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The 9 best Barcelona walking tours

Get ready to stretch your legs and take the Catalan capital by storm with these nine Barcelona walking tours

Looking for great, outside-the-box Barcelona walking tours? No matter how easy and convenient Barcelona’s public transport system is, everyone knows that the best way to explore a new city is on foot. Whether you’re an art buff or a history nerd, a foodie or a wine connoisseur, this list is sure to lead you somewhere new. Follow your in-the-know guide to a deeper understanding of Barcelona and you’ll see why it’s so easy to fall in love with this magical city.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Barcelona

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Nine amazing Barcelona walking tours

1.  Walking Planets Genius Walk

If you want to see Barcelona through an artist’s eyes, these are the tours for you. Maybe you have your sights set on the Picasso Museum , or you can’t wait to step inside Casa Batlló , or your workmate back home wouldn’t stop talking about how amazing the Joan Miró Foundation is. Whatever it is, discover the lives of Picasso, Gaudí and Miró in three separate tours from Walking Planets . Register your group for a specific tour to focus on a single artist, but don’t be surprised if you leave feeling inspired to sign up for the other two.

Price: €85 for 2h, €130 for 3h (per group) Duration: 2h or 3h Languages offered: English, French, Portuguese, Catalan and Spanish

2.  Barcelona Uncensored

This isn’t your mother’s walking tour of Barcelona, unless your mother frequents red-light districts. Explore the seedy underbelly of the city that existed before saying ‘La Rambla’ conjured images of designer stores, overpriced paella and clumps of overzealous tourists. Follow your Free Walking Tours Barcelona guide’s purple umbrella while walking through the now-flourishing streets of the Raval and learning about the controversial neighbourhood’s history of prostitution, urban art and anarchist rebellions. Be sure to also check out the company’s free tour offerings for days when your pockets are feeling a little lighter.

Price: €15 adult, €13 student (per person) Duration: 2h Language offered: English

3.  Evening Tapas Tour

We know tapas originated in Andalusia, but Barcelona locals have borrowed this traditional way of eating and made it their own. These three evening tours from The Barcelona Taste give you a chance to explore three distinct neighbourhoods and show you the wide world of tapas (hint: there’s more to it than patatas bravas , olives and pan con tomate ). You can choose to explore the historical Gothic Quarter, the youthful central neighbourhood of Poble-sec or the bustling grid of the Eixample. No matter where you decide to eat and drink, your knowledgeable guide will lead you straight to the local hotspots.

Price: €99.87 (per person for Gothic Quarter and Poble-sec), €114.99 (per person for Eixample) Duration: 3h+ Language offered: English

4.  Catalan History & Politics Walk

If you came to Barcelona expecting to practise your Spanish, you might be surprised to hear the 'shushes' of Catalan words mixed with Castellano everywhere you go. No need to dig up your fossilized European History textbook to figure out why – this Dreaming Barcelona tour will take you back 300 years to learn about Catalan history and government and give you a basic understanding of Spain’s past and present political system. The route mainly stays in Barcelona’s Old Town, with major stops in the Born neighbourhood and the Ciutadella park . 

Price: €215 per group (up to 9 people) Duration: 3h Languages offered: English, French, Catalan and Spanish

5.  Runner Bean Kids & Family Tour

You might find it impossible not to be captivated by Barcelona’s sunny skies, cobblestoned streets and sidewalk vermuterias , but sometimes kids require a little extra effort when it comes to entertainment. If you’re travelling with a child or tween, hop on this tour from Runner Bean which boasts kid-friendly songs, stories and games to accompany the sights and sounds of the Gothic Quarter. Be sure to check the website for seasonal schedules, and don’t forget to bring pocket change for the snack stops along the way.

Price: €16, free for kids under 3 (but tour is recommended for those between the ages of 4 and 12) Duration: 2.5h Language offered: English

6.  Barcelona & Urbanism Architecture

What's better than gazing in wonder at Barcelona's beautiful architecture? Gazing in wonder at Barcelona’s beautiful architecture while guided by a knowledgeable, engaging architect. This particular tour from Barcelona Architecture Walks highlights the beginnings of modern Barcelona and the influence of Ildefons Cerdà’s Theory of Urbanization. That said, if eclecticism or maritime history is more your speed, or if you want to learn more about Enric Miralles or the future of Barcelona’s skyline, go for one of the other tours focusing on Gaudí, or neighbourhoods such as Barceloneta, the Gothic Quarter or Poblenou.

Price: €38 (per person) Duration: 3h Languages offered: English (French, Catalan, Italian and Spanish offered on some private tours)

7.  Food & Wine Small-Group Tour

Barcelona is a food-lover’s heaven, but it can be overwhelming to take on the city’s formidable gastronomy scene by yourself. Avoid that anxiety by hopping on this tour with a certified sommelier. Your guide will lead you through an entire meal as you sample tapas and other regional dishes while exploring the neighbourhoods of Poble-sec and Sant Antoni. Whether you’ve never tried cava or can already wax poetic on the difference between wines from Rioja and Penèdes, you’re sure to learn something new and finish the day with a full stomach. Make sure to book in advance, as this tour is capped at 12 people.

Price: €75 Duration: 3.5h Language offered: English

8.  Other Eyes Language of Stones Walk

Barcelona is home to a whirlwind of languages, cultures and interesting folks. With all this activity constantly swirling about, it’s easy to forget about the simpler things, like the ground you walk on or the walls of buildings, for example. This tour from Other Eyes will teach you to uncover the city’s history by learning the secrets of stones. Search for scratches on façades, political graffiti and messages left by construction workers on iconic churches while your local guide gives you all the information you need to view this city through fresh eyes. Also check out their other popular tours, such as their night tour and Civil War tour.

Price: €20 Duration: 1.5h Languages offered: English, Greek, Catalan and Spanish

9.  Customized Walking Tour

Seen the Sagrada Família but not the Arc de Triomf ? Dying to visit the old Jewish Quarter? Obsessed with the fishy storefronts of Barceloneta but tired of La Rambla? Whether it’s your first visit to Barcelona or your fifth, everyone wants to feel like a local. Skip the lines and predictable highlights reels and meet with your Live Barcelona guide prior to your tour to choose your own adventure.

Price: €225 (per group up to 6), €250 (per group between 7 and 30) Duration: 4h Language offered: English

Looking for alternative tours?

21 of the best alternative Barcelona tours

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Whether it’s Gaudí, the beaches or the whole load of top-notch restaurants that have drawn you here, walking, cycling or running your way round en grupo is your best bet to really get to know the Catalan capital. Our pick of the best alternative tours in Barcelona packs in all the essential things to do here – a stroll down La Rambla, a quick stop at the Sagrada Família – but also some routes that’ll take you past the traps and off the beaten path. 

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A Free & Self-Guided Barcelona Walking Tour

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 4th October 2023

Categories Spain , walking tour

Last Updated on 4th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Between endless plates of tapas, all the art nouveau architecture, and an abundance of hidden gems you’ve never heard of before (but totally should have done) , there’s no shortage of epic experiences to be had when exploring Barcelona, especially if you plan to see the city by foot. Here’s your ultimate free and self-guided Barcelona walking tour to help you get the most out of a visit to the capital city of Catalonia.

If you’re thinking about seeing a lot of attractions and monuments while in the region of Catalonia, Consider purchasing the 12-Month Unlimited Visits Catalonia Monument Pass , which includes access to 29 museums, monuments and historical sites throughout Catalonia.

To work out whether or not the pass is worth it for you or not, add up the cost of the individual attractions you wish to visit and see if you’ll save money. Find more details here.

Free Barcelona Walking Tour: Practical Advice, Tricks, and Tips

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The walk is best attempted on a sunny day when the streets are warm, a summer vibe is in the air, and the city looks its best. You’ll want to bring along a camera to snap some of the best of Barcelona, and so here are some of my very best travel camera recommendations !

Although the majority of the tour is on level roads  (with a few cobbled hilled lanes thrown in) , I highly recommend shoes that are comfortable to walk in like these ones .

Otherwise, it’s worth noting that Barcelona can become incredibly hot (especially during the summer months) and so you’ll want to bring a reusable water bottle like this one with you.

As you might expect with a major European city, there are plenty of places to eat, hydrate, and caffeinate en route. And from budget eats to vegetarian fare to speciality coffee shops, you should know that Barcelona has plenty to offer!

Before you visit Barcelona, one of the most important things to know before you go is that many of the major attractions need to be booked ahead of time. To help you plan your trip, check out our guide on what to book in advance in Barcelona .

For even more inspiration before your trip to Catalonia, be sure to check out these beautiful quotes about Barcelona. For more general inspiration, then be sure to check out our top Spain quotes . So put on your comfiest clothing and enjoy this free Barcelona walking tour…

Walking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Distance Covered: 7.9 km

This self-guided walking tour of Barcelona begins in the beautiful pedestrian square of Plaça Reial. Situated in the Gothic Quarter of the city (and the place where I recommend booking a place to stay if you want to be close to all of the best attractions and foodie spots) , the plaza boasts a number of nightclubs, bars, and hotels.

Take a moment to orient yourself and load up your map before venturing out into the city. Otherwise, be sure to enjoy the stunning palm trees which litter the square (whose name translates into Royal place) and the King Ferdinand VII statue in the very centre of the square.

Start your day the right way (or, at the very least, your time exploring Barcelona on foot) by fuelling up with a breakfast formula, or tasty ice cream depending on the time of the day. 

While a little bit more touristic than some of the other cafés in the city, there’s no denying the deliciousness of the coffee and patisseries on offer at ARTiSA Barcelona.

This café and confectionery shop offers indoor and outdoor seating, making it a suitable base to enjoy a quick bite come rain or shine. Well-reviewed across many sites, the café was opened in late 2009 and offers a variety of authentic Catalan produce at good prices.

Situated on Carrer Nou de la Rambla, this former mansion house was created by Antoni Gaudi at the behest of a wealthy businessman, Eusebi Güell, who wished to have an abode in the El Raval district of Barcelona.

Created in the late 19th-century, this house boasts all of the architectural features which are so quintessentially Gaudi; natural forms inspire carved brick and beautiful balconies. Today, you can visit the Palace for a small fee. Find more details here.

For the freshest, most authentic, and best local eats in town, be sure to head to the covered marketplace that is Mercat de la Boqueria. Fully known as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, this thriving foodie spot has stalls ranging from beer stands to fish vendors to fresh vegetable sellers.

There has been a market of sorts on site since at least the 13th-century when the food court was mentioned as stalls selling meat close to the city gate.

During the 19th-century, the market was officially recognised, leading to the thriving Mercat de la Boqueria you can enjoy today. If you’re visiting Barcelona for several days, then a visit to the market is recommended in our 3 days in Barcelona itinerary .

Offering a fantastic glimpse of much of the different architectural styles that Barcelona has to offer; this is where the 19th-century buildings of the Eixample district meet the historic architecture of the old town district of the city, Plaça de Catalunya is one of the largest public squares in the city.

Take a moment to pause, sit on one of the many benches on the plaza, and watch the world go by. Otherwise, be sure to check out the beautiful architecture of the theatre, cafés, and restaurants which surround the public space. There are also sculptures dotted across the Plaza which represent several different styles.

Hands down, one of the best bookshops in Barcelona is that of the Altaïr Bookshop. After all, this book vendor is filled with shelves stacked from floor to ceiling, all dedicated to travel. Organised by region, there’s a huge section on Spain, and an even larger section on Catalonia, and on Barcelona.

It’s worth noting that while most of the books, tomes, and travel memoirs for sale were Spanish language, there were still plenty of works available to purchase in English and French. I personally even managed to pick up a book on secret Barcelona on my visit (even though my suitcase was already overstuffed!)

One of the most famous of the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona is that of Casa Battló, an organic-inspired architectural house complete with the broken-tile look that is so synonymous with Gaudi.

Constructed at the behest of Lluís Sala Sánchez, the house is often considered to be one of Gaudi’s greatest works of art. Known locally as the House of Bones ( Casa dels ossos ) thanks to its unusual form and shape, it’s worth noting that you can even go inside if you pay the entry fee.

However, you should know before you go that even the ‘skip-the-line’ pre-paid entrance ticket means plenty of waiting time in order to visit and so you should head to the house earlier in the day and mid-week if possible so as to avoid the worst of the queues.

Purchase your Casa Battló ticket here in advance. 

Beautiful and ornate, Palau Macaya is one of Barcelona’s best-kept secrets. Situated alongside the green space which lies beside Passeig de Sant Joan.

While you can sit and check on directions on the many benches which line the park (which also happens to offer a fantastic view of the Sagrada Familia) , the courtyard of Palau Macaya is also free to visit during opening times and is one of the best photo spots in Barcelona.

The best view of Gaudi’s beautiful ecclesiastical masterpiece (which is famously still unfinished) is not directly beneath the church itself, but instead from the small green park a little walk away.

Lined with benches and plenty of trees, this quiet and secluded spot feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the immediate area surrounding the Gaudi building.

Next, carry on this self-guided Barcelona walking tour right towards the cathedral. This is one of the easiest steps of the self-guided tour as its hard to miss the nature-inspired towers of the Sagrada Familia presiding over the rest of the buildings in the area.

Designed by Antoni Gaudi in the 19th-century, the cathedral is perhaps so famous thanks to the fact that it’s still under construction (and has been this way for over a century).

The church was only consecrated in 2010 and today you can visit for a fee. However, you should know before visiting that this is one of the most popular buildings in Barcelona, meaning you should book your tickets well before you go.

Purchase your Sagrada Familia tickets here in advance.

Yes, you read that correctly! Barcelona, too, has a Triumphal Arch, just like the famous one in Paris , that of Montpellier, and of course, the Arcul de Triumf in Bucharest . Also known as the Arco de Triunfo de Barcelona in Spanish, this arch was constructed in 1888 to act as the main entranceway to the World’s Fair.

Today, you can wander underneath the archway of the Barcelona Arc de Triomf , all the while admiring the stunning stonework. Otherwise, be sure to sit down and rest for a moment or two beneath the palm trees swaying in the breeze and admire the architecture of this Barcelona district.

Best seen on a warm and sunny day when you can stroll around the park, enjoy a picnic in the shade, or rent a boat on the lake for the most romantic of Barcelona experiences, Parc de la Ciutadella is a must-see while in the city and is the perfect place to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy rest of the city.

Created in the 19th-century, once upon a time, this was the only green space that Barcelona had to offer. Some of the main highlights of this sprawling parkland include the chance to glimpse the Palau del Parlament de Catalunya and the stunning chapel of Església de la Ciutadella.

Completely free to visit (though donations are, of course, always appreciated!), the Barcelona Basilica can be found in the  Ribera district of Barcelona. One of the best examples of the Catalan Gothic architectural style, the ecclesiastical building dates all the way back to the 13th-century and a time when much of Barcelona’s main income came through sea trade.

For those who wish to marvel at a little bit of artwork during their time in Barcelona, a visit to the Picasso museum close to the Gothic quarter is an absolute must. For a closer look at the famous artist in Barcelona, be sure to book this Picasso Walking Tour & Picasso Museum of Barcelona. 

Last but not least, the last stop on this free Barcelona walking tour is the Cathedral of the city, i.e. the ecclesiastical building which grants Barcelona its city status. Situated in the maze and passageways of tiny streets which snake their way through the Gothic district of the city, the Cathedral is much less frequented than the Sagrada Familia but is nevertheless still worth a visit.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Kalyan Panja

Saturday 7th of September 2019

Barcelona seems so vibrant! I am so disappointed that I was not able to go there on my own recent trip to Spain. Next time!

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

Self-Guided Free Walking Tour: Barcelona On Foot

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Barcelona, Spain has an amazing history and the city is packed with iconic sights. The best way to experience the Catalonian Capital is to set off on foot on a Barcelona Walking Tour. 

Many of the city’s top attractions are clustered around the Barcelona Old Town – which is the best place to start exploring. Travelers can opt to join one of the Barcelona Guided Tours or plan to venture out and discover on their own with our DIY Free Barcelona Tour.

Our easy-to-follow Free Self-Guided Barcelona Walking Tour includes the best sights in the Old Town. Seeing these sights is a must for your Barcelona Itinerary – so lace up your travel shoes and follow in our footsteps for a fantastic introduction to Barcelona!

Self Guided Old Town Barcelona Walking Tour FREE

Our Barcelona Self-Guided Walking Tour is ideal for visitors who like to discover sights at their own pace. We include information about each attraction – as well as a map link so that you can easily find your way. At the end of the article, we include a complete Barcelona tour map that plots all of the attractions on the route. 

The route of our Barcelona free walking tour loops through the metropolis, passing sights like Las Ramblas, the vibrant waterfront, Barceloneta beaches, the city’s greenest park, historic Barcelona neighborhoods and the most famous Barcelona attractions. 

Guided Walking Tours Barcelona

We think our DIY Barcelona tour is the best way to see the city. However, if you would rather a guide lead the way to the sights, we offer recommendations on the top rated walking tours in Barcelona at the end of the article.

Tips For Exploring Barcelona on Foot

Before we hit the pavement and get started, we have a few tips for your Barcelona, Spain walk! 

Barcelona Tourist Map

As we already mentioned, we provide a Barcelona Attractions Map at the end of the post that includes all the highlights of our tour. Additionally, we include a helpful with walking directions.

However, to follow along online, a WiFi connection is necessary. Foreign visitors can use a Mobile WiFi device , like GlocalMe for internet access (which can be cheaper for families and groups of friends than adjusting individual phone plans to include international data). 

Travelers who prefer paper maps can buy one online (like this one ) or pick up a Barcelona tourist map from the Tourist Information Center. 

Self-Guided Walking Tour Barcelona Details

Our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona covers 5+miles. The entire route can be (ambitiously) completed in about 2 hours. But, that won’t leave much time for stops, photos or detours. Unless you are short on time, we recommend slowing down and taking an entire day to enjoy the Barcelona sights. 

Barcelona Detours and Suggestions

Walking around Barcelona, Spain, you can be easily distracted by architecture, hidden lanes and old churches. While we think our outlined tour is one of the best walks in Barcelona, there is plenty of room for wandering! Use this as a guide, but create your own walking routes in Barcelona to experience the city as it suits you!

Pin, Bookmark or Save our Barcelona Walking Tour for Free to plan your trip to Spain!

15 Barcelona Self-Guided Walking Tour Sights

Let’s get started on our Walk Through Barcelona! Remember to refer to the Barcelona Walking Tour Map below for walking directions.

#1 Placa de Catalunya

The starting point for our Best Walking Tour Barcelona is Placa de Catalunya – or Catalonia Square. It is a vast square located on the north end of the Barcelona Old Town. In the square are fountains and statues – and it’s central location is the ideal place to start your Barcelona exploration!

#2 Las Ramblas

The most famous street in Barcelona is Las Ramblas. What was once a drainage ditch is now a wide, pedestrian path – and the most well-traveled street in the city. Strolling the length of Las Ramblas is a must on your Barcelona Self Guided Walking Tour. 

Newsstands, flower shops and street artists line the length of The Ramblas. Extending from Placa de Catalunya to the Waterfront, strolling down Las Ramblas is a must for Barcelona visitors! Detour off the main strip to discover small squares and quaint streets.

#3 Placa Vila de Madrid

The next stop on our free tour of Barcelona is the inconspicuous Placa Vila de Madrid Square – and it is filled with fascinating history. Once the site of a convent, excavations revealed an ancient past…one dating to the 1st century AD, when Barcelona was a Roman colony, known as Barcino. 

The archaeological findings – about 60 tombs lining a road – are now on display in the square. The Roman Necropolis lends insight into the history of the city. A small museum at the Via Sepulcral site provides further information and artifacts. 

#4 La Boqueria Market

The La Boqueria Market – officially The Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria – can trace its history to the year 1217. The Barcelona city center market offers a range of goods, including everything from seafood to sweets – all presented in colorful displays. In addition to vendors, small kiosk restaurants are also on site. 

In fact, La Boqueria is home to some of the Best Tapas in Barcelona – so if you are hungry, take a break from your Self Guided Tour Barcelona and grab a bite to eat. 

#5 Gran Teatre del Liceu

One of the best sights near La Rambla, continue your Best Free Walking Tour Barcelona by sidestepping from the famous street to a top attraction: Gran Teatre del Liceu. 

A luxurious opera house, Gran Teatre del Liceu opened in 1847 (although, it had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1994). The façade, however, is original – if not rather plain in comparison to the beautiful theater that lies within. Visitors can attend a performance or take a tour. 

#6 Placa Reial

Another one of the great destinations just steps from Las Ramblas as you walk south from the La Boqueria Market is Placa Reial. 

 A hidden gem right in the heart of the city, Placa Reial is a spacious square located off a side street (Carrer de Colom) from Las Ramblas. The square is ringed with restaurants and cafes – and features swaying palm trees, a fountain and lamp posts designed by Antoni Gaudí.

#7 Palau Guell

The Guell Palace, a mansion designed for the Guell family, is an early (and quite extraordinary) work by Gaudi. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, “Works of Antoni Gaudi” and can be toured with a ticket. 

Even if you don’t tour the palace, it is worth seeing Palau Guell from the outside on your Barcelona walking route. 

#8 Columbus Monument and Barcelona Waterfront

Continue your Self Guided Free Walking Tour in Barcelona to southern end of La Rambla and the Columbus Monument. The obelisk rises 200 feet into the sky marking the south end of La Rambla and the beginning of the Barcelona waterfront. A statue of Christopher Columbus pointing to the New World is perched atop the singular, decorative column.

The monument stands to commemorate the return journey to Barcelona, where he reported the discovery to the Spanish Queen Isabella and Ferdinand. The statue was erected in 1888 for the Universal Exhibition. Today, visitors can take in the views from the top of the monument (buy your ticket in advance !). 

#9 La Rambla del Mar

From the Columbus Monument, step onto the wooden walkway that is best known as La Rambla del Mar – the Walk by the Sea.

The boardwalk leads to a hub of activity – and plenty of places to distract you from your Self Guided Walking Tour Barcelona. Top things to see and do include seaside eateries, the Maremagnum shops and the Barcelona Aquarium ( buy your Skip-the-Line Aquarium tickets ).  

#10 Barceloneta

Heading north around the harbor, continue walking in Barcleona past the hundreds of sailboats and a few extraordinary large yachts in Port Vell and enter the seaside neighborhood of Barceloneta.

Previously the local fisherman’s quarters, the dilapidated area was overhauled in the 80s – and is now one of Barcelona’s trendiest spots. In addition to the wide, popular beach, the Barceloneta district features a plethora of seafood restaurants and ocean view cafes.

#11 Parc de la Ciutadella

The next stop on your Barcelona city walk is the enormous park, Parc de la Ciutadella. It is Barcelona’s best (and, at one time, only) green space. The park encompasses the Barcelona Zoo, waterfalls, ponds and monuments. 

Don’t miss Cascada del Parc de la Ciutadella, the most opulent fountain in the park. The decorative fountain dates to 1881, but was enhanced with sculptures and the arch in time for the 1888 Universal Exhibition – with some credit going to then novice Antoni Gaudi.

#12 La Ribera and Santa Maria del Mar

After visiting the spacious park, continue your Self Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona into the historic lanes. 

Navigate your way to the cobblestone streets of La Ribera. Many of the buildings in the district date to Medieval times, when it was home to Barcelona’s most affluent citizens. Artist studios, boutique shops and hip cafes now line the streets. 

In the tangle of lanes, find the Esglesia de Santa Maria del Mar. The expansive Gothic church, which dates to the early 1300s, is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful buildings.

#13 Barri Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral

Barri Gothic is the heart of the Barcelona Old Town and the oldest part of the city. The majority of the district is pedestrian-only – so take time to wander the streets, perhaps venturing into a few shops or tapas bars along the way. 

As you wander the district, make your way to La Catedral – a must-see sight on Barcelona city walks. 

The massive La Catedral – or Barcelona Cathedral – is situated in the Barri Gothic Quarter (and should not be confused with the still-unfinished work of Gaudi , La Sagrada Familia).

The cathedral façade is decorated with soaring spires and decorative gargoyles. The interior of the cathedral is lit by grand chandeliers. Beneath the altar is a crypt hosting the remains of Santa Eulalia, one of Barcelona’s Patron Saints.  

#14 Palau de la Musica Catalana, Barcelona

If time permits, continue your free Barcelona Walking Tour to one of the best Barcelona sights: The Modernist Palau de la Musica Catalana. 

It is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful concert halls. Built in 1908 by Spanish architect Domenech i Montaner, the exquisite building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (just one of the many Modernist buildings in the city to earn the UNESCO status!). 

Want to see the interior of Palau de la Musica Catalana? Join a 45-minute guided tour that includes the famous skylight, the grand staircase and sights that are usually off-limits!

#15 Arc de Triomf, Barcelona

The final stop on your Self Guided Barcelona Walking Tour is the Arc de Triomf. 

Unlike most city arches, the Barcelona Arc de Triomf was not built to celebrate a military victory. Instead, the grand, red-brick arch was built in 1888 to welcome visitors to the Universal Exhibition World Fair. 

Barcelona Sightseeing Map

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Walking Route Barcelona Map. 

Barcelona Walking Map

Click for the Barcelona Tourist Attractions Map with Walking Directions in Google Maps . 

Guided Barcelona Walking Tours

Our Barcelona Self-Guided Walking Tour is a great way to explore the city on your own! However, there are many guided Barcelona walks that are theme-based. We are featuring a few of the most popular Barcelona walking tours. 

Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour

Visitors who want a local guide to lead the way through the heart of the city can join a highly rated tour that features the best sights in the Old Town and Gothic Quarter. The local guides share history, facts and fun stories along the route. 

Gaudi Tour Barcelona

Antoni Gaudi is Barcelona’s most famous architect. Learn about his life, his designs and his impact on the city on one of the guided walking tours through Barcelona. Top Gaudi sights to see are La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batllo and Casa Mila.

Visitors can take a private tour, join a small group tour or even pedal along on a bike tour to Gaudi attractions. Read reviews on Viator to find the perfect Gaudi tour for your trip!

Barcelona Tapas Tour

Tapas are an art form in Barcelona! Let a local guide lead the way on an introduction to the unique cuisine on an evening tour . 

However, you can follow in our footsteps and create your own Tapas-hopping Tour based on our recommendations for the Best Tapas in Barcelona !

Free Barcelona Walking Tours

Many different companies offer free walking tours in Barcelona. Just keep in mind that ‘Guided Free Walking Tours’ are not in fact free – as the tour guide expects to be tipped for their service. 

More Things To Do in Barcelona, Spain

Navigating the city on foot is a great way to spend a day in Barcelona. Guests staying longer can use the travel tips in our 3-Day Barcelona Itinerary for tips on what to see and do.

We offer tips for what to do in Barcelona for 3 days – plus offer day trip ideas, feature top museums and highlight activities – like a popular Flamenco show. 

Planning a Trip to Trip to Barcelona

We know that there is so much more to planning a Barcelona trip than deciding what sights to see – so we have a few more travel tips that will help you plan the perfect vacation. 

First, if you are traveling from overseas, read our guide to Planning a European Vacation . We share need-to-know details and tips that will help you make the most of your trip abroad. 

As you make your plans, be sure to stay on top of all the details! Use our Trip Planner Printables to stay organized for your trip to Barcelona. 

Where To Stay in Barcelona

There are a lot of choices when it comes to places to stay in Barcelona! We recommend choosing centrally located accommodations – based on the activities that are of most interest to you. We like two areas – L’Eixample neighborhood and El Poble-sec. 

We have stayed in the L’Eixample District in an Airbnb apartment (which we loved for the extra space and kitchen, where we could prepare breakfasts). The neighborhood was excellent for seeking out local cafes and bars – and extremely convenient to exploring the Modernism architecture.

El Poble-sec

Recently, we stayed in the Hotel Concordia Barcelona in the El Poble-sec district – which lies between Montjuic and the Old Town. The location was ideal for local transportation from the airport and within reasonable walking distance to the Old Town, Montjuic and the famous tapas street. The clean hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool and a casual on-site restaurant and bar.

Use our Guide to Finding the Best Hotels at the Best Rates – then start your search for the perfect Barcelona hotel on Booking.com !

What To Pack for Your Barcelona Trip

Now that you are well on your way to planning the perfect Barcelona trip, it’s time to start packing! We are sharing a few must-have items for Barcelona – but you can find all of our advice on our Packing Tips page. Grab your Free Packing Checklist before you go!

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Our Barcelona Walking Tour covers some ground – so make sure to pack good travel shoes . It’s best to wear shoes that are comfortable and versatile – which is why I like these sneakers . Kris prefers to wear Merrell trail shoes for men when walking around cities. 

Travel Camera

Barcelona is beautiful! We recommend upgrading to a real camera for your trip. We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens . We love that it is easy to use, takes quality photos and is well-priced as a budget DSLR camera for travelers . 

Barcelona Map and Guidebook for Spain

It’s easy to get turned around or lost in any new city! Be sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook prior to arriving.  

Anti-Theft Day Bag

While Barcelona has wonderful sights, it also has pickpockets. Be sure to pack a zippered day pack – like the ones by Travelon – to organize and secure all of your daily travel items . Read our tips for The Best Day Bags for Travel .

Spain Trip Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your vacation to Spain, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Tips For Visiting Spain

Planning to visit more than just Barcelona on your trip to Spain? We have travel guides for top Spain destinations. 

• Plan a perfect  1-Week Spain Itinerary
• Spend Christmas in Barcelona (and other European Winter Destinations )
• Discover the Best of Seville
• Explore the Sights of Madrid
• Enjoy the Best of Basque Country
• Feast on Pintxos in San Sebastian

Find more tips and guides on our complete Spain Travel Guides page!

Start planning your trip to Spain ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We want to know: What would you add to our Barcelona on Foot walking tour? Give us your best tips and suggestions for a Self-Guided Barcelona Walking Tour in the comments!  

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Barcelona Walking Tour: Secrets of the Old City

Who’s Alvaro?

• Texan living in Barcelona since 2016
• Passionate about history and art
• Storyteller
• A bit of an art fart
• Go Cowboys, go Mavs, and visca Barça!​

What’s included in our Barcelona walking tour?

Let an expert guide take you through the landmarks of Barcelona’s legendary Gothic Quarter .

You’ll be schooled on raw history and amused with anecdotes passing by Plaça Catalunya, La Rambla , Boqueria Market , the Barcelona Cathedral , Plaça Reial, the Santa Maria del Mar, Augustus Temple, and much more.

There’s also plenty of secrets hidden in plain sight , street art, snack spots, tragic tales, chronicles of Catalonia, and insider info that’ll make you a Barcelona expert in 2.5 hours .

Whether it’s your first time visiting the city or you’re a tried and true veteran looking for a deeper understanding this is your tour!

Don’t believe us? Check out the video:

Adults: €25.00

Youth (7 -15): €15.00

Kids (0 – 6): FREE

We’re running tours all the time.

Please get in touch with your preferred date (and a secondary date just in case) and the number of paying guests (adults and youths 7-15) to [email protected] and we’ll get the ball rolling crafting your tour.

Looking forward to hearing from you 🙂

Useful Information

Update (13/08/2022): We’re running tours all the time so get in touch with [email protected] with preferred dates and we’ll get back to you to finalize things. Times can be customized to your needs.

Once you’ve finalized the tour time we’ll ask you to book using a form. Full refunds are given if cancellation is made up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour time.

Are you a small group (5+) but the time doesn’t suit you? Write me an email at [email protected] and I’ll see if I can organize a special Barcelona walking tour just for you.

MEETING POINT: Plaça Catalunya 4 (in front of the Fnac store).

Entrance to Barcelona attractions are not included in the price , attractions and monuments will only be visited from outside.

To offer the best experiences, we use technologies such as cookies to store and/or access device information. Consent to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique identifiers on this site. Failing to consent or withdrawing consent may adversely affect certain features and functions.

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The Best Barcelona Beach – Summer Walking Tour Spain [4K 60FPS]

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Barcelona Historic Centre

They say Barcelona was founded by either mythological Hercules or Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca, father of Hannibal, one of the greatest military commanders of all times. So much the legends, the truth is that the city was a political center of the Catalan region for at least 2000 years since the Romans built their city there. Walking around the Barri Gotic, the Gothic Quarter you still see old walls and the grid of streets typical for Roman cities. An excellent harbour and a beautiful setting made Barcelona develop fast. The Old Town bears traces of all the powers that ruled it through the ages: the Romans, the Visigoths, the Moors and the Aragones. The concept of the city changed at the turn of the 19th and 20th century when Barcelona went through rapid urban development, architectural remodeling and became a center of a fascinating architectural style called Catalan modernism known around the world because of the works of the ingenious Antoni Gaudi. Standing against Francisco Franco Barcelona was devastated and severely punished. It was here, living opposite Franco, that George Orwell wrote his memoirs “Homage to Catalonia.” The development of the city was accelerated by the organization of the 1992 Summer Olympics (the Barcelona effect!). Today it is one of the most popular cities in the world combining rich history, culture, amazing works of artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró and all the joys of the Mediterranean coast. 

Walk with us through the labyrinth of small, winding streets and tranquil plazas of the Barcelona Old Town to discover its fascinating history, culture, dining and drinking scene. Take a chance to see the residence of Aragonese kings, seat of the Catalan government, ancient churches and palaces as well as one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. The Old Town went through some substantial restoration works in the late 19th and early 20th century and from a humble district changed into a major tourist destination. Hence, next to original Roman and medieval structures you will see some modern and neo-Gothic ones, like the beautiful Bishop’s Bridge or the facade of Barcelona Cathedral. All forming a unique and charming mix waiting there to be admired!

During this 2 hour free walking tour we will see and discover:

• Gothic Quarter
• Born Quarter
• King’s square
• Plaza Cataluña
• Jewish Quarter
• Bishop’s Bridge
• Sant Jaume Square
• Fossar de les Moreres memorial square
• Barcelona’s Cathedral
• Palau de la Generalitat – the seat of Catalan government
• Sant Felip Neri square
• Barcelona’s Roman Wall
• Barcelona’s Medieval City Hall
• Santa Maria del Mar (Cathedral of the Sea)    
• and much, much more!

Solid tour but tour guide ask for specific amount of tips

Irish man Spent 15 min talked about himself and he needs make money at beginning of the tour.

At the end asked for specific amount. First time out of so many tours we did globally.

Highly recommend this tour. Our guide Marwa was excellent – clear, articulate, interesting and passionate about Barcelona. Her stories were informative and captivating.

Highly recommend

Thank you Claire for an interesting and informative tour 🙂

Perfect tour

Very interesting tour

Very Interesting tour

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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