The Barri Gòtic, or Gothic district, and La Rambla, can be easily recognised as the oldest and most historic part of Barcelona with its medieval buildings and labyrinthine narrow roads. From the 4th Century until the middle of the 19th century it was entirely enclosed by strong Roman walls and fortifications. Fragments of these walls can still be seen, most notably around the La Seu Cathedral and around Calle Avinyo. Barcelona's cathedral, itself a splendid example of Gothic architecture at its finest, was begun in 1298 and completed in 1448. This was the period of Barcelona's medieval golden age. As the Mediterranean city's trade and economy flourished, its architects laid down the foundations of many of what are still the city's most important buildings today. The church of Santa María del Pi and the Saló de Tinell in Plaça del Rei are some of the most significant legacies of the European Gothic movement.

The narrow, winding streets create quite a labyrinth and means that it may take a while to get your bearings. I recommend that you should always look up and around you or you may miss some of the best bits.

You will be spoilt for choice of restaurants and bars, especially around Placa Reial which is always full day and night. The night-life in the Gothic Quarter is lively to say the least and you will always find somewhere to have a drink or a dance. Calle Ferran, which is just to one side of Placa Reial and leads up to Placa Sant Jaume with its imposing government buildings is also good for bars and cafes.