Apart-Hotel Miramar

The room was small, but laid out well, and seemed recently updated. All the furniture and surfaces looked brand new. I stayed on the back side of the hotel and didn’t hear any noise from the Renfe train. Badalona is around a 30-minute trip on Renfe or Metro from central Barcelona, and I chose to stay here to save a few Euros. I got a lot for what I spent and would come back in a heartbeat. The location is great, on a pleasant Mediterranean boardwalk, with the train tracks between the hotel and the water.

We had a lovely view from our clean room, and the beach was right in front of the hotel. It’s a quieter stretch, mostly locals, with a nice choice of beachside bars and food places. Shops on the main street are about five minutes away, as is the train station into the city; the metro is another five-minute walk. Staff were wonderful and happy to help with anything. We borrowed beach towels and an umbrella for free, and because it was a special trip with my mum, they gave us a complimentary bottle of wine. The soundproofing could be better, though our neighbors were quiet. There wasn’t a way to make hot drinks in the room, but reception sold them for €1.50, served in a lovely mug by the gentleman at the desk. I’ll definitely recommend the hotel.

Sea views and a great location are the main draws here. There’s a local tram stop right outside, and the subway station is about a 15-minute walk away. Lots of nearby bars and restaurants, plus a local market. The facilities and cleaning were both pretty average. I gave it four stars mainly for where it is and the view.

The rooms are basic but perfectly usable, and the staff were kind and helpful. I really liked the area, and the views are amazing, especially from the fourth floor or higher. All in all, I had a great stay.