La Rambla
La Rambla is the most famous street of Barcelona if not the whole of Spain. From the central Placa Catalunya it gently descends down to the old harbour of Port Vell on the Mediterranean Sea.
Since there is only little traffic on the sides of the boulevard, it resembles more of a very long plaza than an actual street.
On la Rambla’s vibrant 1.5 kilometres all sorts of artists show their performances. It seems like a combination of a circus and a market offering everything from newspapers to paintings, flowers and birds.
This extraordinary diversity and the sometimes spectacular performances make la Rambla one of the landmarks that no tourist should miss during his or her stay in Barcelona.
La Rambla cuts through the old centre of Barcelona, marking the border between the city’s oldest districts Barrio Gotico and El Raval.
If you walk down from Placa Catalunya, after five hundred meters on your right hand side you will see the Mercat de la Boqueria. This is one of the most traditional markets of Barcelona. At Mercat de la Boqueria a large variety of fish and seafood, fruits and vegetables as well as typically Catalan sweets are offered.
Even if you are not intending to buy anything, take a look at what the famous Catalan cuisine is made of.
Following la Rambla you will notice a large mosaic by Joan Miro on the ground. This will probably be the closest encounter you can get with any of his works.
Further landmarks along the way are Barcelona’s biggest opera house, Gran Teatre del Liceu, Palau Güell and the picturesque square of Placa Reial.
Finally, the statue of Christopher Columbus marks the end of la Rambla on the harbour. Climb it for a great view over the old centre and Port Vell.
Insider Tip: Since la Rambla is very popular among tourists, it has attracted pick pockets as well. Be aware of your belongings, especially when you are watching one of the street performances, since you can easily be distracted.
How to get to la Rambla?
Just take any transport to Placa Catalunya. From there walk downwards on the right and you cannot miss the wide, leafy plaza-like boulevard of la Rambla.