Stylish, modern hostel found in a great city-centre location in Barcelona. It offers extras like an outdoor pool and terrace, bar with happy hour, and a range of eating options, as well as three different bedroom types for all budgets.
If you’re looking for a lively, well-located and affordable place to stay in Barcelona, TOC is definitely one for you. Found within a traditional city building, the hostel is a sleek, modern take on budget accommodation where you’ll feel as though you’re in a much pricier hotel. There are three room types: dormitories with bunk beds for six to eight people (some have built-in shower rooms and there are women-only dorms), and suites that sleep either two or four. With an approach to decor that focuses on white linens, light wooden furniture and no unnecessary extras, all the spaces are relaxing and comfortable. As well as the sleeping areas, the hostel has a bar that offers a daily happy hour, and a kitchen space where breakfast is served, you can order and eat a take-away, or use the facilities to prepare your own meal, the elements for which you can buy in the on-site market. If you’re interested in learning new culinary skills, take advantage of their cooking classes given by young local chefs. You can also pick up souvenirs in the TOC shop, take a reading break in the library, play billiards, cards and board games, and enjoy a film or sporting event on the cinema screen. And that’s all before you start exploring the city!
Location: A great spot on the main avenue of Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, with easy walking access to key places such as Plaça Catalunya, La Rambla, Passeig de Gràcia and neighbourhoods like El Raval and the Eixample.
Nearby:
Escribà: Taste some of Barcelona’s finest sweet treats, courtesy of Christian Escribà and his expert team. The buttery chocolate croissants are extraordinarily good, while if you’re looking for a gift to take home, almost anything from here is sure to do the job.
Pho Bar: This is undoubtedly one of the best places in the city to enjoy simple, delicious Vietnamese food. The dishes are healthy and full of fresh flavours, with highly recommended soups, noodles and rolls. Accompany your food with Vietnamese beer, a glass of something from the short wine menu or a hot tea.
La Flauta: For top-class tapas and sandwiches, La Flauta is a great choice. The name, which means 'The Flute', comes from the small sandwiches made with thin, crunchy baguette (and so kind of look like a flute) that are a typical snack in these parts. It’s a popular eatery (despite the sometimes brusque service) and the wait for a table can be long, but it’s worth it.
Negroni: Situated on the cool semi-pedestrianised street of Joaquín Costa, where you’ll also find gourmet hot dogs, shops selling vintage furniture and quirky gifts, and numerous bars and cafés, Negroni is a stylish cocktail bar where your best bet is to talk to the mixologists so they can whip up a drink that matches your tastes.
Good for: Travellers who are on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, services and extras like a pool, and love the chance to meet people from around the world.
Amenities: Bar, Shop, Kitchen, Pool, Free WiFi.
Time Out tip: Just two doors down from TOC is a branch of the low-cost gym, Duet Fit. They offer the chance to buy one-day entry to the facilities, so if you're an exercise fan and feel the need for an abs class or pilates session while in Barcelona, you can sign up online.