Hostal Mare NostrumEditor's Pick

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It’s no surprise that the two-star Hostal Mare Nostrum is popular with all sorts of travelers, from backpackers to families. With comfortable rooms, a prime location off La Rambla and welcoming extras like continental breakfast and air conditioning, the Mare Nostrum is a good, solid pick.

All 30 guestrooms cover the basics: telephone, satellite TV and air conditioning. Generally, the style here is mismatched furniture and clashing bedspreads in tidy, painted rooms with few frills. It’s been a while since a majority of the rooms had a makeover, so get the most bang for your buck by asking for one of the newly remodeled ones, with a balcony overlooking Sant Pau Street. All rooms have soundproof windows, but those with street views will still be noisier (but prettier!). Rooms in the back of the hotel are quieter but darker.

Most rooms have simple private bathrooms with showers (some hydro-massage). There are a few doubles that share bathrooms for a lower rate. All bathrooms are clean, white and newish, and stocked with soap, bath gel and shampoo.

Wi-Fi is available in the lobby only, and an Internet station is also available, both for free. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

In high season, the Mare Nostrum can be pricey for what it is, but the air conditioning (rare in Barcelona hotels) and central location alone may justify a small splurge. A Metro stop is close by, and a leisurely walk down La Rambla takes you from the Mare Nostrum to the Mediterranean Sea in one direction, and to Plaça Catalunya and city center in the other. Bear in mind, though, that being in the center of the city—and on La Rambla—also means noise, steeper prices and touristy shops and restaurants.

» 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.