La Rambla — Landmark Review
Reviewed by Gemma Askham
Tell me: What’s this place all about?
Barcelona’s most famous street—a nearly one-mile pedestrianized boulevard from Plaça Cataluyna to Port Vell—is still the strolling route for the city’s visitors. Even if selfie-stick vendors can’t match the charm of the old-school florists, gelaterías, and candy stalls offering bites of crema catalana (a form of crème brûlée) along the way. To predict your next question: But is it La Rambla or Las Ramblas? Well, it’s really both. Originally, the area consisted of five mini-ramblas: Rambla de Canaletes, Estudis, Sant Josep, Caputxins, and Santa Mònica, but they’re often lumped together and today, the street sign says La Rambla.
What’s it like being there?
Busy! Particularly with some parts under construction, as a much-anticipated renovation project expands sidewalks, creates new squares and seating areas, plants trees, and, ultimately, extends the street all the way to the sea.
Pretty interesting! Is there a guide involved?
Not needed; just pick your starting point and walk as long as you like.
Who comes here?
Of the 78 million people who walk La Rambla each year, only 20 percent are from Barcelona. They are the gents reading newspapers in the sun, or locals slipping through a side entrance into La Boqueria market. The other 80 percent are sightseers, bachelor parties, and street vendors selling Michael Kors bags of, let’s say, questionable origin.
Did it meet expectations?
Annoying as it is to keep your purse clenched from pickpockets for a mile, La Rambla has a charm that keeps the 78 million coming. Its building facades can be strikingly beautiful: the opera house, Gran Teatre del Liceu, pulls a crowd both inside and out. At number 83, Antigua Casa Figueras is an unexpected jaw-dropper in Catalan Modernism, all stained glass and mosaics, that’s also a treat of a patisserie. While Plaça Reial (step off La Rambla via Carrer de Colom) is a regal yellow square of bars and restaurants; beside the fountain, find lampposts designed by a young Gaudí. Also, watch your step between La Boqueria and Liceu metro station: artist Joan Miró made a street mosaic that, despite its primary colors, many people miss.
Got it. So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
If you’ve never been to La Rambla, go. If you’ve already seen the stalls, done the stroll, and succumbed to a pair of $12 shades, there are more restful streets. Carrer d’Enric Granados and Rambla de Catalunya (another, different Rambla) set the bar high for on-street dining. Poblenou’s Rambla del Poblenou is expanding from a locals-only socializing zone into something altogether more hipster. On the hip note, El Born’s Passeig del Born offers sun, seats, and cervezas, yet still with the tranquility of a leafy boulevard.
La Rambla’s Best Nightlife: Nightlife in Barcelona
BY
Sam Mednick
Barcelona Local Expert
Not only is La Rambla one of the most well-known streets in the world, known for its eclectic street performers, wide array of shops, souvenir vendors and overall lively and unique atmosphere, it’s also one of the best places in Barcelona to enjoy the eccentric nightlife.
Since the walkway stretches from the Mediterranean Sea until Plaza Catalunya, La Rambla is lined with clubs, bars and a host of mainstream as well as authentic places to experience an incredible evening. On one side you have the notorious Gotico, known for its late night discos, never-ending excitement and plethora of live music venues, electronic clubs as well as Plaza Reial and Plaza ‘Trippy’ (George Orwell Plaza). And just a stone’s throw away, on the other side of the Ramblas is the Raval neighborhood. This up and coming area is ideal for those looking for something slightly lesser ‘known’. A great place for hipsters and people wanting to explore a rustic and cool area of town, the Raval is lined with bars, cocktail venues, small discos and out of the way clubs; many of which are hard to find if you’re not with a local or don’t know what to look for.
So no matter which end of La Rambla you find yourself on, it’s not hard to stumble across the perfect place to spend the evening.
Photo courtesy of El Paraigua
This is a definite local hot spot or a place to frequent for those ‘in the know’. One of Barcelona’s best live music venues, El Paraigua is a swanky, cocktail and live music bar/lounge, located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Just around the corner from Plaza Sant Jaume, the top floor is a local restaurant, but if you head downstairs, you’ll be privy to a world of live jazz, blues and delicious drinks. Always buzzing, El Paraigua is usually busiest on weekends, however it’s open every day. Their restaurant also has a great outdoor patio which is excellent especially during the summer.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Undiscovered Live Music Venu in the Gothic Quarter with tasty cocktails
Sam’s expert tip: Get there early on Fridays and Saturdays if you want a seat on the couch
Read more about El Paraigua →
Photo courtesy of Ambar
A relaxed and stylie, primarily girl cocktail bar and pub, amBar is still equally welcoming to gays and straights. They have comfy couches, low-key music and a free pool table, providing for an inviting atmosphere and a nice way to kick off the evening in the heart of the Eixample neighborhood. Their happy hour deals vary daily, with a vast selection of innovative drinks including vodka mixes, martini specials as well as cheap beer. This is an excellent place to start the evening with a few affordable beverages before continuing the evening with dinner and dancing at one of the trendy bars/clubs right around the corner.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Delicious cocktails in the Raval right off la Rambla, this is a fun venue for girls night
Sam’s expert tip: Be sure to try their signature cocktails (on the menu)
Read more about amBar →
Photo courtesy of Harlem Jazz Club
Live music in one of the Gothic Quarter’s most rustic bars, Harlem Jazz Club is one of the most well known and renowned Barcelona hang outs. Always ripe with a killer weekly line up of funk, blues, Brazilian music, Cuban pop/rock and jazz and all featuring incredible up and coming musicians, this is an excellent place to get a taste of the ‘real’ music scene in the city. Depending on the night, you’ll either be able to see a live show or witness stellar djs, but no matter which night you decide to go it’s always a lively and electric atmosphere.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Harlem Jazz Club features excellent live Jazz in an unpretentious atmosphere
Sam’s expert tip: For more well known bands be sure to get tickets in advance via the website
Read more about Harlem Jazz Club →
Indie rock with the occasional live music gig, Sidecar is sheer late night fun. You can’t get more central than Plaza Reial and this hip, unpretentious two-storey space (restaurant and bar upstairs, club downstairs) is a great way to dance until the sun comes up. Located right off La Rambla, in Plaza Reial, Sidecar is surrounded by plenty of other clubs which makes the bar hopping experience that much more enjoyable. If you don’t like the line up at Sidecar, head to Jamboree or Marula Cafe and try your luck there. But it’s hard not to enjoy an amazing night at Sidecar.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Sidecar is the best place for Indie Rock and is right off La Rambla
Sam’s expert tip: Show up before 2am if you want to avoid a line.
Read more about sidecar →
With its hanging disco ball, plush leather seats and wooden tables, many Ginger fans have coined this trendy wine and cocktail bar as an ‘airport lounge’. It is however, rather known for it’s innovative cocktails, wide selection of amazing wine and high quality tapas. This is a Barcelona gem, ideal for weekend adventures, intimate drinks and lively evenings on the town. Ginger is nestled behind Plaza Sant Jaume, in Plaza San Jus a little hard to find if you don’t know where to look, but once you stumble upon it you’ll be sure to mark the spot and keep on coming back for more.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Ginger is an excellent Cocktail and wine bar and not a far stroll from La Rambla
Sam’s expert tip: Try their Gordito Red Wine.
Read more about Ginger Bar →
Trendy New York style nightclub in the heart of Ciutat Vella (Old Vella), Factory Barcelona Club caters to those who don’t mind shelling out a bit of cash to jam with Barcelona’s finest. About three steps off La Rambla, you can’t miss this late night club as there’s always a line up until the wee hours of the night. Be sure to get there early and/or put your name on the guest list so you can enjoy your time in the club, as opposed to waiting on the street. Factory is a lively, club with an electric vibe, tasty drinks and good looking people.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Factory is one of the Rambla’s ‘nicer’ clubs to spend an evening
Sam’s expert tip: Put your name on the VIP list via Facebook or their website to avoid the lines and paying higher prices at the door.
Read more about Factory Barcelona Club →
Relatively new to the Barcelona Club scene, Marula is a vibrant space, ideal for hosting concerts, live music and parties. It specializes in funk, but features rock, pop, jazz and other genres as well. Centrally located in the Gothic Quarter, right off of Plaza Tripi and La Rambla, this is a great late night party especially on weekends. Marula is also next to a host of late night cafes including some of the city’s best pizza places. And if you happen to party until the sun comes up, Milk restaurant is right around the corner and serves a delicious breakfast.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Marula is the place to be if you’re into funk music as well as hip hop
Sam’s expert tip: There’s an excellent pasta place for late night food right next door to the club
Read more about Marula Cafe →
A Barcelona staple, Macarena Club has been around for years and to locals and tourists alike it is a late night gem. But be sure to arrive early (by 1:30am) as the club is tiny and once it reaches capacity, the doors shut. If you’re looking for a mix of house and electronic beats this is the place to go. Centrally located in the Gothic Quarter, it’s easy to find and easier to stumble home from, especially if you’re staying downtown. Macarena features well known DJ’s, local as well as international, so be sure to check the line up get tickets in advance.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Macarena is a Barcelona local’s watering hole and perfect for an authentic night out
Sam’s expert tip: Great place for a private party
Read more about Macarena →
This chic nightclub serves a varying choice of music, including hip-hop, jazz and Latin beats. The venue is split level with a dance club downstairs and live Spanish music upstairs. Most nights the place (downstairs) kicks off with live music and then later transforms into trendy and lively club. If you’re looking to dance until the sun comes up, then Jamboree is a great choice. Situated in Plaza Reial in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, right off La Rambla, it’s surrounded by plenty of other bars and clubs, all with a variety of music. Most places don’t charge admission and if they do it includes a drink.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Jamboree has a great mix of live music as well as 80’s hits
Sam’s expert tip: Arrive before the dj and mixed drinks are half price (selected evenings check website)
Read more about Jamboree →
Photo courtesy of Boulevard Club
Boulevard, or BLVD as it’s known to the locals, is one the most central La Rambla club. Located smack in the middle of the street, closer to the sea, this is a huge venue with the capacity to hold about 1000 people, spread out over three dance floors. With a mix of oldies, techno, dubstep, pop and 80’s classics, BLVD is the ideal place to party on La Rambla. Although it’s in the tourist heartland, you’ll still see a strong local representation at Boulevard including Catalans and expats. After the club closes (6-7am) you can head to the beach and watch the sun rise on the boardwalk.
Recommended for La Rambla’s Best Nightlife because: Boulevard is THE club on La Rambla that can’t be overlooked
Sam’s expert tip: Get a flyer handed out on the street, for drink and entrance discounts
Read more about Boulevard Barcelona →
Meet Sam Mednick
Sam’s passion for the sea and mountains makes Barcelona the optimal living destination.
Sam’s love for traveling has taken her to Africa, the Middle East, Europe and South America. Before… More About Sam
Best areas of Barcelona + map
For your next stay in Catalonia, do you know where to stay in Barcelona to visit and where are the best areas in Barcelona ?
This is what all tourists ask themselves before choosing a hotel or rental in Barcelona. Indeed, everyone knows that there are red-light districts in Barcelona that are best avoided.
Based on reliable information obtained from the local media, business press, forums and statistics, below I compare the different areas of Barcelona. To find them, I have attached an interactive Google map. Thus, you will distinguish areas to avoid in Barcelona and are the best areas to stay in as a tourist.
Is Barcelona a dangerous city?
no : Barcelona residents and people who know the city well will tell you that no, Barcelona is not a dangerous city. They feel safe there and don’t want to hear that there is danger in some parts of Barcelona.
yes : Even if in 2023 Barcelona will not be one of the most criminal cities in Europe like Minsk, Marseille, Catania, Montpellier, Naples, Paris ou London, it is still at the top Crime rating of 2023 European cities according to Numbeo 156 .
In fact, Barcelona would be the 35th most crime city out of 156 with a crime index of 46.23.
However, the subjectivity of this classification must be taken into account. Indeed, these statistics are established with the help of opinions and feelings of Internet users and not with official data on insecurity or crime.
And when it’s unsafe in Barcelona, it’s only in certain parts of the city. Apart from a few Barcelona red light district , the city is no more dangerous than Madrid , Florence, Berlin or New York .
Map of the surroundings of Barcelona
The city is so large and vast that it is difficult to see the different areas of Barcelona. Here is a map that can be enlarged to find areas to avoid and the best areas in Barcelona .
Dangerous areas of Barcelona
Before contacting you, best areas in Barcelona , let’s see which areas are best to avoid for tourists.
In fact, even if Barcelona is not considered a dangerous city in terms of crime, it is nevertheless known for its high levels of theft, robbery, human trafficking and petty crime.
And these are the tourists during their Barcelona tour who will suffer first.
Discover areas that tourists can look to and avoid when choosing accommodation.
Barcelona and pickpockets
There are pickpockets in all tourist cities of Europe and the world. And strategic places for pickpockets are obviously the main tourist sites of the city:
- La Sagrada Familia
- Barry Gothic
- Barcelona Cathedral
- Rambla
- Boqueria Market
- Plaza Catalunya
- Passeig de Gracia
- Casa Batlló
- La Casa Mila
- Park Guell
Tourists should be careful to avoid problems, especially in the historic centre, shops, restaurants and public transport.
Hot areas in Barcelona
Here are the main places that are considered the hottest in Barcelona (non-exhaustive list):
- El Raval area : This popular and very lively area, located near Barri Gothic, is the least safe in Barcelona , especially at night.
- Barceloneta district – This area and its beach are very popular with young tourists who come to Barcelona to party. This is an old fishing area that has changed with the arrival of party people. Today it brings together many bars, pubs, restaurants, clubs …
- Las Ramblas – This famous avenue is a favorite meeting place for many pickpockets who walk along it disguised as tourists. Late at night, it can also be a meeting place for petty criminals, drug dealers and prostitutes.
Where to stay in Barcelona to visit?
. the safest neighborhoods in Barcelona et the best places to visit are located in the city center but in residential areas: -Gracia and visits to many good restaurants that are considered the best.
It is in this area that the most beautiful squares and streets of the city are located: Rambla de Catalunya, Plaza Catalunya, Paseo de Gracia, Carrer Aragon, Plaza de la Sagrada Familia, etc. Open-air museum. Indeed, Art Nouveau is present on every corner, on all facades and balconies (wood, glass, ceramics, wrought iron, etc.).
But you should know that in the 2nd district of the 1st district. Actually this is the area. Eixample Esquerra (left to right) and surroundings Eixample Dreta (right).
Eixample Dreta
The right side of the Eixample includes Paseo de Gracia, where Gaudí’s Casa Mila and Casa Batlló are located. And for shopaholics, there is the largest selection of fashion boutiques and famous brands. See my advice to find out where to shop in Barcelona .
Eixample Esquerra: the best area in the world!
This is not me, but the famous English review Time Out . After polling more than 38 residents of major cities around the world, they chose Barcelona and its Eixample Esquerra area. The selection criteria were gastronomy, culture, good life, tranquility, solidarity between neighbors, as well as nightlife. See the article: https://www.timeout.com/coolest-neighbourhoods-in-the-world
Best neighborhood in Barcelona – Gràcia
Gràcia is a safe and pleasant area in the center of Barcelona. Not close to the historic center, it is ideal for visiting Casa Vicens, Casa Milà and Sagrada Familia.
Less known to tourists, this area is slightly cheaper than elsewhere in Barcelona. However, this area is interesting because it has retained all its authenticity, with its cute little squares, good shops and bars where locals go.
The best areas of Barcelona – Sarrià
This calm, quiet and residential area is ideal for a holiday or business trip. It is here that most of the Catalan bourgeoisie lives. Located away from the tourist attractions of Barcelona, it is very well served by public transport.
Where to choose a hotel in Barcelona?
The most beautiful hotels, of course, can be found in the most beautiful areas of Barcelona! But there are also small inexpensive hotels.
Therefore, I recommend good accommodation in the Eixample area, which is conveniently located for visiting Barcelona. Indeed, The h20 Catalunya Plaza Boutique Hotel is located on the famous Plaza Catalunya and 200 meters from Las Ramblas! In addition, next to the subway.
Recommended hotel in Barcelona
You hesitate to visit Barcelona…why not visit Amsterdam , Rome , Venice , Paris ou Lisbonne ?
Barcelona tourist information | Russian guide in Barcelona
Arriving here for the first time, you will be fascinated by Barcelona. The capital of Catalonia is a city of art, beauty and culture. The inhabitants of Barcelona have been creating the image of the city for centuries, we must give them their due, they did it. I think there is no person in the world who has not heard about the Barcelona football club, about the great architect Gaudi, about Salvador Dali, about the “living statues” on Las Ramblas, about the great navigator Columbus.
Stroll through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, through the squares of Catalunya and Spain, along Montjuic and Tibidabo, take pictures with the Sagrada Familia in the background, listen to the musicians, look at the street clowns, drink coffee or dine in one of the many restaurants, watching the townspeople and tourists , visit the night bars in the Gothic quarter. I promise you will have a lot of fun.
Barcelona Attractions
There really is something to see in Barcelona. Let’s look at its main attractions. Gothic quarter – a city quarter, which, due to its buildings, is usually called “Gothic”. Most tourists go to Barcelona to see this beautiful style. Narrow, twisted streets add a certain mystique to the area. Mount Montjuic is only 173 meters, and what fame! This hill strongly attracts not only tourists, but also ordinary residents. There are many interesting places here. It hosted the 19 Summer Olympics92 years old Sagrada Familia is another wonder of Barcelona that really attracts people from other countries. The temple has been under construction for over 100 years. The unique design sharply distinguishes it from other buildings. Construction began in the distant 1882 and continues to this day. Since 2010, after the consecration of the Sagrada Familia by the Pope, services have been regularly held there.
Parc Güell is a very famous park in the upper part of Barcelona, which he designed in 1900-1914 years old architect Gaudí. Only 17 hectares of area managed to turn into real beauty in the hands of this Catalan architect. Barcelona as a football team. Almost all sports fans associate the city of Barcelona with the football club of the same name. Of course, the Barcelona football club has become the best football team in the world over the years of its existence.
TOURIST TRIPS TO BARCELONA
Nowadays, tours to Barcelona are very popular, so booking a tour to Barcelona will not be difficult for you. Important elements of the city are the mountains and the sea. Rest will be wonderful, as the water temperature in the sea is very acceptable. There are many beautiful places in Barcelona. Before arriving in the city, you can plan excursions. Thankfully there are a lot of them. The most profitable hotels in Barcelona are 3 and 4 stars. They stand out for their low prices. Most tourists can afford such accommodation. You will find accommodation according to your abilities.
Information about Barcelona
Population – 1.6 million people
languages - Spanish, Catalan
hours of work – usually from 9.30 to 13.30 days and from 16.30 to 20.00
Working days of Monday – Friday, but there is there many holidays on which everything is closed.
Currency – Euro
Large supermarkets and shopping centers do not close for lunch.
EMERGENCY
112-all services
092 police
061 – ambulance
All planes arriving in Barcelona arrive at El Prat Airport, which has 2 terminals, T-1 and T-2. From the airport you can get to Barcelona by taxi, bus, train or use a transfer with a Russian-speaking driver who will meet you at the arrivals hall.
Prices are 1.5 times cheaper than a taxi. You can order a transfer here.
A bus ticket costs 12 euros. Will take you to the northern bus station Estasio del Nord. Travel time 1 hour 10 minutes. From this station there are buses in all directions.
It is better to travel in the city by metro, having bought a ticket for 2 days for 11.20€ or for 3 days for 15.90€. You can combine the metro with buses and the new tram system, and walk on foot, so you will see Barcelona in all its glory.
Buy a city map showing all the sights. You can walk around the city all day and still not see even 10 parts of the beauties of Barcelona.
First of all, visit the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, the Rambla, Plaza Catalunya, the Gothic Quarter with its cathedral and churches, the Barceloneta promenade, the Palace of Catalan Music, Mount Montjuic with a fortress and a botanical garden, Mount Tibidabo with a temple and the oldest in Europe amusement park, the Nou Camp stadium with the Barcelona football club museum, the Ciutadella park, the zoo and the aquarium, the Singing Fountains in Plaza España, visit the Spanish Village, where you will see the work of glassblowers, potters and blacksmiths.
For all of the above, it is most convenient to use the services of “Bus-Touristik”, which has several routes covering the entire city, and also has an audio guide.
USEFUL ADDRESSES
Sagrada Familia: The grandiose cathedral created by Goudi
Address : Torrent de l’Olla, 78 Phone : +34 93 518 18 03
Prices from 3€
Cheap restaurants
These restaurants with a wonderful menu of the day (including wine) with a good discount.
CuinesSantaCaterina, 4 different cuisines: Asian, Mediterranean,
Italian and vegetarian.
Address : Avinguda de Francesc Cambó, 20
Phone : +33 – 93.268.99.18
Los Caracoles
Typical Catalan restaurant specializing in paella and rice
Address : C/ 9004 dellers: C/ 9004 dellers 1 Escu 900 900 2 Phone: +34 933 023 185
Mid-range restaurants
Prices from 30€ to 50€
Very good restaurants
Vinya Roel is a restaurant with vintage vintage wines in Barcelona,
where you can taste traditional Catalan cuisine in combination
with a huge selection of wines.
Address: C/Villaroel, 190-192
Phone: +34 93 430 72 79
Cinc Sentits
Cinc Sentits (The Five Senses) is one of Barcelona’s finest restaurants. Creative
dishes, but with great taste…
Address: aribau, 58 Phone: +34 93 323 9490
Expensive restaurants
Prices – from 50€
Prices bite, but worth it
Alkimia
Best Catalan cuisine
Address: C/ Indústria tel. 115
CasaCalvet
The restaurant is located in a building built by the great Gaudi – LaCasaCalvet.
mediterranean cuisine.
Address: Casp, 48 Phone: (+34) 93 412 40 12.
Bars
Macarena Mar Beach Club0007
Address: Port Forum / Phone: 34 933 560 328
Mantra exotic place
Address: Salvà, 21 / Phone: 93 441 59 90
Torre Rosa delicious mojito and beautiful place
France, Trrega2 Phone: 93.340.88.54
I recommend bars in Barcelona.
Nightclubs for nightlife
Sala Becool cool electronic music
Address: Pl. Joan Llongueras, 5 / Phone: 93 362 04 13
Sala Apolo one of the best restaurants in the city,
Indie electronic music
Address: Nou de la Ramblal, 113 / Phone: 93 441 40 01
LuzdeGas
Address: Muntaner 246 / Phone: 00 34 93 209 77 11
7
Address: C/ Almogavers 122
Address: Sicilia, 286 / Phone : 00 34 932073031
La Pedrera: An unusual building designed by Gaudí. Located at
“Passeig de Gracia”
Address: C. Provença, 261-265. / Phone : 00 34 93 484 59 00
Santa Maria del Mar : Church, Gothic in the XIV century from
famous stained glass windows. Address: Plaça de Santa Maria
MACBA : Barcelona Museum of Modern Art
Address: Pl. Dels Angels, 1. (el Raval) / Phone :00 34 93 412 08 10
Picasso Museum (La Ribera, El Born)
Address: C. Montcada, 15-23 / Phone : 93 319 63 10
Las Ramblas and Gothic Quarter
Port Velle, Barcelona and Port Olympique
Nou Camp: Barcelona Football Club Stadium.