Introduction to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter – A Two Day Itinerary

I wondered how it would feel to be back in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter after having spent a summer in this exquisite Mediterranean city over ten years ago. Would I feel as thrilled and inspired? The answer was a resounding yes! Even as we rode in the taxi from the train station to our hotel, I felt drawn in and delighted at the continuous blend of romantically fantastical architecture interspersed with tree lined boulevards and balcony-strewn alleyways. Throughout the rest of our trip, we could feel the special artistic energy that can only be found here.

There is so much to experience in this uniquely creative city. Knowing what to see and do in Barcelona can be overwhelming, especially if you have a short amount of time like we did on a 2-night weekend getaway. Even though we stayed for just a couple of nights to see family passing through, our time there was fantastic. I love not cramming in too much and keeping things simple with room for exploration and spontaneity, so we focused on just one area knowing that we can return another time. Whether your visit is short or longer, we’re excited to share our own 2-day itinerary for an introduction to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter so that you can also enjoy what is considered to be Barcelona’s most enchanting area.

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Itinerary Map of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Where to Stay in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Above Image – A sunset view of the cathedral spires from the rooftop of hotel H10 Montcada.

Whether you like boutique hotels or hotel chains, luxury or budget, there are a plethora of choices for great accommodations in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Many of the hotels in this area have rooftop terraces for their guests with some open to the public. These provide gorgeous views of the city and sights for amazing picture opportunities and to take in a beautiful sunset. Here are some of our recommendations.

H10 Montcada

For this 2-night getaway, we stayed at the H10 Montcada, in the center of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. They have a wonderful rooftop with a jacuzzi, sun loungers and bar. From the rooftop you can see the Sagrada Familia, the sea, and a wonderful view of the spires of the Barcelona Cathedral. It’s a wonderful rooftop for sunset in Barcelona.

We loved our experience and were pleasantly surprised that for being a 3-star hotel, they included luxuries such as bathrobes and slippers, bottled water and toiletries in the rooms, as well as water and cava upon arrival. The decor and ambiance is warm and welcoming and the staff were professional and friendly throughout our stay. Click here to read the rest of my review on Google Maps.

Mercer Hotel Barcelona

For luxurious, 5-star accommodations in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, the Mercer Hotel is a fantastic boutique option. With exposed stone walls and wooden beamed ceilings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Tucked away on one of the Gothic Quarter’s romantic, narrow streets, it features two restaurants, a bar, a rooftop terrace with pool and a charming inner courtyard.

Wittmore Hotel

Another fabulous 5-star hotel in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is the boutique, adults-only Wittmore Hotel. A tad bit closer to the Barcelona Marina and Barceloneta neighborhood, it exudes charm with its classy, cozy spaces of eclectic mid-century modern adorned with luxurious vintage aesthetics and a sprinkling of Bauhaus.

Enjoy the inner-courtyard patio which boasts the largest vertical garden in Barcelona, the Contraban restaurant, lobby bar and rooftop terrace with pool.

Heads Up: While this is called a 2-day itinerary, it is more of a 1.5-day, 2 night plan that starts with the first afternoon and then includes a full day.

Day 1 in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Discover Barcelona’s Medieval History

The Gothic Quarter is what it is because of its ancient Roman and Medieval history. So it makes sense to start with my alltime favorite spot in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, the Roman city wall. Well, it’s about much more than just the wall. Only steps from the hotel H10 Montcada, the Roman city wall is part of the impressive Medieval structure that today houses the Barcelona History Museum MUHBA. Make sure to visit the history museum to see more remains of Roman buildings and streets.

Part of the history museum’s complex is what is considered the castle, or more like a palace. Even outside from the small Plaza of Ramon Berenguer el Gran, you can admire the longstanding Roman arches and the castle tower. Explore through arch-covered walkways and down narrow alleys to stand in small plazas and admist other historical landmarks. It is so romantically ancient and along with the nearby connected cathedral is considered the Medeival heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.

Take in Sunset with a Drink on a Rooftop in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

After checking into your hotel, enjoy the sunset and a drink from a hotel rooftop. Most hotel rooftops in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter have views of church spires and various beloved sights.

From the hotel H10 Montcada, you can see the Gothic spires of the Barcelona Cathedral and even a view of the Sagrada Familia. The Hotel Colon is known for their magnificent views of the Barcelona Cathedral since they are located right across from it and allow non-guests to visit during certain hours.

Explore the Pedestrian Street of Carrer de la Borria

Above Image – The art-filled alley of the Maison Cactus Art Gallery.

Anytime of the day is beautiful in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, but the evenings are especially enchanting. Stroll down this primarily pedestrian street of Carrer de la Borria for an artful feast for the eyes and plenty of boutique shops. See the colorful Mural Feminista, giggle at the blunt messaging at Maison Cactus Art Gallery (and of course buy some of their works for remembering Barcelona), and delight in the murals on the tiny offshoot street of Carrer de Sant Ignasi.

For other memorable and locally made souvenirs, shop at BONENFANT, the atelier leather bags and belts shop that uses vegetable tanning and other sustainable practices. You can even watch them at work making their products right in the store/workshop.

As you walk down the old street, admire the stone and wood beamed archways diverting into other alleys. At the fork in the road, wander down the Carrer dels Corders to admire the quaint Capella d’en Marcús.

Round One of Tapas in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

One of the delightful things about enjoying tapas is hopping around to different places to try a variety of them. So for round one, head to the Sabor de Barrio on Carrer dels Assaonadors. The small bar is charmingly quaint with original hand painted tiled floors and a down-to-earth environment with vintage touches.

To drink, get the local wine by the glass from Catalunya or the homemade vermouth. To eat, get the Bombas tapa and the beef and mushroom Cannelloni tapa. Delicious! Click here to read my full review on Google Maps.

Round Two of Tapas in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

On the way to your second tapas stop, go past the ancient Roman wall to admire it lit up at night. From there, wander the smaller pedestrian streets to the Bodega la Palma, which has seen 75 years of history. With large barrels and wooden beams, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time. There is more seating in a small area to the back on a second floor, so don’t give up if it looks busy.

Enjoy the house wine, vermouth, or local Barcelona beer Moritz. Get their house signature tapa of cannelloni and the patatas bravas. If you’re feeling like more, ask if they have the red peppers stuffed with mushrooms.

READ MORE: 3 Great Places for Tapas and Drinks in Barcelona

For Dessert in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

There are countless gelato and ice cream shops throughout Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Depending on the time of year, you’ll be able to easily find one to enjoy a cold treat. Or at your last tapas bar or a new one, get the quintessential Crema Catalan for a traditional dessert in Barcelona.

Day 2 in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Discover the Cathedral of Barcelona

One of the architectural highlights of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is the Cathedral of Barcelona. To visit costs €14 per person and includes access to the rooftop and several other spaces inside. On Sundays around noon, there is music and locals performing traditional folk dances outside in front of the cathedral.

From the cathedral, stop at the historical landmark of the remains of the Roman Aqueduct. Then continue down the Carrer de la Palla to the Mostra d’Art Pintors del Pi, an outdoor art gallery and market. Next door and in front of the Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi, you can shop artisan crafts in the Placa del Pi.

Breakfast in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Barcelona is known for some amazing brunch places, but for a charmingly older and more historical atmosphere, make sure to have a traditional sweet breakfast at Granja Dulcinea. Open since 1941, this chocolate shop is known for its different kinds of hot chocolate, their homemade cream, churros, and various delicious pastries.

Walk under the El Pont del Bisbe in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Heading back to the Cathedral of Barcelona, venture down the Carrer del Bisbe to pass under the stunning Pont del Bisbe. Also known as the Bishop’s Bridge in English, this marble crossing of Gothic architecture spans between buildings and features intricate details, such as a skull pierced by a dagger. In 1928, it was built by Joan Rubió, a friend and student of Antoni Guadí.

Visit the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona

Make your way next to the Arc de Triomf at the northeastern edge of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. The classic arch monument was built in 1888 as the main entrance to the World’s Fair hosted by the city. It’s a popular place for outdoor events and when we visited at the end of September, a literary festival was taking place with stalls of book vendors.

Stroll Through Barcelona’s Parc de la Ciutadella (City Park)

Next, enjoy the lovely walk down the park promenade of Passeig de Lluís Companys to the Parc de la Ciutadella. It is full of wonderful monuments, meandering paths, and pleasant areas to rest in the shade or bask in the sun.

Make sure to admire the Cascada monumental, a gorgeous waterfall and fountain with the birth of Venus at its center. What many people don’t know is that Gaudi himself was involved when early on as a student he corrected the fountain’s water tank and hydraulics design that was originally done by another student. Even though it was a behind-the-scenes accomplishment, Gaudi also visibly left his mark by adding two statuesque medallions with lizards.

On the way back to the Gothic Quarter, take in the creative beauty of the Castle of the Three Dragons. Although it sounds like something out of Game of Thrones, its art nouveau design is the warm brick red hues similar to the Arc de Triomf, which makes sense since it was also built for the World’s Fair in 1888, serving as a restaurant and cafe. In addition to beautiful stained glass and statues, the most distinct features are the ceramic shield-like panels that adorn the top and wrap around the building. The panels portray plants, animals, drinks and liquors.

Step just across the way to the Hivernacle del Parc de la Ciutadella, a greenhouse of two small buildings. Full of various plants, it’s amazing to step inside the glass enclosures and feel the life the plants breath into the air making it wonderfully humid and earthy. Just a little further down is also the Umbráculo del Parque de la Ciudadela, a charming botanical garden.

Tour the Picasso Museum in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Wander back into the maze of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and stroll the labyrinth of old world streets to the Picasso Museum. Housed in a block of Medieval mansions, the art museum features not only works by Picasso himself but an impressive collection of other Spanish artists and masterpieces.

While the ground floor level and cafe and shop are free open access, to access the exhibit collection requires booking a general admission ticket which is €12 per adult. For free days, you have to book in advance as well.

Savor Lunch in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

After all the walking and sightseeing, you won’t have to go much further for a proper Spanish lunch. One of the perfect places is the Bodega la Puntual. From the outside, the sign doesn’t look like much and it appears small inside, but don’t be fooled. Once you enter, continue past the charming entryway bar area of barrel high top tables into a spacious, high-ceilinged dining room at the back with a second floor balcony area with more tables. The charming ambiance also serves up delicious, fresh Catalan dishes and typical Spanish tapas. We enjoyed a wonderful lunch here with an amazing bottle of Catalan red wine and the freshly brewed Estrella Galicia beer on tap.

Between the four of us, it was ideal to share the cured meats platter, their Manchego cheese platter, pimientos de padrón (lightly fried green peppers), the patatas bravas, and their Bombas de la Barceloneta, all of which were fantastic. Even with their large interior, this place gets busy so it’s recommended to reserve a table in advance, or if you’re only two people and want more of the bodega/bar experience, chance it out with the barrel high top tables in the front.

Indulge in Cocktails at Paradiso, One of Barcelona’s Top Speakeasies

After lunch, you may want to walk more or be like the Spaniards and take a siesta. Perhaps you decide to freshen up and change for the evening out. Either way, make sure you get into one of Barcelona’s top speakeasies, Paradiso. Located along the edge of the Gothic Quarter but just steps from Barceloneta, it was rated in 2019 as one of the best 50 bars in the world and the best bar in Spain. When you’re guided through the vintage fridge door of a pastrami shop, you’re transported into a fantastical forest at night, dimly lit by flower-shaped glass lamps adorning the ceiling. The bar is especially impressive with panels of wood curving up from the wall and over the ceiling. It’s decadent and intriguing. In the article link below, you can read more about my suggestions for what to eat and drink in Paradiso.

This unique and delicious experience can be hard to get into depending on the time of year. Paradiso opens in the afternoon but doesn’t take reservations. They say you have to scan a QR code set outside their front door when they open. You’re then notified about when you can enter for that day (it can’t be for days in advance). But when we went, we lined up around 3:30pm just as they were opening, there was no QR code outside, and we were told we had to go in then or come back later and try again. We were happy to get in then and our wait in line was only about 10 minutes. You can bet that the later in the evening it gets, the busier it will be and harder to get in.

READ MORE: Visiting the Best Cocktail Bar in Spain – Paradiso

Stop in at the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar

Near Paradiso is the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar. This elegant 14th-century church is worth stopping in for a quick look around to take in the exquisite stained glass windows, towering columns, and other romantic Gothic-style features.

From a rooftop, one can see that it’s surprisingly large for being tucked into Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Yet when you approach it on the ground level, its various entrances appear deceptively quaint and blend in with the winding, narrow streets. As soon as you step inside though, you’ll be blown away by the high ceilings and impressive arches spanning the interior.

Explore the Streets of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter at Night

Above Image – Scroll through our slider of the Gothic Quarter at night.

It seems obvious, but nevertheless doesn’t hurt to point out – the streets of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter are so romantic at night. Make sure to allow time to just wander. Take in the old fashioned street lamps, cobblestone alleys, and everything from lights to plants to party decor strewn across narrow walkways and on balconies. Remember to look up so you don’t miss fun and charming details. 

Experience Dinner in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter at La Vinateria del Call

Whether you decide to tapas hop again or to settle into one place for dinner, don’t pass up on La Vinateria del Call. Known for over 160 Spanish wines, they also specialize in classic tapas and cheeses. So of course it’s a fantastic place for a wine and cheese pairing. There are two sides to the restaurant, the more rustic bar area lined with wood paneling and barrels, and the dining room, which strikes a great balance of semi-formal and romantic amidst exposed stone walls and wooden beams.

Savor their house red wine, along with one of their many cheese boards, stuffed mussels, red peppers stuffed with hummus, and our favorite, the meatballs with mushroom sauce. Then for dessert finish with their delicious homemade crema catalana. We experienced the service to be friendly and professional and it’s a place on our list of spots to revisit in Barcelona when we return.

Other Tips for Visiting Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

• Make reservations when possible for restaurants, even if it’s a tapas bar, especially if it’s the high season or on the weekends, and if you’re more than one or two people.
• Book sights in advance to ensure you get to see them, like the Cathedral and most of the museums.
• If you’re traveling from elsewhere in Spain or in France, take the train. From Valencia it follows the Mediterranean coast for most of the way with beautiful views, and takes only a few hours.
• Try to go in the shoulder seasons of fall (later September through November) and spring (March through May but expect that Semana Santa will be busy). Weather during these times will be cooler although there is more chance of rain, and can still be busy but not as crowded as the summer months, especially August.

Fall in Love with Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Like a labyrinth of delights, Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is meant to be explored by wandering, getting lost some of the time (ok, much of the time), and setting the expectation that you’ll never experience everything. It makes the perfect destination to revisit and if you live in Spain, like we do, to enjoy on weekend getaways.

While there are many other wonderful parts of Barcelona and more well-known sights like Gaudi’s architectural feats, the Gothic Quarter is a world unto itself and you’re just scratching the surface with a couple of days; a great place to start for falling in love with Barcelona.