Port Vell and La Barceloneta - Barcelona & the Sea - is a great opportunity to discover Barcelona's maritime presence and explore the city's seaside attractions. First, you'll climb aboard a boat for a pleasant harbor tour of Barcelona's famous Port Vell. Once back on land, we'll take a walk along the beaches of La Barceloneta.
Port Vell & Harbor Cruise
You'll find Port Vell - "Old Port" - at the bottom of Las Ramblas; you'll know you're there when you hit the glistening sea and see the towering monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. The area surrounding the port has been home to all of Barcelona's maritime activity for the lengthy trajectory of the city's history... all the way back to Roman times! In more recent times the docks and their surroundings have been totally revamped and modernized; in addition to the sailboats and yachts anchored in the port, there's now an aquarium, an IMAX theater and a big multilevel shopping and dining complex. On a nice day, Port Vell provides an excellent area to stroll or kick back with a cool treat and revel in the atmosphere.
La Barceloneta
Amble along the spacious Passeig de Colom, which runs northeast of Port Vell and eventually you'll run into the Passeig Maritim, a seaside promenade of sorts that signals the begining of the beaches of La Barceloneta. With the glistening Mediterranean in front of you and one of the world's coolest cities behind you, La Barceloneta is a favorite spot for sunbathing, swimming or having a snack or drink at any of the myriad "chiringuitos" (beachside establishments with outdoor tables selling drinks and food)