We spent an entire week in this apartment, from Saturday evening to the following Sunday morning.
The location is great. It is close to subway and bus stops, making access to the city very convenient. It is also not right in the middle of things, so the streets are quiet and peaceful.
The apartment itself is a nice size, with a big living room (tall ceilings and several places to sit and do things). The kitchen is very small, as are the bedrooms, but if I had to choose, having a large common area is definitely preferable.
Unfortunately, the apartment was a bit of a disappointment as the week progressed and the rental is a perfect example of how the little things can add up to make an overall experience turn negative.
At check-in, we were only offered one key. We had to inconvenience the individual helping with our check-in by taking her key. And then at several instances during the week, deal with coordinating key exchanges or access to the apartment.
Everyday supplies that you expect to be present when renting a home were not available to us. The hand soap container in the bathroom was empty. Only two rolls of toilet paper were provided for a stay that extended across 8 days. And only two towels were provided for the entire stay.
The washing machine that is mentioned in the ad (and that was discussed in exchanges leading up to the rental) is actually outside, taking up precious space on the balcony.
The balcony itself is a major disappointment. Not only is it crammed full of cleaning supplies and a washing machine, but it sits one level over the local school's soccer field. Which means it is constantly the source of noise and activity -- making the balcony the last place you are likely to spend time relaxing.
Finally, though the apartment was generally clean (the floors themselves were immaculate), the kitchen supplies were not. We had to re-wash every plate and glass before use due to residue and food particles that had been left behind.
Overall, I wanted to like this place. The location was quite good. But I didn't feel like I was relaxed at home. A hotel would have been better value for the money, with housekeeping and fresh towels, not to mention a shower that actually works.
The shower in this apartment was probably the worst part of the whole experience -- no reasonable temperature regulation, a tiny area to stand, and a shower curtain that is determined to cling to your body while you battle the temperature controls.
Barcelona is a great city and I hope to return. I will not, however, be staying here again.