Hostal Nuevo Colon

The one-star Hostal Nuevo Colón, which has been run by the Tobella family for 80 years, is a welcoming, no-frills establishment with some of the best rates we’ve seen in Barcelona.

There’s not a lot of flair here, but the effortless, fun location—within walking distance of the beach, boardwalk, Maritime Museum and La Barceloneta—makes the Nuevo Colón a smart budget pick.

The Nuevo Colón’s 33 yellow-and-lime rooms are functional but rather boring in the décor department. They have simple furnishings (headboards with built-in night tables and maybe a small desk), newish bedspreads and fluorescent lights.

Rooms do not have television or air conditioning (fans are offered), but some have small balconies with views of the curling alleyways common in this historic neighborhood (ask ahead).

There are also three apartments that sleep five or six people. These are equipped with metal bunk beds, a full kitchen, dining room and slightly worn sofa.

The Hostal Nuevo Colón offers rooms with either private or shared bathrooms. These are also on the simple side, but they are outfitted with brand new tiles and fluffy white towels. (Be sure to bring your own toiletries and hair dryer.)

What the Hostal Nuevo Colón lacks in charm and personal touches (it’s about as cozy as a school cafeteria), it certainly makes up for in cleanliness. Other perks? Unlike many other properties in Barcelona, this one has an elevator. It also offers key necessities like safe boxes, Wi-Fi (free in the public areas) and some vending machines.

Location

The Hostal Nuevo Colón’s location provides easy access to Barcelona’s beachfront and the ultra-cool El Borne neighborhood, otherwise known as “La Ribera.” A mix of pricey bars, restaurants and local bohemian joints, El Borne is a great nightlife hub.

The Estació de França train station (across the street from the Nuevo Colón) made the neighborhood very popular in the 1940s and ‘50s. Nowadays, the old station is barely used, but its presence makes the trip from the airport to the hotel a cinch (you only have to change trains once, at Psg. de Gracia).

The Nuevo Colón is also right around the corner from Barcelona’s most important city park, Ciutadella, home to the popular Barcelona zoo. The Picasso Museum is a few blocks from the hostal, as is the church Santa Maria del Mar.

In short, you can’t beat this location—it’s one of the best in the city. It’s easy to eat out around here as well. We suggest taking some tapas at Bodega La Tinaja (c/ Esparteria #9) and hit up La Candela (Pl Sant Pere #12).

Transportation

Subway: The Hostal Nuevo Colón is located about 10 minutes from the Barceloneta Metro stop, on the Yellow Line/L4. The Jaume I (also on the Yellow Line) is close by as well.

From the Airport: The easiest way to reach the Nuevo Colón from the airport is to take the RENFE Cercanías (from T2) to Sants Estació stop. From there, change trains to go to Estació de França, which is right across the street from the hostal.