Les Ramblas
Barcelona is known for the promenade with its book stalls, flower stalls and people parading. It stretches from the seaside to Plaza de Catalunya and is a good promenade from which to explore the rest of the town. Interesting buildings along the promenade are the Academia de Sciencias, the old Gothic church de Betlem and the Palacio de Moya. When you leave the Ramblas for the Mercado de la Boqueria, youll see the hustle and bustle of one of the oldest markets in the city. A must is also the Plaça Reial, a lovely square with a tranquil atmosphere, palm trees, terraces and a fountain. Once a week, you can swap or buy stamps at the little market underneath the arches of the buildings bordering on the square. Paseia de Gracia La Diagonal
Barcelonas main street packed with shops, restaurants and traffic
Related Travel Information
Plaça Reial
Built in the 19th century, this is a lovely spot where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the Ramblas and enjoy a drink in one of the many terraces and enjoy the view of people passing by, the palm trees and the fountain.
address: Just off the Ramblas
Plaça de Catalunya
The main square of Barcelona where all activities come together. Also the place where the main tourist office is located.
address: At the end of the Ramblas
Barcelona - Shopping
When you want to go shopping in Barcelona you have to bear in mind that most shops are not open during lunchtime/siesta. In general, they're opened during weekdays from 9-1.30 and from 5-8. On Sundays, most shops don't open their doors in the afternoon. There are various shopping areas. The most elegant shopping places can be traced at the Passeig de Gracia, the Rambla de Catalunya, Avingunda Diagonal and at the Eixample. For small boutiques and souvenirs, try Carrer Tuset.
If you're looking for some real Spanish-style shops, don't forget to explore the area between the Ramblas and Via
Barcelona - Practical Information
Although - or maybe because of the fact - Barcelona is a rich city, there are many poor people on the street begging for money, sometimes a bit agressive. Whenever you sit down on a place in a cafe, there will be someone making music and asking for money. Take care of your hand-luggage, there are pick-pockets, too.
Tourist Attention
If you have been the victim of a crime, need medical or psychological help, or need temporary documents in the event of loss of the originals you can go to Tourist Attention at the Ramblas 43 which is open
Barcelona - Sights
Where to start in Barcelona? What most people do is starting at the Ramblas, the lovely promenade that runs from the port to Plaça de Catalunya. If you head for the port, you can stroll down de Paseo de Colon boulevard, visit the beach, the harbour and the aquarium and climb de San Sebastia tower to have some good views of the city. This tower in the area that is better known as Barceloneta (little Barcelona) is also the place where the cablecar for Montjuic leaves.
The hill Montjuic has a nice park, an impressive fortress and some good
