I'm looking to rent an apt in Barcelona for my first time visit. I've done enough research to know that I want to centrally located but now it comes down to personal preference and the feel of the neighborhood.

Ideally, I'm looking for an area that is similar to the 6eme in Paris. We rented an apt off the St. Germaine that was the perfect location for us. I loved the narrow cobblestone streets that made you know you were in Europe, but at the same time it's more quiet and less rowdy then the 5eme. I want to be able to walk out my door and have quick access to markets, bakeries, mom and pop shops. I know I'm a tourist but I like to try to live like a local when I'm there. A centrally located local, which is why I've ruled out the Gracia.

There are three apts I'm considering with the following locations:

1) On Ronda de la Universitat and Carrer de Balmes
2) Half a block from Palau de la Música Catalana on a narrow street
3) On a pedestrian only street north of the Edificio de Correos

Is option 1) above more similar to the 8eme in Paris with wide streets and larger stores?

Is Barcelona at all similar to Paris or is this a useless comparison?

I would not compare Barcelona to Paris ( much smaller, you can walk to most attractions)

They are all central.
The last two are closer to El Born ( rather busy at night, hip. many bars and restaurants, narrow streets,markets etc )
The first one is in Eixample. not far from the action and restaurants either Closer to large stores and wide avenues like Passieg de Gracia... Try not to stay too close to Gran Via ( huge traffic)

if you post links, it will be easier to decide.

There is no river in Barcelona, no cemeteries of note, the parks are different, the architecture is totally different, the food is different, the languages, one has magnificent hills, the other magnificient museums, the when and styles of dining are very different.

They both have subways, are wonderful for walking, have areas that are less than savory at night, great wines, identifiable sense of styles, and sidewalk cafes.

Adu
let's not forget that Barcelona is on the sea,( with beaches and a boardwalk.)It is also a port.
A bit of Nice, a bit of Paris, but very different than either.

There is nothing like the Barrio Gotico in Paris but there is nothing like a walk along the Seine at night in Barcelona. The sense of order that is Mansard roofs and black wrought iron fences with gold fleur de lis tips is replaced by the whismy and color of Gaudi.

The bread and pastry are far superior in Barcelona but you cannot get greasy, sugary churros, both thin and fat, in Paris. In Barcelona they dance a simple Catalan dance, Sardana, of unity and history, where people put their belongings in the center of the circle, in front of the Cathedral, while in Paris, the dance with grace and fromality indoors.

Obviously I have great affection for both cities and embrace the differnces.

ditto, love them both
Was in Barcelona in March, going to Paris in May!

Here are the links to the apts:

1) http://www.destinationbcn.com/pasodoble.htm
2) http://www.rentcityapartments.com/Re...uxury/783.aspx
3) http://www.vrbo.com/global/siteFrame...turnurl=/19523

I understand that Paris and Barcelona are different cities, I'm just hoping to get some comparisons for my reference. Is there any area in Paris similar to the Gothic Quarter / Old Town?

You can only get a Caganer in Barcelona.

Your references are tortured. Just enjoy Barcelona.

I cannot see the first one on the map. In Eixample ,I prefer the area north of Catalunya.
The second one is in a good location: in El Born - near everything. You can walk to most attractions .