Crimes the tour through the Dark Side of Barcelona

Discover the Hidden Crimes and Legends of Barcelona

If you think you know Barcelona, think again. This Dark Side of Barcelona walking tour, priced at $254.95 per person and lasting around two hours, offers a different lens on this vibrant city. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Cristina, who receives rave reviews—you’ll stroll through iconic neighborhoods such as El Raval, the Gothic Quarter, and El Born, uncovering stories about crimes, punishments, and dark historical events most travelers miss.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history with storytelling—you’ll learn about everything from ancient Roman crimes to the city’s role during the Civil War. The tour’s small group size, capped at 20, makes for a more personal and engaging experience. Plus, the stories often aren’t found in guidebooks, making it perfect for those who want to see a more authentic and less polished side of Barcelona.

That said, this tour requires moderate physical fitness—it’s a walking tour, after all—and your comfort with some darker, more intense stories. It’s best suited for curious travelers who are interested in the shadowy corners of history, including some gruesome tales, but also appreciate a well-informed guide who brings the stories to life. If you’re into mysteries, legends, and uncovering the city’s secret past, this might be your highlight.

Key Points

• Authentic stories you won’t find in typical city tours, focusing on crime, punishment, and dark history.
• Intimate group size enhances the experience, with only 20 participants max.
• History and legends of Barcelona’s neighborhoods are woven into each stop, providing context and depth.
• Skilled guides, like Cristina, are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability.
• Accessible and flexible – private tour with a mobile ticket, suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness.
• Ideal for history buffs and mystery lovers wanting a different perspective on Barcelona.

A Deep Dive into the Dark Side of Barcelona

This tour is a walk through Barcelona’s shadowy past, a chance to learn about the city’s crimes, punishments, and dark legends. It begins at La Rambla, where your guide will introduce you to the Hotel Manila, the site of the city’s first recorded crime. From there, the tour explores neighborhoods rich in history but often overlooked by conventional tours.

We found that Cristina’s storytelling makes the experience particularly immersive. She’s lauded for her knowledge and passion, keeping everyone engaged as she explains the context behind each story, whether it’s about Enriqueta Martí, the Vampire of Raval, or the prison of Queen Amalia. These are stories that add grit and intrigue to our understanding of Barcelona.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: La Rambla
The tour kicks off at the bustling La Rambla, a place most visitors see as a lively boulevard but which also has a dark history. Your guide will tell you about the Hotel Manila, where the city’s first major crime took place. This sets a tone that crime and scandal have long been a part of Barcelona’s story.

Stop 2: MACBA Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona
Once a convent, this site is a window into early 1900s misery in the Raval area. Here, you’ll hear about societal struggles that laid the groundwork for some of the darker episodes in the city’s history.

Stop 3: Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 29
This is where Enriqueta Martí, the so-called Vampire of Raval, lived. She’s infamous for her gruesome crimes, and her story is a perfect example of how crime intertwined with social issues in Barcelona’s past.

Stop 4: Carrer de la Reina Amàlia
Once the site of a prison, this square saw prisoners endure grim conditions. Your guide will share stories of notable inmates and the brutal realities of incarceration in historic Barcelona.

Stop 5: Old Monastery of Sant Pau del Camp
The oldest monastery in Barcelona also witnessed war crimes in 985 during an invasion. This stop connects the city’s religious history with episodes of violence.

Stop 6: Plaça George Orwell
Here, the Civil War’s dark chapter is illuminated. The guide highlights Orwell’s connection—his book Homage to Catalonia—and the crimes committed during that tumultuous period.

Stop 7: Muralla Romana
Walking along the Roman walls, you’ll learn about Barcino, the Roman colony, and the first documented crime in the city’s history. This provides a fascinating link between ancient and more recent history.

Stop 8: Plaça de l’Àngel
This square, once the main hub of Barcelona, was also a site of executions. Your guide shares chilling stories about the methods used, illustrating how justice and punishment were meted out historically.

Stops 9-12: The tour continues through other neighborhoods and squares, highlighting tragic events like family tragedies, protests, and mysterious killings, such as the death of Benvingut Funes in 1936, which remains unsolved.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the stories, what travelers love is Cristina’s ability to connect these dark tales with the broader history of Barcelona, making each story more impactful. You get a vivid sense of the city’s layered past, not just its famous landmarks but the stories that lie beneath.

The small group size enhances your experience because you can ask questions and get personalized insights. Several reviews mention how Cristina’s passion and knowledge make the stories come alive, especially when she shares details you won’t find in guidebooks.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $254.95 for a two-hour tour may seem high, but when you consider the personalized experience, expert storytelling, and access to lesser-known sites, it offers solid value for curious travelers. The tour is private, ensuring an intimate atmosphere, which many appreciate.

The tour is walkable, covering multiple neighborhoods, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s suitable for most with moderate physical fitness, but be prepared for some uneven surfaces and a fair amount of walking.

The tour is offered with a mobile ticket, making it easy to join, and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand adds flexibility for your travel plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, mystery enthusiasts, and those who love stories that go beyond the usual tourist fare. If you’re interested in darker stories of Barcelona, or want to see the city through a different lens, this tour will surprise and delight. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer small, private groups and value deep knowledge from their guide.

People who’ve enjoyed this tour frequently comment on Cristina’s expertise and the stunning views of the city that often accompany the stories. If you’re curious about the hidden, lesser-known aspects of Barcelona’s past, this walk will leave you seeing the city in a new light.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the stories are intriguing and educational, some content is dark and may not be suitable for young children. It’s best for older kids or teenagers interested in history and stories of crime.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and covers multiple neighborhoods on foot.

What is included in the price?
You get a licensed tour guide and access to the stories and sites included in the itinerary. No snacks are provided.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This isn’t specified, but since it involves walking around historic streets, some uneven surfaces might pose a challenge.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Le Méridien Barcelona, La Rambla, and concludes at Plaça de Sant Pere.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through different neighborhoods and uneven streets.

Final Thoughts

Crimes the Tour through the Dark Side of Barcelona offers a fascinating peek into the city’s darker chapters. Whether you’re into history, crime stories, or simply want a different perspective on Barcelona, this tour delivers intimate storytelling and eye-opening insights. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate learned guides like Cristina, who bring the stories to life with passion and expertise.

While the price reflects the personalized nature of the experience, the access to unique stories and the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path sites makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to see a more complex side of Barcelona. If you’re ready for a walk that’s equal parts history lesson and mystery, this tour promises a memorable adventure.

Note: Always check availability and book in advance, as small groups and private experiences fill up quickly. Prepare for an engaging journey into the shadows of Barcelona that will leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve left the city.