Barcelona Weekend Break
CIUTAT VELLA (District 1)
Barceolona is divided in to a number of different districts which are well know to the locals and the first of these zones is Ciutat Vella, known as district 1.
Ciutat Vella simply means the old city in the regional language of the area and it is a zone that is frequented by tourists. It is probably one of the districts that will be visited and walked through by most foreigners. It has shops, bars, cafes, clubs and restaurants.
The most popular part of the Ciutat Vella old town is the famous la Rambla, a large wide street that bisects much of the city, but there is much more to see than this collection of busy streets, market areas and eateries.
Placa de Catalunya
The placa de Catalunya is a large square in the center of the old town and it is found at the intersection of
(and close to) a number of the city’s most significant streets.
For this reason placa de Catalunya makes a good meeting point, or a good location from which to start or finish an exploration of Ciutat Vella. It is a major city landmark.
The placa de Catalunya is 50,000 sq metres and it has lawn areas along with fountains and civic statues.
The present plaza established in 1902 although changes and refurbishments has subsequently taken place.
La Ribera
Another popular zone within the old town district is a zone called la Ribera which roughly translates to shore. This is one of the oldest parts of Ciutat Vella and it has many buildings and narrow streets that date back several hundred years.
Within this zone you will find sightseeing attractions like the Basilica de Sanat Maria del Mar and the Picasso museum. All told it is a nice area to wonder around although it can get busy during the peak of the holiday season.
El Raval
The el Raval part of the old town is close to the port and it is alternatively seen as either an appealing place to frequent, or an unappealing place to avoid – it depends upon your perspective.
It is a densely populated area and has historically been a home to incoming immigrants from Asia and other parts of Europe. Today almost fifty percent of its population are none Spaniards and there is a large Islamic contingent.
Once this area had a reputation for the seedier aspects of life like prostitution, however today it is better known for its nightlife, bars and restaurants. As such it is a busy and often noisy part of Barcelona city.
From a sightseeing perspective those on a weekend break will find this zone lacking in architecture and things to look at and it is probably an area for those spending more time in Barcelona to explore.
El Gotic
El Gotic, the gothic quarter, can also be found in the old town and it is popular with visitors and holiday makers alike.
This part of Barcelona has much to see ranging from the Cathedral de Santa Eulalia, the Placa Reial, the Basilica de la Merce and many other historic structures. It has some grand buildings and streets like the town hall and some interesting walkways and passageways.
This area enjoys a long history and has some buildings dating back to medieval times. It is also dotted with small squares and plazas and has a real Spanish feel to it.
If you plan to stay in Barcelona, for a short break or a longer holiday, take a look at our hotels page at Hotels in Barcelona. Barcelona quite literally has hundreds of hotels catering for every budget and level of luxury. So whether you want a cheap and cheerful guest house, or a five star hotel, you will find a selection of accommodation that fits your needs in this famous Spanish city.
If you want a cheap flight to Barcelona, or a package including a flight and a hotel you can use the links in the main menu (left) or, for flights, this Travelling to Barcelona link.