Hotel Peninsular

The hotel's old-fashioned style is part of its charm for me. It feels like stepping back to perhaps the 1950s, and the rooms are comfortable. I stayed in an attic room, reached by going up to the fourth floor in the lift and then climbing a short flight of stairs. There are no TVs or minibars. Breakfast is simple, perhaps a reminder of the hotel's convent past: bread, rolls, cheese, salami, pastries, juice, tea or coffee, plain yoghurt, and cornflakes. The Liceu metro stop is very close; Plaza de Catalunya metro and Rodalies (Renfe cercanías) Station are a 12-15 minute walk away. Barceloneta beach is about 25 minutes on foot, and the old cathedral about 15. I'll definitely come back.

The towels were the worst part of our stay. We found black and brown stains on them and brought them to reception, where a woman and her colleague showed little interest or professionalism. I said clean towels matter for hygiene and that this wasn't acceptable at 100 euros a night. Her unconcerned response was, “Just leave a review on booking so my manager can see this.” The room and sheets weren't fully clean either. There was no shampoo when we arrived, and the staff supplied one and a half rolls of toilet paper, apparently leaving behind what the previous guests had left. The room was tiny, with the bed taking up most of it, just one bedside table in a double room, and no TV. The air conditioner heated the room well but looked as if it had hardly ever been maintained. We could hear other guests at night because the rooms weren't soundproof, and we were woken by the noise. The hotel was old, dirty, and humid, and badly in need of renovation. The booking.com pictures didn't match what we found. In winter, the interior wasn't much to enjoy; breakfast was served in a very small room. What we got was bland, looked unhygienic, and had cheese, ham, and eggs left uncovered on a tray. There wasn't much choice, and the food lacked freshness and flavor. I assume breakfast might only be available in summer. We paid 230 euros in total, including the overnight fees, and felt completely ripped off. The hotel's condition and especially the staff's behavior were appalling. I can't recommend it.

The bed was comfy, the shower was great, and the hotel's in a lovely spot. Breakfast is basic and not the best. If you're staying, go for a room at the front for the lovely Juliet balcony.

There's an old-time feel to the hotel, and the service is friendly and helpful. Breakfast is simple continental fare, with a coffee machine that offers several kinds of coffee. The hotel is near the old town and La Rambla, and the beach is about a 25-minute walk away.