Lonely Planet Review
This HI hostel is right in the thick of things, just off La Rambla. Beds are in single-sex dorms of four to 10 people. If you've stayed in HI hostels elsewhere you know the deal - charmless but well-tended dorms where you'll make plenty of new friends from around the world.
With over 200 beds, you'd think that finding one wouldn't be a problem, but there's rarely one free unless you book at least a week in advance. This being Barcelona, there's no curfew (nor are you required to vacate the rooms during the day), unlike many other HI hostels. Each dormitory has individual lockers to keep your gear safe and there's also a kitchen, laundry, Internet, single-sex shower rooms, air-con, a travel library and clean sheets for rent. Unusually, breakfast is included but you need to be quick - the morning shift is all there is and won't appeal if you've just staggered home. Then again, you won't get bed and breakfast for this price anywhere else in town. The whole place has a young, earthy vibe.
Review by author
Anthony Ham