Old City
Free Walking Tour
"What is the legend surrounding the Catalan flag?"
"Why are 13 geese living in Barcelona's Gothic cathedral?"
"How do you build a tower made out of humans?"
Let us guide you on a walking tour through the ancient narrow streets of one of the best preserved medieval districts in Europe. Discover the secrets behind the stones of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter.
Loose yourself in an historical journey, learn about our ancient traditions and marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of this magical city.
In our Old City Free Walking Tour we will lead you through the winding corridors of medieval Barcelona to give you a unique view of the enchanting Gothic Quarter.
THE FREE TOUR SYSTEM
We are fair at Runner Bean Tours because we let you decide the tour's value. Our passionate guides work for your donations and try their best to make sure you will have a great experience.
More of our walking tours in Barcelona:
Running Times:
11:00 h.
Every Day (rain or shine) [except December 24th, 25th & 26th and January 1st]
Meeting point:
Plaça Reial (next to the water fountain). See map »
Another tour have just started at this meeting point. If you want the quality of a Runner Bean tour be sure it is a Runner Bean guide.
Please read the box "How do I know I am on the right tour?" »
No reservation necessary but if you would like to book your place, contact us.
* As numbers are limited, it is recommended to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
If you are a group of 10 or more you need to book a private tour. Contact us for more information and prices.
Duration:
2 ½ hours approx. (not rushed, but leisurely paced).
* This tour is only available in English.
These are some of the places we visit during the tour (click on the images to enlarge):
Plaça Reial
Only a step away from the busy "Las Ramblas", this square is certainly one of the most picturesque in Barcelona. Some of its bars and restaurants hide secrets that will be revealed by the guide. It's also the meeting point for the Free Gaudí Tour.
Plaça del Pi
A beautiful square in the middle of the Gothic Quarter with the XIV century Santa María del Pi church and some of the most beautiful sgrafittos in the city. If tasting some local delicacies is what you are after, you will find them in its outdoor food market.
The old Jewish Quarter ("El Call")
Not only the oldest part of the Gothic Quarter but also one of the most intriguing places in Barcelona. Walk through narrow passages and past ancient houses following the hidden clues to find out what happened to a thriving Jewish community.
Plaça Sant Jaume
This has been the centre of political life in the City for over 2,000 years. Today, the main government buildings dominate the square. Many festivities in Barcelona start or end at this place so maybe you will be lucky enough to see some of the Catalan traditions performed here.
The Cathedral cloister
Situated in the traditional spiritual centre of Barcelona, "La Seu" is one of the most impressive cathedrals in Spain. Its XV century cloister has been called "the loveliest oasis in Barcelona". Thirteen geese, whose ancestors have lived there for five centuries, dwell in the courtyard reminding us of a barbarous crime.
Plaça Sant Felip Neri
The only drawback of Plaça Sant Felip Neri is to actually find it. Hidden at the edge of the Jewish Quarter, you will feel as if you are in a small village, miles away from busy Barcelona. A favourite with filmmakers, this peaceful place also has a few tales to tell the visitor.
Casa de l'Ardiaca
The Archdeacon's house and its serene courtyard is a stunningly beautiful corner of medieval Barcelona. Dating from the XV century, it hides a more ancient secret behind glass doors. You'll also find out about the Gothic fountain and its dancing visitor.
The Roman City
Roman heritage is all over Barcelona, its impressive city wall appearing in the strangest of places. But there is much more than just the wall: a Roman treasure from the first century B.C. is waiting for you inside the patio of an apartment block!
The Medieval City and Plaça del Rei
Stepping into this square is like travelling back through time to when the count-kings of Catalonia lived in its medieval Royal Palace. King Ferdinand, Christopher Columbus and the Spanish Inquisition all have something to say in this Plaza.
Santa María del Mar
It has been called "the Cathedral of the Sea" and from the outside you would never guess the magnificence that is waiting for you inside. A masterpiece of the Catalan Gothic and a delight for the eyes. Just beside it, our tour ends in a very special place for the Barcelonans.
