In the bustling heart of Barcelona lies Hostal Grau, a hidden gem perfect for those of you seeking friendly hospitality with a touch of local charm.
Once you step in, you’ll immediately feel like you’ve found your home away from home. Run by the warm and welcoming Mònica, this boutique hotel boasts a rich history, having been part of Mònica’s family for generations.
Also, its excellent location in the vibrant Raval neighbourhood puts you right in the centre of the action. From here, you’re just a stone’s throw away from Barcelona’s top attractions, delicious restaurants, and bustling shopping streets. And if you’re craving a day by the sea, the beach is only a quick 20-minute trip on public transport.
Plus, Hostal Grau stands out as one of the eco-friendliest boutique hotels in the city and is pet-friendly.
Our experience there was nothing short of delightful, and we’re thrilled to share our insider tips with you. Keep scrolling to discover more!
Everything you need to know about Hostal Grau
Hostal Grau is a sustainable boutique hotel with 26 rooms, just next to Plaça Catalunya. It truly is an urban oasis, a perfect place to disconnect and relax after a day of strolling nonstop around Barcelona’s beautiful streets.
The history of this charming place started in 1862 when Mònica’s grandparents opened a bar next door called Centric Bar. The bar was famous for the vermouths that Mercedes, Mònica’s grandma, prepared.
In 1960, the family opened a guesthouse next to the bar and called it Hostería Grau. Later, in 1993, Mònica’s father undertook the first significant transformation and turned the place into Hostal Grau.
Nowadays, Mònica, its current owner, is the third generation of the family to run the business. With a passion for sustainability and social responsibility, she has transformed the place into a green oasis.
The hotel
After being renovated in 2013, the hotel has hit the perfect balance between old-world charm and modern vibrancy.
The hotel has two common areas where you can sit down and enjoy a drink (there’s an honesty bar with drinks and snacks) and chat or read. There’s also a designated space for kids to play and a cosy kitchen where guests enjoy breakfast.
Additionally, a small shop called Els Grau Shop presents an ever-changing array of delightful artisan gifts, like the soap they use in the rooms (which smells sooo good!) or some Catalan food, perfect Barcelona memories to bring back home.
The rooms
The inviting and calm rooms provide a tranquil retreat amidst the city’s chaos. The rooms are clean and bright, with Mediterranean decor, white walls and recycled or restored wooden furniture (see room options).
We were surprised at how spacious the rooms were and loved that they were filled with natural light (even though it was a rainy day!).
Following Mònica’s commitment to sustainability, the room walls are painted with ecological paint and the mattresses are made of natural, 100% organic materials.
The rooms also have a little balcony overlooking the street, which was actually super nice. We stayed there for a while, just watching people stroll and soaking in the city’s atmosphere and hidden details.
If you’re planning a longer stay, the hotel also has several apartments, each equipped with a desk, kitchen, and yoga mat.
The food
The delicious and abundant breakfast, made with items from local producers, was the best way to start our day!
There were so many options available: cured meats, pastries, jams, bread, cereals, eggs, tea, coffee, juice, you name it. Oh, and we really enjoyed the homemade cakes!
The hotel only has on-site restaurant for breakfast. Still, there are many excellent restaurants nearby where you can enjoy lunch and dinner.
Plan your trip to Hostal Grau
Best time to stay in Hostal Grau
The best time to stay in Hostal Grau is…all year round!
Spring and autumn are perfect for enjoying the beach and finding less crowds, and winter comes with magic Christmas markets and the city decorated with Christmas lights. Summer is our least favourite season in the city, as it can sometimes be too hot, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere, beach time and drinks at rooftops with amazing views.
We highly recommend planning your stay and booking in advance. Like many nice hotels in Barcelona, Hostal Grau can get fully booked quickly.
Hostal Grau’s location
Hostal Grau is located in one of the most bustling streets in the Raval neighbourhood, Carrer Tallers.
It’s close to everything: walking distance of the Gothic Quarter and Eixample, 20 min by public transport from the beach and 10 min by tube from the bohemian district of Gràcia.
What’s included in the price?
The price varies depending on the room type and the season you book, starting at 143 € per night.
The price includes unlimited tea and coffee, a welcome pack with local food, 24-hour front desk, and a free tour around the neighbourhood.
Breakfast is charged apart.
What to do in Hostal Grau
Disconnect and chill
After a day exploring Barcelona, Hostal Grau is the perfect place to take a break from the city and chill.
You can read a book in your room, enjoy a cup of coffee in the cosy common room, or plan the next day’s adventure in the lounge.
In May 2024, the hotel will open a new space for guests to chill: its rooftop terrace. We couldn’t see it, but it looks super promising!
Enjoy a cocktail
There is also a great honesty bar where you can have a snack or a drink at any time of the day. Even the vending machines on each floor have cool snacks and artisan beers! We tried one called Ocean Beer for the first time and loved it.
If you’re more into cocktails than beers, head to the kitchen from 6 to 11pm. You’ll find everything ready to make yourself a well-deserved cocktail! The hotel staff leave instructions on how to make various cocktails, as well as, the drinks and ingredients you need. Time to mix everything and enjoy!
Discover the neighbourhood
Every Saturday morning, the hotel staff offers a free tour of the neighbourhood. It’s a wonderful way to get to know the area, learn more about the hotel and surroundings, and get tips on where to eat and what to do during your stay in Barcelona.
Activities in the surrounding area
Here are the best guides we’ve written about Barcelona, where you’ll find plenty of recommendations for what to do in the city:
- Five atypical and unique ways to explore Barcelona
- A complete 2-day itinerary to explore Barcelona
- 22 unusual and cool things to do in Barcelona
- A local’s guide to visiting Tibidabo in Barcelona
If you’re thinking about spending a day outside the city, here are some ideas:
Our experience in Hostal Grau
We stayed one night at one of its double rooms and felt at home!
We went in March, so we didn’t experience the summer crowds, but the city was alive anyway. One thing we were afraid of was the noise at night due to the hotel’s central location, but the truth is the rooms were well-isolated, and we slept like babies.
Another thing we truly appreciated was the staff. They were not just attentive but super friendly, always willing to give us recommendations and answer all our questions.
So, if you’re spending time in Barcelona and are looking for a centric and charming base, we can’t recommend Hostal Grau enough!
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