Located close to the Gothic Quarter, El Raval and the seafront, this apartment is in the perfect spot to explore Barcelona on foot. It's an equally relaxing place to return to with sore feet, too. The living area feels instantly bright and inviting, thanks to the large windows, reflective wood floors and white furnishings. This sense of calm continues through to the bedrooms and bathrooms, which are simply appointed but tastefully so — colours and patterns are rationed to great effect and the presence of rainfall showers are welcome, too. When you fancy exploring, there are ten art galleries that can be reached in a quarter of an hour's walk, while you can go from your front door to the Mediterranean Sea in just over thirty-five minutes.

Home truths:
* Six guests can stay in this apartment, but the last two will be sleeping on a sofa bed in the living room
*There's an elevator in the building to reach this home on the fourth floor and the interior is step-free, too
*A crib can be provided by the host if requested beforehand
*At least one member of the group has to be at least thirty years old
*There's no private car parking space, but Paral-lel metro station is only three minutes' walk away