Barcelona Secrets: DISCOVER The Other Old Town, El Born

“We had a great private tour of El Born. With many hidden places we got a competent overview… From historical contexts to insights into the special architecture to excellent recommendations in culinary terms, we have lacked nothing. Thank you very much Christian, for the beautiful experience!“, Inga T. from Germany in October 2025 (as posted on Tripadvisor)

We begin our journey into one of Barcelona’s most authentic, enchanting districts on this off-the-beaten-path walk through El Born, the city’s lesser-known Old Town filled with stories and timeless charm.

Starting at the stunning Palau de la Música, we let its Modernist beauty set the tone before wandering through El Born’s maze-like back alleys. Each narrow street holds a secret, every turn a new hidden gem – from medieval workshops to peaceful courtyards and centuries-old stone walls.

As we approach the Arc de Triomf, we notice the iconic Catalan Flag and the intriguing bat at Arc de Triomf. During the tour, we uncover the legends and symbolism behind both, revealing their surprising ties to Catalonia’s identity.

We continue through old marketplaces, tucked-away chapels, and atmospheric lanes where history whispers from every corner.

Our tour ends at the majestic Santa Maria del Mar, the church that inspired the novel “Cathedral of the Sea.” Its soaring Gothic presence offers a fitting finale to a journey through Barcelona’s most captivating and often overlooked corners.

Together, we discover a Barcelona that feels truly ours – intimate, cultural, and wonderfully alive.

Duration

Price per private group (varies per group size)

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Meeting Point: OHLA Home, Via Laietana 49

Tour Guide standing with his guest in front of a big building

Things to know

Cancellation policy

Any experience can be canceled and fully refunded within 24 hours of purchase, or at least 7 days before the experience starts.

What to bring

In case of rainy weather please bring an umbrella.

Guest requirements

For private tours special arrangements can be made such as hotel pick up.

You will need to walk approx. 1.5 miles / 2.3 kilometres.

What´s included

Private Tour Guide for 2 hours

More Experiences

A quiet side street in the old town of Barcelona with nobody to be seen.

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Experience neighbourhoods off the beaten track. See Barcelona through the eyes of a local. This guided walk through the historic center of Barcelona will let you discover more than the usual: buildings and squares you will not encounter so easily.

Duration: 2.5 hours

Price: 150 Euro per private group (depending on group size)