A van hit crowds in the heart of Barcelona on Thursday killing at least 13 people and injuring more than 80 in an attack claimed by Daish militants.

Several have been killed or wounded after a van ploughed into dozens of people in Barcelona, in what police are calling a "massive crash".

An armed manhunt underway for the driver who authorities say fled on foot. They're treating it as an attack, although the motive isn't immediately clear.

Social media showing people scrambling to get away from the area. Emergency services have shut down public transport in the vicinity.

The incident happened on Las Ramblas avenue, a busy area for pedestrians packed with tourists.

An estimated 11 million tourists visit the city every year.

The crash would add to a wave of militant attacks across Europe, many using vehicles as their weapon.

Over 100 have been killed in the last year using this tactic.