The Columbus Monument stands at the foot of La Rambla where the boulevard meets the harbour. Built in 1888 for the Universal Exhibition, the 60-metre column is topped by a bronze statue of Columbus pointing out to sea. A small lift inside the column takes you up to an enclosed viewing gallery just below the statue.
The panorama from the top is one of the best ways to get your bearings in Barcelona. To the north, the rooftops of the Gothic Quarter and the Eixample stretch toward the Sagrada Familia. East lies the Port Vell marina and the beaches running up to the Olympic Village. South, the hill of Montjuic rises with its castle, gardens, and Olympic Ring. West, the Collserola hills form the city's green backdrop.
The viewing platform is small and can feel cramped when busy. Go early or late to avoid the worst queues. Metro Drassanes (L3) drops you right at the base.