La Rambla

Life in the old part of Barcelona revolves round this busy street that runs from Plaça Catalunya down to the Columbus Monument in the port.The central promenade is full of souvenir stalls, florists, kiosks, caricature artists, human statues and, above all, tourists strolling in the shade of its tall trees.

La Rambla is the main thoroughfare through Ciutat Vella and one of Barcelona's symbols, the spot where many tourists set out on their tour of the city.To the left is the Raval district, traditionally home to many of the city's immigrants, and to the right is the Gothic quarter, with the city's most beautiful mansions and churches.On La Rambla you'll find the Liceu, Barcelona's opera house, the famous Boqueria market and the entrance to Plaça Reial, with its porticoed sides, tall palm trees and its array of bars and restaurants.