Finding Holiday Accommodations in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain is a beautiful city located on the Mediterranean coast between the mouths of two rivers. It is the second largest city in Spain and the capital of Catalonia. Barcelona is a major tourist destination because of its rich cultural heritage and large airport.

The history of Barcelona seems to depend on who you ask. One legend says Hercules founded the city 400 years before Rome was built. Later, the city was rebuilt by the father of Hannibal, whose name was Hamilcar Barca. He named the city Barcino after his family, and the name was later changed to Barcelona.

Whatever the true story of Barcelona may be, there are indeed remnants of the ancient Roman culture in modern-day Barcelona. For example, if you visit the Placa del Rei, a museum, you'll see remains of old structures there. In addition, pieces of old Roman walls are built into the La Seu cathedral.

Barcelona's weather makes it a great place to vacation. It boasts a typical Mediterranean climate with mild, dry winters and warm, humid summers. In its coldest months, Barcelona's average temperatures are still as high as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. And, in its warmest months, the average temperature is around 77 degrees Fahrenheit -- perfect for visiting one of its seven beaches or 68 parks.

Vacationers in Barcelona have a number of great options for accommodations, including hostels, hotels, and holiday apartments. These accommodations vary in price and luxury, so tourists can spend as much or as little as they like per night.

Barcelona Hostels
Examples of hostels in Barcelona are:

Backpackers bcn: Located in an 80 year old building, this hostel has been in business for five years. Though the rooms have been refurbished for comfort, the original high ceilings and colored-tile floors are in place to give the building an authentic feel. Includes breakfast, security lockers, a guest kitchen, and several other amenities.

Kabul Backpackers Hostel: This hostel is a member of Europe's Famous Hostels (EFH) association. It is located in central Barcelona. Accommodations are dorm-style with dorm sizes ranging from 4 to 20 beds. No single or double rooms are available. Bathrooms are same-sex shared. Includes breakfast, Internet access, security lockers, air conditioning, 24-hour reception, and other amenities.

Sant Jordi Sants Hostel: Its location just 10 minutes from the main train station in Barcelona makes this hostel a great choice for those planning to use the train. The facilities include a communal living room and dining room as well as two guest kitchens. There is also a game room and solarium. Includes Internet access, security lockers, elevator, air conditioning, and more.

Barcelona Hotels
Examples of hotels in Barcelona are:

Onix Liceo: This hotel boasts a design that makes visitors feel like they're staying in an art gallery. It is located in central Barcelona, just 25 minutes from the airport. Includes buffet breakfast, air conditioning, disabled access, elevator, non-smoking rooms, terrace, and other amenities.

Bel Art: This hotel is relatively new and is situated near Gaudi Avenue and the Sagrada Familia, a gorgeous and elaborate church by famous Barcelona architect, Gaudi. The hotel has 94 rooms, a restaurant, snack bar, conference rooms, and a car park. Includes air conditioning, bar, room service, satellite television, and more.

Husa Valles: Husa Valles isn't actually right inside Barcelona. It is in a residential area of Sabadell, which is a city on the outskirts of Barcelona. Its location gives vacationers easy access to both Barcelona and the airport. Includes air conditioning, minibar, safety box, wireless Internet access, room service, and other amenities.

Barcelona Holiday Apartments
Examples of holiday apartments in Barcelona are:

Bailen 2: This apartment is in the Eixample Quarter of Barcelona. It was recently refurbished and can hold up to six people. Includes two double rooms (each with two single beds that can be pushed together); a large terrace; a living room with a sofa bed, television, DVD player, and dinner table; two bathrooms; and a full kitchen.

Sant Pere Mes Baix: This apartment is between the Ramblas and Born areas of Barcelona. It sleeps up to six people and is tastefully decorated. Includes a large living room, two bedrooms, a small balcony, a full bath, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

Atic Barcelona: This apartment holds up to five people and allows dogs. It's just a few minutes away from the Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya. Includes one double room and one single room, living room with sofa-bed, complete bathroom, terrace, and kitchen.

Regardless of where you plan to stay while visiting beautiful Barcelona, be sure to make your reservations early! Barcelona is an extremely popular vacation spot, so accommodations fill up quickly.