Maria's place is very well functioning apartment, nice and clean. Situated with a bakery and a little grossery store around the corner, perfect for a breakfast in the apartment before heading downtown. You can walk downtown but the bus nearby is recommended.
Nearby is the wonderfull Parc Guell - try out the far west point in the parc just before sun down and you will get a stunning view of the city in sundown
Regards Boje