Just back from Barcelona, where we stayed from 28th Dec 2011 to 1st Jan 2012.
We decided to stay at the Hesperia Del Port hotel for a couple of reasons, firstly good value and secondly a reasonably good location away from Ramblas but within easy walking distance.

When we arrived we were pleased with the hotel, the surrounding area was a bit run down to be honest, but this didn't matter too much.

Reception doors were kept closed and entry was via the receptionist letting you in. Was this a sign of trouble we thought?

We checked in, through a nice reception with friendly staff and were allocated room 702. Top floor overlooking a park and the road. now I was a bit concerned that the noise from the busy road would be a problem, but I needn't have worried, the windows and the height of the room shut out practically everything.

Smallish room, large metal framed bed that squeaked badly with every movement, very small LCD TV. Bathroom, had bidet, toilet, bath sink and shower. Room was clean had a safe (which was not bolted down), a fridge and a wardrobe.
A/C was available, although it didn't work, being December you could argue that it wasn't necessary but with the sun shining through the front glass most of the day and it was very warm in the room.

There was a reasonable view over to the Olympic stadium area and we did walk there one day, it took about 10 mins up the back roads.

We didn't have breakfast at the hotel, it was available for €12 pp so we went down the road where there was a nice cafe serving roles and coffee at a good price.

The rooms had free wifi and was great for a few days. the lack of any area except reception with sofa or comfortable chairs mean't there was no real point in being in the hotel for any time longer than necessary.

Turning right out of the hotel, leads towards the Apolo theatre on av de parallel.
Also any of the side roads on the right side would lead to rambles areas and beyond.

Turning left out of the hotel leads down towards the port and the point where cruise ships and ferries arrive.

I think this hotel is great for couples on a city break, or businessmen.
There are metro stations a short walk away and the taxi cost from the airport was €35 and €40 on New years day. As there were 4 of us it was the best way. If it was 2 of us, we may have found an alternative way to the airport if cost only was the important factor.

My husband and I just got back from a cruise initiating in Barcelona and wanted to go in a couple of days early to see the city and adjust to the time change. After reading the reviews of this property, I booked with this hotel but was hesitant given some of the reviews I read...don't be! The hotel is in an excellent location - we walked to Las Ramblas and took the metro to the other sites we wanted to see. I suggest you buy the 10 ticket pass right off - a couple can share the same ticket and it doesn't have an expiration period. A metro stop is just down the street from the hotel - easy walk. Everyone talks about purse snatchers and the like in Barcelona and upon checking in the hotel clerk warned us to be careful and that the hotel provided a free in-room safe for our valuables. We had purchased those money belts you hide under your clothing and had absolutely no problems in this city at all. The hotel also has a secure entry - you should buzz to be let in, but the clerks minding the desk are vigilant and often see you standing there before you buzz and will let you in on sight. Both clerks we encountered, the day and evening clerk, were friendly and helpful. Upon check-in the evening clerk even gave us a map of Barcelona - an excellent map...I was rather sorry I had bought a tour book with the map in the back pocket before leaving home - didn't need it. The hotel's map - and knowing which sites you want to visit by checking the internet before you go - would have done it.

The hotel offers a breakfast but at 10 Euro each we thought that was a bit pricey and probably more than we needed to eat first thing in the morning so we opted to walk down the street a bit and on the same side as the hotel (turn right when you leave the hotel) you'll find a couple of places that offer breakfast pastries/croissants and coffee at a reasonable price.

We thoroughly enjoyed Barcelona and if we return to this city I would definitely stay here again. They were very helpful and accommodating. Upon checking out they stored our luggage for us so we could see more of the city before boarding the ship. Oh, and the room - it was clean, the bed the was comfortable, the bathroom nicer than many I have seen, and it was quiet enough that noise never bothered us at night when we went to sleep. We aren't night owls, and for a city that doesn't even eat dinner until 9 pm that's saying something. Our first morning in Barcelona we slept until 12:30 pm! That's not because we stayed up late; it was due to jet lag and a testament to how quiet the room actually was. What more could someone want?

Stayed for 4 nights in November. The location is spot on for the old town, Port Vell & the Metro. Yes it may be in a residential area with locals cafes & restaurants nearby but those reviews who said it was in a sketchy area are clearly more nervous types. As for the room it was clean & tidy with 2 large beds & a smart bathroom with a large powerful shower. Reasonable hanging space with a good number of hangers, a few drawers, safe & mini bar. We had double doors & a very small balcony whilst other rooms just had windows. The only view from our room however was straight into the front rooms of the private apartments over the road. We did pass on the 10 Euro self service breakfast & opted for a cafe 2 doors down the road at a fraction of the price.

For the money we paid I can't fault the place & would stay again if we return to the city.

We booked 3 rooms here for a 3 day weekend with friends. The hotel is in a great location - easily reached from the airport, close by to a central metro station, a 5 minute walk to La Rambla & to the port. The rooms are clean, sufficiently sized & comfortable. All 3 rooms were road facing & we had no trouble with noise levels. Some of the front desk staff could have been a little more helpful, but they were pleasant enough. Overall great value for money.