Accommodation Options in Barcelona

It's not that long ago that the number of hotels in Barcelona was quite limited and the reputation of many of the city's hostels would deter many discerning visitors from even considering staying in one.

Thankfully, though, those days have long gone. The re-development of the city that began with the 1992 Olympic Games has continued since then and, consequently, any visitor to the city - be they there for a weekend or a summer - can be sure of finding accommodation that will perfectly suit whatever criteria he or she might have.

Let's start our review with a look at the top end of the hotel sector - and there is plenty of that to choose from. Lovers of the contemporary hotel, packed with state-of-the-art technology and perfectly manicured rooms will swoon over the award-winning Hotel Arts. Those who prefer their luxury to come in a more traditional setting, recalling the opulence of a by-gone era, will love the dignified glory of hotels such as the Majestic and the Palace.

Barcelona also caters perfectly for guests who want to be right in the heart of things, near the beach or even slightly away from the city centre. Many people choose to be near Las Ramblas or the Gothic Quarter - so that they can feel the atmosphere even from their hotel lobby. Others, especially if they have children with them, might prefer the option of having a beach nearby so that the little ones can let off some steam when necessary. Barcelona is fortunate enough to have sufficient hotels of all types so that, with a little bit of research, you will find just the right one for your stay.

Many people might wince at the thought of staying in a hostel - putting them firmly in the backpacker bracket and not considering them for anyone else. If that's you, then think again. Barcelona hostels can offer guests an economical and pleasant alternative to the hotel experience. Don't think Youth Hostels - in Spanish they are albergues juveniles; nowadays, you're as likely to find a couple together as a backpacker or a group 'on tour'. Almost every Barcelona hostel will now possess a shared kitchen for guests to use, a laundry room, common room and, increasingly regularly, computer terminals. They are clean, comfortable, secure places - and usually within walking distance of all the city's main attractions.

Incidentally, don't get too stressed out about the differences between hotels, hostels and 'pensions'; the terms are often interchangeable. Officially - more or less - a pension is more of a British-style Guest House or Bed and Breakfast but, in reality, hotels can also call themselves Hostels or Pensions!

One attractive option for many people is to find some self-catering accommodation in Barcelona that will give them a greater degree of freedom that they can find in hotels as well as possibly being much more economical. Apartments can vary in both size and price - it's even practical to rent student accommodation during July and August.

As with all accommodation, a little research before you make your reservation can enable you to find out for yourself that Barcelona has come a long, long way in the past few years.