walking tour app barcelona

Bathed by the restless blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea and cradled in the Collserola mountains, Barcelona is a vibrant city with a striking ability to reinvent itself. Throughout its history, the city has served as a Roman colony, a Medieval port, the lodestar of Spain’s Industrial Revolution, and host to the Olympics. Today, Barcelona has become one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan and renowned cultural hubs.

Urbs' audio tours of Barcelona are the ultimate way to see the sights, including the many hidden gems dotted throughout the city. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or longer, there’s no better way to take it all in than a self-guided walking tour of Barcelona.

The Urbs Way

Listen & discover.

Enjoy 4+ hours of audio content written by cultural experts Explore 70+ fascinating cultural locations Discover 150+ restaurants, cafes, bars and shops recommended by local writers

Plan your route

Plan your perfect day with our unique route plotting function You can also use one of our curated routes which can be amended according to interests, schedule and budget

Book tickets

Find out which locations require tickets Book attractions and activities in advance to avoid the queues

Bustling Barcelona

The city of Barcelona holds its own when it comes to world-class attractions, famous artworks and beautiful beaches. With millions flocking to the city every year to get a glimpse of the uber-famous Sagrada Familia, and its beautiful parkland, isn’t it time you came to see what the fuss was all about?

Don’t have the time to research transportation and put an itinerary together? You don’t need to. Using the new Urbs app, you can discover and explore the best of Barcelona, adding your favourite sights to create a bespoke audio tour of Barcelona. Best of all, they’re all recommendations from top local travel experts.

Time on holiday is precious, so don’t lose any of it flicking through outdated maps and dog-eared guide books. Using your mobile and a set of headphones is all that’s required to get started on Urbs. Make sure you download the app before you go

The ‘appy’ way to travel!

Iconic artworks, breathtaking buildings and a cosmopolitan dining scene – you have all this and more to look forward to on your next visit to Barcelona. And what better way to plan it, than with Urbs.

​ Taking a self-guided walking tours of Barcelona is the best way to tour the city at your own pace, and here’s just a few of the things to add to your itinerary.

World-famous architecture

On your visit to Barcelona, it would be remiss not to visit some of the best architecture in the world. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia is an icon in the city skyline and quite possibly his most famous work. Dare you climb the inner spiral staircase – make sure you wear flat shoes!

Looking for jaw-dropping cathedrals? Santa Maria del Mar is one of the most famous examples of Catalan Gothic design that never fails to impress. Add it to the audio tour and see why people flock to this heritage site.

Green space

This is a city that prides itself on beauty and arts. If you’re looking for a covid-secure space in the great outdoors, Barcelona has a surprising amount of options for a bustlingcity. One of these, that must be visited is Parc Güell. Set in a local beauty spot, these stunninggardens are ordained with tiles and art on the top of a mountain in Carmel Hill. Be prepared forthe epic walk up, although it’s worth it for the views.

There’s no shortage of arts and culture to soak up on your visit to Barcelona. Discover the sights on a self-guided walking tour of Barcelona. People come here from all over the world to marvel at the famous art, be it Gaudi, Picasso or Joan Miró.

Sports galore

For football fans, there’s only one place to start your tour of Barcelona, and that’s the Nou Camp. This international soccer club and supreme stadium is home to FC Barcelona and can be visited as part of your audio tour of Barcelona. Sit in the stands and listen to the noise of the fans, it’s quite something to take in.

Foodie's heaven

Of Barcelona’s many gifts, cuisine is right up there. This is a city that fuses cultures and flavours of all kinds. Wherever you find yourself, it won’t be far from innovative dishes bursting with flavour. Your visit wouldn’t be complete with tapas, so don’t miss the opportunity to try out a local cerveza and patatas bravas  – it’s what you came for.

Museums and galleries

Barcelona and art go hand-in-hand, so expect a culturally enriching visit during your stay. The Picasso museum in El Born is one of the most compelling for art-lovers, while the Museum of Modern Art is one of the most famous celebrating contemporary artists. This includes work from everyone’s favourite icon – Banksy, as well as Warhol, Koons and Kusama.

At the other end of the scale, Barcelona has a banging night life and club scene to keep the after-hours fun flowing – many are LGBTQ+ friendly too. Add your favourite picks to you audio tour of Barcelona, so you can plan your day (and night).

The beaches

​ Pack your speedos and blend in with the locals! Not quite as touristy as the beaches in Portugal, there’s a number of golden stretches to spend your day.  Barceloneta Beach is one of the most popular – you have to come with the kids and have a splash about on your visit.

Barcelona by app

​ Be sure to download the Urbs app to your Android or Apple device ahead of your travels to get the most from it. Here’s a couple of benefits in doing so:

Book attractions

Barcelona is a tourist-heavy destination. Bypass the queues and book tickets to tourist attractions and events via the app.

Discover something new

With loads of audio descriptions to choose from, you’re guaranteed to discover something new on your tour.

Customised travel plan

To get the best out of your trip, create your own itinerary using our easy audio tour guide. Our popular self-guided walking tours of Barcelona can be customised to your personal preferences.

Download the app

Planning a trip to Barcelona? Then don’t miss the chance to access the city in this audio feast, now available to download on Android and iOS devices.

Ready for your next adventure? Don’t forget to pack your headphones and take Urbs with you.

Barcelona City Walks

Explore and Live Barcelona by foot

Barcelona Walking Tours & Itineraries

 Barcelona City Walks offers local-designed walks and routes to explore the city. Whether you want to see the main highlights or discover hidden gems, we have a route for you. Discover every corner of our city with our app for IOS or Android, or download a printed itinerary guide for a small fee. Your contribution helps us continue sharing our passion for city exploration. Thank you for supporting our work.

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Barcelona Ghost Walk

Indulging in the Delights of Sants: A Tapas and Walking Tour

Discovering Modernist Architecture in Barcelona: An Itinerary through the Eixample District

Best things to do and see in Barcelona

Barcelona is located in the northeast of Spain and it is the capital of the Catalonian province. It is the second-largest city in the country, coming in behind only Madrid and it is considered to be one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the world because of everything it has to offer, from its vibrant culture and history, reflected in its unique architecture, to its exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. 

There are options available to do your free walking tour in Barcelona in the morning, afternoon and evening with tour guides who are locals. You can also find a variety of different tours that are centered on topics ranging from Anton Gaudí and Modernism, (the avant-garde architect of The Sagrada Familia) and walks through the Gothic Sector of the old town including The Born and Gracía Neighborhoods. Other areas of interest that you should check out when you visit include: The Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Batlló House, Casa Milá-or the Pedrera, (stone-quarry house) The Rambla Avenue, the prominent hill that overlooks the harbor-Montjuic, also the amazing Magic Fountain of Montjuic, the Boqueria Market, The Catalonian Square, the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral, Ciudadela Park, Barcelona’s football stadium-Camp Nou, the Tibidabo-the tallest mountain in the area, the harbor district- the Barceloneta, The Christopher Colombus Monument, The City Aquarium and The Arc de Triomf. Learn more about best things to do in Barcelona, Spain. 

To make sure you get the best experience, you can read the opinions and ratings of other walkers who have already had the chance to do one of the free city tours in Barcelona . As you will see, many of the walkers there often repeat and do other tours of the same city, or do a guruwalk in their next destination, like Valencia, Alicante or Pamplona. Make your reservation for free and enjoy the company of one of our local guides who will help you to get to know the most interesting parts of the Barcelonan culture. 

Free walking tour near Barcelona

Others cities to visit after barcelona, find other guruwalks in barcelona, where are you traveling to.

Barcelona Gothic Quarter: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App

• App with Audio Guide in 7 languages on smartphone
• GPS guidance
• Cathedral of Barcelona, Pla de la Seu, s/n, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain • The route doesn't have a specific start and end point. You can start at any point on the route. • Once you are inside the app, walk to any point of interest. If you are within 15 meters a message will pop-up and the tour will start there.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This activity requires an internet connection and gps function on your phone.
• Charge your phone to the max or take a powerbank with you
• Walking time: 2-3 hours
• Walking distance: 3.2 km
• Number of stops/stories: 29
• The average duration of the activity is is 2-3 hours. However you have until the end of the next day to finish it. Enough time to take a break, visit a museum or have a drink.
• Don't forget to bring headphones
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Barcelona Cathedral
• Casa Llotja de Mar
• Plaça Sant Jaume
• You'll start at Cathedral of Barcelona Pla de la Seu, s/n, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain • The route doesn't have a specific start and end point. You can start at any point on the route. • Once you are inside the app, walk to any point of interest. If you are within 15 meters a message will pop-up and the tour will start there. See address & details
• Pass by Barcelona Barcelona Cathedral Casa Llotja de Mar Placa del Rei Placa de Sant Jaume
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Barcelona

Barcelona Gothic Quarter: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App provided by City App Tour

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Somto Seeks

Navigate the world with confidence

Spain Bucket List: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona

April 27, 2018 By Somto Ugwueze 35 Comments

Last Updated on March 23rd, 2023

If you know me, you know I’m madly in love with Spain! I’ve lived there twice – once as study abroad student and again as an English teacher – and traveled back many times. The other day, I came up with the idea to write a ‘Spain Bucket List’ series. Over the next two weeks, I will share 10 posts highlighting the best that Spain has to offer for first-time visitors. Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain so I figured I’d start with it. This self-guided walking tour of Barcelona with a map to introduce you to the city. This Barcelona walking tour will guide you to some of the must-see spots in the city, from the Gothic Quarter to the Gaudi architecture. 

This is the first post in the Spain Bucketlist series. Here’s the complete 10-part series:

Spain Bucket List Series

Culture: 9 Experiences You Must Have in Spain

Food:  6 Dishes to Eat in Spain Besides Paella and Tapas

Packing tips:  The Ultimate Packing List for Your Summer Vacation in Spain

Travel Tips:  10 Travel Tips You Need To Know Before Visiting Spain

Inspiration: 15 Photos That Will Inspire You to Visit the Cies Islands

Off the beaten path:  8 Underrated Cities You Need To Visit in Spain

Beaches:  The 10 Best Beaches in Spain You Should Visit Before You Die

Solo Travel:  10 Unconventional Tips For Female Solo Travelers in Spain

Barcelona: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona

Granada:  Why Granada is the Best Place to Visit in Spain

Barcelona Walking Tour with Map for First Time Visitors

Before we dive into the walking tour, I need to throw in my two cents. I’ve visited Barcelona twice. Get ready for a shocker….

I think Barcelona is way overrated, one of the most overhyped cities in Europe.

What? I know I’m in the minority. Everyone raves about Barcelona, but to me, it’s like a giant theme park with a Spanish flair. It’s like a Disneyfied version of Spain with a few pockets of novelty. This city caters so much to tourists that I can’t quite pinpoint its personality. There’s a somewhat laid-back vibe, but overall it just feels like another big city with lots of concrete. Just being honest. I should also note that I had really high expectations because of all the hype. That’s probably why I was so underwhelmed and, dare I say, bored?

So why am I writing this post if I don’t care for Barcelona? One word: Gaudi. You’ve probably heard of him. Touring the architecture of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi is the  reason to visit Barcelona. Also, I know most first-time visitors to Spain will want to visit Barcelona, and I think they should. Go with no expectations and see for yourself. I’d recommend you stay 3-4 days in Barcelona and then head down to Granada, which is, in my humble opinion, the greatest city in Spain .  

Besides Gaudi’s art, there are different neighborhoods and attractions to explore. Barcelona is a walkable city with a few hilly areas. A walking tour is one of the best ways to explore the neighborhoods and attractions. I will show you a route to visit 10 of Barcelona’s must-see spots. Here we go.

The time required for the walking tour  

2 hrs 58 minutes if you follow the route without stopping. I’d recommend you reserve a half day for this tour so you can really get to know the city. You can also break it into two tours over two days to reduce the walking.

Items to pack

• Comfortable shoes – preferably running shoes since there are some hills to climb. 
• Portable WiFi – having access to WiFi at your fingertips makes travel so much easier. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hotspot device to access reliable wifi abroad for years – it’s convenient and reliable. You can read my full review of Travel WiFi to see the pros and cons of the device.
• Water – stay hydrated, my friends!
• Map or GPS – Google maps, Apple maps, the Moovit app, a physical map, whatever works best for you.
• Camera – you can use your phone camera, but a DSLR will capture those Gaudi buildings so much better! I always recommend the Nikon D3400 for beginners.
• Snacks – if you get hungry easily like me then pack some granola bars or fruit. My go-to travel snack, the WanderBar , is a protein bar made specifically for travelers and frequent flyers. I can’t get enough of the Cocoa Crunch flavor.

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101 things to do in barcelona on a budget, a self-guided walking tour of barcelona, 1. the gothic quarter.

First stop: the Gothic Quarter. It is one of the coolest areas in Barcelona. As the name suggests, it is home to Gothic architecture dating back 2,000 years! The Romans built the structures. The Gothic Quarter is essentially the old part of the city so there’s a lot of history there. Explore the Gothic Cathedral, King’s Square (beautiful!), the narrow streets, and the tapas bars (locals say it has the best tapas in the city.) The Gothic Quarter is a nice place to just meander and get lost for a while.

While you could certainly walk aimlessly around The Gothic Quarter, you might miss a lot of details. So I’d definitely recommend a guided tour if you’re a history buff or just want to discover the hidden corners of this mysterious neighborhood. There’s a popular 2-hour Gothic Quarter Tour by one of my favorite tour companies, Get You Guide. A local guide will take you on a journey to the Middle Ages and tell you some out-of-this-world tales about the ancient palaces of kings and bishops. I did this tour, and it was one of the highlights of my second visit to Barcelona!

2. Parc de la Ciutadella 

Next on the tour is this gorgeous park designed by none other than Gaudi. Actually, the entire park wasn’t designed by Gaudi – just the waterfall below, known as the Cascada Monumental. It is a relaxing natural environment in the heart of the city. Go for a stroll and sit back for a moment. You will need the rest to take on the climbs coming up. Fun fact: in the 18th century, this park was used as a prison. 

3. La Sagrada Familia  

La Sagrada Familia (Church of the Holy Family) is probably the most famous and impressive of all of Gaudi’s works. You just have to see the inside! The intricacy of the designs left me thinking ‘How did this man come up with this stuff?” Interestingly enough, the church was never actually finished. It is still under construction and is slated for completion in 2028.

Due to its history and cultural significance, La Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to experience La Sagrada Familia, you need to go on a guided tour and also avoid these 5 mistakes ! I’d recommend the Get Your Guide La Sagrada Familia L:ive Guide with Towers tour with access to both the interior and the iconic Nativity towers above. If you’d rather just see the interior, then go with this La Sagrada Familia Skip-the-Line tour with a live guide showing you all around the inside of the massive basilica for 90 minutes.

A guided tour is hands down the best way to fully experience the wonder of La Sagrada Familia. When you have a local guide explaining what you’re looking at, you’ll have a much more meaningful experience and walk away with a greater appreciation for the historic site. I’ve been doing Get Your Guide tours across Europe since 2015. I absolutely love the convenience of skipping lines and the top-notch, knowledgeable, and friendly guides! 

Buying Tickets for La Sagrada Familia

People used to show up at the entrance of La Sagrada Familia and buy a ticket. Nowadays, the basilica has become so popular that you need to buy a ticket online. I learned this the hard way after showing up at La Sagarada Familia hoping to buy a ticket at the door. I was turned away.

If you just want to visit and tour on your own without a guide, you can simply purchase an entrance ticket with audio guide at least a week in advance. The earlier the better, especially if you’re travel during the peak summer season. Tickets sell out fast. That said, I’d recommend a private La Sagrada Familia tour for the convenience of skipping the ridiculously long lines and getting a more personalized experience. I’ve done the Get Your Guide La Sagrada Familia tour with a live guide and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Barcelona.

4. Bunkers del Carmel

Located at the top of the Turó de la Rovira hill, Bunkers del Carmel is one of the best places to get a 360 view of the entire city. These fortifications were built during the Spanish civil war in the 1930s to protect the city from bombings. There is a bit of a climb to get to the top of the bunker, but the views are so worth it! If you like, you can take snacks and a blanket with you so you can it and relax while admiring the view. Also, this is the perfect viewpoint to watch the sunset or the sunrise.

The 7 Best Day Trips from Barcelona: From Roman Ruins To Sandy Beaches

5. Park Güell  

This quirky park looks like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. It is probably the most whimsical and colorful of Gaudi’s works in Barcelona. You’ll find a couple of gingerbread-looking houses, some long slanted pillars that look like ice cream cones, along with a giant lizard painted with a mosaic of colors. There are two parts of Park Güell: the public park and the monumental zone with Gaudi’s buildings. You need a ticket to tour the monumental zone, but the adjacent public park is free.

Opened in 1926, Park Güell is another one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Barcelona. As with Bunkers del Carmel, you also need to climb up a hill to get here. Definitely, buy tickets online before you go as it gets super busy, just like all the attractions on this list. If you’d like to skip the lines and get a personalized tour, then consider the Park Güell Guided Tour With a Skip-the-Line Ticket by Get Your Guide. You’ll stroll around the park with a live guide and discover the story behind the quirky structures. You also get to skip the long lines with this tour as opposed to if you just bought an entrance ticket.  

6. La Gracia Neighborhood

This neighborhood in the north of Barcelona, where Park Guell is located, is a haven for creatives and hipsters. Think murals, vegan coffee, and reiki. You could say it’s the trendy district of Barcelona but also has a quiet residential area with a few leafy plazas. The Gracia neighborhood has the feel of those small villages in the south of France – charming and quaint. It’s an escape from the overwhelm of the city center. On Verdi Street, you’ll find an abundance of boutique shops and cuisines from around the world.

If you visit in mid August, there’s a huge festival called Festa Major de Gracia . The streets are decorated with colorful flowers, balloons, lights for a week-long competition. Residents go full-out to win the award for best-decorated street. I’m not sure what the prize is for the winner, but I figure the bragging rights would be sweet.

7. Casa Milà

Also known as La Pedrera, this Gaudi creation is a somewhat puzzling complex made of stone. Built in 1910, it is a residential building with a wiggly shape and has some of the elements of Park Guell. When Gaudi completed this building, people thought it was hideous! That’s how it earned the unsavory nickname, La Pedrera, or ‘Quarry House.’ That’s how it got the nickname ‘La Pedrera’ which translates to ‘the Quarry House.’ The best way to experience Casa Milà is to do a  tour with an audio guide . With this tour, you get to skip the line and also view the house from the rooftop. The vantage point from the rooftop is really something special!

8. Casa Batlló

Also by Gaudi, Casa Batlló (pronounced ca-sa bat-yo) is similar in shape to Casa Mila, but the outside is far more colorful and vibrant. Unlike Casa Mila, Gaudi didn’t build Casa Batlló from scratch. The wealthy Batlló family, the owners of the home, commissioned Gaudi to demolish their existing home and build a new one. Instead, Gaudi simply refurbished it and added his signature waves on the exterior. The best way to see Casa Batlló is to do a  guided tour with an interactive video guide . You can skip the lines and explore all of the building at your own pace.

9. Palau de Musica Catalana

Palau de Musica Catalana is a concert hall and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with exquisite design and decor! The venue hosts performers from all around Spain and the world – Flamenco dancers, opera singers, pianists, and more.  Beyond the performances, Check their website to see upcoming shows or you can just go take a look at the beautiful interior.  If you want to do a full tour of the structure and learn about the history, I’d recommend the Palau de Musica Catalana self-guided tour . It allows you access to parts of the hall that are not normally available to the public.

10. La Boqueria  

After doing all that walking, it’s time for some food. La Boqueria is a busy market along Las Ramblas, the main pedestrian street in Barcelona. It seems like a tourist trap at first glance, and you’ll find travelers who say you should avoid this place. I disagree. I think La Boqueria is worth a visit. It is a little pricey though so I wouldn’t go here more than once. Try the sepia (cuttlefish) at one of the stands towards the entrance and quite enjoyed it. If you’re not into seafood, no worries. This place is packed with all types of food, from typical ones like Paella to Catalan favorites. If you like food markets, you won’t be disappointed by this place. Even if you just walk around and grab a smoothie, it’s worth a stop.

Ready for your walking tour of Barcelona?

Before your trip, let’s make sure you have skip-the-line-access to Barcelona’s famous landmarks and attractions and a ticket for the best tours and activities. You’ll find them all through my go-to tour operator, Get Your Guide.

I’ve been going on Get Your Guide tours around the world since 2018. They are seriously the most educational and engaging tours out there, with the friendliest tour guides and the easiest signup process. Choose from one of these highly-rated tours. It will make your visit to Barcelona so much more amazing.

There you have it – your very own self-guided tour of Barcelona! Which of these spots are you most excited to see? Comment below.

Travel Resources I Love

Travel WiFI Pocket WIFI Device – With portable WiFi, you can say goodbye to ridiculous roaming charges and SIM cards for good. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hostspot device for years and love the peace of mind it gives me. The device provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. In my experience, it lasts 9 hours. It also works in a variety of landscapes and terrains. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my device. I can also use Google Maps, request an Uber, call my mom, and do tons of other things I couldn’t do before. Quick tip: turn off the device when you’re not using it so that the battery can last longer.

Booking.com – Booking.com is my go-to website for booking discounted accommodations around the world.  What I love most about Booking.com is the variety of properties you can find, from luxury apartments to treehouses to university housing. It’s hard to beat the insanely low prices. The website also has a flexible cancellation policy, which is great if things come up or you change your mind. 

Skyscanner – Skyscanner.com is my go-to website to search for flights. It’s hard to beat the prices! I’ve snagged a $24 direct flight to Milan, a $30 flight to Berlin, a $400 roundtrip ticket to Colombia, and a $500 roundtrip ticket to Japan. I’ve been using Skyscanner since I studied abroad in Spain back in 2012. I check the website along with the Hopper app to determine the best time to buy tickets.

For more travel product recommendations, check out my travel essentials page .

Continue reading…

The Ultimate Guide to Spain: The Best Things To Eat, See, and Do

One more thing: if you liked this post, don’t forget to share it!

Somto Ugwueze

Hi! I'm Somto. Two years ago, I stopped making excuses, ditched my indecisive friends, and started booking flights. Today, I'm a full-time solo traveler on a mission to inspire young women to seek new adventures.

@somtoseeks

Reader Interactions

May 1, 2018 at 1:34 am

My three citie would be Munich, Amsterdam and Rothenburg.

May 1, 2018 at 2:03 am

Lisbon, Porto and Madrid!

May 1, 2018 at 5:40 am

Madrid, Berlin and Venice

May 16, 2018 at 12:54 pm

Venice, Barcelona and Rome

May 17, 2018 at 11:19 pm

Barcelona, Madrid, Sevilla

May 24, 2018 at 10:00 pm

Granada, Málaga, Córdoba

May 29, 2018 at 1:38 pm

Mykonos, Milan, Paris

May 29, 2018 at 2:54 pm

Barcelona, Athens, Paris

May 30, 2018 at 12:54 am

My three cities would be Seoul, Los Angeles, and Tokyo!

June 8, 2018 at 12:17 pm

My three cities would be Dublin, Rome, and Tokyo.

June 14, 2018 at 2:46 am

Ljubljana, Lisbona, L.A.

June 30, 2018 at 4:56 am

My cities would be Barcelona, Prague, and Athens as we leave for this trip in one week!!

July 17, 2018 at 8:27 am

Barcelona, Tokyo and Amsterdam!

July 27, 2018 at 10:26 pm

Thank you so much. This blog has helped me tremendously.

August 27, 2018 at 5:35 pm

Awesome! You hit all the highlights. Gorgeous pictures.

August 30, 2018 at 9:48 pm

Thank you so much!

August 27, 2018 at 8:05 pm

Wow! I can’t believe how beautiful the architecture is! Would love to visit there someday!

August 27, 2018 at 9:03 pm

I would love to visit someday!

August 28, 2018 at 7:39 pm

Hey there, This blog is super helpful so thank you! Is it really that easy to walk to all of these places? I imagined we’d be having to use the metro to get to and from all these tourist spots but walking and taking it in sounds much nicer. I notice you have a time it would take to walk it all…does that include time going into these places and having a good look around or is that just walking the route without even stopping for a second? If we were stopping to have a look around at each spot could we still do it all in one day or is that a bit too much?

September 19, 2018 at 1:58 am

The time doesn’t include time spent at each location. If you were to stop at each spot for 30 minutes, the total time would be 8 hours. You could divide up the tour into 2-3 days if you’d like to take your time at each location. Also, you could definitely take the metro if you’re short on time or don’t want to walk.

September 10, 2018 at 5:23 pm

I hear you about Barcelona being overhyped. I just spent a month all over Spain, and I would agree, Barcelona is my least favorite city, I felt like a rat in a concrete maze. There also seems to be a movement against tourists/tourism in the city.

September 19, 2018 at 2:02 am

Yes, that’s exactly how I felt about Barcelona! It just doesn’t have the authenticity of other Spanish cities, like Sevilla, Granada, San Sebastian, Bilbao, etc. It’s also not aesthetically pleasing. I really don’t get the hype (besides the Gaudi stuff.)

September 21, 2018 at 5:12 am

I keep seeing things regarding buying the Barcelona Card. Do you recommend this?

October 7, 2018 at 4:42 pm

Hi Michelle,

I’ve personally never purchased theThe Barcelona Card, but it could be worth it if you plan to go to a lot of museums and attractions. It doesn’t include discounts at La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell though. You can determine whether it would be worth it by calculating the savings from the discounts.

November 1, 2018 at 4:36 pm

Thank you so much! Excelent route, however spending like 30 minutes in some spots and skipping La Sagrada Familia I spent like 6 hours to do all the route. I‘Ve to say I agree with you, Barcelona it’s overhyped. The Gaudi stuffs are nice!

November 8, 2018 at 4:57 pm

Hi Antonio! Thanks for your comment. I’m glad you found the route helpful. And I’m happy that someone else agrees with me that Barcelona is overhyped! I do like the Gaudi sites though.

December 20, 2018 at 9:53 pm

Spent approximately two months traveling through Spain and Portugal solo. Started in Bilbao. This post is about Barcelona. Barcelona is now at the bottom of my list of places to see in Spain. Totally not a Guadi fan! However there are a absolutely Fantastic adventures from the North – Bilbao, Santander, San Sebastian, Valencia, Alicante, Granada, Malaga and Seville where people are actually nice!!! Ronda a wonderful place that will steal your heart with every step. If travel time is short – Skip Barcelona. Spain is Much more than that. Fyi the Tapas aren’t that good either. Pieces of bread with stuff on top. Basically an “open face” tiny sandwich. Nothing Special.

January 29, 2019 at 6:40 pm

You’re 100% spot on. I think you picked the perfect itinerary. I’ve visited all the cities you listed and can confidently say that every single one of them is better than Barcelona. Andalucia completely stole my heart, especially Granada, so Barcelona didn’t stand a chance. I was so bored out of my mind! Other than the Gaudi architecture, Barcelona doesn’t have much going for it. The city felt like Disneyland – way too touristy and a bit tryhard. They also charge you for basic tapas that are free in other parts of Spain! Never again. I always recommend first-time visitors to Spain go start in Andalucia for a truly authentic experience – free tapas, Flamenco, and no vendors shoving souvenirs in your face. That’s how it’s supposed to be.

March 6, 2019 at 11:30 pm

I couldnt disagree more. We loved Barcelona.

March 21, 2019 at 1:01 am

Hi Heather,

That’s great that you loved Barcelona. I wish I felt the same way.

March 10, 2019 at 9:36 am

Hi there! Interesting article, very helpful! 🙂 I don’t think Barcelona is overhyped, personally, I loved it and would go back anytime. 🙂 I was in Sitges too, it is a lovely city near Barcelona and the sea. I also wrote an article about it, maybe you are interested, I added a few more places that are worth a visit. 🙂 https://suzinspire.com/top-10-things-to-see-in-barcelona/ Cheers! 🙂

April 6, 2019 at 5:32 pm

Thanks for sharing. I’ve great things about Sitges, and it’s on my list of places to visit in Catalunya.

October 14, 2020 at 10:11 am

I just landed on your blog and the truth is that I really liked your approach to the city of Barcelona, ​​you also have some nice photos of the city.

Excited to meet you

April 24, 2021 at 8:25 pm

Hi Raquel, Welcome to my blog. I’m thrilled to post more exciting and useful content for you! Keep visiting and sharing what you like!

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Hi there, I’m Somtochukwu. Can you try pronouncing that? I've always gone by Somto (Sohm-toe). I'm a child of Nigerian immigrants who decided to pursue her dream of living an extraordinary life. In 2015, I chose faith over fear, packing my bags and moving to Spain with $1,000 in my pocket. This was after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused me to develop a giant bald patch in the middle of my scalp. Living in Spain and traveling around Europe for a year changed my life forever, allowing me to discover the freedom of solo travel and the freedom of working from anywhere. Today, I’m a full-time travel writer whose mission is to help you navigate this big, beautiful world with confidence and have those omg-pinch-me-moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.

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The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant, energetic city known for amazing food, beautiful architecture, and wild nightlife. It’s also a place that appeals to everyone: foodies, partiers, history buffs, night owls, and everyone in between will find something to see and do here .

From introductory free tours to in-depth history and food tours, I never get tired of exploring and learning about Barcelona. It’s a city with layers and layers of history and culture that most visitors barely scratch the surface of.

To help you plan your trip, here’s my list of the best walking tours in Barcelona.

Best Overall Tour

Take Walks is my go-to tour company in Barcelona, offering access to places that no other company gets and incredibly knowledgeable guides. I always have fun and learn a ton on these tours.

The Gaudí tour is the most in-depth and comprehensive one available, but there’s also an educational skip-the-line tour of La Sagrada Família , the city’s biggest tourist draw. If you want to visit this cathedral (and you should, it’s gorgeous), this tour is a must. Tours start at 53 EUR.

Best Free Tour

New Europe is one of the most popular free walking tour companies in all of Europe. Its main offering is a solid introduction lasting around 2.5 hours and covering all the highlights. It’s a great way to kick-start your trip if you’re on a budget. There’s also a free tour that focuses on Gaudi and modernism. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

  While those may be the best free and paid tours in town, Barcelona has a lot more to offer. Here are six other insightful and educational tours:

1. Devour Food Tours

Devour is my favorite food tour company. Its offerings are always super insightful and delicious. In Barcelona, Devour runs a few different tours, so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re a history buff like me, the Tapas, Taverns & History Tour is the best choice for you. It lasts over three hours and includes some mouthwatering tapas as you learn about Barcelona’s expansive history.

There’s also an evening wine and tapas tour , as well as a day trip to Monserrat that includes visiting a winery.

Tours start at 87 EUR.

2. Golden Tour Guide

This tour company offers skip-the-line, in-depth tours of Barcelona’s major attractions. If you want to learn about Gaudí, this 75-minute Park Güell tour (with skip-the-line access) is the best way to do so. You’ll get to wander the beautiful (and popular) park, admiring all the incredible mosaics and nature-inspired creations, while learning about the master artisan from an expert local guide. This is one of the most popular sights in town, so learning about it from an expert (and skipping the line) is key!

Tours start at 22 EUR.

3. Travel Bound

You can’t visit Barcelona without doing two things: eating tapas and watching a flamenco show. To make things easy, Travel Bound runs a cool tour in the Gothic Quarter where you can watch an amazing flamenco show and snack on delicious tapas . It’s the perfect tour for travelers who love learning about culture and want to soak up a more traditional slice of life.

Travel Bound also organizes a spooky ghost tour on which you’ll hear about hauntings, gruesome crimes, and other eerie tales from Barcelona’s dark past. It’s just 90 minutes long and a great way to learn about the city after you’ve visited the main sights.

Tours start at 17 EUR.

4. Turisme de Barcelona

Barcelona is an arty place, with lots of great museums, cool galleries, and stunning architecture. If you’re an art fan and want to explore more of this side of the city, Turisme de Barcelona runs a two-hour Picasso walking tour that takes you around his old neighborhood and favorite haunts. From there, you’ll then visit the popular Picasso Museum, which is home to a vast collection of his works (there are over 4,000 pieces here). You’ll get skip-the-line entry too. If you’re a history buff or art fan, this super informative tour is a fun way to explore one of Barcelona’s many niches.

Tours start at 35 EUR.

5. Original Europe Tours

If you want to experience Barcelona’s energetic nightlife, head out on this pub crawl and club tour . You’ll visit at least four spots (including skip-the-line entry) and get a few complimentary shots as you bounce from bar to bar. The tour lasts five hours, ensuring that you’ll get to soak up as much of the nightlife as possible. There’s even the option to add an open bar to your tour for just 20 EUR! Naturally, this tour is filled with mostly young backpackers, but if you want to meet people and have fun, it’s worth checking out.

Tours start at 27 EUR.

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Book Your Trip to Barcelona: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Some of my favorite places to stay are:

• St. Christopher’s Inn

For more hostel suggestions, this post lists all my favorites . And for my favorite areas to stay in the city, you can check out this post .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Need a Guide? Barcelona has some really great guided Gaudí tours. My favorite company to go with is Take Walks . Their “Complete Gaudí Tour” will give you the best in-depth and behind-the-scenes Gaudí tour out there.

Want More Information on Barcelona? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Barcelona for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The 9 best Barcelona walking tours

Get ready to stretch your legs and take the Catalan capital by storm with these nine Barcelona walking tours

Looking for great, outside-the-box Barcelona walking tours? No matter how easy and convenient Barcelona’s public transport system is, everyone knows that the best way to explore a new city is on foot. Whether you’re an art buff or a history nerd, a foodie or a wine connoisseur, this list is sure to lead you somewhere new. Follow your in-the-know guide to a deeper understanding of Barcelona and you’ll see why it’s so easy to fall in love with this magical city.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Barcelona

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Nine amazing Barcelona walking tours

1.  Walking Planets Genius Walk

If you want to see Barcelona through an artist’s eyes, these are the tours for you. Maybe you have your sights set on the Picasso Museum , or you can’t wait to step inside Casa Batlló , or your workmate back home wouldn’t stop talking about how amazing the Joan Miró Foundation is. Whatever it is, discover the lives of Picasso, Gaudí and Miró in three separate tours from Walking Planets . Register your group for a specific tour to focus on a single artist, but don’t be surprised if you leave feeling inspired to sign up for the other two.

Price: €85 for 2h, €130 for 3h (per group) Duration: 2h or 3h Languages offered: English, French, Portuguese, Catalan and Spanish

2.  Barcelona Uncensored

This isn’t your mother’s walking tour of Barcelona, unless your mother frequents red-light districts. Explore the seedy underbelly of the city that existed before saying ‘La Rambla’ conjured images of designer stores, overpriced paella and clumps of overzealous tourists. Follow your Free Walking Tours Barcelona guide’s purple umbrella while walking through the now-flourishing streets of the Raval and learning about the controversial neighbourhood’s history of prostitution, urban art and anarchist rebellions. Be sure to also check out the company’s free tour offerings for days when your pockets are feeling a little lighter.

Price: €15 adult, €13 student (per person) Duration: 2h Language offered: English

3.  Evening Tapas Tour

We know tapas originated in Andalusia, but Barcelona locals have borrowed this traditional way of eating and made it their own. These three evening tours from The Barcelona Taste give you a chance to explore three distinct neighbourhoods and show you the wide world of tapas (hint: there’s more to it than patatas bravas , olives and pan con tomate ). You can choose to explore the historical Gothic Quarter, the youthful central neighbourhood of Poble-sec or the bustling grid of the Eixample. No matter where you decide to eat and drink, your knowledgeable guide will lead you straight to the local hotspots.

Price: €99.87 (per person for Gothic Quarter and Poble-sec), €114.99 (per person for Eixample) Duration: 3h+ Language offered: English

4.  Catalan History & Politics Walk

If you came to Barcelona expecting to practise your Spanish, you might be surprised to hear the 'shushes' of Catalan words mixed with Castellano everywhere you go. No need to dig up your fossilized European History textbook to figure out why – this Dreaming Barcelona tour will take you back 300 years to learn about Catalan history and government and give you a basic understanding of Spain’s past and present political system. The route mainly stays in Barcelona’s Old Town, with major stops in the Born neighbourhood and the Ciutadella park . 

Price: €215 per group (up to 9 people) Duration: 3h Languages offered: English, French, Catalan and Spanish

5.  Runner Bean Kids & Family Tour

You might find it impossible not to be captivated by Barcelona’s sunny skies, cobblestoned streets and sidewalk vermuterias , but sometimes kids require a little extra effort when it comes to entertainment. If you’re travelling with a child or tween, hop on this tour from Runner Bean which boasts kid-friendly songs, stories and games to accompany the sights and sounds of the Gothic Quarter. Be sure to check the website for seasonal schedules, and don’t forget to bring pocket change for the snack stops along the way.

Price: €16, free for kids under 3 (but tour is recommended for those between the ages of 4 and 12) Duration: 2.5h Language offered: English

6.  Barcelona & Urbanism Architecture

What's better than gazing in wonder at Barcelona's beautiful architecture? Gazing in wonder at Barcelona’s beautiful architecture while guided by a knowledgeable, engaging architect. This particular tour from Barcelona Architecture Walks highlights the beginnings of modern Barcelona and the influence of Ildefons Cerdà’s Theory of Urbanization. That said, if eclecticism or maritime history is more your speed, or if you want to learn more about Enric Miralles or the future of Barcelona’s skyline, go for one of the other tours focusing on Gaudí, or neighbourhoods such as Barceloneta, the Gothic Quarter or Poblenou.

Price: €38 (per person) Duration: 3h Languages offered: English (French, Catalan, Italian and Spanish offered on some private tours)

7.  Food & Wine Small-Group Tour

Barcelona is a food-lover’s heaven, but it can be overwhelming to take on the city’s formidable gastronomy scene by yourself. Avoid that anxiety by hopping on this tour with a certified sommelier. Your guide will lead you through an entire meal as you sample tapas and other regional dishes while exploring the neighbourhoods of Poble-sec and Sant Antoni. Whether you’ve never tried cava or can already wax poetic on the difference between wines from Rioja and Penèdes, you’re sure to learn something new and finish the day with a full stomach. Make sure to book in advance, as this tour is capped at 12 people.

Price: €75 Duration: 3.5h Language offered: English

8.  Other Eyes Language of Stones Walk

Barcelona is home to a whirlwind of languages, cultures and interesting folks. With all this activity constantly swirling about, it’s easy to forget about the simpler things, like the ground you walk on or the walls of buildings, for example. This tour from Other Eyes will teach you to uncover the city’s history by learning the secrets of stones. Search for scratches on façades, political graffiti and messages left by construction workers on iconic churches while your local guide gives you all the information you need to view this city through fresh eyes. Also check out their other popular tours, such as their night tour and Civil War tour.

Price: €20 Duration: 1.5h Languages offered: English, Greek, Catalan and Spanish

9.  Customized Walking Tour

Seen the Sagrada Família but not the Arc de Triomf ? Dying to visit the old Jewish Quarter? Obsessed with the fishy storefronts of Barceloneta but tired of La Rambla? Whether it’s your first visit to Barcelona or your fifth, everyone wants to feel like a local. Skip the lines and predictable highlights reels and meet with your Live Barcelona guide prior to your tour to choose your own adventure.

Price: €225 (per group up to 6), €250 (per group between 7 and 30) Duration: 4h Language offered: English

Looking for alternative tours?

21 of the best alternative Barcelona tours

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Whether it’s Gaudí, the beaches or the whole load of top-notch restaurants that have drawn you here, walking, cycling or running your way round en grupo is your best bet to really get to know the Catalan capital. Our pick of the best alternative tours in Barcelona packs in all the essential things to do here – a stroll down La Rambla, a quick stop at the Sagrada Família – but also some routes that’ll take you past the traps and off the beaten path. 

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25 Best Free Walking Tours in Barcelona

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Discover the 25 best free walking tours in Barcelona to explore the majestic Catalonian city.

With breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites vaunting off its rich culture, ethereal sea sights brimming with an exciting dine and wine scene, Barcelona has something for everyone.

Please note that some free walking tours of Barcelona are exclusively in English, while others are in Spanish or other languages. Make sure to pick the right one before booking.

1 – Exclusive Gothic Quarter Free Walking Tour

Experience every ounce of history that’s embedded in the walls of Barcelona in this stroll of the primordial Gothic Quarter.

Walk the dainty streets that bear the footprints of the greatest Roman warriors as you gaze at the Roman Wall and the Roman temple.

Revel in history, art, and culture as you’re awed by the structural beauty of the Cathedral of Barcelona and roam around the Jewish corner, Nova Square, and Wall of Freedom.

• See reviews

2 – Old Town Free Walking Tour of Barcelona

Feel yourself enthralled to the historical side of Barcelona in Old Town, devouring tales from the Roman Empire and the Middle Ages, eons ago to the present glory of the city.

To further explore the grandiose of the Roman Empire, move towards the remnants of that period like the Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Wall.

The culmination of the tour brings you to gawk at the intricate Santa Eulalia Cathedral and many other hidden gems of Barcelona, each telling a tale of its own.

• Book this tour

3 – Gaudi and Modernism Free Walking Tour

Track the roots of Modernism in Barcelona as you lumber across the ‘Eixample’ district bombarding you with the spectacular architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudi.

Listen to the symphony of the structural beauty and detailing of buildings like Casa Milá and Casa Battló.

Bid adieu to the tour finishing off with a church, Sagrada Familia that embodies the spirit of Barcelona.

4 – Barcelona by Night Free Walking Tour

Delve deep into the underbelly of Barcelona, taking twists and turns into its oh-so-happening nightlife.

Inhale the presence of Hemingway in historical bars as you enter Barrio Gòtico and Raval districts.

Explore the favorite brothel of Picasso and then take a perhaps fun ride into the dark legend of ChinaTown, infamous for its anecdotes revolving around drug lords and thieves.

5 – Historic Center of Barcelona Free Tour

Lose yourself in the rich history of Barcelona, narrated by an informed guide in Spanish as well as in English.

Unearth the birth of this Catalonian city and absorb the socio-economic lifestyle during the Roman Empire walking alongside the Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Wall.

Gawk at the marvelous Royal Palace, Barcelona’s City Hall, and many such wonders that bespoke the revolutionary history of Barcelona.

6 – Art Play + Sagrada Familia (Gaudí and more) Free Tour

A free walking tour in Barcelona will equip you with the oozing culture and history that lightens up the city’s streets.

A turn towards the Sagrada Familia will take you into the lanes of the beautifully sculpted architecture that shapes the individuality of this city.

Experience modernism art that runs deep in the foundation of Barcelona by reminiscing about world-class artists like Picasso, Gaudi, Josep, and many more as you walk around Passeig de Gracia.

7 – Street Style Free Tour in Barcelona

Slither into the Raval district, a vivacious part of Barcelona that will bring forward the fun side of the Catalonian city.

This free walking tour in Barcelona will take you on a rollercoaster ride into the stained walls of the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Further, the tour makes stops at bohemian bars and chic cafes, exuding the entertaining city life alongside displaying the modern street art of artists like Fernando Botero.

8 – Cursed Barcelona Free Tour

Embrace the dark side of Barcelona as this free walking tour leads you into the mysterious Gothic quarter that bears numerous dark secrets of the city.

As dusk descends upon us, get lost in the unheard Spanish Inquisitions as well as the unsolved and bizarre murders that took place in those very streets.

Feel the eerie air, walking alongside haunted buildings as you listen to the tales of dark legends and ghosts.

9 – The Civil War in Barcelona Free Tour

Roam through the streets that narrate the gory tale of the Civil War in Barcelona that once shooked the order of the city.

Unfold the pages of history etched as marks of bullets, bombings, and propaganda writings on the streets and corners of Barcelona.

This tour takes you back in time to the unsettling experiences and routine life of the citizens of a city under attack.

10 – Free Bicycle Tour of Barcelona

Paddle around on this free walking tour in Barcelona, witnessing enchanting sights and monuments with your hair swaying at the wind.

Starting off from the Raval district, move towards the oldest port in the city, Port Vell with an informative commentary by your guide.

Pause and take in the view of the majestic Mediterranean Sea and the architectural wonder, Sagrada Familia that lightens up the skyline of the city.

11 – Free Intro to Barcelona Walking Tour

Inhale the city of Barcelona in its entirety, one ethereal sight at a time as you relish this wholesome free walking tour.

Start off with the enriching history and culture that has evolved throughout centuries, lumbering alongside the historic part of the city.

After an insightful drive into the history of Barcelona, discover the vibrant lanes overloaded with bars, eateries, and shops which will all give you a taste of this city.

Read more: Best city tours in Barcelona

12 – Raval Underground Free Walking Tour

Set off to the shrouded part of Barcelona when you step into the renowned El Raval district of the city.

On one hand, it boasts of a history that dates back to the Middle Ages with lanes full of butchers as part of the small business culture.

On the other hand, the narrow alleys are witnesses to the urban youth culture which envelopes street art, skating, and a booming nightlife.

13 – Secrets and History of El Born Free Tour

Excavate the undiscovered treasures that Barcelona preserves in one of its most spectacular yet underrated areas called El Born.

Journey to the historically significant places like Santa Maria del Mar, The Parc De La Ciutadella, and many more that promise to treat your eyes to ecstasy.

The tour aims to scrounge out the lesser-known extraordinary details hidden in the walls of the city.

14 – Free Photo Tour in Gothic Barcelona

Take your cameras out of your fanny packs as you set afoot on this free photography tour into the Gothic Barcelona.

Without the bondages of money, equip yourself with the art of photography whilst experiencing this enchanting side of the Catalonian city.

This tour follows some highly informative insights into new-age photography as you capture the beautiful sights of Barcelona.

15 – Past and Present: Hidden Vestiges in Barcelona Free Tour

Unveil the shadows of the past on this free walking tour in Barcelona which brings you the flashes of the vast history of the city.

With a guide armed with in-depth knowledge of the city, glance at the primordial Roman aqueduct which doled water to the city and revel in the ethereal view of the Roman Temple as you ruminate about a time gone by.

16 – Park Güell Free Walking Tour

A marvelous creation of Antoni Gaudí, Park Güell, tells the tales of unhinged creativity.

As you roam around the solitary park streets, explore the picturesque township of Barcelona adorned with colorful mosaics and colonnades.

Your experience will catch a high at the stunning sight of the famous “El Drac” salamander statue in the park.

17 – Barcelona Historical Bars Free Tour

Watch the magical past of Barcelona unfold before your eyes as you tour around some of the oldest bars in town.

You’ll visit some exotic places like the Plaza Real, the ancient church of St. Jaume, and the old city square.

Tantalize your taste buds as you marvel at the bohemian beauty of Barcelonian bars.

18 – Photo Shoot Walking Tour in Gothic and Borne

Make lifelong memories on the streets of Barcelona and capture them in beautiful candid photographs.

Take a lazy stroll around the Gothic and Borne Quartier of Barcelona, goggling at the scenery as a professional photographer captures your best moments.

It is among the best free walking tours in Barcelona for families as well as artists.

19 – Free Walking Tour of the Sagrada Familia

Enjoy an enriching walking tour to the Sagrada Familia, one of the most famous attractions in Barcelona , an unfinished masterpiece of Gaudí. The beautiful cathedral captivates the visitors with its vivid depictions of the life of Jesus.

Different facades of the building depict its religious significance and peeks into Gaudí’s character.

This world-heritage monument is a must-visit among free walking tours in Barcelona.

20 – Barcelona and its Markets Free Tour

Your visit to Barcelona is incomplete without a short walking trip to its bustling flea markets.

Stroll around in the busy streets of the fishermen’s neighborhood, San Antoni market, and Santa Caterina markets to delve into the rich history of the town.

And don’t forget to grab some authentic Barcelonian souvenirs for your loved ones!

21 – Secrets, Mysteries, and Conspiracies of Barcelona Free Tour

Discover the hidden side of Barcelona- the whispered secrets, the hushed mysteries, and the shrouded conspiracies.

The trip will take you places like the famous Rambla, the Born and Gothic, Arc of Triumph, and the Raval.

Listening to your guide, you’ll feel the ancient wars and historical events playing before your eyes on a reel.

22 – Free Walking Tour of Palace of Catalan Music

Get ready for a memorable trip filled with pacifying melodies and scenic architectural delights.

Explore this 20th-century concert hall boasting of ornate interiors, detailed mosaics, and colorful pillars.

The traditional Catalan folk music performances will leave you in a trance, making it one of the most sought-after free walking tours in Barcelona.

23 – Alternative side of Barcelona Free Tour

Experience Barcelona’s rustic beauty in a different light as you traverse through the archaic streets of this whimsical town.

Explore the Raval neighborhood famous for exquisite street arts from local gems like Pez and Alice.

Then delve into the rich history of Barcelona on your trip to the MACBA Museum and park of three chimneys.

24 – Urban Free Tour

Barcelona’s pride not only lies in its glorious past but also in its marvelous present.

In this urban Barcelona tour, you’ll explore the lesser-known parts of modern Barcelona.

The fun-filled tour will familiarize you with the best (and cheapest) party scenes, the best places to eat, and many other local delicacies.

25 – Montjuic Free Walking Tour

Get enchanted by the beautiful bird’s eye view of Barcelona from the Montjuic hill region.

From the lush greenery of Barcelonian gardens to the regal Montjuic castle, this walking tour packs a lot of surprises.

Moreover, visits to the Olympic ground and MNAC museum make it a lucrative choice for free walking tours in Barcelona.

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best free walking tours in Barcelona. Do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions.

Enjoy Barcelona 🙂

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Barcelona Historic Centre

They say Barcelona was founded by either mythological Hercules or Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca, father of Hannibal, one of the greatest military commanders of all times. So much the legends, the truth is that the city was a political center of the Catalan region for at least 2000 years since the Romans built their city there. Walking around the Barri Gotic, the Gothic Quarter you still see old walls and the grid of streets typical for Roman cities. An excellent harbour and a beautiful setting made Barcelona develop fast. The Old Town bears traces of all the powers that ruled it through the ages: the Romans, the Visigoths, the Moors and the Aragones. The concept of the city changed at the turn of the 19th and 20th century when Barcelona went through rapid urban development, architectural remodeling and became a center of a fascinating architectural style called Catalan modernism known around the world because of the works of the ingenious Antoni Gaudi. Standing against Francisco Franco Barcelona was devastated and severely punished. It was here, living opposite Franco, that George Orwell wrote his memoirs “Homage to Catalonia.” The development of the city was accelerated by the organization of the 1992 Summer Olympics (the Barcelona effect!). Today it is one of the most popular cities in the world combining rich history, culture, amazing works of artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró and all the joys of the Mediterranean coast. 

Walk with us through the labyrinth of small, winding streets and tranquil plazas of the Barcelona Old Town to discover its fascinating history, culture, dining and drinking scene. Take a chance to see the residence of Aragonese kings, seat of the Catalan government, ancient churches and palaces as well as one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. The Old Town went through some substantial restoration works in the late 19th and early 20th century and from a humble district changed into a major tourist destination. Hence, next to original Roman and medieval structures you will see some modern and neo-Gothic ones, like the beautiful Bishop’s Bridge or the facade of Barcelona Cathedral. All forming a unique and charming mix waiting there to be admired!

During this 2 hour free walking tour we will see and discover:

• Gothic Quarter
• Born Quarter
• King’s square
• Plaza Cataluña
• Jewish Quarter
• Bishop’s Bridge
• Sant Jaume Square
• Fossar de les Moreres memorial square
• Barcelona’s Cathedral
• Palau de la Generalitat – the seat of Catalan government
• Sant Felip Neri square
• Barcelona’s Roman Wall
• Barcelona’s Medieval City Hall
• Santa Maria del Mar (Cathedral of the Sea)    
• and much, much more!

Solid tour but tour guide ask for specific amount of tips

Irish man Spent 15 min talked about himself and he needs make money at beginning of the tour.

At the end asked for specific amount. First time out of so many tours we did globally.

Highly recommend this tour. Our guide Marwa was excellent – clear, articulate, interesting and passionate about Barcelona. Her stories were informative and captivating.

Highly recommend

Thank you Claire for an interesting and informative tour 🙂

Perfect tour

Very interesting tour

Very Interesting tour

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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Your own tour guide, as a mobile app

We have developed the best walking tour app so you can enjoy your visit in a safe and convenient way. Let our app guide you through the heart of Venice or Barcelona and learn facts, curiosities and history of the most visited cities in the world

At your own pace

Travel safe on your own or with your family and friends. No need for meeting with groups of people at specific times or places.

Great price

Our tours have the best price quality ratio of the market. Get the best out of your travel spending much less than on the self-claimed free tours.

Easy to use

Don't be overwhelmed by a truckload of boring data. We focus on having fun by discovering interesting facts about each city you visit.

Our app offers a curated self guided tour around the most visited cities in the world. Download it ( iOS or Android ) and go to the first waypoint on the route and let yourself be guided by our local guides and the GPS in your phone. We focus not only on learning facts and history about the cities but also on having a fun experience in them. All tours are about 2 hours walking and our guides are well versed in the cultural ins and outs of their cities.

Our Walking Tours

So far, we offer guided tours on Venice (Italy) and Barcelona (Spain) but we are working hard to add more exciting guides soon.

Venice - Heart of the city

Let's have a 2-hours walk around the heart of Venice learning about its history, culture, society and general curiosities about the city. Our guide will talk about the Venetian Carnival, how the canals were built, secrets of Saint Mark's Basilica and much more! You can find this guide for your iPhone or Android phone

Right into the heart of Barcelona you can find this medieval quarter which holds countless secrets and mysteries. You will be guided by our local host who will make this experience something unique. Enjoy your stay in Barcelona!

Walking Tour Barcelona 4+

Guided tour, map and audio, spain urban tours sl, designed for iphone, iphone screenshots, description.

Tour of Barcelona: Plaza de Catalunya, the Cathedral, the Gothic Quarter, the cosmopolitan Born district, and the Port Vell. Includes interactive map and audio guide This tour covers the center of the most historic Barcelona, part of the Plaza de Catalunya, where Paseo de Gracia ends, it reaches the Cathedral, crosses the Gothic quarter and the cosmopolitan Born district, ending in Barceloneta and the Port Vell. Among the recommended sites there is a description of La Sagrada Familia that is not included in the tour but is worth visiting, as well as bars and typical places where you can enjoy the gastronomy and local atmosphere. The application is simple and easy to use, it offers you: 1.- An interactive map of your situation and that of the points of tourist interest along the route, and also the location of restaurants and typical places. 2.- A simple text and audio description of the main monuments on the route and their history. So you can listen while you do the tour. 3. It allows you to organize the visit in your own way, dedicating the time you want to each point, and in the order you decide, with total freedom, without the time or route limitations of a traditional free tour. 4.- It can be downloaded before making the trip to Madrid, and make a virtual visit, with the texts, audios and photos, knowing in advance which points may interest you the most when you arrive in the city, and better organize your time. 5.- This application is an alternative to a traditional tour or free tour, or also a complement to the tour, since it surely presents additional information. We also show you some museums near the route, bars and typical restaurants where you can enjoy the local gastronomy We are a company that has just started, and for us your opinion is very important to improve, so if you have any recommendation, see an error or have a problem, we would appreciate it if you let us know through our email contact@spainurbantours .com or our website www.spainurbantours.com

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Tomas Martin Etcheverry vs Nick Hardt

After securing his first ever win on the ATP Tour, Nick Hardt of the Dominican Republic faced the challenge of Argentina's Tomas Martin Etcheverry - watch the full replay here on Tennis TV!

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Brian Harman returns to RBC Heritage 20 years after his PGA TOUR debut

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HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. – Brian Harman did a double take walking through the media center before his pre-tournament press conference. A PGA TOUR communications official said something Harman couldn’t believe: that Harman had the second-most starts at the RBC Heritage of anybody in the 69-man field.

“Wait, really?” he said.

Oh, how time flies. Harman, 37, doesn’t consider himself one of the old guys on TOUR. His age doesn’t quite reflect it, either. But his history at the RBC Heritage rivals any. See, it’s where he made his PGA TOUR debut 20 years ago.

“It feels like a lifetime ago,” Harman said.

Yet he can remember all of it. He was at his parents’ home in Savannah, Georgia, when longtime tournament director Steve Wilmot called and informed Harman he had received a sponsor exemption. Harman, then 17 and the reigning U.S. Junior Amateur champion, was beyond excited. Harman thought then that Harbour Town Golf Links was the hardest golf course he had ever seen. He played the course “probably 15 times” in preparation.

Harman also remembers the 81-76 he shot to miss the cut, but only in doses. It wasn’t about that. It still isn’t. Harman returns every year because of those feelings he first felt in 2004. The RBC Heritage is home and it’s been a constant in Harman’s winding career. Harman will make his 15th appearance at the event this week. He hasn’t missed it since he earned his PGA TOUR card in 2012.

“It obviously set in motion my love for this place and how much I love coming back,” Harman said of 2004. “Growing up in Savannah, you're almost an adopted South Carolinian over here. Like I said, as getting a chance to play as an amateur here, I'm very familiar with this place. I love this area. I love the Coastal Empire.

“This is the first tournament that I attended as a spectator, first PGA TOUR event that I played as an amateur,” Harman added. “Yeah, so, for me, this is an incredible spot. I love the golf course. It's always really, really comforting to be back here.”

Brian Harman surprised by friends and family upon return with Claret Jug

Harman is obviously in a much different stage of his career than he was as a 17-year-old. He’s won multiple times on TOUR, though never here. He’s banked millions of dollars, traveled around the world and experienced the highs and lows of professional golf. This will be the first time he plays the RBC Heritage as a major champion. There will be people Harman sees for the first time since that breakthrough win last July at The Open Championship.

But in ways, this week will look and feel the same as it did back then. Harman will get the hometown cheers. A horde of people – his parents, in-laws and friends – will watch Harman tee off on Thursday, as they do every year. They will all hang out after his round.

As Harman reflected on the tournament, a sentiment persisted through his thoughts: this is home. It was at 17, and it still is at 37. He’s excited to share it with everyone else.

“I'm just really thrilled that this tournament is getting such a good field, getting a little extra recognition," Harman said. "Maybe some guys that wouldn't normally play this event are showing up. I'm fairly certain they will fall in love with it.”

Harman knows from experience.