Las Ramblas (Barcelona)

There are few streets in Europe which have gained quite such an iconic status as Barcelona's Las Ramblas. It may not have the elegance of a Champs-Elysee or the enchanting history of one of Prague's cobbled lanes, for example, but for sheer atmosphere and energy, it cannot be matched. It comprises a one mile stretch of central Barcelona from the regal square of Placa Catalunya southwards to the Christopher Columbus monument at Port Vell. It is the most popular street in the city and always a quintessential part of short breaks in Barcelona.  

 

Las Ramblas is essentially a central pedestrianised island which cuts through traffic, ensuring a leisurely time browsing the weird and wonderful wares of famous La Boqueria street market or the innumerable street artists and buskers. It is filled with small kiosks, flower sellers and stallholders selling everything under the sun from inexpensive artwork to cheap tourist tat. Take a short stroll along its length during weekend breaks in Barcelona and you will encounter some eclectic sights. There is a wax museum, the grand Liceu Opera Theatre, a museum of erotica and even a pavement mosaic by iconic Spanish artist Joan Miro.

 

Come nightfall it is no less animated and several trendy bars and clubs have sprung up in the vicinity. You can expect a very lively atmosphere until the early hours. To get to and from other parts of the city is easy as there are three metro stops right on Las Ramblas and it is just a short walk to the tourist buses based at Placa Catalunya. Whatever your interests on cheap city breaks in Barcelona, you can enjoy it all in small measures on Las Ramblas. It is a vibrant spot for drinking and dancing, there is some intriguing architecture in view and kids will love the animated pace of life that makes it such a special place.