Cristina's home was THE perfect place to stay for our trip to Barcelona. Situated in the mountains just outside the sprawling city, it's away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still close enough to be very convenient. The train station is a short walk from the home, and it's a short train ride into the city. Placa Catalunya is the main station in the heart of downtown Barcelona, and there are connecting lines from Placa Catalunya to anywhere you'd want to go. Although we rented a car, we did use the train for downtown touring; you don't want to drive downtown. My suggestion is to get a T-10 Zone 1 ticket. You can buy them from a vending machine at the train station near the home. Buy some euros in case your credit card doesn't work. Mine did not work at vending machines, but my friend's did. At Placa Catalunya, you can purchase tickets for a hop on/hop off bus tour. We used the rental car to get to places outside the city such as Salvador Dali's home in Cadaques, some wineries, and the Monastery of Montserrat. You can also take the train from the Placa Catalunya station to Montserrat. If you rent a car, get a small one! The roads in the mountains around Cristina's home are very narrow and winding. Driving on those was an adventure in itself! There are some toll booths on the interstate, another reason to have euros. As for Cristina's home, it was fabulous! We cooked many meals in the well-equipped kitchen. We were able to drive to the supermarket, but I believe there may be train stops near the home for grocery shopping. Cristina would know. There is a washer and dryer onsite so we were each able to pack for 10 days in a carry-on. As far as Cristina's house, it is not just a place to hang your hat for the night. It is home! She has made it such a cozy place for travelers. The view of the sunsets and mountains from the terraces are breath-taking. When it's hard to leave, you know you stayed at a fine place. Thanks for everything, Cristina. You and your neighbor, Ursula, are the best.