Barcelona's El Raval and the Gothic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Barcelona , Spain

Barcelona's El Raval and the Gothic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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(10 reviews)

1h - 1h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take in landmarks and legends of El Raval and the Gothic Quarter at your own pace with this affordable walking tour.

• See art and unique architecture in the city that inspired Picasso and Gaudi while strolling along narrow lanes, hidden alleys and through popular squares
• Hear from producer John Hipper, an Australian now living in Spain who’s passionate about history
• Do it all in 75 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

Barcelona's El Raval and the Gothic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

VoiceMap app for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

This self-guided walking tour guides you through two of Barcelona's oldest neighbourhoods, El Raval and the Gothic Quarter.

Stop 2 Pass by

This self-guided walking tour guides you through two of Barcelona's oldest neighbourhoods, El Raval and the Gothic Quarter.

After leaving La Rambla, you’ll stroll through El Raval, once the most densely-populated urban area in all of Europe, and the city’s Red Light District.

On this tour, you'll find out how Barcelona’s destitute mothers used to drop off unwanted babies through a hole in the wall at the House of Mercy.

Stop 5 Pass by

You'll have the opportunity to step into Mercat de la Boqueria, a food market that’s been operating since the 1100s.

You'll see and have the opportunity to rub the crown jewels on Fernando Botero’s fat feline statue, El Gato de Botero.

Stop 7 Pass by

On this tour, you'll be able to gaze upon one of Gaudi’s most understated buildings, Palau Güell (Güell Palace).

Stop 8 Pass by

On this 75-minute walk, you’ll stroll along narrow lanes, hidden alleys and through popular squares like Plaça de Sant Jaume, Plaça Nova and Plaça Sant Felip Neri.

Hear Can Culleretes Restaurant’s two origin stories and decide which one you believe.

Take a shortcut through Carrer d’Avinyo, which inspired Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d'Avignon painting.

Stop 11 Pass by

On this 75-minute walk, you’ll stroll along narrow lanes, hidden alleys and through popular squares like Plaça de Sant Jaume, Plaça Nova and Plaça Sant Felip Neri.

You'll have the opportunity to visit Meson del Cafe, where you’ll find the city’s best coffee and possibly bump into the mayor.

On this tour, you'll see the Gothic Quarter's neo-gothic attractions like the Cathedral of Barcelona and Pont de Bisbe (the Bishops Bridge).

Stop 14 Pass by

On this 75-minute walk, you’ll stroll along narrow lanes, hidden alleys and through popular squares like Plaça de Sant Jaume, Plaça Nova and Plaça Sant Felip Neri.

Stop 15 Pass by

On this tour, you'll see the Gothic Quarter's neo-gothic attractions like the Cathedral of Barcelona and Pont de Bisbe (the Bishops Bridge).

On this 75-minute walk, you’ll stroll along narrow lanes, hidden alleys and through popular squares like Plaça de Sant Jaume, Plaça Nova and Plaça Sant Felip Neri.

Soak up El Peto, the kissing mural composed of 4,000 photographic images of “freedom”, donated by the public.

You’ll find out how the small fortified Roman village of Barcino developed into the great city that Barcelona is today and see where the tombs of the dead used to line the ancient village wall.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

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.