There is something for everyone in fascinating Barcelona, capital of the semi-autonomous Spanish state of Catalonia.

Here are major neighborhoods:

    Ciutat Vella (Old City): This large area includes El Born, La Ribera and the Barri Gotic. Here are many of the finest sights, including the Barcelona Cathedral and other churches, remnants of the Roman wall and winding medieval streets. There also are lively bars and fine restaurants, the touristy Las Ramblas and several museums. This area has the most to offer within convenient walking distances, but it can be crowded, so the choice of an apartment can hinge on the kind of traveler you are. There are quiet, multi-bedroom places for families and chic studios for partiers. The El Born section is a favorite with young people, with bars lining Passeig del Born. But it's also home to the Picasso Museum and many fine tapas restaurants and unique shops.

    El Raval: Variously described as "trendy" and "gritty," this is the heart of Barcelona's immigrant community. That can make it intimidating, particularly at night, although serious crime is not common. Edgy nightclubs here cater to young travelers. The city has taken steps to clean up the area, including creation of the Rambla del Raval, a boulevard with sidewalk dining and frequent markets and events. The modern art museum is at the edge of this district.

    La Barceloneta: A quite congested neighborhood near the beach (but few properties are actually on the beach), this is best for those who will spend their nights on the town or in nearby bars. A fun place to share paella with a view of the sea. More beaches are found near Port Olympic and Poble Nou.

    L’Eixample: A transitional neighborhood between Barri Gotic and the laid back Gracia, Eixample is a residential/commercial blend, generally north of Placa Catalunya. Prices tend to be highest on or near Passeig de Gracia, which in addition to exclusive stores is lined with modernista buildings, including two of Gaudi’s best-known, Casa Batllo and La Pedrera. Less boisterous than the Barri Gotic but still lively, the western part adjoins the university district.

    Gracia: A residential neighborhood that was a separate town until 1900. Relatively untouched by tourism, it is filled with small restaurants and shops, including local craftsmen. It’s also the place to find authentic local bars and clubs. Gaudi’s Parc Guell is at Gracia’s northern edge and Sagrada Familia is to the east.

    Poble Nou and Port Olympic: At the shore are facilities built for the 1992 Olympic sailing events and many newer performing arts venues, restaurants and bars. Poble Nou is a typical neighborhood of residences and local business. The Diagonal Mar section is being gentrified and the government is attempting to remake it into a 21st century high-technology community. Beaches are strung along the coast.

    Placa de Espanya area: This is business traveler territory, with less street-level activity for the leisure set. Worth visiting for the Font Majica and its spectacular display, several quality museums and, up above, Montjuic, site of the main Olympic venues (and more museums).