El Born (Sant Pere) is the hippest neighborhood — boutique hotels in Gothic buildings, best restaurants and cocktail bars, Picasso Museum and Santa Maria del Mar church nearby. Gothic Quarter is central but noisy and very touristy. Gràcia is the most local-feeling neighborhood — Catalan bohemian, great cafes, quieter. Eixample is the grid neighborhood with Gaudí buildings — practical and upscale.
Barceloneta suits beach lovers but is noisy in summer. Las Ramblas hotels are convenient but overpriced and in the highest-theft zone. Poblenou is up-and-coming with design hotels and beach access. Most of the city is well-connected by metro — location is flexible.