Barcelona Old Town Private Tour: Past and Present

Barcelona , Spain

Barcelona Old Town Private Tour: Past and Present

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(3 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover how this Mediterranean city was first inhabited by Romans, how she grew during Middle Ages, how she became powerful in the Modern Era, how she got transformed during the Spanish Succession War, how she modernized herself during the 1888 World Expo and how it became the beach paradise we can see today thanks to the Olympics in 1992.

During our 2H30-3h tour, depending on your rhythm, we'll go from the Arc de Triomf to the famous Rambla going through Ciutadella Park, El Born, Gothic Quarter...and see such monuments as the Born Cultural Center, Santa Maria del Mar Church, City Hall Square, Gothic Cathedral and many more...

From the Rambla, you'll have the choice to go up or down:

Down:
Liceu Theater, the Plaza Reial, the Colombus monument, the 3 different marinas and finally arrive at La Barceloneta !

Up:
Discover Plaza Catalunya and the 2 most famous houses from Gaudí, Casa Batlló and Casa Mila.

All of this with a lot of fun, anecdotes and some nice pictures along the way !

Available options

Barcelona Old Town Private Tour: Past and Present

What's included

Inside of Gothic Cathedral Patio - 8.30am-12.30pm, Sundays to 1.45pm, or after 6pm. 5pm on weekends

Inside of El Born Cultural Center

Always good to have some water on tour... 1 bottle per person.

Inside of Santa Maria del Mar Cathedral after 6pm and Sundays before 1h30pm and after 5pm

At La Boqueria market, you'll have a fresh fruit juice and some iberic ham and cheese.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our starting point was once the entry gate to an important event of the 19th century, unlike many other "triumphal archs" made to celebrate war victories...

Stop 2

Our green lung. Inside this wonderful parc, we'll mention for the first time Barcelona's most famous architect...Gaudí. We'll also learn that this place holds important memories of one of the major events of the 18th century that shaped Europe as we know today.

Stop 3

We'll pass across this huge iron structure that used to be the district market...used to be... ;-) !

Stop 4

Our most beloved cathedral... From the 14th century, she holds a very special place in the heart of Barcelona's citizen. Also, it has a little secret for FC Barcelona soccer fans... We'll also see the "Fosser del Moreres", a place of remembrance for those who fell during the Spanish Succession War.
Note: this monument is only free at certain moments, we can't guarantee access.

Stop 5

Our city hall square inside the oldest district of the city: Gothic Quarter.

Stop 6

Santa Eulalia & Santa Creu Cathedral. We won't be able to go inside the cathedral, but if we are lucky we will be seeing the patio where a funny surprise awaits... funny but also related to a more tragic event...

The most iconic street of Barcelona... Here you will decide if we go down or up the Rambla. Down, we'll arrive at the port and beach front. Up, we'll arrive to plaza Catalunya and the 2 most famous houses of the city: Casa Batlló and Casa Milá.

Stop 8

Here, we'll make a small stop to taste some of our local & delicious delicatessen: jamón ibérico and cheese, and drink a fresh fruit juice.

Our main plaza. From there we'll start the ascension of Paseo de Gracia to visit 2 emblematic houses from Gaudí !

Stop 10

Gaudí's finest ! Casa Batlló is without doubt one of the most famous places visited. We'll talk about Gaudí's architectural style and inspiration. Don't forget to ask for a picture !

Stop 11

One of gaudi's last piece of art. This is where our tour will end, and where I'll give you the last tips about what to visit, where to eat, drink, party...and enjoy our beloved Barcelona !

An iconic square of Barcelona, famous to keep alive one of the first jobs that Gaudí did for the city... At night, this square becomes one of the most busy places !

This monument holds a little secret...inside there is a...oops! No spoilers, come and you'll see by yourself lol !
We'll pass by the famous "Golondrinas" and Moll de las Drassanes.

We are gettin' close to La Barceloneta, the old fishing district.
We'll see the Moll de la Fusta, Port Vell and the History Museum of Catalunya.

The old fisherman town is nowadays maybe the most visited district of the city... full of restaurants, bars...and at the end of it.......the beach ! Our tour will end here, so switch your walking shoes for flips flaps and enjoy your time in Barcelona !

What's not included

Entrance to Santa Maria del Mar - 5€/person except after 6pm, & Sundays before 1.30pm and after 5pm.

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Animal-friendly: bring your best four-paw friend with you!

Disclaimer: We will not enter the attractions (Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, and the Gothic Cathedral)

Meeting point

Find me under the Arc de Triomf to start our journey together !

About Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. It seamlessly blends medieval history with modernist masterpieces, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Sagrada Família

Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, a stunning basilica that combines Gothic and Art Nouveau forms. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit.

Architecture 1.5-2.5 hours €26-€34 (depending on access to towers)

Park Güell

Another Gaudí masterpiece, this park features colorful mosaics, whimsical structures, and beautiful city views.

Architecture 1.5-2 hours €10 (Monumental Zone)

La Rambla

A famous pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, street performers, and the famous La Boqueria market.

Street 1-2 hours Free (shopping and dining costs vary)

Casa Batlló

A unique building designed by Gaudí, known for its surrealist design and colorful façade.

Architecture 1 hour €35-€45 (depending on the tour)

Gothic Quarter

The historic heart of Barcelona, filled with medieval streets, ancient buildings, and hidden plazas.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pa amb tomàquet

Bread rubbed with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, often served as an appetizer.

Snack Vegetarian

Fideuà

A paella-like dish made with short, thin noodles, seafood, and saffron.

Main Course Contains seafood

Crema Catalana

A Catalan version of crème brûlée, made with egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon.

Dessert Vegetarian

Patatas Bravas

Fried potato cubes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Montserrat Water sports in Barceloneta Rock climbing Beach lounging in Barceloneta Spa treatments Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak season offers pleasant weather and is ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The crowds are manageable, and the city is vibrant with festivals and events.

20°C to 28°C 68°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Catalan, Spanish
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Barcelona is generally safe, but like any major city, it has its share of petty crime and scams. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.
• Be cautious of fake petitions or distractions to steal from you.

Getting there

By air

Barcelona-El Prat Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Sants Station, Estació de França

By bus

Estació d'Autobusos Sants, Estació d'Autobusos Nord

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around quickly and affordably.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Eixample Gràcia Barceloneta Gothic Quarter El Raval

Day trips

Montserrat

50 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A stunning mountain range with a historic monastery, offering hiking, scenic views, and religious sites.

Girona

100 km from Barcelona • Full day

A charming medieval city with a well-preserved Jewish Quarter, a stunning cathedral, and a rich history.

Sitges

40 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its beaches, nightlife, and historic sites.

Festivals

La Mercè Festival • Late September Sant Jordi • April 23 Festa Major de Gràcia • Mid-August

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
Try local specialties like pa amb tomàquet, fideuà, and crema catalana at local markets and restaurants.
Use the T-Casual pass for unlimited travel on public transportation, which is more cost-effective than single tickets.
Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, and keep an eye on your belongings.