La Rambla
A visit to the most emblematic street in Barcelona is a must. Check all you can do along this famous landmark
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.
Wax Museum Barcelona
The Wax Museum in Barcelona is one of Barcelona's most outrageous attractions. Be ready to see for yourself over 150 realistic wax figures of the most famous celebrities and personalities both from Spain and the world. It's located in Passatge de la Banca, 7, 08002 Barcelona, a narrow street perpendicular to La Rambla.
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.
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
Nearby attractions and places of interest
Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of the most famous landmarks. Located in the heart of the old city, it has so many places to discover.
El Born
El Born is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Barcelona. Locals and foreigners alike swarm around its charming atmosphere.
Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum was the first of its kind when it opened in Barcelona in 1963.
Maremagnum
The seaside shopping center is a modern, all-family entertainment facility with plenty of leisure options and amazing sights of the city.
Catamaran Tours
Very close to La Rambla you’ll find Orsom Catamaran Tours, which offers breathtaking tours along the Barcelona coast.
