We recently stayed at the Occidental 1929 before our transatlantic cruise on Oasis of the Seas and loved the convenient location to the airport, port, local shops and dining. If you are looking for a great value pre-cruise hotel in Barcelona that offers breakfast, a pool, and a rooftop bar in a convenient location, the Occidental 1929 is a great spot as its in easy reach of all the attractions by taxi or local trasport.
Review, Occidental 1929, A Great Pre Cruise Hotel in Barcelona
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The Occidental 1929 Barcelona is on the Carrer de la Creu Coberta, not far from Plaça España, La Avenida del Parelelo and the Espanya metro station. This is slightly outside the central area of Barcelona; hence, the hotel costs less than more central hotels. However, it’s super easy to grab a taxi to the centre, or it’s a 30-minute walk.
We chose the location as it was between the cruise port and the airport, so it was a perfect distance for taxis with luggage. But it is also minutes from the metro station to get nearer to the city centre.
The Occidental 1929 Barcelona
The Hotel cost us £174.72 for a one-night stay with breakfast in October. You can also use Tesco club card points to pay for your room, so we booked using points and paid £40 towards the cost.
The Taxi took around 25 minutes from El Prat Airport. We booked this ahead with Welcome Pickups for £32.00. This was brilliant as our driver Francesc was waiting for us at the airport and gave us lots of tips and advice about what to do in Barcelona.
What We Did Whilst Staying
While we only stayed one night for our pre-cruise stay, we always plan an activity and see something new. We were up bright and early and walked the 30-minute walk to Passeig de Gràcia to take a morning tour of Casa Batllo, a house renovated by Antoni Gaudí. We booked the day’s first tour; it cost a little extra but was worth it for the quieter experience and gorgeous light.
Where To Eat Nearby
The Occidental 1929 is only steps from Las Arenas de Barcelona. Las Arenas is the perfect shopping and dining in Plaça España. It was first used as a bullfighting arena but was redesigned into a shopping and entertainment centre in March 2011. Arenas de Barcelona is now a fabulous, shopping, sports and music centre with a 360 rooftop view of the city.
We dined at a fantastic rooftop tapas restaurant. The food was delicious, and the views were spectacular.
The Rooms at The Occidental 1929 in Barcelona
Our room was comfortable for two people for a weekend stay. Wardrobe space is limited, but it’s perfect for a couple of nights. The bed was comfy, and the room had air conditioning. Plus, the window opens slightly if you prefer fresh air. There are bedside lights for reading and a charging plug by the bed, as well as a wardrobe, shelves, and a desk area.
The Bathroom Was Super Stylish
The bathrooms at the Occidental 1929 are fresh and modern, with a selection of toiletries, including shower gel, shampoo, body lotion, toothbrush, and toothpaste. The shower pressure is excellent with a huge double rainforest shower.
Tea and Coffee Facilities In The Room
The rooms have tea and coffee-making facilities, which is great for morning coffee as you get ready for breakfast before meeting your cruise.
The Public Areas
The lounge area is stylish and cool, with a bar and dining facilities. There is also a rooftop bar, pool, basement bar and restaurant. All are very stylish and modern, but check that these are open before they are closed during our stay.
This was due to a big European football match. We had planned to head out and explore, so it didn’t affect our stay. However, if we had stayed longer, I would have wanted to know if I could use the pool, rooftop bar, and restaurant.
Breakfast At The Occidental Barcelona
The breakfast was excellent, offering a choice of fruit, cooked and continental breakfast. It was fresh, plentiful and tasty. The juice was freshly squeezed, and the coffee machine provided speciality coffee.
Would I Recommend The Occidental 1929 Barcelona For A Pre Cruise Stay?
Yes, the Occidental 1929 Hotel in Barcelona is in an excellent location for a pre-cruise stay. Close to shops and bars, public transport and walking distance to the city centre. The transfer to and from the airport and port was reasonable, the hotel staff were helpful and friendly, and the hotel was spotless. Our room was great for a couple travelling; family rooms are not available; however, adjoining rooms are available, giving families extra space.
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