+15 Bars in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter
Barcelona has a bar for every kind of night out—laid-back beer with mates, whimsical forest-themed cocktails, or jazzy tapas tucked away in a stone-walled nook.
And let's be real: the most fun spots are the ones that feel like a secret.
In this list, we're skipping the touristy chaos and diving into local gems with strong drinks, cool vibes, and very photogenic corners.
Most of these are in or near Ciutat Vella, meaning they're all within strolling distance from each other—yes, a self-made bar crawl could be on the cards.
Whether you're into €3 cocktails or just love bars that look like a fairytale, here are 7 unforgettable spots you need to check out.
Table of Contents
- 1. Sub Rosa
- 2. El Bosc de Les Fades
- 3. Bar Manchester
- 4. First Cocktail Bar
- 5. La Alcoba Azul
- 6. La Plata
- 7. Temple Bar Barcelona
- 8. Bar Sincopa
- 9. La Burnessa
- 10. Kælderkold Craft Beer Bar
- 11. Flaherty's Irish Pub
- 12. Ascensor Cocktail Bar
- 13. Blue Gin Bar
- 14. Bar del Pla
- 15. Nevermind
- References
- Images Sources
1. Sub Rosa
Sub Rosa might just be the coziest hole-in-the-wall you'll stumble into in the Gothic Quarter.
The lights are low, the walls are red, and the cocktails are strong, cheap, and surprisingly well-balanced.
You know those places where you walk in and think, yep, this is a vibe?
That's Sub Rosa.
It's perfect for starting your night or escaping from a loud crowd nearby.
The bartenders know what they're doing—ask for a surprise and you'll probably get a new favorite.
Drinks hover around €5, so it's wallet-friendly enough to go for round two (or three).
This place fills up fast on weekends, even though it doesn't take reservations.
Get there early if you want one of the cozy spots by the wall.
Or don't—standing near the bar is part of the charm.
Also, don't let the entrance fool you.
From the outside, it's blink-and-you-miss-it.
Inside though?
A little red-lit paradise with a strong indie soul.
Quick bits:
Price: €1-10
No reservations
Best time: After 9PM for the crowd, 7PM for the chill
2. El Bosc de Les Fades
This place is like stepping into Narnia...
if Narnia served mojitos and had a fog machine.
"El Bosc de Les Fades" literally means "The Forest of the Fairies," and it's not false advertising.
You're drinking under artificial trees with fairy lights, leaves on the ceiling, and forest sounds playing in the background.
It's whimsical, weird, and honestly just fun.
Yes, it's touristy—but that doesn't mean it's bad.
The cocktails are decent, the vibe is unbeatable, and you'll definitely pull out your phone for a photo or two (or ten).
Don't go expecting a quiet, refined evening.
This is more of a "wow, I'm in a fantasy land and also a little tipsy" kind of night.
Great for groups, fun for couples, also perfect for solo adventurers who want something different.
Food's available here too, mostly light bites and tapas.
Not the cheapest option on the list, but the setting more than makes up for it.
What to try:
Sangria jug
Patatas bravas
Caipirinha
Mini list:
Price: €10-20
Open till midnight
No bookings
Great for fantasy lovers
3. Bar Manchester
Bar Manchester is what happens when Britpop nostalgia meets Spanish beer prices.
If you love The Smiths, Joy Division, or anything 90s Brit rock, you'll feel like home here.
It's got that underground basement energy, except it's all squeezed into a corner of the Gothic Quarter.
You'll hear Oasis while sipping a €2 beer and scanning the walls covered in band posters.
This isn't a fancy cocktail spot—it's a proper bar with attitude, music, and a crowd that's either expat or very into retro rock.
Live performances pop up now and then, and there's always a buzz in the air.
It opens a little later, so it's good for starting your night post-dinner.
The seating is minimal, but who needs it when the drinks are cheap and the playlist is gold?
Why visit:
Loud, low-lit, and laid-back
Music lovers' heaven
Budget drinks
| Drink | Price Range | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Draft beer | €1-2 | Grungy & cool |
| House cocktail | €4-6 | Indie-chic |
| Shots | €1-3 | Quick & wild |
4. First Cocktail Bar
Tucked just down the street from Sub Rosa, First Cocktail Bar has that wild, electric, neon-glow energy.
It's tiny, it's vibrant, and the bartenders here do not play around when it comes to mixology.
The place really kicks off around 10PM, with dancing breaking out in the tightest corners and music thumping till 2AM.
You won't find a drink menu here like you'd find at a boring hotel bar.
It's more like "tell us what flavors you like, and we'll magic something up." That makes it perfect if you're tired of ordering the same old mojito everywhere.
The place is known for its ultra-personal vibe—think bartender banter, regulars who dance like it's their job, and a very warm welcome even if you show up alone.
No list, no table—just stories and good times.
5. La Alcoba Azul
Walking into La Alcoba Azul feels like entering a candlelit jazz club mixed with a medieval hideout.
It's narrow, moody, full of stone and wood and old-school details.
This place is not just a bar—it's an experience.
Tapas here are solid.
We're talking tostadas with goat cheese, mini chorizo bites, and sangria that doesn't taste like it came out of a box.
The crowd is cool but not snobby, and the music is always perfectly jazzy and never too loud.
Best of all, this place takes reservations through TheFork.
So if you're looking to impress someone or just lock in a quiet table, you actually can.
It's pricier than most on this list, but it leans more into the "intimate dinner and drinks" lane than dive bar chaos.
Definitely worth the treat.
Popular tapas to try:
Goat cheese tostadas
Spanish omelet
Iberian ham plate
6. La Plata
La Plata is the kind of place that's been around since your grandparents were teens—and it hasn't changed much, in the best way.
No-frills, no Instagram decor, just proper, honest-to-goodness tapas and vermouth.
It's got only a few dishes on the menu, but they're all dialed in to perfection.
Anchovies, tomato salad, fried sardines...
that's about it.
But you'll probably want seconds.
This bar stays true to the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" philosophy.
It's popular with locals, and dogs are welcome inside (which should give you a sense of the relaxed atmosphere).
Don't expect loud music or cocktails with flaming garnishes.
Expect small plates, clinking glasses, and the warm buzz of regulars having a good time.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Anchovies | Classic, salty, oily goodness | €3.50 |
| Tomato salad | Simple and fresh | €4 |
| Fried sardines | Local favorite | €5 |
Perks:
Dogs allowed
No reservations
Perfect for early evening
7. Temple Bar Barcelona
This isn't your average Irish pub.
Temple Bar in Barcelona combines Guinness taps and rugby screens with elegant dark wood interiors and Spanish snacks.
It's classy without being pretentious, and very much about the good times.
Expect big pints, burgers, and a rotating cast of global beers.
You'll find plenty of English-speaking staff, which makes ordering easier if your Spanish is rusty (or nonexistent).
It gets packed during major sports events, especially football and rugby.
The vibe flips from relaxed pub to mini-stadium, which honestly makes it more fun.
The food menu is broad—burgers, nachos, tapas, you name it.
Not ultra-authentic, but comforting when you want a break from tapas and a taste of home (wherever that may be).
Food & drinks list:
Burgers
Irish stew
Nachos
Guinness
Craft beers
8. Bar Sincopa
Laying in the heart of Ciutat Vella, Bar Sincopa is a haven for those seeking a unique blend of music and mixology.
With its rocker-chic ambiance, this bar offers an eclectic mix of international cocktails that cater to diverse palates.
The interior exudes a laid-back vibe, with dim lighting and vintage decor setting the mood.
Live performances add to the allure, making every visit a new experience.
The staff's friendly demeanor ensures that patrons feel welcomed and valued.
Despite its popularity, Bar Sincopa maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy their drinks without the overwhelming crowds.
The absence of reservations adds to its spontaneous charm.Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre
For those on a budget, the bar's affordable pricing doesn't compromise on quality.
Each cocktail is crafted with precision, ensuring a delightful experience with every sip.
Highlights:
Live music performances
Affordable pricing (€1-10)
Diverse cocktail menu
Cozy, intimate settingEl País
9. La Burnessa
Just a stone's throw from Bar Sincopa, La Burnessa offers a contrasting yet equally captivating experience.
This bar is known for its vibrant energy, outdoor seating, and a dance-friendly environment.
The decor is a fusion of modern aesthetics and traditional elements, creating a welcoming ambiance.
The outdoor seating area is perfect for those who prefer al fresco dining and drinking.
La Burnessa's cocktail menu is a testament to creativity, with each drink showcasing unique flavors and presentations.
The bartenders are not just mixologists but artists in their own right.
The bar's commitment to providing a lively atmosphere is evident in its regular dance events and themed nights.
It's a place where patrons can let loose and enjoy the rhythm of the night.
Key Features:
Outdoor seating
Dance-friendly environment
Innovative cocktails
Themed nights and events
10. Kælderkold Craft Beer Bar
For beer enthusiasts, Kælderkold Craft Beer Bar is a must-visit.
Located in Ciutat Vella, this brewpub offers a rotating selection of local and global craft brews from 18 taps.
The casual setting is complemented by a menu of small plates that pair perfectly with the beers on offer.
The bar's dog-friendly policy adds to its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
Kælderkold's commitment to quality is evident in its curated beer selection, ensuring that there's something for every palate.
The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide recommendations.
The bar's late closing time (2:30 AM) makes it a popular spot for night owls looking to enjoy quality brews in a laid-back environment.
Offerings:
18 rotating craft beer taps
Small plate menu
Dog-friendly policy
Late-night hours
11. Flaherty's Irish Pub
Flaherty's Irish Pub brings a slice of Ireland to Barcelona.
Situated in Ciutat Vella, this pub is a hub for sports enthusiasts and those seeking hearty comfort food.
The spacious interior is adorned with traditional Irish decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Multiple screens ensure that patrons don't miss any sporting action.
The menu boasts a range of classic dishes, from fish and chips to shepherd's pie, all complemented by a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
The outdoor seating area offers a pleasant spot to enjoy meals and drinks.
Flaherty's is more than just a pub; it's a community gathering spot where locals and tourists alike come together to celebrate and unwind.
Features:
Traditional Irish decor
Live sports screenings
Hearty comfort food
Outdoor seating
12. Ascensor Cocktail Bar
For beer enthusiasts, Kælderkold Craft Beer Bar is a must-visit.
Located in Ciutat Vella, this brewpub offers a rotating selection of local and global craft brews from 18 taps.
The casual setting is complemented by a menu of small plates that pair perfectly with the beers on offer.
The bar's dog-friendly policy adds to its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
Kælderkold's commitment to quality is evident in its curated beer selection, ensuring that there's something for every palate.
The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide recommendations.
The bar's late closing time (2:30 AM) makes it a popular spot for night owls looking to enjoy quality brews in a laid-back environment.
Offerings:
18 rotating craft beer taps
Small plate menu
Dog-friendly policy
Late-night hours
13. Blue Gin Bar
Blue Gin Bar is a vibrant cocktail bar known for its great cocktails, dancing, and bar games.
Located in Ciutat Vella, it's a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a lively night out.
The bar's interior is a blend of modern and eclectic decor, creating an energetic atmosphere.
The dance floor is always buzzing, with patrons grooving to the latest hits.
Blue Gin Bar's cocktail menu is both extensive and innovative, featuring unique concoctions that cater to various tastes.
The bartenders are known for their flair and creativity.
In addition to dancing, the bar offers a range of games, making it a fun spot for groups looking to socialize and unwind.
Key Features:
Lively dance floor
Innovative cocktails
Bar games
Energetic ambiance
14. Bar del Pla
Bar del Pla is a relaxed tapas bar and wine bar that highlights no-frills tapas in a homey environment.
Located in Ciutat Vella, it's a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The bar's interior exudes warmth, with rustic decor and a welcoming atmosphere.
The menu features a range of traditional tapas, each prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Bar del Pla's wine selection is extensive, offering a variety of options to complement the tapas.
The staff are knowledgeable and always ready to provide recommendations.
The bar's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Barcelona's culinary scene.
Offerings:
Traditional tapas
Extensive wine selection
Rustic decor
Homey atmosphere
15. Nevermind
Nevermind is a bar that exudes a unique charm, known for its great cocktails, live performances, and a distinctive ambiance.
Located in Ciutat Vella, it's a spot that attracts a diverse crowd.
The bar's interior is adorned with eclectic decor, creating a quirky and inviting atmosphere.
Live performances add to the bar's appeal, offering patrons a chance to enjoy local talent.
Nevermind's cocktail menu is both diverse and affordable, ensuring that there's something for everyone.
The bartenders are friendly and skilled, always ready to craft the perfect drink.
The bar's relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy a night out without the usual hustle and bustle.
Highlights:
Live performances
Affordable cocktails
Eclectic decor
Relaxed atmosphere
Barcelona's nightlife is wild and wonderful—but the best nights often start in the tiniest places.
You don't need bottle service or velvet ropes to have a night to remember.
From a forest bar that feels like a dream to a Manchester-themed rock dive, the city has something for every kind of drinker.
So throw on your comfiest shoes, pick a couple of these bars, and start your own little nightlife adventure in Ciutat Vella.
Bonus points if you hit more than three in one night (and still remember it the next day).
Sources and References
Images Sources and Attributions
All images used within this page are sourced from the official websites or social media pages of the featured businesses. They are used here strictly for informational and illustrative purposes to highlight each location.
We also make every effort to include links to the featured businesses' websites and social media profiles whenever possible.
