The Best Bars in Gothic Quarter
Looking to have a drink in the winding, historic Gothic Quarter of Barcelona? With so many twisting alleyways and nooks, it can be hard to locate the right place. And some of the best bars in Gothic Quarter are totally unknown to tourists and difficult to stumble upon unless someone has told you.
Well you’re in luck because thanks to my friends who live in the city, I had my own private tour guides with all the best insider knowledge. For two weeks, they showed me around the city, taking me to all the hidden gems and lesser known spots before the coronavirus outbreak cut my time short.
And now I’m here to share that information with you!
So in no particular order, here are the 5 best bars in Gothic Quarter. Each one is enchanting, full of locals and totally affordable for any budget, enjoy!
Sub Rosa
Dubbed “an absolute gem hidden in the Gothic Quarter” and “a perfect reflection of the Gothic Quarter”, Sub Rosa should be your first stop when you arrive in the neighbor looking for a drink. Moody, brash decorations and a small venue give it a cozy, local vibe from the moment you enter! You might not be able to find a seat right away but chairs will open up so just hang tight.
Get ready for an excellent array of cocktails. Plus mojitos are only €2.90 everyday from 6-10pm!
Another favorite: order the “Gothic Forest” which comes with half an avocado and truthfully, I don’t know what kind of alcohol! But it’s delicious and only costs €4 during happy hour. So order it anyway and enjoy!
Address: Carrer d’en Rauric, 23, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Tasca El Corral
Know as “Leche” to the locals, this rustic tapas bar is a real hidden gem and favorite. Those who live in the city adore it but you won’t find many tourists inside this tiny cave-like bar. It’s small so tuck in and find a seat!
Get ready to try the speciality “Leche de Pantera“, an alcoholic milk, made by the staff on-site. With a fluctuating recipe, every batch comes out a little different so you never know quite how strong yours might be! You can get an entire bottle of this tasty alcoholic concoction for just €10. Pour it out among your friends, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top and shoot it back. Delicious, cheap and potentially very strong. Warning: One bottle to yourself and you’ll be feeling good. Two bottles and you might not be able to stand anymore.
Looking to try a local standard, your next drink should be the bottle of vermouth for only €7.
I know we are talking drinks here but do yourself a favor and order the flaming chorizo and the blue cheese as well!
You’re going to love this unique Gothic Quarter bar- definitely one of the best in Barcelona! And certainly easy on the wallet if you’re looking for an inexpensive night out.
Address: Carrer de la Mercè, 17, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Pipa Club (the secret bar)
Locals are familiar with this Sherlock Holmes-themed secret bar but you’ll be hard pressed to find any tourists inside. Housed on the third floor of a flat, you would never guess there was a favorite of the Barcelona bar scene tucked inside.
You’ll need to ring the bell and without a word, you’ll be buzzed inside to ascend the stairs and find yourself in the Pipa Club.
This late-night, mixed crowd and boozy after hours atmosphere is best attended on a night when you can sleep in. Very few who enter leave early or sober.
It’s conveniently located right near our first bar on the list- Sub Rosa. So you can start your night with mojitos at Sub Rosa then end your night at Pipa Club. But shhhhh, remember it’s a secret.
Address: Plaça Reial, 3, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Milk Bar & Bistro
Not only is it a cocktail bar but it’s also a fantastic brunch place. There is no shortage of raving reviews about the brunch at MB&B! This is a Sunday brunch favorite and not to be missed.
But if we are talking drinks here, they have a full bar, friendly staff and you should definitely order the “Pornstar Martini” or the “Espresso Martini“.
Check out their site here.
Address: Carrer d’en Gignà s, 21, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
L’Ascensor
The name of this tiny, gorgeous cocktail bar refers to the rickety, old lift you must ride to the top in order to enter the bar. Already, I love it. Get everyone to squeeze inside and begin the ascent because the drinks are flowing upstairs! Buzzing with a young, party-going crowd- you will not be disappointed once you step off the lift and into the atmosphere at this Gothic Quarter hidden gem.
As with the previous bars, most tourists don’t know about this spot. So expect plenty of locals, a great cocktail menu and the best (cheap!) house red wine anywhere! What’s not to love?!
Address: Carrer de Bellafila, 3, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
If you make it to any of these spots, be sure to tag me in your Instagram post or stories so I can reshare you on my page!
Looking for more great things to do in Barcelona? Check out the best rooftop bar here! And don’t miss my favorite spots for sunrise and sunset!
Traveling Europe on a budget and looking to party?
Be sure to check out Stoke Travel for great festivals, concerts and epic trips.
