to take wonderful photos. Do yourself a favor and spend some time getting lost in all the little streets the Gothic Quarter has to offer.
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Karine P.

Yelp
By far the coolest neighborhood in Barelona. I absolutely loved the graffiti art in the alleys. The alleys are catacombs of different paths and directions that all leads to different alleys, all within the walls of incredible old buildings at least 30-40 ft high. It's pretty incredible.

Laura Z.

Yelp
The gothic corner has many things to do. Authentic gothic architecture and cute bakeries too. I would recommend having local churros and chocolate here. One of the best food I have ever had. I loved the gothic streets but hate how their were still businesses like Burger King here. It took away from the authenticity.
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Ira H.

Yelp
We spent a really pleasant Sunday afternoon walking in these narrow streets, almost cool on a hot day! There are many other tourists wandering around lost like us, staring at little maps with no street names. We saw part of the Roman wall and several cathedrals, highly recommended!
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Anna C.

Yelp
The Barri Gòtic is a complete classic of Barcelona. In the heart of the city, and near to almost everything central, tourists and citizens alike can easily spend an entire day here and not see half of all the things that are great about it. I love it! Some parts, the more touristy parts are difficult in the summer especially, but some of the most interesting stores and restaurants of all kinds can be found in this neighborhood.
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Captain K.

Yelp
Go for it! This quarter is worth exploring on every trip ton BCN.
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Qype User (Paulo_…)

Yelp
Quite possibly my favourite area of Barcelona. When 'memory fishing' this area defines my time there more than any other. A good way to see it properly is to start off at the port of Barcelona and work you way up towards this [gothic] quarter seemingly lost in a medieval maze, often turning back in on yourself but always aware of your senses on a higher gear. Many of the best tapas bars and indeed plain old bars are found in this area. The streets so constricted you can barely pass a moped down them. Barri Gotic has a reputation of being a little dangerous and there is a slight edge to it at times. Muggings and pickpocketing are supposedly rife but as long as you remain a little street wise you'll be unlucky to encounter anything. You'll probably find many lovely squares and bars you wish to return too but find the next day they've been swallowed up by the complex succession of tiny streets never to be found again
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Qype User (Purcha…)

Yelp
Located in the centre of Barcelona, it's known as the 'Old Town' area, but is only minutes away from La Rambla. A friend & I literally got off a plane, took a train to the the city & quickly found ourselves in the Gothic Quarter as it seemed the most convenient location to situate ourselves. We managed to find a decently priced hotel room without too much walking around or hassle & spent the rest of the stay exploring this area & the rest of the city. We were so glad to pick this area, as literally on our doorstep there were loads of cafes, shops, restaurants & tapas bars. Plus all the lovely architecture of the old buildings to take in. This area is also very pedestrianised, so perfect for tourists with no transport other than their feet! It's also very well located for getting around the rest of the city to take in the tourist sites spread out all around. Perfect place to stay for a taste of the city that is Barcelona.
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Alex W.

Yelp
Great place to wander, with its super narrow old streets, with shops and bars and little restaurants everywhere. One of the highlights of our trip for sure.

Beachwalker B.

Yelp
Barri Gotic is a beautiful area with much to see. Be sure to visit the Barcelona Cathedral and walk the narrow streets for interesting shops and food. Take your time and enjoy; much to see and explore.