For the price I couldn't fault Hostel Orleans, the name is slightly deceiving as it is more akin to a hotel than your typical hostel. It is very easy to find as it's right across the road from Estació de França and check in just took a few minutes. The staff spoke varying levels of English but were all very helpful and friendly, we arrived on Sunday evening so were unsure what restaurants would be open but the guy on reception was able to recommend somewhere close by. We had booked a triple room and were given a room with a double and two singles, the room was small but this wasn't an issue, it was clean, had AC and a hair-dryer was provided in the bathroom. We had asked about getting a balcony when we booked but had assumed one wasn't available as our room only had a small window but we were moved to a much bigger room with two double beds and a balcony for our next two nights.
There is a communal sitting room with a coffee machine and internet access, we didn't spend any time in there but it looked pleasant enough. In the reception area there is a vending machine selling juice, water and beer for around 1 euro a can but bigger bottles of water were available to buy from reception.
Location-wise the hostel is 2 minutes from the station, walking distance from the beach and there are loads of bars, cafes and restaurants near by. We preferred to explore the city on foot and found it a great base to walk everywhere from so I'm not sure what local transport was like but there was a metro stop near by and a taxi rank across the street at the train station.
Hostel Orleans is basic but this is reflected in the price, it was perfect for us as we just wanted to use somewhere as a base for sleeping and spent most of our time out and about I would defiantly stay here again next time I visit Barcelona.

Agree with everything that nojo6256 has written. Stairs could be a problem but good location, clean, quiet, comfortable beds. You won't be disappointed!

We stayed here in July 2011 for 5 days after reading the good reviews on the Tripadvisor. And we were not disappointed. As usual in Hostals in Spanish Cities they serve no breakfast, which is no problem, as there were several cafés right outside the entrance door.
There is no lift, you have to walk the worn marble steps up to the second floor, where the hostal is situated. Small rooms, but super-clean, and towels were renewed each day. You are in the middle of El Born, a part of the old city with lots of bars and restaurants. Also walking distance to les Rambles, the beach and la Barceloneta. The staff was friendly. My wife had a serious allergic reaction after a lunch meal, and one of the staff members - a lady - was very kind and helpful and called an ambulance. After all, a comfortable and safe stay for a cheap price (65 euros). Absolutely recommended!

The room was really nice, clean and well equipped. I stayed there for three nights, and then returned for more four nights. The first time the room was facing the main street and it was a bit noisy. But it will only keep you awake if you are a light sleeper. The second time we stayed in a quitter room and everything was perfect.

The staff was really helpful and friendly. It has two computers in the common area and you have a good internet service just using your coins.

The hostel has a GREAT value and it is in a GREAT location, with a lot of nice bars and restaurants nearby. It is within a walking distance of the main attractions of Barcelona. Also, the train station is just across the street.

We had to carry the heavy suitcase up the stairs (no elevator); however, everything was so great that made up for it!