Hotel El Call

The peaceful lobby of this budget hotel is a stark contrast to the bustling Gothic Quarter streets surrounding it, filled with tourists, busy restaurants, and shops. The modest lobby has contemporary decor, and is a pleasant, welcoming space. A few pieces of black leather furniture provide places to sit, but guests don't tend to linger here, as they mostly come and go and keep to themselves. The hotel’s central location and affordable rates attract younger, budget-conscious couples and groups of friends who typically don't spend much time in their rooms. 

The Hotel Call is located on a narrow, pedestrian-only street in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. It’s an idyllic district for strolling, and restaurants, bars, and shops, surround the hotel. Plaça Sant Felip Neri is only a three-minute walk away. A metro station at Liceu is a four-minute walk, as is Las Ramblas, Cathedral Barcelona de la Seu, and the Liceu Opera House. The Picasso Museum is eight minutes on foot, and walking to the El Born district and Plaça Catalunya takes about 10 minutes. Port Vell is an 11-minute stroll, and La Sagrada Familia is a 19-minute drive, or 25 minutes via public transit. Barcelona Airport is around 40 minutes by public transit or 25 minutes by car.

It doesn’t get much more basic than guest rooms at Hotel Call, and they could use a refresh. Expect white walls with single, tiny framed prints above beds, drab beige carpet, and budget-quality drapes. Some units lack windows, which is a major drawback, but they're otherwise comfortable. The amber-finish wood furniture, which includes desks, chairs, and modular headboards and nightstands is well-maintained, although we did see some marks on walls and stains on carpet. Small closets with hangers are provided, but there are no dressers. All units have AC, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are the nicest aspect of these rooms, though some have cracked tile. They feature white marble walls, pedestal sinks, shower/tub combos with frosted-glass doors, bidets, and toiletries. Some past guests have complained about noise from neighbors' rooms and hallways. 

This budget hotel has limited amenities. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout, and the front desk is staffed 24/7. Extra security measures are taken, as guests are required to turn in keys upon departing that hotel, and be buzzed in when they return. The lobby has a vending machine that sells soft drinks. There's an elevator, and friendly staff can provide concierge-type services, such as calling cabs, arranging tours, or suggesting restaurants.