Hostal Benidorm

Don’t let the run-down, neon-lit entrance to the fine Hostal Benidorm put you off. This two-star hostal has a fresh new look thanks to a remodeling, and we like it! The family-run spot is slick, tidy and stocked with amenities. It’s in a central (albeit busy) location, and it’s one of the best deals on Las Ramblas.

The Hostal Benidorm’s 45 new rooms are simple but cool. All have been redone in an orange-and-gray motif, with parquet flooring and minimal furnishings. Who knows if the color combo will still look hip in 10 years, but for now it’s retro-chic.

The furnishings have that “funky minimalist” vibe that Ikea made popular. Walls are all white, save for a metal panel that acts as a headboard and matches the open metal “closet” area. Some rooms, especially singles, can be on the small side (but this is not unusual at Barcelona budget hotels).

Modern amenities, in the way of air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, safe and telephone round out the comfortable scene. Ten rooms have balconies, some with views of Las Ramblas and others with a clandestine view of the back entrance of the Güell house. Note that while they make for great people watching, rooms facing Las Ramblas will get noisy (light sleepers are advised to request a room at the back).

The small private bathrooms are spic-and-span and have a modern feel. Some have stall showers while a few have bathtubs (ask ahead). A hairdryer is available at reception, but be sure bring along your own toiletries. Some rooms also have shared bathrooms for those interested in saving extra euros.

The Hostal Benidorm does not have much in the way of common spaces, but the friendly staff is always on hand to assist with questions about the area and activities.

Wi-Fi is free throughout (request the password at reception), and there is an Internet station in the lobby, available for a small charge. There’s also an elevator and 24-hour reception, both perks not always available in Barcelona hostales.

Location

Staying on Las Ramblas has its drawbacks (noise, crowds and pickpockets), but one plus is that it is impossible to get lost! Las Ramblas connect the sea with Plaça Catalunya, making navigating the city a cinch. The Hostal Benidorm places you in the center of the Barcelona action, a quick walk from the port, the Cathedral and the Boqueria Market, with the beach just 10 minutes away by bus (59).

Avoid eating at the tourist trap spots that line Las Ramblas, and instead, explore the side streets that branch off of it into El Raval and the Gothic Quarter. 

Transportation

Subway: The Hostal Benidorm’s Metro line is the Green Line/L3 and its closest stops are Liceu or Drassanes (it’s right in the middle of both). Getting off at Liceu will put you out on Las Ramblas, a five-minute walk (downhill, towards the sea) from the Benidorm.

From the Airport: To reach the Hostal Benidorm from the airport, take the RENFE Cercanías train (which departs from T2) to the Passeig de Gracia stop. There, take the Green Line/L3 Metro to the Liceu stop.