The apartment, on the secundo level (4th floor) facing the street, is located in a neighborhood full of tapas bars, small markets, and various shops — a 20-minute or so walk south of the top end of La Rambla and Plaça Cataluna. The building does not have an elevator, and the stairs are narrow, so carrying the luggage will be good exercise, perhaps too much for some. With a metro/bus stop just a block away and a taxi stand on the corner, accessing the city is easy. One of the bus routes goes to the beach.
The apartment has two bedroom and two bathrooms (one with a tub), a living/dining area, and kitchen with stove and microwave. The bedrooms face the street and have small balconies. The street noise was not bothersome during our stay. Aga, the host, provides earplugs, in case the noise is troubling.
Aga provided many personal touches: meeting me before the 3:00 check-in; recommending local places for breakfast, drinks, and dinner; guidance on navigating the metro and trains to get to my meetings; and arranging a taxi to the airport. She checked in during the week, to ensure everything was well, and urged us to reach out with any questions or problems.
As with any home, the apartment comes with a few quirks: close the door quietly, so as not to disturb a sensitive neighbor; turn the hot water on quickly, to start the hot water heater. Yet it's clean and comfortable and in a nice location, providing a local sense of Barcelona. Aga adds a personal touch, caring and helpful.
I would stay here again.