Hostal Santa Catalina

The room was overpriced and filthy, with a strong stink that made it hard to breathe. It was small and very basic, with an old, smelly mattress. Water dripped through holes in the ceiling right above the toilet. Breakfast was inedible: sliced bread, poor-quality cheese, butter and jam packets, bottled juice that tasted like water, milk, and coffee. There wasn't even cereal. This place should be closed or completely renovated. What they show online is false compared with the reality, and I don't recommend staying here.

The staff were exceptionally friendly, especially receptionist Carlos, who took time with each guest and gladly explained things about the city. His advice was invaluable, and his warmth and kindness are rare in tourism. The hostel is in the old part of the city, which is its most appealing feature. Rooms are quite small, but clean and comfortable, with what a traveler needs. There's a rooftop terrace, and tea and coffee are available all day. A cozy place with the essentials.

The rooms are small, as you'd expect for the price, but they're cleaned every day. My main issue was the tiny bathroom, where a shower leaves the whole room wet. The reception staff spoke English and were very friendly. The hostal is well placed near Seville's historic centre and barrio Santa Cruz, with most attractions a 10-20 minute walk away and lots of places to eat nearby.

It's good value, with helpful, friendly staff and a nice location for walking to bars and sights. Reception is open 24/7, so you don't need to carry the keys around. The main bus and train stations are about 20 minutes away, though.