The Best Hostels in Barrio Gótico, Barcelona

You know you’ve chosen well when you find yourself resting in a place named after the patron saint of travellers. There’s a fun, party vibe at this award-winning hostel, with sangria welcome meet-ups every day, bar crawls on offer and a huge chill-out room. Perfectly located right in the heart of the city, at the top end of La Rambla, you’re within walking distance of plenty of tourist attractions, and a three-minute walk from Plaça Catalunya.

The name may seem rather covert, like a code name in a bad Cold War spy thriller, but this is in fact a very welcoming mix of hotel and hostel. Mixed dorms are modern and bright with simple decor and free wifi and bed linen, as well as lockers and shared bathrooms. Private rooms with ensuite facilities are also available. The hostel is centrally located, and you’ll be set up for your day out with a free continental breakfast.

We’ll always have (Hostal) Paris. Affordable, yet high quality, the plain yet tasteful accommodation has a warehouse feel, with bare brick walls and chunky wooden headboards, and you can choose from single, double, triple and quadruple rooms. The Liceu Theatre, La Boquería market, the cathedral and the Picasso Museum are all close at hand here, so it’s a great base from which to launch yourself onto this historical city.

A relatively stylish hostel, the Nitzs BCN boasts modern rooms furnished with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The hostel is located in the heart of the Barrio Gótico, not far from Port Vell harbour and the main sightseeing areas and shopping streets. There are 10 rooms with a shared bathroom that can accommodate between one and three people, as well as a number of double bedrooms with private washrooms.

Halfway between a budget hotel and a hostel, Hostal Fernando offers a wide range of accommodation, including triple, double and individual bedrooms, as well as shared dorm rooms for four, six or eight. A buffet breakfast is included in the price of your stay, and there’s a small bar and restaurant on site, as well as 24-hour reception. This is a great option if you’re not a fan of the typical hostel atmosphere and want something a little more private.

Just metres away from La Rambla, the Ideal Youth Hostel has everything you need to have a safe, enjoyable time in Barcelona, with 24-hour check-in and free luggage storage on the day of your departure. Getting to and from the hostel is very easy, as it is conveniently located close to public transport. There’s an outdoor terrace, and a lounge area with games to keep you entertained.

This independently run hostel prides itself on its warm welcome, friendly staff and convivial atmosphere. Free walking tours are organised every evening to help you find your way around the city. On Thursdays there’s even a free sangria night, a great way mingle with fellow travellers. The hostel offers double and triple rooms, as well as shared dorm rooms at more affordable prices.

Be warned: if you’re not in a party mood, this isn’t the hostel for you. The Party Hostel Kabul is located on the beautiful Plaça Reial, just off La Rambla in the heart of the Barrio Gótico, and close to many of the most popular bars in Barcelona. The free beer on the rooftop terrace, games nights and walking tours are great ways to meet other travellers and set the mood for an epic night out.