La Rambla

La Rambla is the most famous street in Barcelona and one of the most vital places of the catalan capital. Without a doubt, is one of the most essencial things to do in Barcelona.

The most iconic street of Barcelona

La Rambla starts at the epicenter of Barcelona, Plaça Catalunya (Catalonia Square). It streches along many important spots you’ll also want to get acquainted with, ending by the seaside shopping center Maremagnum.

This 1,3 Km long promenade marks the division between Barrio Gótico (Gothic Quarter) and El Raval. Barcelona’s cathedral is just located a few blocks away, as well as Plaça Sant Jaume, which houses the main Catalonian Government Building and the City Hall.

La Rambla is a must see activity in Barcelona.

What to see in La Rambla

La Boquería

To begin with, La Boqueria, Barcelona’s most iconic street market, is one of the most visited attractions in La Rabla. Here it’s possible to buy and taste local products, as well as experience the Barcelona market life.

Liceu Theater

Other notable place is the world famous Liceu Theater. The Barcelona’s opera house opened in 1847 and since then has become one of the most remarkable opera houses in the world.

Plaça Reial (Royal Square)

Located right next to La Rambla, this square with charming atmosphere is a famous meeting place and home to many well known restaurants. The lanterns were one of Gaudi’s first works in Barcelona.

Columbus Monument

The Columbus Monument marks the end of La Rambla. It was built in 1888 for the Barcelona Universal Exposition in tribute of Columbus’ first expedition to the Americas.

Walk a bit ahead and you’ll find the Rambla de Mar, a wooden bridge over the sea that connects with Maremagnum, that offers astonishing views of the Port Vell Marina.

Not far from Columbus Monument, you can book a stunning catamaran tour and enjoy the breathtaking landscape of Barcelona from the sea.

The experience of walking La Rambla

Walking through La Rambla is a unique experience. There, a melting pot of tourists and locals take place at all times. As a result, La Rambla is fully crowded and busy all day long.

Once you start walking, you’ll notice typical newsstands, kiosks selling souvenirs, cafes, restaurants, fruit and flowershops. The architecture can be quite stunning. A clear example is the asian themed Casa Bruno Cuadros (La Rambla, Nº 82), a very peculiar landmark featuring umbrellas in the façade.

As the walk progresses, more untraditional establishments and peculiar characters start to appear, such as the human statues and street performers, a must see spectacle in Barcelona.

Tips to visit La Rambla

• The prices of cafes and restaurants are considerably higher. If you’re looking for reasonable prices, walk away a few blocks and you’ll find better deals.
• As all tourist jammed places, pickpockets are common. It’s ok to carry your camera outside as long as you hold it well. Beware of small groups of men asking for directions or touching your back.
• Check the local football or soccer calendar for matches. If the local Barça team happens to win the day of your walk, you might find yourself surrounded by very enthusiastic (and drunk) supporters at Rambla de Canaletas, the place to celebrate when Barça Football Club wins a match.
• One interesting spot to catch art exhibitions and cultural events is at Palau de la Virreina, a former Baroque Palace.
• Take a break at Palau Moja, a former bourgeois house currently hosting the Barcelona Museum Board. Its cafe offers one of the best quality chocolates in all of Barcelona.

Don’t miss the gift & souvenir shop at Palau Moja, where you’ll be able to get your hands on local craftmanships or paintings made by local artists.

Without a doubt, La Rambla and its surroundings is one of the must-see places to visit in Barcelona.

How to get there

Metro: Line 3, Catalunya, Liceu and Drassanes Station.
Address: Pl. de Catalunya 17-S, 1, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Location