Boardwalk / Promenade / StreetRamblas

My friend and I went to Barcelona origionally for 3 days and to be honest I was a bit worried about what I had heard about La Ramblas. However, we stayed in a cracking hostel (Hostel Fina) The staff were so friendly and went out of their way to make us feel welcome.

We loved La Ramblas, the street performers, the breakdancers, the friendly staff and mix of people. It is best to look for places to eat and drink away from La Ramblas as this street is totally tourist based and you will be charged a lot more that you should be.

If you are in Barcelona for clubbing stay away from the club promoters on La Ramblas and head to Port Olympic (at the end of the beach, a 20-30 min walk) Catwalk, Shoko and Baja are amazing! You'll also get passes for Pacha, etc if you are chilling out on the beach as promo staff pace it regularly.

The Shopping centre on the Port also has a great selection of
bars/clubs (top level of shopping centre)

Regarding the bad reputation for thieving on La Ramblas, just
don't look too touristy. If you are with someone, take one card and only the money you need for that night instead of everything. Make sure you keep hold of your bag all the time, etc! We had no problems when we were there.

It is an amazing place and the fact that we stayed longer than planned proves that. If you are looking for a city with an amazing buzz, somewhere to go out, enjoy the nightlife, shopping, bars, clubs and to meet new people you have to go!