Park Hotel
Av. del Marquès de l'Argentera, 11, Barcelona, Catalonia 08003, Spain
Why We Like It
While there’s not a lot to this little boutique, it’s worth noting that the main reasons to stay here are price, simplicity, location, and an A+ restaurant. El Born is a cute neighborhood with tons of bars and tapas joints all within walking distance. Also within walking distance is the beach, and the zoo, and other famous Barcelona landmarks. Make sure you eat at 10’s as Michelin-starred super-chef Jordi Cruz might just be back their making your croquettes.
Fodor's Expert Review
When you first approach the historically preserved façade of this hotel, you’ll notice the big red ‘2018 Michelin’ sticker glaring at you from the restaurant attached next door (more on this later). When you enter, you’ll discover a laid-back boutique, low on frills, but high on charm and service. Tucked away in the El Born neighborhood, littered with small bars and tapas restaurants through tiny alleyways, this hotel fits in perfectly as both a neighborhood hangout and an inexpensive place to stay for a night.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Room
Simple rooms open up to gray-wood floors with lighter wood accents and furnishings. Many rooms have balconies (opt for these) and mirrored headboards feature silhouettes of birds looking down on you while you sleep (not creepy we promise).
Tip If you’re a solo traveler, this is one of the rare nice hotels that also has single rooms. Sure they’re on the wee side, but if you’re in-and-out of the city quickly, it’s ideal from a price and comfort point.
Bathroom
Bathrooms have a range of shower/tub combos or solo showers with linoleum floors and porcelain sinks. Nothing to write home about, but again, it’s not that pricy.
Lobby
A tight, rectangular lobby isn’t much of a hangout, but the hardwood floors lead to a historic, and hypnotic spiral staircase that is an original feature of the building. Two zebra chairs are placed in front and wide panels open up to the restaurant next door.
Pool
Set on the roof of the hotel, the rectangular pool is surrounded by white lounge chairs and offers guests 270-degree views of Barcelona. You’re not swimming any laps, but it’s bigger than the average hot-tub-sized rooftop pools that litter the city.
Dining
Ten’s Restaurant is the owner of the big red Michelin sticker (told you we’d come back to it!). Though it’s not a starred eatery, it is on the Bib Gourmand Michelin list and is helmed by multiple star-holder and genius chef Jordi Cruz. The restaurant serves a slightly up-scale and unique version of tapas and has both inside and outside seating.
Tip Check out the tasting menu to go on a Catalan gastronomic quest that won’t break the bank.
Drinking
Ten’s also serves as the hotel bar in addition to the breakfast area for hotel guests.
What's Nearby
Getting Around
El Born is a great neighborhood because you’re walking distance to major attractions, the beach, and loads of good restaurants, bars, and clubs. The closest metro stops are about 5-minutes away and one of the main train stations in the city is literally across the street from the hotel. Buses are also incredibly efficient here and there’s a stop less than a block away.
Restaurants
For traditional Catalan fare, check out Restaurant 7 Portes (5-minute walk), one of the most historic spots in Barcelona dating to 1836. Seafood lovers should head over to Passadís del Pep (5-minute walk) where they’ll find classic dishes under arched ceilings.
Bars
If you’re looking for the tapas bar of your dreams, check out El Xampanyet (4-minute walk) and order their eponymous sparkling wine. For something a little kitschy, head over to Paradiso (1-minute walk) a fun speakeasy hidden behind a pastrami fridge--and yes, you can order pastrami sandwiches inside.
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