Barcelona Expert's is this true??

[rach912]

I have recently just booked a trip to barcelona which is located on La Rambla which I thought was ideal as people on a website I use called trip adviser said this was at the centre of it all so to speak.....however I just looked again on trip adviser and someone who has just come back from there desribed la rambla as

"kind of grungy - it's like a street fair and not quaint at all"

I have never been to Barcelona before so wondered if those who have could comment on what they thought of la rambla, this trip is for my partners birthday and I want it to be perfect.

[jimmyb01]

La Rambla is perfect, street performers, outdoor cafe's, exclusive shopping. You could not have chosen a better location, near the beach, near the Art Gallery. There is no better location in this great City.

[netibiza]

La Rambla or Las Ramblas is the perfect place to be.  I lived there in early 70's and it was grotty but now it's upmarket and terrific fun

[Chillum]

it's fantastic. Gets a bit seedy towards the harbour end in the early hours, but even that's interesting.

[CT]

I've stayed in a hostel just off Las Ramblas. Lively street, loads to see/do. Fairly near to loads of places. Can be a bit expensive, but just go down the side streets for cheaper alternatives.

[acw]

I saw Las Ramblas in 1993, the Easter after the Olympics were in Barcelona, and again in 2000 (I think).  Both times I thought it was wonderful.  And here they have what I always think of as the "original" human statues.  If you're a big animal lover, you might not like the cages rammed with poor little birds.  But otherwise it's an amazing street and a good spot to stay. 

Also - may I reccommend Gaudi's house?  As you'll no doubt go to the Sagrada Familia, you'll be very close by.  The house is wonderul, especially the roof.  Also - if you go to the Picasso museum, don't expect to see so much of the work he's most famous for.  Most of the stuff on display is his earlier, less famous work. 

Have a lovely holiday! :-)

[Toffee]

I agree with everyone else, but a word of caution. I don't want to put you off and I'm sure you'll have a great time. My wife was mugged just off the Ramblas earlier this year and lost passports, mobile, a credit card and a bit of cash, aswell as suffering extensive bruising. I was only a few yards away but these young guys work in pairs and are so fast. Leave everything you don't need in the Hotel safe and find an alternative to a handbag -- e.g a belt. You can with a little thought both have a great time and be safe. Enjoy yourselves.