I am thinking of meeting a friend in Barcelona in June for three nights. I have not even commenced any research yet but thought I would post a quick enquiry as to the most suitable area to stay in. We want to be near the action but not on top of it. about a 10mins walk from the restaurants, shops. I realise like all cities everyone has a view but any recommendations to get me started would be helpful.
Also any ideas about hotels, mid range - 120E a night perhaps? (for room twin share). I have looked at Five Rooms recommended by Trip Advisor, but my friend feels it is a bit expensive for her.
Some ideas to get me going please. Some hightlights please. I am in the middle of moving so my "real" research will have to wait a couple of weeks until I am settled.
Schnauzer

120euros/n for June may be a bit low. Area-wise, I'd choose either El Born or near Placa Catalunya.

I'd second El Born or east of Placa Catalunya. North of there will get pricier. If you're adventurous, El Raval may be suitable.
You may be able to get a small apartment for that price in any of those sections.

Since your implying you don't want to be near that dreaded (by some) Las Ramblas then I suggest anywhere "above" the Placa Catalunya..there are actually hotels on that square as well as within easy walking distance along the Gran Via and other major streets.

The most important Barcelona info you need is that this seems to be, along with Madrid, the street crime capital against tourists in Europe - here you have not only pickpockets like in many large cities but muggings - there have been several threads about this and folks being mugged - wear no valuables, etc. and be vigilant - it does not nearly happen to everyone of course but even natives on those threads dictate extreme caution in this den of street crime (often by non-Catalan drug addicts it seems) - Caveat Emptor!

While I know there are lots of warnings, such as Palenque made above, but IMO Barcelona is well worth taking the basic precautions. DW and I were there a year ago, walked many of the main streets and touristy sites and never had a problem. In fact we're heading back in October and hope for the same great time.

Barcelona is a great city..
I would stay away from Raval and Ramblas.
L Born is hip and very crowded at night.
Eixample "above" PC is a good place, you might wish to take a look at apartments
www.habitatapartments.com

There is a wealth of valuable information about Barcelona at www.maribelsguides.com. Lots of hotel suggestions in the different neighborhoods.

I enjoyed staying in the Eixample a few blocks north of the Placa Catalunya. Plenty of shops and restaurants and the Gaudi buildings nearby.

El Born is a gentrifying old neighborhood full of interesting shops and restaurants where it would also be fun to stay.

As above, Maribels Guide is great- - Print it off. I would not lose sleep worrying about pick-pockets etc. Just take the precautions you would in any large city.

Agree with leuk2, take usual precautions, avoid sketchy places at night and be especially watchful on the Metro.

El Born is a good choice but watch for places with street noise. Lots to do, easy walk to many sights, which is important on a short stay like this. An apartment may fit your needs and your three days is the usual minimum, although some will require longer in June.

There also are places in the cathedral area that might fit the bill.

ron
www.likelivingthere.com

Right next door to the 5 rooms is Hostal Goya. I have not stayed there but have heard good things about it as a basic, clean comfortable place, cheap for its neighborhood.

wow, spend all day packing boxes and what happens? Heaps of great responses!! Thanks to everyone for all the great tips and links. I will look at them all and see what I can come up and maybe ask some more detailed questions later.
thanks again, Schnauzer