About this experience
Traveling alone or want to discover new facets of the Catalan capital? Then I invite you to a cozy and memorable walk! With me, you will visit hidden corners of the Raval and Gothic quarters. Enjoy shopping in El Born and choose the best souvenirs. Unusual facts and locations will help you feel the character of Barcelona.
What to expect
Raval: beautiful and dreadful
Our walk will start in a district where informals and nuns, artists, wealthy people, and outcasts have lived for more than eight centuries. I will show you the residence of the Barcelona vampire and tell you how she made her fortune. I will take you to the shady courtyard of the former Mercy House, where an unknown summer cafe is located, hidden from tourists. You will learn the history of this place and then find the largest mirror in the city. In vintage shops, I will help you choose a dress, and in a secret boutique of niche perfumes - an interesting fragrance. At the famous Boqueria market, I will teach you to distinguish types of ham, you will be able to try the famous fuet and find out which cheese the locals eat.
Gothic Quarter: the oldest district of the Catalan capital
Authentic shops with a rich history await you in the Gothic Quarter. You will touch the history of a candle shop that has been around for over two hundred years. You will visit the place where the world's first designer espadrilles were created, near the oldest confectionery I will tell you about Catalan sweets and why they were made with lard. Of course, over a cup of aromatic coffee with acorn cake, we will also talk about the quarter itself. I will explain why the buildings of the Gothic Quarter resemble theatrical decorations, you will hear about the residents of the district and immerse yourself in the spirit of old Barcelona.
Born: the creative heart of the modern city
Art galleries, workshops, boutiques of designer jewelry - an atmosphere of creativity reigns in El Born. Here we will find out why the narrowest street is called Mosques Street, and only one car can fit on the shortest street. In unusual souvenir shops, you can buy a gift for yourself or your loved ones, and then we will head to the street art gallery.
At the end, you will hear how practical Catalans borrowed the idea of free tapas with wine from Andalusians and started making money on it. Besides, I will share entertaining legends about an alchemist, a skull with a dagger, the phantom of the Liceu Opera, and the ominous Inquisition street.
Organizational details
- Coffee and pastries up to 5 euros are included in the tour price
- Additional expenses (optional): lunch - 5-10 euros per person, shopping - depending on your preferences
- At the end of the walk, I will share a list of the best places in Barcelona via email