best hotel or apartment in Barcelona

Hi, Mimi If you want only one night, it might be difficult to find an apartment. Apartments usually have minimal stay of 3-7 nights. What do you mean by "close to sites"? Close to where you board the ship? Or close to the major tourist attractions? Sound like you just want a place to crash for a night before going on your cruise. Have you asked your cruise line about a hotel? Most cruise lines have pre-cruise packages. You can search for hotels on Tripadvisor.com. Barceloneta, El Born, Barri Gotic are close to the ship terminals and are safe neighborhoods with tourist attractions. Another option is to search for apartment hotels, which might work better for 4 people. Up Suites Bcn would be ideal for you but it is in the Eixample. You would need to take a taxi the next day to get to your ship. But taxis are not too expensive. Might be doable for you. Good luck,
ch'un

Thanks. I was wondering which neighborhoods were safe and near some tourist attractions and you helped with that. I really don't know too much about Barcelona's neighborhoods yet. I am sure the cruise offers pre-cruise packages but my experience is they usually pick generic hotels with no personality. I have been poking around a little with B & B's or smaller hotels. Apartments are appealing because there are four of us. I really appreciate your post. Thanks

Mimi, I have stayed at the Hotel Colon and considered it a good location. It is across from the Cathedral and near a metro station and hop-on hop-off bus stop. There are several small stores selling food, drinks etc. in the next block. It is on the end of the Ramblas and quiet. I didn't find the desk personel exacty friendly but they were not rude.
If you need more info send me a message.