The El Raval neighbourhood is one of the parts of Barcelona’s innermost city centre and lies to the west of La Rambla. The intricate maze of narrow streets invites you to wander aimlessly through this highly distinctive bohemian neighbourhood, where you’ll see many different cultures living side by side in a very small area.

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Barcelona’s “melting pot”

El Raval stands in stark contrast to the neighbouring historic and well-preserved Barri Gòtic district.

Locals refer to this area as Barri Xinés, or Chinatown, although it is also home to large communities from other countries, creating an interesting mix of cultures.

It should be noted that El Raval is by no means a dangerous neighbourhood; you can walk around here at any time of day without any worries.

In fact, El Raval is renownedfor its nightlife. Small bars, restaurants and cabarets stay open until the early hours of the morning, as do various Asian shops.

El Raval is also known for street prostitution, which is, however, legal and quite common in Spain, and so you’ll come across some rather unusual scenes here, where prostitutes, street vendors and locals playing cards on the street late into the night coexist without a hint of embarrassment.

Hotels in El Raval

The neighbourhood is popular for its relatively inexpensive accommodation right in the centre of Barcelona.

You’ll find budget hostels or 1* and 2* hotels here at very reasonable prices. We’d recommend these hotels, for example:

• Hostal Radio Barcelona **
• TOC Hotel Las Ramblas *
• Abba Rambla Hotel ***

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