But to help you make sense of it all, we’ve compiled a list of our top 7 cheap hotels in Barcelona. There’s a little of everything here, from spots that are low on rates to those that are high on style.

Our Barcelona Hotel Guide

• Read all hotel reviews in Barcelona
• Read our articles on Barcelona hotel advice
• More ways to save on your Barcelona vacation

7 Best cheap hotels in Barcelona

Whether you are looking for a private room with a balcony overlooking Las Ramblas or a quiet room with a shared bathroom to save a little extra money, here’s a list of our favorite budget hotels in Barcelona.

Make friends in the comfy lounge at Itaca Hostel.

Itaca Hostel

Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
Doubles averaging $85

Extraverted travelers, unite! The communal vibe at the Itaca Hostel welcomes guests and make it easy for you to make new friends during your trip. Rooms vary from shared dorms to private singles and doubles, to apartments that sleep five or six people. You’ll save a pretty penny thanks to the clean shared bathrooms. Read the full review

Enjoy low rates and charming rooms at Hostal Lausanne.

Hostal Lausanne

Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
Doubles averaging $129

We adore the charming, 18th-century building that Hostal Lausanne calls home, and those who come to Barcelona to shop won’t be disappointed by the location on Portal de l’Angel. While the building has beautiful flourishes, like ornate ceilings and chandeliers, the decor here is otherwise minimal. We love the balcony views off the hotel’s communal lounge space. Read the full review

The outdoor patio is a welcome oasis at the Fashion House.

Fashion House

Neighborhood: Eixample
Doubles averaging $157

Rooms at the Fashion House are, well, very fashionable, with tasteful décor and not a speck of dust in sight. Some rooms also have balconies, so be sure to ask ahead when reserving if you want a view. Our favorite part of the hotel? The flower-filled oasis that is the veranda, where guests can linger and mingle. Read the full review

Be sure to request a balcony room at Hostal Levante. Photo: Booking.com

Hostal Levante

Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
Doubles averaging $158

Nestled into an old telephone company building built in 1903, the Hostal Levante offers an excellent Gothic Quarter location. Rooms feature standard hotel decor, but ask for a room with a balcony when booking for an extra treat. The area is a little noisy and touristy, but there’s plenty to see and do here. Read the full review

Score excellent deals on the balcony rooms at Hotel Lloret Ramblas. Photo: Booking.com

Hotel Lloret Ramblas

Neighborhood: La Rambla
Doubles averaging $158

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better location than Hotel Lloret Ramblas, located at the top of La Rambla. Not only does it deliver on location, but the family-run hotel features plenty of modern amenities, like AC and free Wi-Fi. Plus, some rooms have private balconies with city views. Read the full review

The breakfast room at Hostal Mare Nostrum overlooks La Rambla.

Hostal Mare Nostrum

Neighborhood: La Rambla
Doubles averaging $160

With a location off Las Ramblas, the Hostal Mare Nostrum is a great pick. Rooms feature air conditioning, television and telephone, and those looking to save even more money can opt for one of the few rooms with a shared bathroom. Breakfast is included in the room rate and is served in a nice room with a view of the action on Las Ramblas. Read the full review

Hostal Eixample offers 7 rooms in a lovely residential building in Barcelona.

Hostal Eixample

Neighborhood: Eixample
Doubles averaging $165

With just seven rooms, Hostal Eixample books up quick. Rooms are cozy and simply decorated, and most of them even have balconies to take in views of the street below. Free coffee and breakfast sweeten the deal at this quiet spot. Don’t worry, despite the quiet location, you’ll find plenty to do nearby, plus there is a metro stop close to the hotel. Read the full review

Looking for more hotels and hostels? Check out our full hotel guide to Barcelona.

The post The 7 best cheap hotels in Barcelona for 2026 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

While rooms in the Catalan capital may be substantially cheaper in comparison to other large European cities, there are a few tricks to getting the best possible price on your accommodations.

And all things considered, wouldn’t you rather spend a little less on a place to lay your head to have even more euros for tapas and wine?

More tips for Barcelona
• The 7 best cheap hotels in Barcelona 
• A Budget travel guide to Barcelona
• How to survive Barcelona’s top 4 attractions

How to save on your hotel in Barcelona

No matter when you’re planning your trip, for maximum savings, it’s important to pay close attention to the details. Location, type of accommodations, and when to book are all key. Read on for our advice on how to save on your hotel in Barcelona.

Are you ready to spend a few days in Barcelona? Check rates for Barcelona hotels now.

Stay near the center of Barcelona to be close to the action.

1. Stay somewhere central but not too central

Resist the temptation of staying too close to La Rambla or Plaça Catalunya. Beyond budget considerations, these areas of town are less desirable because of the noise factor, too. And it’s not just your room that will cost substantially more in these neighborhoods — food and drink are priced higher, too.

Related: Is La Rambla a tourist trap? 5 Tips for strolling like a local

Other neighborhoods that can get a little noisy include Raval, Plaça Reial, and Gaixample, Barcelona’s boisterous gay neighborhood. So what’s our recommendation for a centrally located but quiet and budget-friendly neighborhood? Stay in Eixample, especially from around Comté d’Urgell Street until Plaça Espanya.

2. Always stay near transit

Depending on the time of year and what’s on in the city, you may want to stay a little bit outside the center or even in one of Barcelona’s sleeper communities like Sant Adría or Badalona. Barcelona is easy to navigate and the inexpensive transit system makes sleeping a little bit further afield worth the savings — sometimes — as long as you’re near a metro or bus stop, less than one zone away. At approximately €1 per ride (if you buy a 10-ride pass) or €8.42 per day (for an unlimited 5-day pass), hopping the metro into the center to see the sights is easy, even on a tight budget.

3. Select your dates carefully

Before you book plane tickets, check out this calendar of Barcelona events. If there’s a major conference or big sporting event going on, room rates are guaranteed to go way up. Summer, Christmas, late spring, and early fall are also high-occupancy times of the year for hotels. For the best possible rates on a room, plan a visit from mid-January through March. For more information, check out our guide to beating the crowds and saving money on your Barcelona hotel.

Hostal Benidorm is a renovated two-star stay right on Las Ramblas. Photo: Booking.com

4. Avoid staying weekends when possible

Unless you want to stay in Barcelona’s business-y upper districts (Sarria and Diagonal), room rates almost always go up weekends. Why? Barcelona’s a popular weekender destination for Spaniards living elsewhere in Spain, as well as folks from all over Europe.

Related: 7 Rookie mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Barcelona

5. Book a refundable room in advance

This is especially true if you plan to stay in the Catalan capital during peak season or dates coinciding with major events like the Mobile World Congress. If you find a reasonable rate on a centrally located room, book it at a refundable rate, even if you have to pay a little more. That way you can always cancel your reservation if you find a better deal or change your plans.

6. Shop last-minute deals

If you’re more of a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants traveler, this is the option for you. Wait until the last possible minute — same-day deals are often exceptional if you book online. We’ve found that in-person, last-minute room rates are atrociously expensive, as many desk clerks assume you’re not willing to walk away and find another spot.

Check rates on CheapoSearch for last-minute deals.

You can choose from cheap dorms or private rooms at Hostal Fernando.

7. Consider staying at a hostel or pension

While you won’t always have an elevator or a private bathroom in a hostel or pension, sometimes it’s worth schlepping up the stairs with your luggage and sharing the shower with the room next door for the savings. Just don’t forget to bring your flip-flops!

Related: Hostal? Hostel? Hotel? Understanding Barcelona’s accommodation options

Have you been to Barcelona? What are your best tips for saving on accommodations in the city? Share in the comments below.

The post 7 Tips for saving on your hotel in Barcelona appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

To be sure you find a cheap hotel that is both charming, central to the action and, of course, budget-friendly, we’ve added a handful of new hotels to our guide for you to consider.

Ciutat Vella

Address: Tallers, 66
Rates: from around $70 a night

If you are visiting Barcelona on a romantic getaway, Ciutat Vella is the affordable hotel for you. From the room decor to the dreamy rooftop terrace, this place is ideal for couples. Sure, the amenities like flat-screen televisions, free Wi-Fi and air conditioning are treats in themselves, but this place is especially popular for its rooftop hot tub.

Breakfast is often included in the nightly rate, or you can find something delicious at a local cafe. Impress your sweetie with a stay at Ciutat Vella.

You’ll love the location and the rooms at Catalunya Hotel.

Catalunya

Address: Santa Anna, 24
Rates: from around $90 a night

With simple, budget-friendly rooms near much of the action that Barcelona has to offer, Catalunya is a great spot to rest your head each night of your trip. This two-star hotel has rooms that are rather basic, but in the best way. Guestrooms adorned in grays and purples offer a calming retreat, and there is no lack of amenities. Many rooms offer excellent views of the city, and some even have balconies. We highly recommend checking these out.

There’s no breakfast at the Hotel Catalunya, but this is all the more reason to head out on the town early to stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants nearby for your morning meal. Get a steal for a room at Catalunya.

The rooms are charming at Hotel Ginebra, especially the ones with balconies.

Hotel Ginebra

Address: Rambla de Catalunya 1
Rates: from around $100 a night

We’ve become big fans of Hotel Ginebra, which offers attractive rooms with even more attractive rates, especially considering its location near Plaza Catalunya. Rooms are nothing short of fun, with reds, purples and floral prints coming out to play. Everything needed for a comfortable home base is there, such as kettles, air conditioning, flat-screen televisions and minibars.

When booking, we recommend checking two things: an included breakfast and a private balcony. Book your guestroom at Hotel Ginebra before it is too late!

The lobby of Hotel Pelayo.

Hotel Pelayo

Address: Pelai, 9
Rates: from around $90 a night

There’s nothing quite as comforting as those trips to Grandma’s, which is why Hotel Pelayo is such a gem. Sure, rooms are simple and a bit floral, but everything feels like a home away from home. This includes the amenities available, such as air conditioning, bathtubs, kettles and free Wi-Fi. Ask ahead for a room with a private patio, a wonderful spot on warm, sunny days.

There’s no breakfast here, but you are bound to find something affordable and delicious in any number of the cafes and restaurants nearby. Pick Hotel Pelayo as your home base in Barcelona.

The view from a private balcony at Serennia Exclusive Rooms.

Serennia Exclusive Rooms

Address: Ronda Universitat, 9 1ª planta
Rates: from around $120 a night 

The rooms at Serennia Exclusive Rooms truly do feel exclusive, with a soothing and chic design that we love. For a bit more money, you can book a lovely room that includes a balcony, perfect for looking out over the city. From air conditioning and absolutely sparkling private bathrooms to flat-screen televisions and free Wi-Fi, there are all the amenities you could need here.

A continental breakfast is included in the rate. Grab a chic room at Serennia Exclusive Rooms.

The post Barcelona: New additions to our hotel guide appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

We’ve done the hard work for you by putting together this list of affordable hotels in Barcelona that we love. Cheapos will rest easy (and comfortably!), as we have chosen hotels based on price, cleanliness, comfort and user ratings.

More Barcelona tips:
• 25 Do’s and don’ts to improve your trip to Barcelona
• Cheap hotels in Madrid under $100 per night

5 Affordable hotels in Barcelona with spotless rooms

Whether you want to stay right along La Rambla or in one of the charming Barcelona neighborhoods, we’ve come up with five excellent budget hotels. And the best part? All of these Barcelona accommodations have nice rooms under $100 per night. For example, a balcony room in Barcelona is cheaper than you think!

Hostal Ramos

Address: Calle Hospital, 36
Neighborhood: El Raval
User rating: 7.9
Doubles starting at $95

Run by a friendly family, this two-star stay is situated in an attractive historic building. Highlights include wrought-iron beds and classic Spanish floor tiles. Every room comes with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a private bath. There’s a lovely courtyard for relaxing and a lounge where you can make new friends. Read the full review here.

A balcony room at Pension Mari-Luz is one of our favorite options in Barcelona.

Pension Mari-Luz

Address: Palau 4 2º 1ª
Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
User rating: 8.5
Doubles starting $87

Nearly all of Pension Mari-Luz’s rooms, tucked into a beautiful 18th-century building, come with a  balcony view, and for these rates… they’re a steal! Many of the rooms share bathrooms, offering low rates for Cheapos willing to share some space (no worries, these bathrooms are very clean). The hotel also has a kitchen where guests can make delicious, homemade meals to save on going out to eat. Learn more about the Pension Mari-Luz here.

Hostal Benidorm has rooms overlooking the bustling La Rambla.

Hostal Benidorm

Rambla dels Caputxins, 37
Neighborhood: La Rambla
User rating: 8.2
Doubles starting at $89

Despite its lackluster exterior, the Hostal Benidorm features renovated rooms in a central location. Amenities abound here, with air conditioning, television, safes, free Wi-Fi and an elevator all available for guests. Ten of the 45 rooms feature balconies, which make a perfect spot for watching the hustle and bustle on the street below. Read our full review of Hostal Benidorm here.

Hostal Girona is packed with old-world charm.

Hostal Girona

Girona, 24 1º-1ª
Neighborhood: Eixample
User rating: 8.4
Doubles starting at $90

With a prime location near Barcelona’s best sights and rates that stay low even during peak season, the Hostal Girona will steal cheapo hearts. Rooms are spotless, and the antique wardrobes and décor give the place extra charm. Superior rooms have balconies for those who want a nice view. Free Wi-Fi, flat screen televisions, and air conditioning make up the list of amenities. Read the full review of the hotel here.

The view from a balcony at Hostal Nuevo Colon.

Hostal Nuevo Colon

Avenida Marqués de Argentera, 19
Neighborhood: La Ribera
User rating: 7.8
Doubles starting at $78

The simple, family-run Hostal Nuevo Colon certainly won’t wow visitors with its décor or amenities, however, it will impress with its cleanliness and location. These cheapo rooms give visitors a home base that is within walking distance to the beach and great restaurants and bars. Rates stay low, even during peak season, which makes it a great choice for budget travelers. Read more about the Hostal Nuevo Colon here.

Interested in viewing more hotels in the city? Explore our list of favorite cheap hotels or the entire list of budget hotels in Barcelona.

The post 5 affordable hotels in Barcelona with clean and comfy rooms appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The rates

Enter Pension Mari-Luz. This budget hotel checks all of the boxes when it comes to our favorite cheapo categories: a low price, fantastic location, charming surroundings, and a welcoming atmosphere. Right now you can reserve a double room at Pension Mar-Luz in November 2016 for only $50 per night. That is truly a steal for Barcelona!

For select nights in December, the price is even a little bit lower. And if you’re traveling with a group, you can find triple rooms for only $71.

Related: Find the best value hotels in Barcelona

The rooms

When it comes to perks, Pension Mari-Luz goes above and beyond what we expect from most budget hotels. The free Wi-Fi is a big plus, but we really love the balconies that offer views of the neighborhood. Almost every room comes with a balcony but ask ahead when reserving if you have your heart set on one. There’s also air-conditioning in the rooms, so you don’t have to worry about getting a good night’s rest even during a heat wave.

The staff is very friendly and earns high marks on TripAdvisor.

10 of the rooms share bathrooms, but they’re all very clean and modern. If you want a little more privacy, you can upgrade to one of three rooms with a private bathroom if you don’t mind spending a bit more. For example, a twin room with its own bathroom goes for $68 in November, while a triple goes for $87, and a quadruple can be had for $106.

Location

For such a low price, you might think the hotel would be in a far-flung location. In fact, it is the exact opposite situation with a wonderful location in the heart of the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic). Especially if this is your first time in Barcelona, it’s hard to beat staying here. We love wandering down the narrow streets that twist and turn like you’re in a maze.

Yes, the Gothic Quarter can be a bit too touristy, but the hotel is just far enough away from Las Ramblas to offer some relief. Plus, just finding the hotel will be an adventure! It’s nestled on one those winding streets on the third-floor of a building without an elevator.

Read our full review of Pension Mari-Luz.

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There are several budget hotels to choose from in Barcelona, whether you are looking to stay near the sea, the charming Gothic Quarter or close to the world-famous cathedral designed by Gaudi.

Here are our top hotel picks near three of the city’s must-see landmarks.

La Sagrada Família

This one is on everyone’s list, and if it’s not on yours, then it should be. The whimsical basilica is awesome in the real sense of the word, and even though it’s incomplete, it manages to dazzle and surprise visitors of all ages. For about a year I lived right next to the church. It was a treat to see the Gaudí building, with its organic forms and climbing spires, at different times of the day—in the morning when the sun moved across its elaborate façade, in the afternoon when school children played in the park in front of it, and at night when the perimeter was crowd-free and the moon shown down upon it giving it an even more magical effect.

Related: Tips for getting the most out of your visit to Sagrada Familia

If you, too, want to experience La Sagrada Família from many angles while walking to the metro, buying bread, or stepping out for tapas, then book one of the following hotels.

Eddy Rooms
$74 and up

This 19-room pension is furnished with antiques in an area of the city that is close to everything without being in the hustle and noise. Shopping bargains are found nearby on Girona street.

The elegant stairway in Hostal Girona. Photo: Michael Shade

Hostal Girona
$63 and up

This small hostal is located in a beautiful old building with an intricate floral façade. The building is in a local, residential area which is safe and quiet.

Enjoy the beach in Barcelona when you book a hotel just a short walk away. Photo: Stuart Pinfold

The Mediterranean

The sea is Barcelona’s big swimming pool from May to October, and a darn fine place to go for a walk or sit in the sun year-round. Whenever I’m asked why I prefer to live in Barcelona, as opposed to Madrid, my answer is always ‘the sea.’ Madrid is wonderful for so many reasons, but living next to the Med, well, it’s pretty special. Some of the best seafood in the city is found along the waterside, and when the weather is warm the beach buzzes with sunbathers, paddle boarders, hopeful surfers, vendors of all kinds (massage, coconut slices, water, beer, doughnuts?), rollerbladers, plus locals and tourists strolling the boardwalk.

Catalonia’s history museum is down by the seaside in an ancient shipping warehouse. If you want to get an idea of how Catalonia was formed, and why there is a call for independence among many Catalans now, then stroll through this well curated museum (all displays in English in addition to Spanish and Catalan).

Check these hotels for rooms within walking distance from the coastline.

Hotel del Mar
$95 and up

Located on the border between the seaside ‘hood of La Barceloneta and La Ribera, this is a great location especially if you like sunshine and nightlife.

Park Hotel offers modern rooms very close to the seaside. Photo: Courtesy of the hotel

Park Hotel
$107 and up

An elegant hotel with vintage touches, this property is located in a lively area right across from the train station. It also has a nice bar with a street terrace and is only a ten minute stroll to the waterfront.

A scene from the Gothic Quarter. Photo: Eric Goodwin

The Cathedral and Gothic Quarter

Mammoth worn stones from the Roman era mix with newer bricks around every corner in Barcelona’s most charming ‘hood. As an American from the western United States, it’s the Gothic Quarter that has always enchanted me the most, probably because there aren’t many Roman pillars and medieval palaces where I come from. Iron street-lamps cast their golden beams along twisting alleyways where obscure bars buzz seven nights a week. Gargoyles and other creatures watch from their perches atop the cathedral as visitors rotate their maps and buskers serenade the night.

While pickpockets and getting lost can be an issue in the Gothic Quarter, it is one of the most romantic areas to be in, with plenty of food and shopping close at hand.

Try one of these budget hotels to stay in the oldest part of Barcelona.

Hostel Itaca
$76 and up

This is a true backpacker hostel located right next to the cathedral in a very hip part of the neighborhood. They also have double private rooms if you don’t want to share.

Hostal Fernando offers a perfect central location. Photo: EuroCheapo

Hostel Fernando
$50 and up

Conveniently situated right off La Rambla, this means it’s very easy to find—even at night after a bottle of Spanish red wine.

So what will it be? The tall towers of the swooping, psychedelic Sagrada Família? The gentle waves of the Mediterranean Sea? Or the puzzling side-streets of the Gothic Quarter? A stay in any of these areas will put you close to the source that gives Barcelona its intoxicating buzz.

The post Barcelona: Affordable hotels near top attractions appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But sometimes you just want to get a little bit off-the-beaten-path and out into the city’s excellent neighborhoods where you can feel more like a local than a tourist. Or what if you’re after something a bit more authentic that’s a little bit away from the crowds in the Gothic Quarter and along La Rambla? Here are three excellent hotels that offer a great deal on rooms (some as low at $90 for doubles) as well as a top location just outside the main districts.

Stay close to the beach and the hip El Born neighborhood at Hotel del Mar. Photo: EuroCheapo

Hotel del Mar

Neighborhood: La Ribera
Rates from $136
Read the full review

The beach and port area of Barcelona are crowded from June to September, but in off-season you’ll have the beach pretty much to yourself. Staying at Hotel del Mar puts you on a little plaza not far from trendy shops and eateries in El Born, but also separate from them (in a good way). Some of the metropolis’ top fish and seafood restaurants are a short walk from this hotel, as is the beach, port and the Gothic Quarter. Locals who live in adjacent La Barceloneta love their ‘hood—and you will, too.

Hostal Girona is a cheapo fav with very low rates in an incredible location. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Hostal Girona

Neighborhood: L’Eixample
Rates from $94
Read the full review

Passeig de Gracia cuts through the right and left side of the Eixamples. Choose Hostal Girona on the ‘right’ side of L’Eixample (Dreta de l’Eixample) for an affordable room off the main tourist train track. L’Eixample is a vibrant neighborhood where many locals choose to live, and is viewed as the center of the city by many. It can be a little noisy due to traffic, but not because of late-night revelers, an issue at times in the Gothic Quarter and El Raval. If you start poking around, you’ll quickly find an abundant supply of cute clothing boutiques, cool art galleries, homey cafes and great restaurants frequented by residents in this area.

Hostal Centric puts you close to the action without having to deal with the big crowds. Photo: EuroCheapo

Hostal Centric

Neighborhood: L’Eixample
Double rates from $103
Read the full review

This clean and convenient option has 30 rooms and is set a few blocks off Plaça Universitat, one of the city’s busiest hubs. This particular part of L’Eixample is not a hot spot for tourism or hotels which is good news for those looking for a local feel. Right around the corner from the hostal are two excellent cinemas—Aribau and Renoir—in addition to a wide array of bars and cafes. A short walk from Hostal Centric will put you in El Raval, one of the top areas in Barcelona for nightlife, vintage shopping, hipster hangouts, and kebab stands. The trendy beer bar Fàbrica Moritz is a couple blocks away and open 365 days of the year!

Scoring a good deal

When you consider that over seven million tourists (that’s seven with six zeros!) booked a room in Barcelona last year, it can make sense to search out accommodations that are located just outside of where most visitors are headed. You’ll save a little money and find a little bit more peace and quiet. As always, you can check out our full listings on EuroCheapo to find the best rates at local, independent hotels.

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However, the timing of the Catalan version of Valentine’s Day—Sant Jordi Festival—has always made a bit more sense to me. The holiday is held on the 23rd of April each year, when spring has officially sprung with love and pollen blowing in the air. What says “amor” more than beautiful Barcelona in full bloom!

Book stalls fill the streets in Barcelona on Sant Jordi’s Day. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Sant Jordi Festival

For Sant Jordi’s Day, either a book or a rose are given as gifts. Men, you’ll want to look for a few select red roses to give to the special women in your life. Women, you’ll need to browse the many book shops and book stands that set up on La Rambla and get a paperback for the important men in your life. These are the rules, and as someone who appreciates both flowers and reading, I like to break them!

Where to stay for an affordable romantic getaway

If you’re traveling through Barcelona in April with that special someone, look for rooms in these hotels that make the perfect escape for lovey-dovey couples.

The rustic lounge is a perfect spot to cozy up for the evening. Photo: Courtesy of the hotel

Cozy charm in the city – Hosteria Grau

Doubles from: $83 to $143

Privacy is key to romance, so avoid the backpacker hostels and instead go for double room at Hosteria Grau, one of the coziest hotels in the city center. The two-star rooms are cute and clean, and the staff is incredibly helpful. Furthermore, Grau is a couple blocks from La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia, where much of the Sant Jordi fun will take place.

The stylish and romantic rooms at Hostal Goya are a real bargain for Barcelona. Photo: Courtesy of the hotel

Designer decor – Hostal Goya

Doubles from: $97 to $152

Ambiance is important if you’re on a romantic escape. Avoid faded rooms with questionable artwork and amateur silk flower arrangements, and instead book at Hostal Goya, a chic option in L’Eixample. Goya’s interiors are some of the best we’ve seen in Barcelona budget hotels. You’ll be wowed by not only the modern tiled floors, the abundance of natural light and the elegant attitude—but also the very affordable price!

Wonderful city walks are just outside the door of Hotel Banys Orientals. Photo: Andrej Nicolas

Old city strolls – Hotel Banys Orientals

Doubles from: $138 to $145

What’s more romantic than wandering the old city with your lover, arm in arm? Not much. So make sure to book at Hotel Banys Orientals in El Born for lots of cobblestone charm. Picture yourself sipping Spanish wine in front of Santa Maria del Mar Church, and then window shopping at the many boutiques near Banys Orientals.

Bonus tip: Not only is love in the air, but spring, and the months of April and May, are some of the best months to visit Barcelona because the weather is gorgeous, and the city is a lot less crowded than summer. Enjoy!

The post Budget romantic hotels in Barcelona to celebrate Sant Jordi Day appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Keep an eye out for Almogaver, a popular craft brewery based in Catalan. Photo:Manel Zaera

Craft beer movement in Barcelona

Beer and ale are a big deal in Barcelona, and all over Spain, these days. Microbrews are trendy, innovative and in-demand. Most people don’t think ‘beer’ when they think ‘Spain’, and the craft beer scene is still small compared to Belgium, Germany or sudsy cities such as Portland or Denver in the US. Nonetheless, brewers are busy in Catalonia creating some great beers, so keep an eye out for Almogaver, Les Clandestines and Llupols i Llevats.

Sipping craft beer in Barcelona, Spain. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Barcelona Beer Festival

Many of these tasty craft beers will be available at the Barcelona Beer Festival taking place April 11-13. The event showcases several up-and-coming Spanish brands but also a few international labels. The festival works like most foodie fests: you buy a half-pint glass for tasting, a wad of tickets and off you go to sip and tip as many beers as you can muster. The same tickets also work for food. This year the festival will be held right at the end of La Rambla in the Maritime Museum, a more ideal venue than last year’s which was in the conference center of a mall. It’s open to the public and popular with locals—expect a long line to get in at night!

Hostal Benidorm is a stylish cheap sleep along La Rambla. Photo: EuroCheapo

Where to Stay

Hostal Benidorm (with doubles from: $83 to $104) is within walking (or maybe stumbling) distance from the brewski bash as well as several great nightlife and dining spots. It’s hard to beat this central location. The interior offers a funky, modernist style, and each accommodation comes with a private bathroom, flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. A few select rooms even sport balconies that offer views of the bustling scene along Las Ramblas.

Ale&Hop has a modern tap system with several local beers available. Photo: ScottRobertson2009

Where to find local brews

If you’re not able to make it to the Barcelona Beer Festival, but still want to try some locally-made ales, pop into Ale&Hop, a pub in La Ribera ‘hood that is a self-proclaimed beer geek hangout with 10 taps and vegetarian snacks. Cervecería Jazz in Poble Sec is another option with a robust list that pairs with burgers hot off the grill. Or how about a beer library? That’s what you will discover at La Cerveteca that stocks a wonderful selection of Catalan bottles. It’s the perfect spot to browse and taste to see what suits your fancy. You’ll also find bottled craft beer in many wine shops (bizarre as that sounds), a few in supermarkets and at any decent restaurant (okay, maybe not…but eateries are starting to carry microbrews, so keep a sharp eye out for them). Salud!

The post Craft beer in Barcelona: Breweries, festivals, bars and where to stay appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The name says it all at the affordable and highly-rated Hostal Centric. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Save on taxi and transit fare

If you stay out of the center, then public transportation and taxis will be a ball and chain. You won’t be able to stay out past the metro’s closing time (weekdays 12 AM, Fridays 2 AM) without having to pay for a taxi to take you back to your far-away hotel, and that will cost you everything you saved booking there in the first place.

There’s also the money spent, however small, on public transportation. If you stay in Barcelona’s downtown, you’ll easily be able to walk to most sights and not have to take the metro or bus. This can save you between €10-30—plenty of money for a few extra vermouths.

Safety in numbers

Secondly, depending on what ‘hood it is, it could be a little uncomfortable late at night. In general, Barcelona is not a dangerous city. Still, it’s best to avoid solo evening rides into questionable ‘hoods if you can. You never know. Staying in more populated, busier areas is always safer, because there are people around. This especially applies to women travelers.

Hostal Noya is a cozy pick that’s easy to reach and cheap to boot. Photo: EuroCheapo

2 affordable hotel picks in the city center

Finally, downtown hotels and hostels are usually a bit more spendy, but there are always bargains to be had. Look for deep discounts at these three cheapo picks:

Hostal Centric
L’Eixample: Calle Casanova 13
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Thanks to great prices in a prime location, this clean and bright hotel appeals to 20-something backpackers and more conservative travelers alike. Doubles around $100.

Hostal Fernando
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With 60 dorm beds and 40 private rooms, this perfectly located gem in the Gothic Quarter has it all including a helpful staff, free breakfast (for private room guests) and a fun atmosphere with a cafe and bar on the property. Double or twin rooms from $100.

A booking at any of these three options will put you where the real action is—within walking distance of Barcelona’s best eateries, bars, sights, nightclubs and museums. For more Barcelona tips, read our Barcelona hotel overview.

The post Cheapo Barcelona tip: Book a hotel in the city center to save time, money and stress appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.