bando1

Looking for advice on what area to stay in from those who know Barcelona well. Family with 2 young children. Planning on traveling for a month next July. Looking to be in SAFE area where you can enjoy walk to market, cafes, etc but not too noisy at night and convenient to travel to tourist sites. Would prefer a locals area as opposed to pure tourist trap if possible. I like the idea of the older parts of the city that are limited to pedestrians but not if it means giving up on safety. Also any recommended apartment would be helpful. Thank you.

BigRuss

Think Gracia district, within a couple of blocks of the metro.

Judith_Hunter

My family stayed in this apartment:
http://www.vrbo.com/239622
it's not an old area but very safe, very convenient and lots of neighbourhood activity and shops, cafes etc.
There is a playground behind the building that seemed to be a bit of a hub for young families in the evenings.

BigRuss

Judith's location is good. It is close to the Barri Gotic and the Born district so the semi-pedestrian only areas are nearby.

Lola55

For a month stay, the Gracia area is very quiet and nice. Lots of squares with terraces, small streets, market . Playground on some squares, pedestrian streets
I rented this apartment with a small garden near the Plaza Vireina
Apartment Gracia garden on the website cocoonbarcelona
Metro Joanic very close, at walking distance to the Gaudi Guell Park with a nice view over the city.