Hostal Nuevo ColonEditor's Pick

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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 flare here, but the effortless, fun location—within walking distance of the beach, boardwalk, Maritime Museum and Barceloneta—makes Nuevo Colón a smart budget pick.

The Nuevo Colón’s 33 yellow-and-lime rooms have newish bedspreads and florescent lights. They don’t have television or air conditioning (fans are offered), but some have small balconies with views of the curling alleyways common in this historic ‘hood. There are also three apartments that sleep five or six people and are equipped with bunk beds, a full kitchen, dining room and slightly worn sofa.

Rooms are available with either private or shared bathrooms, and all are outfitted with brand new tiles and fluffy white towels.

What the 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 lounge only) and some vending machines.

The 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 Estacio Franca train station across the street from the Col&oactue;n made the neighborhood very popular in the 1940s and 1950s. 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).

» Regina WB

Note: This hotel was visited by a EuroCheapo editor and is recommended based on cleanliness, location, price and overall quality. EuroCheapo did not charge this hotel to be listed.