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From45US$ /night
Check-in
10Jan2026Select date
Check-out
11Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Castle Hotel

Joaquin Costa, 44, Barcelona, Spain, 08001
-
Steps from Las Ramblas and Plaça Catalunya
Very good
7.6
/10

Central And Basic Universitat For Young Hostel, Barcelona - Modern Urban Base

This hostel, situated in the dynamic Raval district, presents itself as a solid, no-frills base for the discerning young traveler. It's a property that understands its clientele - those seeking to immerse themselves in the city's pulse rather than indulge in overt luxury. It manages to feel both connected and functional, offering a straightforward approach to experiencing Barcelona.

Location

Set within the lively Ciutat Vella District, on an avenue purpose-built for the opening of MACBA, the hostel is strategically positioned. It sits on Calle Joaquin Costa, the lively heart of Barcelona's multicultural centre, placing guests within easy reach of the city's essential arteries. Las Ramblas and Plaça Catalunya are a mere five-minute walk, offering immediate access to the tourist and social hubs. From here, the historical, winding streets of the Gothic Quarter are readily explorable, and landmarks like the Palau de la Musica Catalana and Sagrada Familia are accessible via the excellent public transport network. A bus stop, just 800 meters away, further solidifies its connectivity. Personally, I find this proximity to such diverse urban experiences, from street markets to architectural marvels, makes it a particularly appealing location for those wanting to dive headfirst into Barcelona.

Style and Character

The Central And Basic Universitat For Young Hostel embraces a modern aesthetic. Rooms are described as contemporary, with a clean, uncluttered feel. The design prioritizes functionality over ornate decoration, aligning with its purpose as a practical urban base. While not aiming for opulence, the interiors feel purposeful, with a focus on natural light flooding the spaces, creating an airy, if simple, atmosphere.

Service and Facilities

The hostel provides essential services to ensure a smooth stay. A 24-hour front desk is available, offering peace of mind and assistance at any hour, complemented by luggage storage for those needing to extend their day before departure. For security, a safe deposit box is available at the front desk. Guests can also expect reliable connectivity with free WiFi in public areas. The property is also equipped with safety features including a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit, contributing to a secure environment.

Rooms

Accommodations at Central And Basic Universitat For Young Hostel are designed for comfort and practicality. All rooms feature single beds that can be joined together, providing flexibility for different guest configurations. Rooms are bathed in natural light, contributing to a pleasant ambiance. Some smaller rooms offer views of the MACBA Art Museum or over the street of Joaquin Costa, providing a glimpse into the city's dynamic surroundings. Quadruple rooms are equipped with a private entrance, a seating area, and a sofa, offering a bit more space. Twin rooms and double rooms feature balconies. Bathrooms are fitted with showers, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers, ensuring all basic needs are met.

Food and Drink

The Gat Raval, a part of the property or a closely associated offering, provides a daily breakfast. This typically includes tea, coffee, milk, orange juice, and muffins - a simple, adequate start to the day for those planning active explorations rather than extended meals onsite. For more substantial dining, the surrounding Raval district and nearby streets offer a wide array of shops, supermarkets, and some of the trendiest restaurants and bars in the city, catering to every culinary preference.

Value for Money

The Central And Basic Universitat For Young Hostel positions itself as a cost-effective option for travelers prioritizing location and basic amenities over luxury. Given its prime access to major attractions and public transport, it represents a sensible choice for budget-conscious visitors who intend to spend most of their time exploring the city.

Accessibility

The property is well-connected to the public transport network, which is a significant factor for accessibility. While specific details on wheelchair access or adapted rooms are not provided, the presence of a 24-hour front desk suggests staff are available to assist guests with their needs. Guests aged 18 and above are the primary demographic.

Family-Friendly

The hostel primarily caters to young travelers, with specific amenities geared towards this demographic. While one child under 7 years can be accommodated, the general setup with single beds and a focus on urban exploration suggests it might be more suited to older children or young adults rather than families with very young children. Quadruple rooms offer a bit more space for small groups or families.

“This Barcelona spot strikes me as a smart choice for value-conscious travelers, particularly couples. Its central location, near a metro stop, provides a practical base for exploring the city, and the staff earns high marks for being helpful. For those prioritizing location and friendly service, this appears to be a solid option.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Castle-hotel
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Choose your room

Castle hotels provide room choices such as doubles, family chambers, and grand suites—often with breakfast, free cancellations, and exclusive offers
Single Room
2 persons
6 m² 
1 Single bed
Single Room Balcony
2 persons
5 m² 
1 Single bed
Balcony
Double Room
2 persons
6 m² 
1 Double bed
Twin Room Balcony
2 persons
8 m² 
2 Single beds
Balcony
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Facilities

Each castle hotel provides features designed for both comfort and memorable moments

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • No pets allowed
  • Security
  • Adults only
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access
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Location

Joaquin Costa, 44, Barcelona, Spain, 08001
Map view
Joaquin Costa, 44, Barcelona, Spain, 08001
Nearby
Market
Mercado de La Boqueria
590 m
3-5 Carrer Nou de la Rambla
Guell Palace
590 m
Mall
Las Ramblas
590 m
Museum
Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art
590 m
Carrer de Montalegre 5
Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona
590 m
Restaurants
La Parra
30 m
Carrer De Joaquin Costa
Bj 100
40 m
Carrer de Joaquin Costa
Lukumas
110 m
Valldonzella 36
Bar Fidel
140 m
24 Carrer de Ferlandina
Bismillah Kebabish
120 m
22 Carrer de Joaquin Costa
Myramar
110 m
Valldonzella 56 Valldonzella 56 Local
Bar Pizzeria Pepe
110 m
Valldonzella
Explore Barcelona
Explore Barcelona
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Casa Batllo
14 minutes walking
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Gaudí masterpiece features colorful mosaics and organic shapes that mesmerize visitors.
Placa de Catalunya
14 minutes walking
This central square connects the old and new parts of Barcelona, surrounded by fountains, sculptures, and shops.
Mercado de La Boqueria
8 minutes walking
A vibrant market filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and tapas bars, perfect for sampling Catalan cuisine.
Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art
8 minutes walking
Featuring contemporary art across various mediums, this museum offers unique exhibitions and an impressive collection.
Cycling in the City
8 minutes walking to rental shop
Bike rentals nearby offer a fun way to explore Barcelona's iconic sights and unique neighborhoods at your own pace.
Yoga in the Park
8 minutes walking to classes
Relax with outdoor yoga sessions in nearby parks, suitable for all skill levels, offering peace amid city bustle.
La Parra
1 minute walking
A cozy eatery serving traditional tapas, with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. Reservations are recommended.
Bj 100
1 minute walking
A casual spot known for its hearty burgers and friendly vibe, perfect for a quick meal or a family outing.
Club Jazz Chinitas
20 minutes walking
A lively venue featuring jazz performances and flamenco shows, creating an energetic atmosphere for music lovers.
Teatre Grec
12 minutes drive
An open-air theater hosting summer concerts and performances, set in a beautiful park, ideal for cultural enthusiasts.
Local transport options
City Centre
Barcelona8 min  ·  600 m
Airports
Barcelona El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN)24 min  ·  15.9 km
Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO)140 min  ·  93.3 km
Underground
Universitat5 min  ·  400 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
from 04:00-10:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
22
Former name
Macba Hostel

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