CASA GRACIA: MORE THAN A HOSTEL

Arriving in Barcelona after dark, the airport bus dropped us off in Plaça de Catalunya. We were worried about finding our way in the dark, so we foolishly hopped in a cab. Two minutes later, the cab stopped.

What?? We were here already? It was literally just a couple of blocks up the road. We paid the (luckily) cheap fare and rang the bell. Well that was easy enough. At least we knew that the hostel was in a good location in the city– unlike seemingly most hostels around the world.

As we entered the lobby the staff of Casa Gracia greeted us with a smile. And every time we encountered them after they were always smiling and ready to chat.

It was around 9pm and the common areas were pretty packed with other travelers hanging out and socializing, which is exactly what I like to see at a hostel. Unfortunately since I was tired from the flight, I decided just to head upstairs for the night. After all, I’d need a good night sleep since I planned to get up super early to make use of our limited time in Barcelona.

Opening the door to our deluxe suite, it was so spacious! There were two single beds pushed together, a couch and full wardrobe. Waiting for us was a bottle of wine with fresh fruits and a plush robe and comfy slippers.

This is a hostel?? This was nicer than half of the 3 and 4 star hotels we had stayed in previously throughout our trip. It was truly the perfect place to end our time in Europe!

I peeked inside the bathroom, which was fully stocked with toiletries, and it also featured a spa tub with jets. Talk about luxury.

I loved all of the small touches around the room like the Spanish throw pillow and antique suitcase mirrors. It was also convenient to have air-con as it was late July and pretty warm.

Needless to say I was beyond impressed.

The next morning we got up early to head down for breakfast, -which is complimentary for all guests- although you don’t really need to wake up early. Breakfast is served from 7am all the way until 11am for those who like to sleep in late.

While they had cereals and toast like most hostels, they also had pan con tomate (my new obsession), fresh cakes and a delicious array of fresh juice.

And while I don’t like coffee, my mom appreciated the coffee machine which could be used around the clock– perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up!

Finishing our breakfast we stopped by the front desk to get more information about where we were located. The girl kindly directed us to their concierge in the next room. I have never, ever, seen a hostel with a concierge before!

Again, it felt more like a hotel.

There were also plenty of spacious lounges with computers for anyone to use, books to borrow and board games to play. For those who bring their own laptop, there was also free WiFi located throughout the hostel. I could have easily just hung out here all day– except I needed to get out and see Barcelona!

Each night they also offer a themed dinner for a pretty cheap price. The particular night we were there was paella night, which unfortunately we decided to pass on due to my shrimp allergy. If only we had arrived the night before for tapas night!

For those who didn’t want to pay for dinner, they also offered a fully-stocked shared kitchen for guests to use.

On top of a nightly dinner, they also offer various events and entertainment each night also. That night they were going to hold a special flamenco performance.

After a long day exploring Barcelona and trying to figure out our own tapas adventure, we returned just in time for the flamenco. I ordered a few of their house sangrias and pulled up a seat front and center to enjoy the show.

I had never seen flamenco before, but this was a great introduction. The music, the intensity, the passion– I loved it.

I would actually pay to go to a flamenco performance, as many tourists do, but it was great to experience this slice of culture FOR FREE at Casa Gracia.

I highly, highly, highly recommend Casa Gracia for anyone staying in Barcelona. From its convenient location on Passeig de Gràcia just minutes away from Gaudí’s Casa Batlló to its welcoming atmosphere and social events it really embodied the phrase “mi casa es su casa”.

My mom would totally agree. Not once did she feel out of place here either; we saw plenty of other older couples and even whole families staying here, as well as lone solo travelers and groups of friends.

It really is perfect for anyone.

This was seriously the best hostel I visited in my trip around Europe. I know since I’ll someday be returning to Barcelona, that it means I’ll also be returning home to Casa Gracia.