Barcelona Cathedral – Picture Gallery
| Barcelona Cathedral |
The giant Gothic Barcelona Cathedral is a focal point of interest in the Gothic quarter (historic old town).
As you walk round the Cathedral you will see fine examples of Gothic architecture and Roman walls.
In front of the Cathedral is a small square where you will find street performers, cafes and interesting shops.
The area around the Cathedral has a charm and beauty that makes this location a must visit when you come to Barcelona.
Don’t confuse Barcelona Cathedral with La Sagrada Família. We have frequently seen internet web sites referring to the Sagrada Família as a cathedral (the Sagrada Familia is in fact a giant Basilica by Gaudí). However there is only one Cathedral in Barcelona and it is in the Gothic quarter.
| Swans inside the Cathedral courtyard are an unsolved mystery. Nobody knows how they arrived here. |
Map showing location of Barcelona Cathedral
Barcelona History Museum
Plaça del Rei
Via Laietana
Plaça Urquinaona
Palau de la Musica Catalana
Carrer Palau de la Musica, 4 – 6
Gaudí Casa Calvet
Carrer de Casp, 48
Arc de Triomf Metro
SABA Lluis Companys Car Park
Museum d’ Història de Catalunya
Plaça de Pau Vila, 3
Jaume I Metro
Franca Station
Parc Cuitadella
Plaça Sant Jaume
Erotica Museum
La Rambla, 96
SABA BAMSA Rambla Catalunya Car Park
Passeig de Gràcia Metro
Passeig de Gràcia Metro
La Rambla
La Rambla
Santa Maria del Mar
Plaça de Santa Maria, 1
Picasso Museum
Carrer Montcada, 15-23
Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi
Plaça del Pi, 7
Plaça Reial
Plaça de Catalunya
Barcelona Cathedral
Plaça de la Seu, 3
La Boqueria Market
La Rambla, 91
Barceloneta Metro
Urquinaona Metro
Urquinaona Metro
Liceu Metro
Catalunya Metro
Catalunya Metro
SABA Catedral Car Park
BSM Moll de la Fusta Car Park
NN Palau de La Muscia Car Park
SABA BAMSA Francesc Cambo Car Park
Laietana Princesa Car Park
SABA Plaça de Catalunya Car Park
NN Bonsucces Car Park
SABA Plaça Urquinaona Car Park
This map is copyright registered and protected and may not be copied.
How to get to Barcelona Cathedral
Metro Stops Barcelona metro map
Jaume I (Yellow Line, L4) about 7 minutes walk Catalunya.
Liceu (Green Line, L3) 10 minutes walk.
A walk around the Cathedral area on a lazy Sunday afternoon is an absolute must when you visit Barcelona.
Hop on hop off sightseeing tourist bus stop
Nearest stop for Barcelona Cathedral is “Catedral – Gòtic” with the “hop on hop off” sightseeing bus
Public bus
Via Laietana / Plaça Ramon Berenguer: 45, V15, V17
Car parking
Car parking near Barcelona Cathedral
Luggage Storage
Click to see luggage/bag storage facility near Barcelona Cathedral
Hotels near the Barcelona Cathedral
Palau de la Musica Catalana
Carrer Palau de la Musica, 4 – 6
Plaça Reial
La Boqueria Market
La Rambla, 91
Santa Maria del Mar
Plaça de Santa Maria, 1
Picasso Museum
Carrer Montcada, 15-23
Liceu Metro
Silken Ramblas Hotel
Curious Hotel
Casa Camper Hotel
Monegal Hotel
Aparthotel Mur Mar Hotel
Arc La Rambla Hotel
La Rambla
La Rambla
NH Podium Hotel Barcelona
Exe Laietana Palace Hotel
Gran Hotel Barcino
Gotico Hotel
Oriente Hotel
Gaudí Hotel
Benidorm Hostal
1898 Hotel
Meridien Hotel
Turin Hotel
Royal Hotel
Catedral Hotel Barcelona
Banys Orientals Hotel
Boria BCN Hotel
h20 Montcada Hotel
Colon Hotel
Ilunion Almirante Hotel
Ciutat Barcelona Hotel
Hotel Chic and Basic Born
Catalonia Born Hotel
HCC Montblanc Hotel Barcelona
Denit Hotel
Atlas Hotel Barcelona
Boqueria Hostal Barcelona
Neri Hotel
Suizo Hotel
Park Hotel
Rialto Hotel
Call Hotel
Adagio Hotel
Condal Hotel
Petit Palace Opera Garden Hotel
Husa Oriente Hotel
Flor Parks Hotel
Hostal Operaramblas
Internacional Ramblas Atiram Hotel Barcelona
Marenostrum Hostal
Inglés Hotel Barcelona
Jardi Hotel
Catalonia Portal de l’Angel Hotel
NH Barcelona Centro Hotel
Citadines Hotel
Monte Carlo Hotel
Serhs Rivoli Rambla Hotel
Olivia Plaza Hotel
Continental Hotel Barcelona
Nouvel Hotel
Cortes Hotel
Pulitzer Hotel
Barcelona Cathedral
Plaça de la Seu, 3
Jaume I Metro
Urquinaona Metro
Urquinaona Metro
Catalunya Metro
Catalunya Metro
This map is copyright registered and protected and may not be copied.
To start the photo tour of the Barcelona Cathedral click the first photo in the table below. Remember you’ll get more out of this photo guide if you follow the photos in sequence.
Exploring the Barcelona Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter
The Barcelona Cathedral may not get the attention of its more famous, spikier counterpart up the road – but this cathedral in the Gothic Quarter definitely warrants a visit.
Visiting the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia gives you a greater understanding of Barcelona’s history via some pretty bad-ass Gothic styling… and tickets cost much less than Sagrada Familia.
Here’s all you need to know on the Cathedral of Barcelona.
Barcelona Cathedral History + Facts
- A massive Gothic Revival Church.
- Official name is La Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia
- Broke ground in 1298.
- Finished in 1420 (façade and central tower completed in 1913).
- Famous for its gargoyles, other mythical animals, and resident geese.
- Measures 90 meters (300 feet) long by 53 meters (174 feet) high.
- Dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona (co-patron saint of Barcelona).
What to See at the Barcelona Cathedral
The Barcelona Cathedral Facade
It’s impossible to miss the stunning facade of La Cathedral de Barcelona walking through Cathedral Square (Pla Seu).
You’ll be drawn to the main door and the huge Gothic arch above. A stone sculpture of Christ keeps watch over the entrance while the 12 apostles occupy either side of the doors. In all you’ll find 75 figures and 8 stained-glass windows that run the gamut from Renaissance to Modernist.
You’ll see two side towers (constructed between 1896-1898) flanking the dome of the church which is crowned with a statue of Saint Helen.
The Door of Sant Ivo (on the left hand side of the church when in the main square) was the church’s main entrance for over 500 years.
It was made using marble from Montjuic.
Look for inscriptions here marking the commencement of construction in 1298.
Inside the Cathedral of Barcelona
At the Barcelona Cathedral you’ll find monuments and chapels dedicated to more than 140 saints.
Aside from the highly-represented Virgin Mary you’ll find heavy attention paid to Santa Eulalia, a local girl martyred in Barcelona during Roman times who became co-patron saint of the city. You’ll find the Crypt of Santa Eulalia in front of the main alter.
One of the most impactful features of the interior is the choir. One of the best examples of Catalan Gothic sculpture can be found in its stalls. The wooden pulpit carved by Pedro Çanglada in 1403 is a highlight.
The Chapter Hall Museum used to be a soup kitchen for the poor. Today it’s home to some pretty cool items like the baptismal font of the original 11th century Gothic cathedral.
Lepanto’s Chapel is decorated with paintings honoring Santa Eulalia and pays homage to a crucial naval battle where the Holy League defeated the Ottoman Empire. It’s here where visitors can pray in silence.’
Keep in mind that cell phones are banned in Lepanto’s Chapel, so you won’t be able to take any pictures.
A cool fact: all of the candles are now electric!
Related: Get a two hour walking tour of the Gothic Quarter for just 18 euro.
The Barcelona Cathedral Cloister
This secluded inner courtyard is probably the most popular part of the cathedral.
You enter the cloister via a white marble door which is said to be a leftover from the original Romanesque cathedral built on the site in 1046.
The rectangular cloister made up of four galleries show pillars depicting scenes from the Old Testament while the vault keystones show scenes from the New Testament.
The central garden is filled with palm trees, an orange tree, magnolias, and a 15th century fountain.
It’s also the site of the pond where 13 white geese reside – representing the 13 years of life of Santa Eulalia.
The Roof at Barcelona Cathedral
An absolute must for those visiting the Barcelona Cathedral is taking the elevator to the roof.
From here you get a spectacular 360-degree views of the city. There’s also a closer look at the bell tower and the legendary gargoyles. The fresh air is a great relief in spring and summer, though some would rather spend the money at the best rooftop bars in Barcelona.
Roof access is from one of the chapels on the left hand side of the church – just follow the signs.
Tickets for roof access are €3.00.
Barcelona Cathedral Prices and Opening Hours
Barcelona Cathedral Tickets (Tourism)
Paid entry at the Cathedral is said to be done by ‘donation’ – though keep in mind that €9.00 is absolutely mandatory.
You can now reserve your Barcelona Cathedral tickets in advance online.
The paid hours run at peak times and are designed to raise money for the church, offer visitors a more intimate look at the cathedral without massive crowds, and give access to parts not normally reserved for the public.
- Weekdays: 9:30 pm to 6:30 pm (last entrance 5:45).
- Saturdays and festive vigils: 9:30 pm to 5:15 pm (last entrance 4:30).
- Sundays/holidays: 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (last entrance 4:30).
With paid entry to the La Seu Cathedral you get access to the cathedral floor, cloister, choir, roof, Chapter Hall Museum, and Lepanto’s chapel – plus a free virtual audio guide with a ton of information.
It’s necessary to buy your Barcelona Cathedral tickets online in advance at the official Barcelona Tursime website:
Barcelona Cathedral
Book My Times Now
Free Entry at the Barcelona Cathedral (Worship and Prayer Only)
At certain times this is one of the best free things to do in Barcelona, provided you are there for worship:
- Weekdays: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 5:45 pm to 7:30 pm.
- Saturdays: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 5:15 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Sundays/holidays: 8:30 am to 1:45 pm and 5:15 pm to 8:00 pm.
With your free entrance you’re given access to the cathedral floor and the cloister – the inner courtyard/garden home to the famous 13 white geese.
Again, this is supposed to be for worship and prayer so if you’re clearly touristing then expect to be talked to. For the sake of the church I strongly suggest buying entry (info in a sec) if you’re not there for prayer.
Also, the Barcelona Cathedral cloister typically closes 15-30 minutes before so leave plenty of time.
If you’re visiting Barcelona with kids under five they get free Barcelona Cathedral admission (rooftop and choir).
Doors close five minutes before closing time.
Barcelona Cathedral Dress Codes
It’s so darn old we can’t fault the Barcelona Cathedral dress code for being a bit traditional.
Make sure you enter with your shoulders covered and dresses/shorts/skirts at knee length. You’ll also have to remove any caps or head wear of any sort to get in.
If you don’t want to go all the way back to your hotel or Airbnb there’s a woman selling shawls for a couple of euro right outside the entrance – just make sure your shorts are long enough or you’re not getting in anyway.
As usual no tank tops, muscle shirts, food, flash photography, or cell phones not on silent.
Mass Times at the Barcelona Cathedral
If you’re planning on attending mass at the cathedral in Barcelona please realise that they are conducted only in Spanish and Catalan.
There are five daily masses at the Barcelona Cathedral during the week at the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament while weekend masses vary – please consult the Catedral de Barcelona mass schedule to find the perfect time.
How to Get to the Barcelona Cathedral
The Catedral de Barcelona is right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter at Pla Seu, 3.
It’s about 150 meters from Jaume I metro station (yellow line L4) and about 350 meters from Liceu metro station (green line L3) and the chaos of La Rambla.
Expect about a 3-8 minute walk from either station.
It’s also a 2 minute walk from the Barri Gotic stop on the red line of the Bus Turistic.
What to Do Near the Barcelona Cathedral
With the cathedral in Barcelona being so central you’ll have virtually unlimited options.
I strongly recommend planning your Cathedral of Barcelona visit as part of the Secrets of the Old City tour with our local American guide Alvaro.
The tour actually ends with the Barcelona Cathedral, meaning you’ll be going into your visit armed with all sorts of knowledge on the city’s history, street art, political situation, and much more.
You’ll get more info on the tour clicking the banner below:
At 1 Carrer del Bisbe one you’ll find one of the most photographed things in the city: Pont del Bisbe (‘Bishop’s Bridge).
This neo-Gothic bridge unites the Palau de la Generalitat (home of the Catalan government) with the Casa dels Canonges (‘Canon House’).
Legend has it that architect Joan Rubió i Bellver was so disappointed the city wouldn’t approve some of his other projects that he placed a skull and dagger on the bridge in protest – try and find it!
Equally macabre is nearby Plaça San Felip Neri. It was in this hidden square in 1938 that 42 people (mostly children) lost their lives during a bombing in the Spanish Civil War.
Today you’ll find a small fountain and a haunting quiet.
For something a little more upbeat there’s always the super-cool Catalan Music Palace.
Tourists also won’t want to miss the Picasso Museum.
Barcelona Cathedral Hacks
- Go really early or really late for smaller crowds.
- Leave about an hour to visit the Barcelona Cathedral in full.
- The Barcelona cathedral facade faces north-west so photos are best taken in late afternoon.
- Getting to the rooftop for noon treats you to some amazing bells.
- Especially during free entrance periods, use the side entrance for shorter lines.
- Wander around nearby back alleys for some great guitar or opera performances.
- People with reduced mobility get access via the Carrer del Bisbe entrance.
- Women wanting to wear dresses but stay cool otherwise: pack leggings and put them on just before visiting.
- There’s a free performance of La Sardana (a traditional Catalan dance) every Sunday from 11:45 to 1:00 in cathedral square.
Sagrada Familia or Barcelona Cathedral?
What is the cathedral in Barcelona called?
Again, many people make this mistake so don’t feel bad.
The architectural giant and saw-like super structure that you see on all the postcards is Antoni Gaudi‘s Sagrada Familia. And the Sagrada Familia isn’t a cathedral (the seat of a bishop) at all.
In all its greatness it’s actually a minor basilica.
If I had to tell you to visit only one thing in any Barcelona itinerary it would be this… a minor basilica. So if you’re looking for that please check out my article on La Sagrada Familia.
Related: How to Get to Sagrada Familia from the Barcelona Cathedral
Looking to Visit the Gothic Cathedral in Barcelona?
If you’re still starving for Barcelona Cathedral information then make sure you harass me in the comments below – I’m always looking to improve the blog so if anything is missing please let me know.
Also know that any question you have about your Barcelona holiday will be answered ASAP.
Enjoy the Gothic Quarter cathedral 🙂
Barcelona Cathedral – photo gallery
| Barcelona Cathedral |
Barcelona’s huge Gothic cathedral is the main attraction of the Gothic Quarter (historical, old part of the city).
In its surroundings, you can see many fine examples of Gothic architecture and walls left over from the Romans.
There is a small square in front of the cathedral where you can see street performers, cafes and interesting shops.
The area where the cathedral is located has its own unique charm and beauty, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Barcelona.
Don’t confuse Barcelona Cathedral with La Sagrada Família. We have noticed more than once that on various sites on the Internet the Sagrada Família is called a cathedral (in fact, the Sagrada Familia is a giant basilica by Gaudí). However, there is only one cathedral in Barcelona, and it is located in the Gothic quarter.
| Swans in the courtyard of the cathedral is an inexplicable mystery. Nobody knows where they came from. |
Barcelona Cathedral Location Map
Barcelona History Museum
Plaça del Rei
Via Laietana
Plaça Urquinaona
Palau de la Musica Catalana
Carrer Palau de la Musica, 4 – 6
Gaudi Casa Calvet
Carrer de Casp, 48
Arc de Triomf Metro
Parking SABA Lluis Companys
Museum d’ Historia de Catalunya
Plaça de Pau Vila, 3
Jaume I Metro
Station Franca
Parc Cuitadella
Plaza Sant Jaume
Erotic Museum
La Rambla, 96
Parking SABA BAMSA Rambla Catalunya
Passeig de Gràcia Metro
Passeig de Gràcia Metro
La Rambla
La Rambla
Santa Maria del Mar
Plaça de Santa Maria, 1
Picasso Museum
Carrer Montcada, 15-23
Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi
Plaça del Pi, 7
Plaça Real
Plaza Catalunya
Barcelona Cathedral
Plaça de la Seu, 3
La Boqueria Market
La Rambla, 91
Barceloneta Metro
Urquinaona Metro
Urquinaona Metro
Liceu Metro
Catalunya Metro
Catalunya Metro
Parking SABA Catedral
Parking BSM Moll de la Fusta
Parking NN Palau de La Muscia
Parking SABA BAMSA Francesc Cambo
Parking Laietana Princesa
Parking SABA Plaça Catalunya
Parking NN Bonsucces
Parking lot SABA Plaça Urquinaona
This map is copyrighted and protected, copying is prohibited.
How to get to Barcelona Cathedral
Metro stations Barcelona metro map
Jaume I (Yellow Line, L4) about 7 minutes walk from Plaza Catalunya (Plaza Catalunya).
Liceu station, (Green Line, L3), 10 minutes walk.
If you come to Barcelona, then you should definitely take a walk on a Sunday afternoon in the area of the cathedral.
Barcelona Bus Turistic stop
If you take the Barcelona Bus Turistic, the closest stop to the Cathedral is Catedral-Gòtic
Public transport – bus
Via Laietana / Plaça Ramon Berenguer: 45, V15, V17
Car parking
Car park near Barcelona Cathedral
Hotels near Barcelona Cathedral
Palau de la Musica Catalana
Carrer Palau de la Musica, 4-6
Plaça Real
La Boqueria Market
La Rambla, 91
Church of Santa Maria del Mar
Plaça de Santa Maria, 1
Picasso Museum
Carrer Montcada, 15–23
Metro Station Liceu
Silken Ramblas Hotel
Curious Hotel
Casa Camper Hotel
Hotel Monegal
Aparthotel Mur Mar Hotel
Hotel Arc La Rambla
La Rambla
La Rambla
Hotel NH Podium Barcelona
Hotel Exe Laietana Palace
Gran Hotel Barcino
Hotel Gotico
Hotel Oriente
Hotel Gaudi
Hostel Benidorm
Hotel 1898
Hotel Meridien
Turin Hotel
Hotel Royal
Catedral Hotel Barcelona
Banys Orientals Hotel
Hotel Boria BCN
Hotel h20 Montcada
Hotel Colon
Hotel Ilunion Almirante
Hotel Ciutat Barcelona
Hotel Chic and Basic Born
Hotel Catalonia Born
Hotel HCC Montblanc Barcelona
Hotel Denit
Atlas Hotel Barcelona
Boqueria Hostal Barcelona
Hotel Neri
Hotel Suizo
Park Hotel
Hotel Rialto
Hotel Call
Hotel Adagio
Hotel Condal
Hotel Petit Palace Opera Garden
Hotel Husa Oriente
Hotel Flor Parks
Hostal Operaramblas
Hotel Internacional Ramblas Atiram Hotel Barcelona
Hostel Marenostrum
Hotel Ingles Barcelona
Hotel Jardi
Hotel Catalonia Portal de l’Angel
Hotel NH Barcelona Centro
Hotel Citadines
Hotel Monte Carlo
Hotel Serhs Rivoli Rambla
Hotel Olivia Plaza
Hotel Continental Barcelona
Hotel Nouvel
Hotel Cortes
Hotel Pulitzer
Barcelona Cathedral
Plaça de la Seu, 3
Jaume I Metro Station
Urquinaona metro station
Urquinaona metro station
Catalunya metro station
Catalunya metro station
This map is copyrighted and protected, copying is prohibited.
Click on the first photo in the table below to start the Barcelona Cathedral photo tour. Note that it is best to view the photos in order.
Gothic Quarter, Barcelona 2023: attractions, excursions, how to get there | Andalusiaguide
Go to section:
- How to get to the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona
- Attractions of the Gothic Quarter
- Gothic Quarter tours
- Where to stay in the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is a very special place in Barcelona. The medieval area has managed to retain its unique flavor – narrow streets, unique architecture, the atmosphere of the old city – all this attracts tourists to the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona again and again.
The Gothic Quarter is located in the very “heart” of the Catalan capital, so the place enjoys stable popularity – its visits are often combined with walks along the famous La Rambla quarter, the old harbour, the Barcelona embankment and Plaza Catalunya.
Getting lost for a while in the winding streets of the quarter is a favorite pastime of tourists and travelers who come to Barcelona.
How to get to the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona
Since the Gothic Quarter is located, in fact, in the central part of Barcelona, it is relatively easy to get here. If we consider the option of public transport, then the subway is one of the best options. Near the Gothic Quarter there are 2 metro stations at once – “Plaza Catalunya” and “Jaime I”. If you get off at the Plaza Catalunya station, you can walk through the entire Gothic Quarter and go to the old harbor. If you get off at the Jaime I station, you can walk across the Gothic Quarter to the Boqueria market or the Guell Palace. Both routes are interesting for their sights and architectural monuments.
A less popular option to get to the Gothic Quarter is to walk from Barceloneta Beach or from the metro station of the same name (located a little further from the Gothic Quarter than the Plaza Catalunya and Jaime I stations), but it is also attractive in its own way – there is an opportunity to stroll along the old harbor and see the Museum of the History of Catalonia, and then “dive” into the narrow streets of the medieval area.
Choosing the right metro station is based on your preferences and those sights of the Gothic Quarter that you want to see first. In addition, the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia is considered to be the conditional point of intersection of all routes in the quarter, from where you can change directions in any direction you are interested in. Despite the fact that the Gothic Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets, there are marked signs at every step that will not let you go off the route and get lost.
View of the Gothic Quarter from the harbor
Attractions of the Gothic Quarter
The main attractions of the Gothic Quarter are architectural buildings and museums. Everything here is saturated with the Middle Ages, which is quite unusual for Barcelona, where the Art Nouveau style prevails, but it makes it more interesting to be in the Gothic Quarter.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia is the main cathedral of Barcelona and is located in the “heart” of the Gothic quarter at the intersection of the main tourist routes through the medieval area.
This is an active Catholic cathedral, which was built over several centuries from the 12th to the 14th centuries. Named in honor of the Great Martyr Eulalia. The architecture of the cathedral is Gothic, with neo-Gothic elements. The height of the highest point of the cathedral – the central tower – is 70 meters.
The cathedral attracts attention with its unique architecture. On the one hand, it is a classic of the Gothic style, on the other hand, Catalan motifs are introduced here, which makes the cathedral unique and one of a kind. In front of the cathedral there is a cozy courtyard, which, however, is crowded during the “high” season.
It is worth seeing the cathedral not only from its facade, it makes sense to walk around the building. Here you can also marvel at the unique architecture, and on the right side of the facade of the cathedral is the famous suspended arch-balcony, a kind of symbol of the Gothic Quarter. The name of the suspended balcony connecting the two buildings is Pont del Bisbe.
Barcelona Cathedral
Saint James Square
Saint James Square, or Saint Zaime Square in Spanish, is another popular place in the Gothic Quarter. Here, the two dominant buildings are the city hall, made in the neoclassical style, and the palace of the government of Catalonia, made in the Renaissance style. The place is cozy, it’s nice to “emerge” from the labyrinth of narrow streets, bask in the sun and admire the tangerine trees. From St. James’s Square, it is convenient to continue the tour of the Gothic Quarter in any direction – along and across.
Place Reial
If you take the route across the Gothic Quarter towards the Boquería Market and the Guell Palace, you will certainly come to the Place Reial. You need to know about the square that it was built much later – in the 19th century – by order of influential people in the city. The style of the spacious square is classicism. Despite the out-of-the-ordinary style, Royal Square has taken its place in the hearts of the townspeople, thanks to fountains, palm trees, elegant buildings and the general atmosphere.
Various festivals and celebrations are often held here.
Saint James Square, Barcelona
Barcelona History Museum
The Barcelona History Museum is located to the left of the front of the Cathedral, down the street towards the old harbour. The museum itself is located within the walls of a 15th century palace. The main exhibits of the museum can be considered pieces of furniture, utensils, dishes, sculptures, paintings, engravings, collections of coins and other finds dating from the Neolithic period to the present day. All together, the expositions illustrate the life and life of people, one way or another, inextricably linked with Barcelona.
By the way, the museum has both ground and underground parts. This is a system of courtyards, Roman walls and communication structures. Both parts of the museum are open for inspection. The entrance ticket costs 7 euros. The museum is open daily, except Mondays, from 10.00 to 19.00. On Sundays, opening hours are extended until 20.
00.
Frederic Mares Museum
To the left of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, there is another interesting museum – the Frederic Mares Museum. The basis of its collection is made up of sculptures from the ancient Roman period to the present day. In addition, there is also the so-called “collector’s office” with household items and art – walking sticks, ceramics, watches, weapons, vases and other extraordinary collections.
The museum is located on four floors and has many halls, so plan enough time to visit the museum. The museum is open daily except Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday inclusive, the working hours are as follows: from 10.00 to 19.00; on Sundays – from 10.00 to 20.00. The entrance ticket costs 4.20 euros per person.
The butt of the Cathedral
Photomosaic “The Kiss”
A relatively new attraction of the Gothic Quarter is the photomosaic “The Kiss of Barcelona”, composed of many micrographs and combined into a single picture illustrating a passionate kiss.
This sketch appeared in the Gothic Quarter quite recently, but has already gained unprecedented popularity, especially among Instagram bloggers. The mosaic is depicted on one of the walls of the Gothic Quarter, and such art is called mural painting or simply murals.
The photomosaic is located on the Isidre Nonel Square, a little before reaching the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia (if you walk from the Plaza Catalunya metro station), on the left side. Entrance to the photomosaic is free, but get ready that there can be a huge line of people who want to take a picture.
Arch Balcony in the Gothic Quarter
Tours of the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is quite interesting to see on its own, but you can learn much more about it if you visit the area with a guided tour. A variety of excursions are held in the Gothic quarter – group, individual, photo tours and various quests, it all depends on your personal preferences. If you have not decided yet, then you can view various options for excursions in the Gothic Quarter on the international excursion services Tripster, Sputnik8, Tezeks, Getyourguide and others.
For example, tour “Gothic Quarter and Ramblas” is very popular. The 2-hour walking tour will take you to see the Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, La Rambla and the Boqueria Market. You will be able to learn many interesting facts and see the key sights of the medieval quarter. The tour takes place on Wednesdays and Sundays, the cost per person is 15 euros (10 euros for a child). You can book a place in a group at Sputnik8 .
Another tour – “Gothic Quarter, Ramblas and Pablo Picasso Museum” – will tell you about the extraordinary Gothic architecture of the area, why Pablo Picasso loved it and what attracts tourists to La Rambla. This is a group walking tour that lasts approximately 3 hours and takes place on Wednesdays and Sundays. The cost of the tour is 48 euros per person. The price includes an entrance ticket to the Picasso Museum. The guide is Russian speaking. You can book a tour at Sputnik8 .
Curious and excursion “Gothic Barcelona in the evening” .
During the walk, you can learn many mystical secrets and legends associated with the Gothic Quarter. The tour takes place in the evenings at 20.00 and lasts about 2 hours. You can see the Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, the Royal Square, the Temple of Philip Neri, the remains of the ancient Roman wall, La Rambla and much more in the rays of the evening illumination. The cost of the tour starts from 19 euros per person. You can book a place on the tour at service Tripster .
Diversify your stay in Barcelona and such an excursion as “Old Town + boat trip” . During the three-hour tour you will be able to admire El Born and the Gothic Quarter, as well as see Barcelona from the sea. This is a group tour that takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10.00 and 15.00. The cost of the excursion (which includes a boat trip) starts from 49 euros per person. You can book this leisure option at Tripster .
A gastro tour of the tapas bars of the Gothic Quarter and the Boquería Market can also be an exciting adventure.
During the tour, you will not only taste local delicacies, but also learn how to choose the right Spanish products so that they are fresh and tasty. This is a group tour that lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Treats and drinks are included in the price of the tour. The price of the tour per person is 30 euros. You can book on service Tripster .
As you can see, the Gothic Quarter is extremely diverse and is not limited to the Cathedral. There are many interesting museums, squares, historical and architectural monuments, tapas bars and much more. You can continue your acquaintance with Barcelona after the Gothic Quarter in the Boquería market, in the old harbor, in the Guell Palace and other remarkable places adjacent to the Old City.
Old Harbor behind the Gothic Quarter
Where to stay in the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is an authentic part of the city. It is not surprising that many tourists prefer to stay here to feel the spirit of the Middle Ages.
In the Gothic Quarter, you can find a lot of accommodations for every taste, so the choice is wide. High marks from tourists, in particular, received the following accommodation options:
Boutique Hotel h20 Montcada 4 * – the hotel has an excellent location with views of the Gothic Quarter and the sea. The hotel has 2 bars and a panoramic rooftop terrace. Guests can stay in rooms of various sizes. Breakfast, depending on the type of room, may be included or paid extra. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. There is covered parking. The front desk is open 24 hours a day and provides luggage storage services;
Catalonia Catedral 4* – The hotel is located in a historic building, 100 meters from the Gothic Quarter. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar and a swimming pool. Guests can stay in rooms of various sizes. Some of them have a terrace. Breakfast, depending on the type of room, may be included or paid extra. All rooms are also equipped with a coffee maker or kettle.
Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. Public parking is available nearby at an additional cost. The front desk is open 24 hours a day and provides luggage storage services;
h20 Madison 4* Sup 4* – Located near the Gothic Quarter, this hotel features a rooftop pool and bar. You can stay in rooms of various sizes. Breakfast, depending on the type of room, may be included or paid extra. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. The front desk is open 24 hours a day and provides luggage storage services;
Room Mate Pau 3* – the hotel is located close to the main attractions of the city and Barceloneta beach. The hotel has a terrace for relaxing. Guests can stay in rooms of various sizes. Breakfast, depending on the type of room, may be included or paid extra. In addition, all rooms are equipped with a coffee or tea maker. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. The front desk is open 24 hours a day and provides luggage storage services;
Musik Boutique Hotel 3* – the hotel is located 400 meters from the Gothic Quarter.
The hotel has a bar. Guests can stay in rooms of various sizes. Some rooms have a balcony or terrace. Breakfast is paid extra. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge. The front desk is open 24 hours a day and provides luggage storage services.
OK Apartment/On the streets of Barcelona
The Gothic Quarter is one of the brightest and most memorable places in Barcelona. If you want your eyes to rest from the gaudy modernist Barcelona with its Gaudí architecture, then by all means head to the Gothic Quarter to see medieval Barcelona. Narrow streets here are replaced by spacious squares, museums – markets, fountains – monuments. The Gothic Quarter is a real kaleidoscope of impressions.
Please note that the streets of the Gothic Quarter are almost always cool due to the narrow building. If you are traveling around Barcelona in the summer, the Gothic Quarter with its refreshing coolness will be just a salvation. But if you are traveling around Barcelona in the autumn-winter period, then before a walk in the Gothic Quarter, it is recommended to wear warmer clothes, for example, take a warm scarf with you.