How to Choose a Hostel in Barcelona in 2025 (What to Expect)

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Find your Perfect Hostel in Barcelona

I've spent more than my fair share of time backpacking through Barcelona, and let me tell you—it’s not just about the glossy photos you see online. When I first landed here with my trusty backpack, I bounced between a few hostels and quickly learned that the city isn’t as intimidating or overly pricey as some might say. I even got lost one night while trying to find a local tour, which turned into an unexpected adventure.

Now, after countless hostel stays, I’ve picked up a few insider tips I wish I'd known from the start.

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 $29.65 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Onefam Batlló9.6

from $14.54 | More Details

This is not an ad. We help you find the perfect hostel and compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking. You can save up to 23.7%

What I Learned from Backpacking Barcelona

I’ve had my fair share of hostel highs and lows in this city. If I could hop in a time machine, here are the core lessons I’d give myself:

1. Book Early - Seriously: it saves you money and the great hostel sell out fast!
2. Location Matters: Staying too far from the center can mean long metro rides and missing out on spontaneous late-night hangouts.
3. Read Latest Reviews: Some hostels might have stellar common areas, while others barely have space for your backpack.
4. Always Compare Prices: I once paid almost double. Always use Hostelz.com to compare prices between Hostelworld and Booking.com
5. Leaving Early to the Airport? Pick a hostel near a Aerobus Stop. It will be so much easier to get to/ arrive from the airport.

What to Expect from Hostels in Barcelona ✅

• Social? Most hostels strike a balance between social activities and quiet spaces, so there’s usually something for every type of traveler.
• Party Hostels: Oh yes, there are some fun party hostels across Barcelona. Get ready for party and nightlife!
• Activities? You’ll often find organized activities like
  • pub crawls - very common
  • free walking tours - very common
  • cooking classes (not very common, check it!)
  • Family dinners (not very common, check it!)
  • Spontaneous late nights out. Nightlife is epic in the city. Enjoy it!
• Clean? Generally, you can count on clean facilities, good safety measures, and a location that puts you within reach of the city’s highlights.
• Kitchen? On the flip side, don’t expect every hostel to have a fully-equipped kitchen or to be situated in the heart of the city. Cooking a few meals on your can save you money.

Barcelona Central Garden Hostel

9.6

Eixample

"…You will find that most guests gather in these areas at night, so it can be busy and difficult to more

from

$29.65

About rooms, dorms and bathrooms:

• Expect a range of dorm sizes—from intimate 4-bed setups to larger rooms with up to 12 beds—as well as private room options.
• Privacy Curtains: Some hostels offer dorms with privacy curtains. Filter for that here on Hostelz.com
• Bathroom arrangements differ; some hostels offer ensuite rooms while others have shared facilities.
• Standard amenities usually include kitchens, lockers, luggage storage, towels, linens, and reliable WiFi.

What NOT to Expect? ❌

• Not every hostel is fun: Barcelona has many hostels, but the minority are fun and epic. Others are, let's say, basic.
• Variable Social Scenes: While many hostels emphasize a social atmosphere, not every hostel will host daily events or offer organized tours. You might end up in a place that’s more geared toward quiet nights or independent exploration rather than constant group activities.
• Late Check-In For free: Some hostel might charge a very late-in check in fee - or they do not have a 24h reception. Check that!
• Luggage Storage Fee: Some hostels charge up to 5€ simply for storing luggage. Personally, this annoys me.
• Inconsistent Temperature Control: Given that some hostels are in historic buildings, you may encounter challenges with heating or cooling. Don’t be surprised if the temperature isn’t always perfectly regulated. I recommend booking a hostel with AC in summer and with heater in Winter.

Best Location for Hostels in Barcelona (and the Worst)

• Best: Neighborhoods like El Born and the Gothic Quarter are excellent choices. They’re central, close to nightlife, and make it easy to explore local culture.
• Worst: Some hostels on the outskirts might save you a few euros, but they can leave you feeling disconnected and far from the action.

How Much Do Hostels Cost in Barcelona?

Here’s a rough breakdown of what you might expect to pay. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the season or special events.

Female Only-Dorms: Many hostels offer femaleonly dorms. here on Hostelz.com we have created a special filter to find:

• Female Only Hostels in Barcelona
• Hostels with Female-Only Dorms in Barcelona

Keep an eye out for weekends or big events like festivals and conferences, as these can drive prices up significantly.

As a rule of Thumb: the bigger the dorm, the cheaper the price!

Hostelz.com

How to Book a Hostel in Barcelona Without Overpaying

Always use Hostelz.com to compare prices. It shows all options from both Hostelworld and Booking. Neither site alone lists every hostel, so this approach helps ensure I’m getting the best deal. I also avoid last-minute bookings when prices are at their peak—timing really is everything.

• Hostelz.com shows you all hostels on Hostelworld and Booking with original prices
• Booking in advance is a surefire way to save, especially during summer and other busy periods.
• Keep an eye on seasonal trends; off-season travel can score you some great deals.

This strategy has saved me a ton over the years, leaving extra cash for local food and unforgettable experiences.

Still not sure? Pick my Favorite Hostel in Barcelona

#1 Top Hostel in Barcelona: Onefam Paralelo

This is the overall best rated hostel in Onefam Paralelo. The overall rating is 9.7. You cannot go wrong here.

It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.

The price for a dorm at Onefam Paralelo starts from $18.97.

Check out Onefam Paralelo here

How Social Are Barcelona Hostels?

Barcelona hostels range from those that offer a bustling party atmosphere to spots that are perfect for a quieter, more relaxed stay. Reviews are your best friend here—look for mentions of organized activities like pub crawls and local tours if you're keen on a social scene.

If you’re more of an introvert, seek out hostels with cozy common areas where you can ease into conversations at your own pace.

Hostel Safety in Barcelona

• Most hostels provide basic safety features like lockers for your valuables.
• Reading recent traveler reviews is a smart way to get a sense of overall safety and any specific tips for the area.
• Be cautious in busy tourist spots, as pickpocketing can be an issue, especially during peak travel times.

What to Pack for a Hostel Stay in Barcelona

Before you head off, check out our packing list for hostels for all the essentials. For Barcelona, I’d recommend packing

• a sturdy pair of walking shoes (those cobblestone streets can really add up the steps!)
• a light jacket for the cooler evenings
• your swimwear
• due pickpocketing: Cell Phone Lanyards & Wrist Straps

How to Make Your Hostel Stay 100% Perfect

• Booking and Check-In Tips: Book early, bring a valid ID, and double-check the hostel's check-in policy, especially if you’re arriving late.
• Breaking the Ice: Join group activities to ease into the social scene—it's a great way to meet fellow travelers.
• Hostel Bar Scene: Many hostels have an in-house bar that offers cheaper drinks than local bars.

Finally: My Honest Take

Barcelona is amazing! Travel here for the nightlife, lifestyle, beach, architecture, food. I recommend staying at least 3 nights. This will give you a good idea of the city, to take a breath, and to soak up the city's lifestyle. Barcelona is a unique destination, do not rush it.

Barcelona might seem a bit intimidating or even pricey at first glance. I hope with my little insider knowledge, you can find a hostel that perfectly matches your style—whether you’re all in for a bustling social scene or prefer a quieter retreat.

At the end of the day, it’s all about the experiences, the friendships you forge, and the memories you make. Happy travels!

7 Hidden Gemz in Barcelona (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Frequently Asked Questions About Hostels in Barcelona

Do I need to book in advance? Generally, it’s best to book 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during the high season.

How do hostel check-ins work? Check-ins usually take place in the mid-afternoon. If you’re arriving late, be sure to confirm the hostel’s policy.

What’s included in the rate? Most rates cover essentials like linens and WiFi, with breakfast sometimes included. Always check the details or reviews.

How do I know if a hostel is social? Look for reviews mentioning active common areas, organized events, and overall buzz from fellow travelers.

What about hostel bar prices? Hostel bars typically offer more affordable drink options, though policies can vary.

How can I meet people if I’m introverted? Spend time in the common areas, join group tours, or simply strike up a conversation during organized activities.

Is luggage storage available? Most hostels offer luggage storage either for free or a small fee. It’s always best to confirm ahead of time.

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

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I stayed in a Backpacker Hostel in Barcelona

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Where to stay in Barcelona for First Time

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Solo Travel Barcelona

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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.