Barcelona Cathedral

Most visitors to Barcelona's Gothic Quarter pass by the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia on their way to the Sagrada Familia. That's their loss. This is the medieval original: a more peaceful destination, where you can actually hear yourself think inside. The Gothic nave with its soaring ribbed vaults dates to the 13th century. Unlike the Sagrada Familia, there's no Gaudi razzle-dazzle here. Instead, you'll find 700 years of stone, shadow, and the particular silence that old churches create.

Free entry is available before 12:30 PM and after 5:15 PM. The €9 tourist ticket, which includes access from 12:30 PM to 5:15 PM, also grants entry to the choir stalls, the rooftop terrace, and the small museum. The rooftop alone is worth visiting: you can take a lift up for €3.50 and enjoy a view across Gothic Quarter rooftops, the spires of the cathedral, and on clear days, out to the sea. This popular spot is often empty, making it an even more appealing experience for those looking for quiet time.

The cloister is the best part of the building and many people never find it. A doorway on the right side leads to a courtyard with palm trees, a mossy fountain, and 13 live white geese - a unique tribute to Saint Eulalia's martyrdom at age 13. The geese have been present since medieval times and honk indignantly at those walking past. A peaceful moment awaits you in the cloister, especially during morning light between 9-10 AM, when you're unlikely to find anyone else around.

Don't confuse this with Santa Maria del Mar in El Born (also worth visiting) or Santa Maria del Pi nearby. There are several Gothic churches in Barcelona. This is the main one - the seat of the Archbishop, home to the geese, and the one you should visit first.