gothic quarter hotels

Some of the best and oldest architecture in Barcelona can be seen in the medieval Gothic quarter, but you don't have to compromise on the quality of your accommodation as the "Barri Gotic" also boasts some fine contemporary hotels.
The Gothic Quarter is sandwiched between the Ramblas and Via Laietana, a main street parallel to the Ramblas. Most buildings in this area date from the 14th century and are built with stone. Strolling around the tiny medieval cobbled streets, you come across quirky shops, art sellers and the soothing sounds of a harp playing next to the cathedral. It's easy to get lost in the maze of tiny streets but that's half the fun.

Sights and attractions
Visitors staying in hotels near the Gothic Quarter will enjoy exploring the district on foot as most streets are car-free. The Gothic Quarter's main square, Plaza de Sant Jaume, is home to the city and regional governments. The two 14th century government buildings face each other across the intimate paved square which is at the epicenter of civic life in Barcelona. There always seems to be something happening in this square; celebrations, protests, singing, dancing, you rarely see an empty space. The highlight is the Catalan folk dancing and the jaw-dropping human towers which happen during public holidays such as the end of summer festival, Merce, in late September. The tourist office on the square is a great place to pick up free maps. Bike tours depart from here daily and are an excellent way to see the main highlights quickly.
From many angles in the area you see the soaring spires of the Cathedral, La Seu (the facade is currently under renovations). Many Gothic Quarter hotels have views of the cathedral, and seeing this Gothic icon from your window every morning has to rank as one of the finest city views you could ever see.
Another square worth checking out is the Placa Reial (royal square), which sits just off the Ramblas on the western side of the Gothic Quarter. Decked out in colonial Spanish style, the square was built in the 19th century and is a popular place for relaxing evening meals and drinks. The architecture contrasts with the rest of the Gothic Quarter, the tall palm trees giving a tropical feel.
The busy Via Laietana avenue, on the eastern side of the Gothic Quarter, was constructed in the late 19th century to ease the passage of traffic from the planned Eixample district to the north to the seafront. Fine tall classical buildings line this street, many topped off with dramatic columns and cupolas. While the bad news is that many medieval buildings were demolished to clear its path, the good news is that the newer buildings have been converted into great luxury hotels, making a stay in the Gothic Quarter a must for anyone into discovering the best of Barcelona's architecture and history.

Hotels in Gothic Quarter
There is a range of upscale hotels such as Hotel Colon overlooking the cathedral. Other fine Gothic quarter hotels are to found in the vicinity of Placa de Sant Jaume.

Getting there
Metro to Jaume 1 (yellow line) to Urquinaona (eastern side) or Liceu (western side).

Top 3 reasons for staying in a gothic quarter hotel
1. Gazing in awe at one of Europe's finest Gothic cathedrals
2. Losing yourself in the maze of tiny, beautiful streets
3. Sampling the best of Catalan culture in the medieval Plaza de Sant Jaume