We usually write about hidden gems, not that well-known spots in the city, getaways to places nearby to explore beyond Barcelona… But it is true that there are some places that have to be explored in order to get that city vibe, and among them: the main walking streets of Barcelona in the city center.
So here are the 4 main streets of Barcelona for a nice stroll in this vibrant city:
Portal de l’Àngel
Why do we place this street in the first place? Because it holds, actually, a special “title”: Portal de l’Àngel is one of the busiest streets in the city, along with Portaferrissa and Pelai streets. Portal de l’Àngel is the main street for shopping (both national and international popular fashion brands have their main sales point in this street), and also one of the main entry points to one of the neighborhoods that holds many centuries of History: Gòtic neighborhood.
Passeig de Gràcia
One of the most famous streets in Barcelona, which is kind of particular: it hosts some of the most iconic monuments in the city (for instance, La Pedrera or Casa Batlló), but also luxury brand stores. It would be the Spanish equivalent to the 5th Avenue in New York City but way smaller (we love to do these apparently non-sense comparisons :-P). If you walk this street from Diagonal avenue to its end, you will end up in Plaça Catalunya and Portal de l’Àngel street.
Les Rambles
Probably the most famous street, specially for those visiting the city for the first time. Walking this street from Plaça Catalunya to its end will lead you to the sea. Here is what you need to know, which is kind of a challenge: try not to look like a tourist. We have been there and actually know how big of a challenge that is, but check twice before deciding where to go eat paella or tapas (for a local food experience, we recommend you to go explore beyond the city center).
Rambla Catalunya
Here is a tricky one: we are not referring to Les Rambles, but a street which is parallel to Passeig de Gràcia street and leads to Plaça Catalunya: Rambla Catalunya street. While strolling through this avenue you will bump into nice cafe terraces and shops.
But it is quite the same feeling while strolling through the Rambles: both are great avenues to get that nice city vibe, but in terms of diving into a local experience, they might not be the place. Both streets are, at the same time, a true reflection of the many things going on in this big city: people leaving from work, kids having a snack after school, tourists walking and looking up to all those beautiful buildings…
And beyond the main streets of Barcelona, to keep exploring, here is the sweetest one that you can’t miss either: Carrer Petritxol, aimed specially at chocolate lovers ;-)
