We are cocerned that Rick Steves (in Spain 2010) refers to the bottom of the Ramblas as a seedy neighborhood and yet does not demark where it begins. we will be staying at the Hotel Gaudi on C/Nou del la Rambla across the street from the Palau Guell. Can anyone tell us about that neighborhood?
Thanks
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23601 posts
The bottom of the Ramblas is near the docks/shore. If you move east or west from there it becomes more seedy but I don't think of the Ramblas, itself, being very seedy at the bottom. We were just there in September and thought the area was much cleaner that on two other previous visits. The police were everywhere when we were there. Thought the whole area had a much safer feel but we never felt particularly unsafe on other trips.
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
That area SW of the Ramblas has a slightly dodgy rep. I didn't have any hassle when I was there a couple of years ago but it would be worth keeping your wits about you.
Posted by
baton rouge, la, US
269 posts
I agree that the Ramblas itself isn't too bad (aside from general pickpocket concerns). But I wouldn't wander too far off it toward the port end, just to be safe. Honestly, just keep your wits about you and don't do anything you wouldn't do at home. We've stayed out late around Las Ramblas before and didn't have any problems.
Posted by
S.F. Bay Area, CA, United States
1878 posts
As long as you stay right on the Ramblas and don't stay out too late you will be o.k. If you are out late you are better off around the top of the Ramblas. Down toward the bottom it gets deserted in a creepy way toward 11pm at least on a weeknight.
I always feel as if I have to look over my shoulder in Barcelona, and this is not just based upon what you read in the guidebooks. I have had creepy incidents happen, one at midday in Barceloneta in 2005 and one later at night near the foot of the Ramblas this past January. It's more about thievery by stealth than any sort of violence though.
Posted by
Chicago, IL, US
96 posts
I've walked down Las Ramblas to the bottom, and found that it was perfectly safe. In fact, both my wife and I felt perfectly safe in Barcelona at all times of day. I think if you simply utilize the same common sense that you would in any major metropolitan area, you'll be fine. Enjoy the city - it's an incredible place!
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
There's nothing wrong with any part of the Ramblas. I had to nudge a sleeping drunk off of my car tire early one morning so I could get going, but that wasn't especially life-threatening.