Jewish Quarter: Tours and Guided Visits

Immerse yourself in history and culture by joining a Jewish Quarter tour in Barcelona. As you wander around the streets within the Gothic Quarter, you'll pass by Spain's oldest synagogue and several landmarks that tell the story of ancient communities and long-lasting traditions.

The Jewish Quarter is one of the oldest parts of the city, with a long and fascinating history dating back to the 1st century AD. From the ancient Roman walls to the winding medieval alleys, this area captures Barcelona's unique culture and heritage to a tee.

Check out our visitor's guide to the Jewish Quarter, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Barcelona.

Which kind of Jewish Barcelona tours are there?

There are a few different types of tours available, from walking history or art-focused tours to more comprehensive combo ones.

Small group Jewish Quarter walking tour

Uncover the vibrant, decades-long history of Barcelona's Jewish community with a fascinating walking tour through the city's Gothic Quarter. You'll have an experienced guide bring this remarkable story to life as they explain how integral the Jewish community was in shaping Barcelona's diverse culture.

Visit the Shlomo Ben Adret Synagogue, Spain’s oldest synagogue, pass by the Jewish History Museum and the remains of Castellnou, explore ancient alleyways that date back centuries, and come away with an appreciation for this incredible chapter of European heritage.

Private tour through the Jewish Quarter

For those that want a more intimate, tailored experience, you can book a private tour. You'll be met at your accommodation by your guide before being taken on a roughly 1.5-hour tour through all the most important sights in the area.

While private tours can be tailored to your own interests, you can expect to visit the same places as on a standard tour, such as the Sinagoga Mayor (Shlomo Ben Adret Synagogue) and, upon request, the Jewish cemetery on Montjuïc.

Jewish Quarter and Old Town combination tour

On top of a guided walking tour through the Jewish Quarter, you'll have the opportunity to make your way through the streets of Barcelona's Old Town — the Gothic District — checking off several other attractions throughout the excursion.

Alongside your guide, you'll explore La Rambla, check out the Cathedral, visit bustling food markets, and admire the ancient Roman walls.

What will I see?

Although tour providers have slightly different itineraries, you can expect all tours to pass some combination of the main attractions in the area. One of the most famous is the Shlomo Ben Adret Synagogue, which is the oldest synagogue in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe.

There's also the Jewish History Museum (MUHBA El Call) which houses many old relics and archaeological artifacts. You might also find yourself exploring the remnants of the Roman empire, as much of the Jewish Quarter was built by the Romans.

If you make your way through Carrer de la Palla, you'll also pass by two buildings — the Caelum cake shop at number 8 and the Casa Journet furniture shop at number 10 — believed to contain the remains of ancient mikvehs (Jewish ritual baths).

How much should I expect to pay for a Jewish Quarter tour in Barcelona?

Prices of Barcelona Jewish Quarter tours can start as low as €15 for a short small group walking tour.

More comprehensive guided walking tours will generally cost around €55 to €70 person.

Private tour of the Jewish Quarter in Barcelona can cost up to €130 per person.

What are the best Barcelona Jewish Quarter tours?

Guided Tour to Pier through the Jewish Quarter of Barcelona

• Price: From €14
• Duration: 1 hours 15 minutes
• Visits: Plaça Sant Jaume, Museu d'Historia de Barcelona, Major Synagogue, Iglesia de San Jaime, Plaça Sant Miquel.

Walking history tour Jewish quarter & Old town

• Price: From €66
• Duration: 4 hours
• Visits: Major Synagogue, the Jewish Quarter’s Mikve, Jewish Alchemisthouse, Roman Wall, Barcelona Cathedral, food markets, Las Ramblas.

Barcelona's Jewish Quarter Private Walking Tour

• Price: From €138
• Duration: 2 hours
• Visits: Major Synagogue, medieval-era bath house, and other stops according to your preferences.

Where do tours normally start?

Start points differ depending on the tour, however, they will always be in a central, accessible Barcelona location such as the Plaça Nova or the Plaça Sant Jaume.

Sometimes, you'll be picked up from your accommodation – this is usually the case with private tours. It's best to double-check meeting points before you book.

How long do these tours last?

Jewish Quarter tours in Barcelona usually run for around 1 to 2 hours and sometimes up to 4 hours. There is a slight difference between tour providers, but you'll always have plenty of time to explore the Jewish Quarter on any given tour.

When should I go on a tour of the Jewish Quarter?

There really isn't a bad time to explore the Jewish Quarter. Barcelona is blessed with warm weather year-round, so tours run all during all seasons. Peak tourist season is generally summertime, so expect more crowded streets between June and September.

What other sightseeing tours can I do in Barcelona?

• Free walking tours in Barcelona
• Segway tours in Barcelona
• Hop-on hop-off bus tours in Barcelona
• Ghosts and legends tours in Barcelona
• City tours in Barcelona

Travel tips

• Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated on your walking tours.
• Book online and ahead of time to make sure you have your preferred time slot as tours can book out quickly.
• If you choose a free walking tour, remember that tips are expected, so always carry a small amount of cash with you.
• Put a time buffer in place after the tour so that you can keep exploring the area, and visit any recommendations provided by your guide.