One of the great traditions of European travel is the youth hostel. These are places to stay that offer special prices to young people of student age (usually between 18 and 30). They can be found all throughout Europe and usually offer a great deal for accommodations, with prices ranging from $15 to $40, depending on where you go and what kind of room you want.

Most youth hostels offer what they call dormitory rooms that sleep two, four, six, 12, 14, or 16 people. You can book at once with a group of friends, or you can opt to take your chances. Some hostels do offer private rooms, and many offer girls' and boys' dormitories separately. However, you will get the best prices if you agree to sleep in a mixed dormitory room for 14 or 16 people.

You can keep your belongings in safes or lockers instead of hauling a backpack to a nightclub. They are for free in some youth hostels, while others require a payment for the lockers. Many youth hostels also provide heated water and air-conditioned comfort during the summer. Here are some of Barcelona's best youth hostels:

1. The Ideal Youth Hostel: The Hostel befits its name with the facilities and services it provides to those who take up the accommodation. It is ideally situated near the buzzing Barcelona city center in close proximity to Ramblas boulevard. It is hard to believe that it is one of the least expensive youth hostels in Barcelona with the services such as 24 hour reception desk, free Internet access for your laptop, common room and breakfast. There is no curfew or lockout to bother you. Plus you can enjoy the presentations at the opera house next door.

2. Alberg Juvenil Palua. This hostel offers free lockers and a large common room with a TV. It, too, is located near the Barcelona city center in a section known as the Barri Gotic and near Ramblas. There are kitchen facilities and breakfast is included in the price. There is even extensive bike parking for your bike rental.

3. INOUT Hostel is one of the lower priced hostels in the city though it offers a great deal. It is located in Collserola Park, further from Barcelona, and requires a 25-minute ride to Ramblas. However, it is wanting in many respects besides its remote location.

You can order a picnic basket with homemade tomato bread or a messenger boat ride to exquisite Barcelona beaches. The hostel also organizes trips to the city and the country. You can choose a package according to you desire and convenience.

There plenty of options available for young travelers looking to see a little of Barcelona. By choosing a youth hostel wisely, you can enjoy a stay in Barcelona and have plenty of money to spend on seeing Barcelona, rather than spending it all on a room you never see.