Hotel Casa Barcelona

We felt incredibly uneasy walking through the local market, with all our valuables on us and our phones out. The route was like a maze, and one road that looked walkable turned out to be a dead end. When we tried to change direction, a local firmly told us not to go that way. We took it as a safety concern and didn’t risk it. We were used to Granada, as this was our second hostel there, but the walk to and from this one felt seriously unsafe. It’s way outside the tourist zone, and I wouldn’t recommend it, especially for solo travellers. Maybe Calle Atravesada is safer, but we didn’t try it. A taxi to the center is $1 per person, though we’d read that many unauthorised taxis were unsafe, so be warned. The room was nice and the bed comfortable. They also have chickens, which get loud from 5am.

Casa Barcelona is simple, clean, and comfortable, with a good breakfast and a lovely, helpful owner. It’s in a quiet residential area less than a mile from the city center. A taxi costs just $1, though we walked along an interesting route past the market or down a quiet residential street. The ceiling fan worked well, so we didn’t need the extra-cost AC. We really recommend their tour guide, joccander?, who puts together a personal tour for much less than other operators. We had an amazing, informative, slightly crazy day travelling on local transport to the Catarina lookout, then swimming and having lunch at the Laguna De Apoya, and watching sunset at the active Volcán Masaya. The tour was €25 plus bus fares and entrance fees, excellent value. If you want luxury or to be among tourists, this may not be for you. For adventurous travellers after authentic, well-priced accommodation, I’d readily recommend staying here.

The courtyard has a lovely tropical feel, with trees, chickens wandering around, and a hammock in the common area. It’s an easy short walk to the town center, too. For the price, this place was fantastic. The owner was kind and helpful, breakfast was included and excellent, and my bed and room were more comfortable than I expected. There was both a ceiling fan and air conditioning. I’d happily recommend staying here.

We’re planning to come back. The garden with its fruit trees is lovely, the rooms were clean, and the staff were kind. Breakfast was very good, too. It’s a little away from the bustle of downtown Granada, but still an easy walk to the tourist areas, and there’s a great restaurant nearby. The owner and staff helped with directions and suggestions, arranged tours, and explained how to take the buses on our own. Highly recommend this beautiful little hotel.