Please help with ideas for great hotels in Barcelona. We'd been trying to get reservations at the H10 Raco Del Pi, but it is full. We'd like to be close to the center city, but in a place you aren't afraid to go out at night. Doesn't have to be the "Ritz" for us to be happy, we prefer the smaller hotels to the BIG chains, but at this point we just are very confused by people's ratings. Thanks,

I don't know whether this helps but we stayed at the Hotel Monte Carlo on Las Ramblas and it worked out very well. In fact, the airline lost some of our luggage on the way over and the hotel staff could not have been more helpful and tracking it down and getting it delivered.

I really liked the H10 Catalunya Plaza.

http://www.catalunyaplazahotel.com/

I really liked the Hotel Continental. Right on Las Ramblas but our rooms were quiet (they did not face las Ramblas). Kind of wierd decor but very clean, great location, free "breakfast" bar open 24 hours a day.

www.hotelcontinental.com/home_ramblas.htm

not a hotel but an apt suggestion. I booked through "Loving Barcelona". It was called a "Calders Studio"..fabulous location in a great area. El Born..near the Santa Maria del Mar Church..more like a one bedroom than a studio. What really made it was the location. I would highly recomend it.

You might take a look at www.apsishotels.com;specifically the Apsis Atrium Palace which is located about 2 blocks from the Placa Catalunya and almost next door to THE Ritz although not nearly as pricey.

Great and extensive buffet breakfast, safe area, internet access in the business center.