we want to take the gothic tour. What is the difference between the tour offered by Turisme de Barcelona and the Runnerbean tour? Are there advantages to one or the other?

Being listed at the top of TA's recommended guides is always questionable, especially when it comes to tour guides in Barcelona.

What is TA? I thought you still paid by tipping. Probably we will go with your advice.

I figured out that TA is Trip Advisor. Are you inferring that the reviews are planted by the company? Have you taken any of the walking tours?

"Are you inferring that the reviews are planted by the company?" Is there even a question?

Professional licensed guides do not work for tips, but a tip is always welcomed.

We've been with Marta (foreverbarcelona.com) on a few private tours, and know a few others in the city. I also know the people at Turisme de Barcelona and highly recommend them.

I am sure the private guides are wonderful, but their fees are steep. We will have to stick with group tours.