Barcelona Walking Tour: El Raval and the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona, Spain

Activity Code- 2121

Overview

Barcelona is a city filled with magic and mystery, drawing visitors back time and again. The El Raval and the Gothic Quarter walking tour allows you to explore the lesser-known stories that give the city its unique charm. From the fabled fountain water of Font de Canaletes to the curious legends surrounding El Gato de Botero, you will uncover the tales that make Barcelona a place worth returning to. As we walk through the city, you will experience the rich history and fascinating folklore that shape its vibrant culture.

Highlights

  • On this tour, you will uncover hidden myths and legends of Barcelona’s past
  • Marvel at Gaudi’s most understated buildings- Palau Güell, a masterpiece of Catalan Modernism
  • Stroll through Mercat de la Boqueria, a bustling market in operation since the 12th century
  • Enjoy picturesque plazas and vibrant street life throughout the city, such as Plaça de Sant Jaume, Plaça Nova, and Plaça Sant Felip Neri
  • Visit Meson del Cafe, where you will find the city’s best coffee and possibly bump into the mayo
  • Visit El Peto, the kissing mural made of 4,000 photos of “freedom,” which people donated
  • Mobile Voucher accepted, no need to take the printed tickets!

Itinerary

Known for its charming alleyways, cheerful beaches, and lovely pieces of modernist architecture, the city of Barcelona truly personifies the word ‘vivacity’. When it comes to history, art, and architecture, Barcelona has the best places to visit. Barcelona in Spain is a city full of museums, parks, Antoni Gaudí landmarks, and other highlights. Barcelona offers more than just the attractions and famous sights.
 
Barcelona is a city full of charm that makes people want to visit again and again. There is even a local belief that says once you've drunk water from the Font de Canaletes or touched the crown jewels of the famous "El Gato de Botero" statue, you are sure to return. On this walking tour, stroll around the city and discover its hidden stories, myths, legends, and folklore.
 
After leaving La Rambla, walk through El Raval, which used to be the most crowded area in Europe, and Barcelona's Red-Light District. Know its past connections to prostitution and tell you the story of Enriqueta Marti, who was falsely accused of being a serial killer. You will also hear about the 1789 bread riots and learn how the famous architect Antoni Gaudi tragically died. After that, cross over to Plaça Reial (Royal Plaza) and explore the Gothic Quarter, where you will discover how the small Roman village of Barcino grew into the bustling city of Barcelona. See the stream that once gave water to the village and the old tombs along its ancient walls. You will also see some more recent sights, like the Gothic Cathedral of Barcelona and the beautiful Bishops Bridge (Pont de Bisbe).
 
During this tour, you will get to admire one of Gaudi's lesser-known works, Palau Güell, and learn about the heartbreaking past of poor mothers who left unwanted babies through a hole at the House of Mercy. You will step into the historic Boqueria Market, operating since the 1100s, and hear two different stories about the origins of Can Culleretes Restaurant, leaving you to decide which one to believe. As you walk down Carrer d'Avinyo, the street that inspired Picasso's famous painting Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, you will also stop by Meson del Cafe, a spot known for serving the city's best coffee and where you might even spot the mayor. Lastly, you will enjoy the beautiful El Peto mural, comprised of 4,000 photos representing "freedom," all contributed by the public.
 
This El Raval and the Gothic Quarter walking tour takes you through narrow streets, hidden alleys, and lively squares like Plaça de Sant Jaume, Plaça Nova, and Plaça Sant Felip Neri. You will hear fascinating stories about the city’s past, see its unique architecture, and learn quirky urban legends. Bring your camera—there are plenty of great spots to take photos!

Schedule

Start Time: 10:00 am to 04:00pm
Duration: (Approx.) 1 hour 15 minutes
Starting Point: Font de Canaletes, La Rambla, 133, 08002 Barcelona
(Please check the calendar to know about availability)


Includes

  • Access to the VoiceMap App
  • Offline access to Audio, Maps, and Geodata
  • Access to Audio tour of El Raval and Gothic Quarter's landmarks and Legends

Redemption Info

You need the VoiceMap Audio Tours app in order to use your booking code and complete the trip! You can look for it by searching Google Play or the Apple App Store, or by visiting onelink.to/voicemap on your smartphone.
Next, take these three actions:
1. Register for an account
2. From the menu, choose Tour Codes, and then click Enter Codes.
3. Type in the tour code and choose "Download Now."
Once you've purchased a tour, it will be added to your VoiceMap library. If you sign in to the app using the same method as you did on the website, you'll have access to your entire tour library.
When the download completes, you'll see a screen showing the starting point, with directions to help you get there. 
The app will automatically play audio at the right time and place using GPS-based turn-by-turn directions.

Please take the following actions if, after entering your booking code and initiating the download, you are still waiting for it to finish after more than a few minutes:
1) Cancel the download
2) Choose the Purchased tab after going to Account.
3) Select your tour there, then restart the download.

Know Before You Go

Free WiFi: No.
Wheelchair or Stroller accessible: No.
Please note that the app will automatically play audio at the right time and place using GPS-based turn-by-turn directions.
Guests have the option to resume the tour from the nearest location whenever they like.
Guests can enjoy the tours as often as they like through both the VoiceMap app and website.
Please note that once the tour is purchased, it’s added to the VoiceMap library. 
The VoiceMap app works offline, so you can enjoy your tour without worrying about roaming fees. Simply download the tour over WiFi before you begin.
Guests are advised to stay cautious of pickpockets – they can be discreet, but not harmful.
Nearest Metro: Guests can get there by the Red Line L1 or Green Line L3, the station is Placa de Catalunya and there is an exit directly on La Rambla.
There are plenty of shops along the route but it's still a good idea to bring water bottle and perhaps a snack for some energy.
Guests are advised to dress comfortably on their travel day, as there would be considerable amount of walking involved.
Major Landmarks: La Rambla, Font de Canaletes, Barcelona's Baby Drop-offf, El Raval, Mercat de Sant Agusti, Old Hospital de la Santa Creu, El Gat de Botero, Palau Guell, Placa Reial, Restaurant Can Culleretes, Carrer d'Avinyo, Saint James's Square, Mesón del Cafè 1909, Gothic Quarter, El Pont del Bisbe, Sant Felip Neri Square, Cathedral of Barcelona, Plaça Nova, The World Comes To Life With Each Kiss, Plaça de la Vila de Madrid.
Disclaimer: The service provider reserves the right to close or cancel certain shows, attractions, entertainments, restaurants, shops or ancillary facilities without notice. There will be no refund provided in that case.

Cancellation Policy

  • You must cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience to get a complete refund.
  • If you cancel your booking less than 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience, you will not be reimbursed.
  • Any modifications made less than 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience will not be allowed.
  • The cut-off times are determined by the activity/experience's local start time.
  • This activity/experience is weather dependent. If it is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be given an alternate date or a full refund.