Hostal Eixample

The itsy-bitsy Hostal Eixample offers just seven rooms in a really nice residential area of central Barcelona. Maria Rosa, who has owned and operated this adorable haven for many years, lives on site and takes good care of the place.

Each of the Hostal Eixample’s cozy rooms is sparkling clean with homey touches. Decorated in a streamlined, modern style (compliments of Maria’s architect son), they have a breezy, beachy feel, with simple furnishings, white walls and wood accents.

Each room is equipped with a television, and five of the seven have balconies with street views. Most (but not all) rooms have air conditioning (ask ahead if this is important to you).

All of the rooms have private bathrooms. Maria Rosa provides hand soap, but you’ll have to remember your other necessities.

The Eixample's lobby is stocked with books, newspapers and a free Internet station. Wi-Fi is free of charge and available in the lobby and in the rooms. Remember to book in advance, as those seven rooms go fast!

(P.S. Maria Rosa prefers cash and charges an extra €1.50 if you use plastic.)

Location

The Hostal Eixample is located on tranquil Ausiàs Marc, just a few blocks from the bustling hub Pl. Catalunya. The Urquinaona Metro stop is close, and there’s a café directly beside the hostal’s entrance for your morning croissant (Maria Rosa provides free a.m. coffee, tea and breakfast).

While this zone does not have the cobblestoned charm of the Gothic Quarter, it does have the Art Nouveau flair of the Eixample, not to mention a whole lot of class. This is where locals live, work and go to school. There are few tourist traps right around Hostal Eixample, and in our book, that’s a good thing.

From the hostal you’ll be able to catch the Metro or a bus to La Sagrada Familia, the beach and the port. The Gothic Quarter, Palau de la Música and good shopping are all a short walk down Via Laietana, and two of the main Gaudí sites on Passeig de Gracia are also within walking distance.

The only downside in this area is that restaurants and bars are a little sparse. We recommend a tasty meal on the terrace at La Candela Bar and Restaurant (Pl. Sant Pere 12).

Transportation

Subway: The Hostal Eixample is located a five- to 10-minute walk from the Urquinaona stop off the Yellow Line/L4.

From the Airport: To reach the Hostal Eixample from the airport, take the Areobús (departs every five minutes) to Plaça Catalunya (the last stop), a 15-minute walk from the hostal. You can also get to Terminal 2 and take the RENFE Cercanías train to Passeig de Gracia, then transfer to the Yellow Line/L4 Metro, which will take you to Pl. Urquinaona.