St. James Square (Plaça de Sant Jaume) Tours
26 Reviews
St. James Square (Plaça de Sant Jaume) has been the civic and political center of Barcelona since antiquity, when it was the forum in the Roman city of Barcino. This large square in the Gothic Quarter is a popular local gathering spot and home to the Palau de la Generalitat (Parliament of Catalonia) and Barcelona City Hall (Casa de la Ciutat).
The Basics
Find the Palau de la Generalitat on the north side of St. James Square and the Barcelona City Hall on the south side. Both buildings can be visited at designated times on a guided tour. The square is also a popular staging area for festivals, protests, demonstrations, and celebrations.
St. James Square features on many sightseeing tours of Barcelona, including tours of the Gothic Quarter, walking tours, and tours by bike, e-bike, Segway, car, and hop-on hop-off bus. Combine a stop here with other popular city attractions, such as La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell. And consider popular add-ons such as a cable car ride up Montjuic, a cog-wheel train ride on Montserrat, or a wine, jamon, or tapas tasting.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
St. James Square is located at the center of the Gothic Quarter. By metro, take line 4 to Jaume I or line 3 to Liceu. A number of buses also stop nearby, including the 45, 59, 91, 120, and the hop-on hop-off bus.
When to Get There
St. James Square can be visited at any time. Stop by on Sundays to see the Sardana, a traditional Catalan dance. Visit during the Christmas period to view the Nativity Scene, a Barcelona tradition. Barcelona City Hall is open for tours on Sundays, February 12, April 23, and June 4. The Palau de la Generalitat is open for tours on the second and fourth weekend of every month (except August), April 23, September 11, and September 24.
Historical Events at Plaça Sant Jaume
The square has been the site of some of the most important events in recent Catalan history. It was here that the Catalan State declared its independence in 1931, and that former President Josep Tarradellas announced his return from exile in 1977.
The Basics
Find the Palau de la Generalitat on the north side of St. James Square and the Barcelona City Hall on the south side. Both buildings can be visited at designated times on a guided tour. The square is also a popular staging area for festivals, protests, demonstrations, and celebrations.
St. James Square features on many sightseeing tours of Barcelona, including tours of the Gothic Quarter, walking tours, and tours by bike, e-bike, Segway, car, and hop-on hop-off bus. Combine a stop here with other popular city attractions, such as La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell. And consider popular add-ons such as a cable car ride up Montjuic, a cog-wheel train ride on Montserrat, or a wine, jamon, or tapas tasting.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square is ideal for history buffs and architecture fans.
- Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone plaza.
- A tourism office is located on the ground floor of Barcelona City Hall.
- St. James Square and some of the surrounding buildings are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
St. James Square is located at the center of the Gothic Quarter. By metro, take line 4 to Jaume I or line 3 to Liceu. A number of buses also stop nearby, including the 45, 59, 91, 120, and the hop-on hop-off bus.
When to Get There
St. James Square can be visited at any time. Stop by on Sundays to see the Sardana, a traditional Catalan dance. Visit during the Christmas period to view the Nativity Scene, a Barcelona tradition. Barcelona City Hall is open for tours on Sundays, February 12, April 23, and June 4. The Palau de la Generalitat is open for tours on the second and fourth weekend of every month (except August), April 23, September 11, and September 24.
Historical Events at Plaça Sant Jaume
The square has been the site of some of the most important events in recent Catalan history. It was here that the Catalan State declared its independence in 1931, and that former President Josep Tarradellas announced his return from exile in 1977.
Address: Plaça de Sant Jaume, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain
66 Tours and Activities to Experience St. James Square (Plaça de Sant Jaume)
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Tapas and Wine Experience Small-Group Walking Tour
Tuck into tasty tapas and traditional wines on this gastronomic tour of Barcelona. Get the inside scoop on Barcelona’s renowned foodie scene from a local guide and stop along the way to dine at the city’s best tapas bars. At each restaurant, sample an array of delicious Catalan cuisine, taste local specialties like Iberian ham, ‘’ or ‘pan con tomate’ (spicy potatoes, bread, and tomato), and choose from a selection of fine regional wines. You can choose between an afternoon or evening tour and upgrade to include a flamenco show.
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From
$185.84
Price varies by group size
From
$185.84
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Barcelona Skip the Line Tour: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell & La Pedrera
Cover the best of Barcelona on this full-day tour. Visit the city’s most famous attractions and landmarks such as the Gothic Quarter, Plaza Catalunya, Montjuic and more as you learn about Barcelona’s history from your informative guide. This comprehensive tour also includes skip-the-line access to three popular attractions: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and La Pedrera. Enjoy a light breakfast and an Iberian ham tasting as an additional treat.
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From
$272.56
Price varies by group size
From
$272.56
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Barcelona Tour: Skip the Line Sagrada Familia, Park Güell & La Pedrera
Skip the long ticket lines to Basilica of Sagrada Familia and other fantastical structures of Antoni Gaudí on this small-group guided tour in Barcelona. Benefit from fast-track entry and an intimate tour of the famed Spanish architect’s most iconic works, including Park Güell and the UNESCO-listed apartment building La Pedrera. Stroll around the Gothic Quarter and relax with a light breakfast plus lunch (Iberian ham paired with wine).
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From
$272.56
Price varies by group size
From
$272.56
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Private Barcelona Skip the Line Tour: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell & La Pedrera
Discover the best Barcelona has to offer on this full-day private tour of the city. Explore Barcelona with your own personal guide and learn about the city’s rich culture and history. Enjoy skip-the-line access at the famous Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and La Pedrera and take in the panoramic views of Barcelona from Montjuic and Tibidabo. Make the most of your time in Barcelona with this comprehensive and time-saving tour.
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From
$495.57
Price varies by group size
From
$495.57
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Barcelona Half-Day Bike Tour
Experience the architectural and artistic majesty of Barcelona on a half-day bike tour of the city. Energize and enjoy yourself on this exciting excursion with a knowledgeable and experienced guide; see all of the city’s significant sights such as the La Catedral and Placa del Rei as you gently cycle between magnificent monuments. Capture fabulous photographs at each stop and gain insight into the city’s fascinating history with informative commentary. A moderate level of fitness is not required on this tour due to the gentle nature of the route.
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From
$37.17
From
$37.17
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Jewish Quarter of Barcelona: one of the most important Jewish Communities of the Medieval Europe
Immerse yourself in Barcelona’s rich Jewish history with this guided tour of the Jewish Quarter. Visit Call Mayor and Call Menor, the Ancient Roman Wall, the La Plaza del Rey, or “King’s Square,” and experience what was once among Europe’s largest and most significant Jewish communities. Tour the interior of the 3rd-century Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona and learn about what life was like for the Jewish residents of medieval Barcelona.
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From
$80.53
Price varies by group size
From
$80.53
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Barcelona Highlights Tour & Skip the Line: Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is undoubtedly one of Barcelona’s top attractions and the crowds that it attracts reflects the monument’s popularity. Enjoy both skip-the-line admission to La Sagrada Familia and a walking tour of Barcelona. Explore the Gothic Quarter, ascend to Parc de Montjuic and admire the Church of Santa Maria del Mar. Priority access to La Sagrada Familia means you’ll avoid waiting up to two hours to enter the modern masterpiece. An intimate atmosphere is guaranteed on this small-group tour, limited to 15 people.
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From
$210.62
Price varies by group size
From
$210.62
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Historical E-bike Tour in Barcelona
View Barcelona’s sights more quickly and easily than by foot or public transport with this electric bike tour. Coast down streets and lanes to see historical highlights such as the Gothic Quarter, Santa Maria del Mar Basilica, and more; and hear history and facts from a guide that you might otherwise miss. An ideal city overview if you’re short on time and fancy trying out an electric bike.
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From
$42.12
Price varies by group size
From
$42.12
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Private Barcelona and Sagrada Familia Tour with Hotel Pick-up
See Barcelona’s most beloved landmarks and attractions on a comprehensive tour that offers an ideal introduction to this beautiful Spanish city. After a convenient hotel pickup, travel with a personal guide and immerse yourself in the city’s celebrated architecture, including the striking Hospital de Sant Pau and La Sagrada Familia (extra cost.) End your outing with a walking tour through the Gothic Quarter and a visit to the hilltop Mirador de l'Alcalde.
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From
$266.65
Price varies by group size
From
$266.65
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Pedal Your Way Into Barcelona History Bike Tour
Get an overview of Barcelona’s most impressive buildings, bodegas, and beaches on this action-packed bike tour. Enjoy guide commentary and regular stop-offs to admire local sights, including time to have a picnic at the beach (bring your own snacks). It’s a great way to tick off many Barcelona highlights in a short space of time, including Barcelona Cathedral, Placa Reial, and La Sagrada Familia.
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From
$30.96
From
$30.96
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Barcelona Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour
Embark on an amazing walk through the historical places of Barcelona to discover the richness of its past! Discover the origins of Roman Barcelona over 2,000 years ago. Enjoy the architecture and monumental buildings of the Gothic Quarter and feel as if you're in the Middle Ages. Walk along the famous Ramblas and discover why Barcelona is so beloved by visitors.
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From
$88.26
Price varies by group size
From
$88.26
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Best of Barcelona Private Tour: Sagrada Familia and Old Town with Hotel Pick-up
Experience Barcelona like a VIP on this private sightseeing tour that includes skip-the-line access at the city’s most popular attraction, La Sagrada Familia. Enjoy the comfort of traveling by private vehicle to top attractions like Passeig de Gràcia, the waterfront, Montjuïc, and the Gothic Quarter. Take in Barcelona’s famous Modernisme architecture, and learn about the city from a knowledgeable guide.
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From
$291.86
Price varies by group size
From
$291.86
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Tasty Barcelona Street Food Tour With Local Market Visit
Barcelona’s street food is one of the most famous and delicious in the world. Thanks to this 2.5 hour tour you will have the opportunity to sightsee the historical centre of Barcelona and taste its delicious on-the-go dishes. With the help of a local guide you will start your journey at the market La Boqueria. Stroll around the vivid coloured stands and follow the scents of local fruit and vegetables. Stop at one of the stands and try some delicious Jamòn, cheese and fried fish. A multi-sensorial experience! Next pass by the Gothic Quarter and El Call, the Jewish neighbourhood, to taste some exquisite tapas and Patatas Bravas and much more! Experience a true authentic Catalan adventure in the heart of Barcelona! Choose between the lunch or dinner tour and do not miss this special opportunity on the streets of the Catalan city!
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From
$59.18
From
$59.18
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Barcelona Old Town Private Walking Tour
Follow in the footsteps of Barcelona's ancient Romans and its modern-day residents during this 3-hour private walking tour of Barcelona. Wander past picturesque Barcelona landmarks like the Arco de Triunfo and the sprawling Ciutdella Park before diving into the Gothic Quarter. ‘Get lost’ in the narrow winding streets of this atmospheric area with your guide, stopping to explore the ornate Cathedral of Barcelona, Born Market, ancient Roman walls and some of the neighborhood’s lesser-known gems. Your guide, light refreshments and a city welcome pack are included.
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From
$111.50
Price varies by group size
From
$111.50
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Barcelona Ghost Tour: Gothic Quarter Exploration Game
Embark on a haunted quest around Barcelona by solving clues to see if a famous Catalan urban legend is true or not, all on your smartphone. Unlock new stories as you discover on your own the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, Barcelona Cathedral, Catalunya Square, and more.
You are invited to discover the captive souls, the spirits and the mysterious skeletons of Barcelona with an interactive city exploration app. You will be guided step-by-step to the cursed buildings where they carry out their eternal punishments while you learn all of their stories. Brace yourself and come explore Haunted Barcelona, all with the help of your smartphone.
Each clue will lead you from one place to another, giving you exact directions, so you won’t need a map, a GPS or a guide. When you solve it and guess the answer, the secret story of that place is unlocked.
Along the way, you’ll find horror stories that will give you the chills. Dare you go on this tour?
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From
$9.28
Price varies by group size
From
$9.28
Price varies by group size
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regular temperature checks for staff
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Barcelona E-bike Tour City Highlights
Start your day in Barcelona with an electric bike tour! With the help of the electric bike, you will be able to cover a lot of ground, introducing you to Barcelona and some of its main attraction in just two hours. Weave your way through the charming streets of the Old City before exploring Barcelona’s more modern areas. This morning tour will help you beat the crowds and the heat.
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From
$55.75
From
$55.75
Gothic Quarter Guided Tour
New Tour! Our Gothic Quarter walking tour explores the historical centre of Barcelona. In a small group with a licensed guide, discover narrow streets and charming squares while you learn about the history of Barcelona, architecture and current affairs.
• New tour, introductory price
• Small groups of maximum 10 people. The reduced size of the group allows for a better quality visit. Please note that our groups are significantly smaller than those of the main tour organizers in Barcelona
• In English. With no mixed languages on the same tour
• Licensed guides only. We make an effort at selecting the best possible guides
• Interaction welcome. You will be welcome to ask questions and interact with our guide and other members of the tour. The size of the group makes this possible
• Duration: 1h 30min. Walking distance: 500 meters approximately
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From
$26.90
From
$26.90
Highlights of Barcelona: Full-Day Private Tour with Lunch
From modernist masterpieces to authentic Catalonian cuisine, experience the best of Barcelona on this private, full-day sightseeing tour. Make the most of your time as a private guide leads you to the city’s must-see attractions, including the Gothic Quarter, Plaça d’Espanya, and the Gaudí-designed Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Recharge midday with an included lunch at a renowned local restaurant.
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From
$291.15
Price varies by group size
From
$291.15
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Barcelona Tour: Park Güell & Sagrada Familia with Hotel pick-up
This private Barcelona tour helps you discover many of the city’s most popular attractions in one day. After a hotel pickup, travel with a guide and enjoy commentary about the secrets and history of Barcelona. Save time waiting in long lines with skip-the-line access to Gaudi’s popular attractions—Park Güell and Sagrada Familia. Climb Montjuïc hill for incredible views, explore the Gothic Quarter on foot, and much more.
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From
$308.90
Price varies by group size
From
$308.90
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Private Barcelona and Park Güell Tour with hotel Pick-up
Explore Barcelona on your own terms during this 8-hour, customizable, private trip covering the many highlights of the Catalan capital. Tour Passeig de Gracia, an elegant boulevard that hosts a wealth of modernist architecture like La Pedrera and Casa Batlló, before discovering Gaudí’s Park Güell (extra cost) and La Sagrada Familia. You’ll also have time to wander Barcelona’s atmospheric Gothic Quarter and soak up the sublime city views on top of Montjüic. A private guide and round-trip hotel transport are included.
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From
$242.69
Price varies by group size
From
$242.69
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Private Barcelona Highlights Tour with Hotel pick-up
See Barcelona’s highlights with a private guide on a half-day tour of the city that can be customized to your interests. Get views across the city from Montjuïc, see the landmarks of the waterfront, and take a walking tour through the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic old town, then visit Modernist neighborhoods and La Sagrada Familia cathedral. This private Barcelona tour includes all transport in a private vehicle, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel.
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From
$226.94
Price varies by group size
From
$226.94
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers