For many years, El Raval was a district that many locals stayed away from because of its reputation for crime and prostitution. Now all that has changed, and El Raval has seen a complete turnaround. This quirky Barcelona neighbourhood is now known for its artsy shops and cafes, and for the wide variety of nightlife available here. El Raval is a lively - although still alternative - place to rent a holiday apartment.

Barcelona's glistening MACBA, a temple to modern art that sits in the centre of the neighbourhood, has injected El Raval with a strong dose of art culture. Many of Barcelona's other artistic institutions, like FAD, a city-supported group dedicated to design in its many aspects, are based in the area too, meaning that if you choose to rent an apartment in Barcelona's Raval district you'll have plenty of cultural options right on your doorstep.

El Raval's artsy side is visible in smaller ways as well. Wander its maze-like streets, and you'll notice thoughtful street graffiti, numerous artists' workshops and dozens of artisan shops. Many credit the neighbourhood's creative atmosphere with the diversity found in it: El Raval is Barcelona's most diverse district, and nearly half of those living here were born outside Catalunya. The many immigrants from Africa, the Middle East and South America have given this area a unique energy.

El Raval is home to some of the best alternative caf?s and bars in Barcelona, and apartment-renters in this quarter will undoubtedly find a favourite quickly. Casual bars like Mobles Navarra, decorated completely with used furniture, and Bar Fortuny, a low-key bar with great lunches, attract an artsy, bohemian crowd.

There are few historical sights in El Raval proper, but one exception is the Palau G?ell, designed by Antoni Gaud?. This palace was designed for the man who would become Gaud?'s patron, Eusebi G?ell, and is a sumptuous temple to architectural symbolism and detail.

Renting an apartment in El Raval means that you'll be near many other Barcelona attractions as well. Las Ramblas and Pla?a Catalunya are both just a few blocks away.