Barcelona's old town is full of wonders, and one of its most special areas is undoubtedly the Raval quarter.
Located next to Las Ramblas, thousands of tourists walk through this lively neighborhood every day, filled with urban art exhibitions and galleries, small and vintage shops, museums, and restaurants serving dishes from all corners of the world.
El Raval has changed a lot in the last decades, becoming one of the trendiest areas of the city which is frequented by visitors from all over the world. You will be surprised by all the culture and history you can find in its streets, so come and discover them!
These are some of the best plans to do in El Raval
If you're in Barcelona for a few days, you can't miss the incredible entertainment that this multicultural neighborhood has to offer. Here's a list of plans to do in the Raval, so that you will never get bored here.
Visit La Boqueria
An essential stop for anyone visiting Barcelona, La Boqueria market is one of the greatest spots in El Raval. Here you will find all kinds of fresh produce, snacks and tapas restaurants. It's a gastronomic experience you can’t miss, and the best place to find a delicious souvenir of your trip.
Stroll along Rambla del Raval
Although the Raval itself is home to Barcelona's famous Las Ramblas, it is well worth taking a stroll along this other major avenue. The Rambla del Raval is a regular meeting point for young and old in the neighborhood, and a small oasis of calm which gets easily enlivened when the bars and restaurants are full in the evening.
Discover the world from its restaurants
The Raval is full of international food establishments. In its bars and restaurants, it is possible to try all kinds of original dishes and take a tour of the world's main cuisines.
Go to the MACBA and CCCB
In the heart of the Raval you will find two of the city's most important modern art museums: the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA) and the Centre of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona (CCCB). Make the most of your trip and visit some of their interesting temporary exhibitions.
Buy vintage clothes
One of coolest things to do in the Raval is to go treasure hunting in the many second-hand shops hidden in its streets. You'll be entertained for hours and, if you're lucky, you will take back home a few vintage bargains.
Experience Raval by night
The iconic venues of Raval are some of the liveliest in the city when night falls. The neighborhood’s narrow streets are lined with bars, terraces, exclusive cocktail bars, nightclubs, and dance halls. Choose one or more and experience the authentic Barcelona nightlife.
Your hotel to discover the Raval of Barcelona
Looking for accommodation for your holidays in Barcelona? Just a stone's throw from Raval you will find the Grand Hotel Central, your best option to enjoy a luxury stay in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, just a few minutes' walk from Las Ramblas and Paseo de Gracia.
Our centrally located 5-star boutique hotel in Barcelona offers the best services for you to relax after a long day of sightseeing in El Raval and other areas of the city. Enjoy one of the massages and treatments at our Único Spa or sip cocktails with incredible views of the city at our rooftop Sky Bar. And if you are still hungry, visit the Bistro Helena restaurant for an excellent selection of seasonal Mediterranean dishes.
Do not wait any longer, make your reservation at Grand Hotel Central and experience an unforgettable stay in Barcelona.
