Staying in Barcelona - Hotels

Like any city, Barcelona offers a variety of places for people coming for a short visit. For those who have been here before or are traveling as a group, holiday apartments tend to the popular way to go, but there are also plenty of hotels and hostels for first timers, couples or backpackers.

Probably the most famous is the Hotel Arts, which together with the Torre Mapfre, comprises Barcelona's version of the twin towers, but by the beach. The price for an average room is more like a month's rent, and I have to admit even if I had the money, I wouldn't stay there. It's nice and all, but it strikes me as a place for aristocratic families. Of the high end hotels, Omm located on Passeig de Gracia is popular with the younger European crowd.  In addition to these, there are also the Palace located in Les Corts a few blocks from Plaças Urquinaona, Hotel Claris on Pau Claris near Passeig de Gracia and Hotel Miramar on Tibidabo.

Barcelona budget accommodations are plentiful and there are many moderately priced hotels located throughout the city.  So many in fact, it's difficult to think of one that stands out. After price, the next important consideration I think is location. Personally, I'd avoid any of the hotels on Las Ramblas or Plaça Catalunya because of the nonstop noise and crowds. If you're looking to stay in the city center, any of the numerous ones along Via Laietana, which separates El Gotico and El Borne, would be a better option in my opinion. Again, I'd recommend asking for a room off the street. Diagonal Mar is a relatively new neighborhood on Barcelona's northern beaches with numerous hotels including the Hilton. While not far in terms of distance, it might feel remote in the winter months but less so in summer.

Finally, for those traveling alone or on a tighter budget, I'd recommend staying at a hostel. It's a great way to meet fellow travelers with whom you can enjoy Barcelona's attractions and turn the town upside down. Nowadays, hostels offer a variety of sleeping options from shared accommodations to individual rooms. At least Hello BCN hostel does.