Port Vell, Barcelona

Port Vell, Barcelona

Once an obsolete harbor with empty warehouses and ruined industrial buildings, Port Vell was transformed into a yacht marina and entertainment center for the Barcelona Olympics in 1992.

Once an obsolete harbor with empty warehouses and ruined industrial buildings, Port Vell was transformed into a yacht marina and entertainment center for the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Today, it is a bustling area with shopping centers, entertainment venues, monuments, and a host of things to do.

The Rambla de Mar is a wooden walkway over the water, running from La Rambla to Port Vell with a swing bridge in between. The beginning of the Port area is marked by the Columbus monument, which has a viewing gallery at a height of 50 metres that offers incredible views of the sea and city.

The Palau de Mar is the only surviving 19th century warehouse on the strip. It houses the Museu d'Historia de Catalunya, the Department of Welfare of the Catalan Government, and several restaurants - Cent Focs, Arttic, La Tagliatella, Cafè Catalunya, BarBas, and Pura Brasa Rambla Catalunya.

The Barcelona Aquarium has 11,000 animals across 450 species housed in 35 tanks, and an 80 metre long underwater tunnel that offers close-up views of the marine animals.

Housed in the medieval Gothic complex of Drassanes Reials (Royal Shipyards), the Barcelona Maritime Museum explores Catalan seafaring history and culture. Visitors can also explore the Pailebot Santa Eulàlia schooner moored at the Moll Bosch i Alsina.

The Maremàgnum mall is a popular shopping destination with various retail outlets, a multiplex cinema, bars and restaurants.

You can catch a movie at the IMAX Port Vell, admire the Old Port Authority building, take a picture with the 'El cap de Barcelona' statue, or explore the harbor on a traditional Golondrina from Colón.