I stayed in a Backpacker Hostel in Barcelona and here's what happened

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Looking for a fun, social hostel in Barcelona? As a solo traveler, I wanted a place where I could meet people easily, feel safe, and still get a good night’s sleep. OneFam Hostel Paralelo delivered on all fronts.

I called OneFam Hostel Paralelo home for a few days. I'm here to share my experience and explain why I think this hostel is a top choice for any social backpacker in Barcelona.

Top Picks: The Best Hostels in Barcelona

Best for Hostel Newbies

Onefam Paralelo9.7

from $18.97 | More Details

Best for Female Solo Traveler

Barcelona Central Garde...9.6

from €27.02 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Onefam Batlló9.6

from $14.54 | More Details

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Location – Super Convenient

This hostel is in Poble Sec, just a short walk from La Rambla and right next to a metro station. I loved that I could get anywhere in the city quickly, whether by foot or metro. The area has a local feel, with plenty of bars, cafes, and shops nearby. Even coming back late at night felt safe.

Social Vibe – Perfect for Solo Travelers

OneFam is that typical, cozy backpacker hostel we are all looking for. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel at home. They organize free family dinners every night (yes, free!), followed by social events like drinking games, bar crawls, and club nights.

If you’re traveling alone and want to meet people, this is the place. I arrived knowing no one and left with friends from all over the world.

I stayed here during summer. But I checked and it seems to be a busy hostel year around.

Rooms – Comfortable & Clean

• Dorms with privacy curtains, reading lights, and charging outlets
• Lockers for valuables (bring your own padlock)
• Air conditioning (a lifesaver in summer!)
• Shared bathrooms – always clean, but can be busy in the mornings

Amenities – Everything You Need

• Free WiFi – worked great even in my dorm
• Rooftop terrace – perfect for chilling during the day
• Fully equipped kitchen – but I barely used it because of the free dinners!
• 24-hour reception – no curfew, always someone around to help
• On-site laundry facilities – useful for longer stays

Safety – Felt 100% Secure

As a solo traveler, safety is my #1 concern. OneFam has secure key-card access, lockers in the rooms, and 24/7 reception. The staff also looks out for everyone, especially on nights out.

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Barcelona

1. Pension Mari-Luz - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Quiet Rest, Solo Traveller
2. Kabul Party Hostel - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller
3. Itaca Hostel - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Quiet Rest
4. Feetup Garden House Hostel - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Solo Traveller
5. Be Ramblas Hotel

Pension Mari-Luz

8.8

"…Great location - Everything was fine, the room was a bit small, but actually you don't need bigger more

Kabul Party Hostel

8.8

Gothic Quarter

"…There was a fabulous tour of the Gothic quarter given by this funny and cute girl named Jo. One of more

from

$20.53

Itaca Hostel

9.1

Gothic Quarter

"…There are only a few rooms and they are spacious, with bunkbeds and medium size lockers. The more

from

$17.83

Feetup Garden House Hostel

8.4

"…the building is very unique and cool, the staff is really nice, and i love how theres a place to more

Be Ramblas Hotel

8.9

"…Very good security. Location a winner - Stayed in a private 2 bed room with aircon -- good value more

from

$38.66

Price & Booking

For what you get, this hostel is a steal. The price includes free dinners, activities, and a social atmosphere that makes your stay so much better. 

Always compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking.com on Hostelz.

You get all prices and all available dorms and rooms from both websites.

I ended up booking wiht Hostelworld as it was 2€ cheaper.

Final Verdict: 10/10 – Would Stay Again

I absolutely loved my time at OneFam Paralelo. It’s the perfect mix of fun, comfort, and affordability for solo travelers and backpackers. If you’re looking for a super social hostel in Barcelona where you’ll make friends instantly, this is it.

7 Hidden Gemz in Barcelona (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Pro tip: Book in advance! This place fills up fast, especially in the summer. And this is not a marketing-trick. It's actually a small and highly rated hostel!

Backpacking Barcelona? Here’s What You Need to Know

These are the guides I wish I had before visiting. I’ve been there, had fun, did some minor mistakes, and now I’m passing the best tips on to you. Safe travels!

Must-Read

How to Pick a Hostel in Barcelona

What to Expect (and what not!)

Where to Stay in Barcelona as a Solo Traveler

Best Areas and how to get around

Backpacking Barcelona

All those cool and unique experiences we are looking for!

Where to stay in Barcelona for First Time

My experience and what you can expect

Solo Travel Barcelona

My experience and what you can expect

About the author: Anna Kiefer

My travels have taken me from the vibrant streets of Vietnam to the tranquil beauty of Spain, each destination adding a new chapter to my journey. For me, travel isn’t about counting countries or ticking off lists; it’s about the freedom it brings and the stories that unfold with each new adventure. At Hostelgeeks, my goal is to infuse our brand with this sense of freedom and discovery.

Whether it’s finding the perfect 5 Star Hostel or sharing a hidden gem in a bustling city, I’m here to ensure that our travelers get more than just a journey – they get an experience that resonates with the joy of exploration and the freedom of the open road.