Barri Gotic & Plaça del Rei, Barcelona
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Plaça Reial - by Antonio Cabras on Google
Description
The Barri Gòtic ("Gothic Quarter") is the historic centre of the old city of Barcelona. It extends southwest from Plaça de Catalunya, between El Raval and El Born neighbourhoods. The area has retained labyrinthine streets opening out into squares and the remains of the city's Roman wall but otherwise most of the well-known buildings date from the late 19th/early 20th century when the area went through a massive restoration project. Plaça Reial ("Royal Plaza") is the Gothic Quater main square, close to Las Ramblas, and hosts many restaurants and some of the city's most famous nightclubs. It is a popular meeting place, including for New Year's Eve celebrations.
Access & Transport
It is easy to walk there from many other touristic areas but otherwise the Line 3 and 4 of the metro cover the neighbourhood at Jaume I, Liceu and Drassanes stations.
Instructions & Recommendations
We would recommend visitors with enough time to visit both during the day and in the evening/at night to experience two distinct atmospheres. Other nearby activities / tourist highlights include Barcelona Cathedral, Las Ramblas and the Picasso Museum in El Born neighbourhood.
Environmental & Social
Urban environment with hardly any green spaces. The flow of cash rich tourists has had a negative impact on the community with a marked increase in rentals and general over-commercialization
Conclusion
The Barri Gòtic is a must-visit area in Barcelona, it is the oldest and most enjoyable part of the city for a tourist. Plaça Reial is quite stately and a welcome open space in the maze of surrounding streets. A great place to sit down and have a meal or drink.
Key positive
Very pleasant streets to meander in with plenty of photo opportunities
Density of tourist highlights in this part of town
Centrally located with good metro access
Key negative
Over-commercialization and tourism are putting a strain on the community
Beware of pickpockets
Suitability
For all ages, including families. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo