9 Things to do in Las Ramblas Barcelona | Spain’s Iconic Street

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Las Ramblas is Barcelona’s most famous street. But why? Because of the many things to do in Barcelona, Las Ramblas perfectly expresses Spain’s atmosphere and the city’s character.

Everyone who visits the city goes there to walk the entire pedestrian avenue from Plaça de Cataluña to the waterfront. But what’s there to do in Las Ramblas?

Here are nine things you should look for when touring this lively avenue in the heart of one of the most visited cities in Europe.

Top Things to do in Las Ramblas Barcelona

Some interesting facts about Barcelona you might need to learn is that while people talk about a pedestrian street, it is five streets.

It ensures hours of fun from live music, street performers, great food, and a deeper look into Spanish culture. Here are the things you must catch while here.

1. Watch the Street Performers

Start your walk along the avenue by looking at the street performers.

Human statues are nothing unique to Las Ramblas. However, what is characteristic of this avenue is the overwhelming amount of statuesque performers found throughout its stretch.

You’ll almost feel like you are walking through a live and interactive open-air sculpture museum.

Since there’s a lot of competition, performers tend to up their game by creating even more outstanding costumes, impressive routines, bigger acrobatic stunts, and more.

2. Eat at La Boqueria Market

La Boqueria is Barcelona’s flagship market. You’ll find the freshest seafood and some of the best local food in the city.

But beyond being a market, La Boqueria also has some excellent tapas restaurants. Naturally, these chefs use garden-fresh ingredients bought at the market.

Since it is a trendy tourist market, you should expect to pay more than usual (contrary to common city markets). But still, it is an experience you shouldn’t skip.

3. Hit Palau de la Virreina and Other Museums

Right on Las Ramblas, the Palau de la Virreina and the Centre d’Art Santa Monica both have contemporary art exhibitions.

But, if contemporary art is not your thing, you can check the wax museum with replicas of famous people (similar to Madame Tussauds) or even peek at the erotic side of Barcelona at their Erotic Museum!

4. See a Show at the Liceu

Built in the 18th century, the Gran Teatre del Liceu is Barcelona’s most famous theater. Though it is famous for opera, you can also see other performances throughout the year.

Between enjoying the enchanting performances, don’t forget to look up. Outside, you have the beautiful facade facing Las Ramblas. While inside, you can see the intricate details in the foyer and roof.

It’s safe to say that this theater celebrates magnificent art in all forms.

5. Get Lost in Barri Gotic

Also known as Barcelona’s “old town” or “Gothic Quarter,” it is the city’s most famous district. In fact, it is also considered one of the best places to stay in Barcelona due to its rich history and old-town charm.

Just walking its narrow, labyrinth-like alleys is an experience in itself. Plus, you can hunt for a few of Gaudí’s buildings hidden in this tight quarter.

You can find great hotels in Barcelona, in both the old and new areas. But I always recommend staying in the heart of the city, the Gothic Quarter.

6. Relax in Plaça Reial

This plaza is slightly off the avenue, but this slight deviation is hands down one of the best things to do near La Rambla.

Plaça Reial has a very picturesque environment, which makes it an excellent place to have a coffee and look at the Gaudí lampposts (the first public works attributed to the architect).

If you’re there by night, watch a flamenco show in Los Tarantos or spend the night in one of its nightclubs.

I highly recommend buying tickets ahead for Los Tarantos as it is one of the most popular flamenco shows in the city. You can buy them online here.

7. Set Aside Some Time for Coffee or Snacks

One of the best things to do in Barcelona, no matter where you are, is to enjoy its food. Las Ramblas is no different.

Many cafés along the avenue still conserve the looks and environment that made them characteristic a century ago. Take a break from walking by going into one of the cafés to snack on some sweets and coffee.

Cafè de l’Òpera and ARTiSA Barcelona are the most popular cafes. Both serve excellent coffee, churros, and cakes. But if you’re looking for something slightly different, go to the eclectic El Bosc de Les Fades.

Its interior looks like a forest and offers great activities like a wax museum and gift shop for an unforgettable time.

8. Look Up at the Architecture

Seeing the city’s unique and iconic architecture is one of my favorite things about Barcelona.

Upon first impression, most buildings might look the same and all commercial on the ground level, but once you look up, the beauty and uniqueness of all those buildings come to life.

Today there’s a mix of primarily historic buildings with a few modern buildings contrasting the scenery.

A building that presents some great contrast to what’s found along the avenue is the Baroque Esglesia de Betlem.

9. Go up the Christopher Columbus Monument

Not too far from Plaça de Catalunya, at the end of Las Ramblas, by the waterfront, is the Columbus Monument. As you can guess, it was dedicated to the famous explorer Christopher Columbus.

The Columbus Monument might look narrow, but you can go up to the tiny viewing tower! You can get one of the best city’s best views from up there, but be aware that it is not for claustrophobic people.

What to Do in Las Ramblas

Indeed, Barcelona’s Las Ramblas is no typical avenue. These five streets cover the Las Ramblas Barcelona market, museums, galleries, shops, bars, and cafes.

So, take your time to enjoy Las Ramblas tours, the local environment, and getting lost in its surroundings. That’s the best way to experience it!