Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Neighbourhood Top Five
Learning about the Romans, Muslims, feudal lords and civil war freedom fighters in
the proud and interactive
Museu d'Història de Catalunya
; afterwards, head to the rooftop for
a meal with panoramic views.
Stepping back in time in the Gothic shipyards of the
Museu Marítim
.
Walking through the eerie shark tunnel inside the massive
l'Aquàrium
.
Frolicking in the sea off the sands of
Platja de la Nova Mar Bella
.
Taking a
bike ride
walking tour
along the beachside promenade from Barceloneta to
Parc del Fòrum.
Explore: Barceloneta & the Waterfront
Barcelona's long, sun-drenched waterfront provides a pleasant escape when you need a
break from Gothic lanes and Modernisme. Heading northeast from the old city, you'll soon
find yourself amid tempting seafood restaurants and waterfront bars, with a palm-lined
promenade taking cyclists, joggers and strollers out to the beaches running some 4km up to
Parc del Fòrum.
At the foot of La Rambla, Port Vell is where many visitors first lay eyes on Barcelona's
slice of the Mediterranean. This transformed area, once an industrial wasteland, draws locals
and tourists alike who come to stroll the peaceful pedestrian bridge of Rambla de Mar,
which leads out to the shops and restaurants in Maremàgnum mall and the first-rate aquari-
um next door. Several small parks and plazas provide fine vantage points.
East of there lie upscale, open-air restaurants overlooking a marina and one of the city's
best museums for learning about the Catalan experience, the Museu d'Historia de Catalunya.
Nearby is Barceloneta, an old fishing quarter laid out in the mid-18th century with narrow
gridlike lanes criss-crossed with laundry in the breeze. The few tourists venturing here stick
mostly to the outdoor restaurants lining Passeig de Joan de Borbo. For something a little
more memorable, head into the narrow lanes, which are dotted with festive tapas bars, old-
fashioned seafood joints and bohemian drinking spots. Traditional sights are few on the
ground here; most visitors come to wander the streets and eat and drink.
Where Barceloneta abuts the water, you'll find open-air restaurants offering views out
over the promenade and the beaches beyond. On summer days the area fills with sunseekers,
