Hi - thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to respond. I'll be in BCN for a total of 5 ngts. First 2 are the tail end of a tour where we'll be staying near Sagrada Familia with an included tour to the cathedral. While other Gaudi buildings, Parc Guell, & the Picasso Museum interest me, the city itself, people, & other architecture interests me. I'm struggling to decide where I want to stay my last 3 nights. Eixample near Placa Catalunya or La Ramblas - hoping for any recommendations & the pros & cons of each area. I came across Magatzem 128 hotel in Eixample - http://www.magatzem128.com/ has anyone stayed here? Good location? Also needs to be easy to get to BCN on a Wednesday morning for a 08:00 domestic flight - I'll clear customs & immigration when I transit thru MUC. Again, your help is much appreciated!
Posted by
northern CA
2766 posts
that hotel is not really in the Eixample -- it is north of the Gran Via, true, but it is on the other side of the university village (west of it) so you should be clear of a lot of the tourist traffic.
The bus system at Plaza Catalunya is set up for early flights so there are buses running to get you to the airport early enough, but it's a bit of a hike in the dark to get there from that hotel, so rather than taxi to the bus stand, just taxi to the airport directly -- have the hotel set one up a day ahead.
Posted by
OP
Victoria on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
126 posts
Thx very much re the location & airport info. Do you recommend staying elsewhere? Closer to Placa Catalunya or somewhere in La Rambla? Gee, I’m stumped.
Posted by
WA State
3961 posts
We enjoyed the centrally located Hotel Jazz. It is conveniently located between Plaza Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia. One of the hidden gems is its wonderful pool/bar located on the 8th floor, amidst a spacious terrace with a stunning panoramic view of the entire city. It was a pleasant way to end our day. The rooms are well appointed. The breakfast was the best we had in Spain. The hotel location was convenient to reach the airport. Edited to add: We took a taxi to the airport.
If interested we took two free walking tours with Runner bean. We toured the Gothic Quarter and the Gaudi Tour. Both tours were very informative.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwighvbpwNH5AhVnHTQIHeuxDu8QFnoECAkQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hoteljazz.com%2Fen%2F&usg=AOvVaw3nBdIiQG6ouE0Hx_2qXUh0
Posted by
OP
Victoria on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
126 posts
Thx so much Janis. I looked at Hotel Jazz, so maybe that’s where I’ll stay. I appreciate the info on the walking tours because I normally do a walking tour in every destination. They’re informative & helps you get the lay of the land.
Posted by
WA State
3961 posts
Gail, like you we enjoy walking tours wherever we travel. It’s interesting that the only free tours we’ve taken were in Madrid & Barcelona.
We’ve hired mostly private or small group tours. We’ve never regretted hiring guides. Fortunately we’ve had great recommendations from friends, relatives & this forum!
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
Yes it is in Eixample, maybe even Gayxample, the centre of Barcelona gay nightlife.
Depends on what you are looking to experience with your day after sightseeing.
Posted by
OP
Victoria on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
126 posts
I have now booked at Hotel Jazz as recommended by Janis & my own research. Thanks to all.
Posted by
WA State
3961 posts
Gail, enjoy Barcelona. Hope you will follow up with a report! All the best.