Types of Accommodation and Prices

Hostels

The cheapest option, with shared-room beds from around €10 a night in fairly central locations, and private rooms a bit more expensive. A good option if you're travelling solo, on a tight budget, or looking for a social atmosphere; a worse fit if you prioritise privacy or rest.

Hotels

Mid-range hotels start at around €50 a night for a double room, with everything you'd expect (daily cleaning, 24h reception, optional breakfast). 5-star hotels in Barcelona are surprisingly accessible compared to other European capitals, with options from just over €100 a night in mid-season.

Tourist apartments

A good alternative to hotels, especially for multi-day stays, family trips or group travel: more space, your own kitchen and often a better price per person if there are several of you. The downside is the lack of hotel services (no 24h reception or daily cleaning unless booked separately) and that check-in is self-managed in some buildings.

How to choose based on your type of trip

• Short couple's trip: a mid-range hotel in the Eixample or Barri Gòtic.
• Group or family trip of a week or more: a tourist apartment, better value per person.
• Very tight budget or solo trip: a well-rated hostel in a central location.
• Special occasion: a high-end hotel on Passeig de Gràcia, prices are more reasonable than they seem at first glance.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to stay in a hostel in Barcelona?

From around €10 a night for a shared dorm bed, in fairly central locations.

When does a tourist apartment pay off more than a hotel?

For multi-day stays with family or a group, where the price per person is usually better and you gain space and your own kitchen.