Barcelona, Spain is one of Europe’s top travel destinations and the Barrio Gotico (Gothic Quarter) is one of the most-visited places in the city. The medieval part of the city, Barrio Gotico is packed with ancient buildings, has winding labyrinth streets, and even remains of Roman walls. On a trip to Barrio Gotico, enjoy all the sights, but make sure you don’t miss these must see and do things.
Barcelona City Museum (Museu d’Història de la Ciutat de Barcelona)– One of the best museums in Barcelona, the City Museum is absolutely incredible and covers all eras of the city’s history. In the basement, there are the remains of an ancient Roman city, which has been excavated over several years. There’s also the ruins of a wine-making facility, an ancient fish salting factory and many exhibits of old pottery, weaponry, clothing, jewelry etc. Exhibits change here every few weeks too so, on a repeat trip, you’re likely to see many new things.
You’ll find the Barcelona City Museum at Palau Padellàs, Carrer del Veguer 2, Barri Gòtic, Barcelona .
La Boqueria – One of the largest markets in Barcelona, La Boqueria is chockful of food stalls selling jamon (ham), cheese, meat, fish, fruit and vegetables, coffee, chocolate — you name it, they sell it. Spend a couple of hours wandering around the stalls, it’s fascinating (it’s perfect for taking interesting photos too), then relax at one of the market’s cafes or tapas bars and have lunch.
La Boqueria is just off Las Ramblas (Calle La Rambla 91) in Barcelona.
Take a Barrio Gotico (Gothic Quarter) Walking Tour – One of the most popular things to do in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, the walking tours depart several times a day and take 2-3 hours. For only a small fee, you’ll follow an experienced English-speaking guide around the Barrio Gotico and learn all about the history and the architecture of the area. You’ll stop off to visit the Temple d’August and Plaça del Rei, along with about 8 other Barrio Gotico tourist spots, and, on some tours visit a local cafe for a coffee and a rest. Taking the walking tour is a great way to get yourself acclimatized to the area, and a fun way to meet some new and interesting people too. (see link below for booking information).
Barcelona Cathedral (Catedral de la Santa Cruz y Santa Eulalia) – Barcelona’s Cathedral (known as La Seu) is a Gothic cathedral whose construction began in the 13th century. Known as one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Europe, the cathedral is a mecca for historians, architects or people who just love to look at beautiful things.Santa Eulalia’s body is also here, entombed in the crypt.
Don’t miss seeing the famous 13 white geese too. They’re kept in a cloister and are said to represent one year of each year in the life of Santa Eulalia, a young girl who was murdered by the Romans at only age 13, because she refused to give up her religion.
More Information:
Barrio Gotico Walking Tour
Markets in Barcelona
Barcelona Cathedral