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pensión means guesthouse; small inn — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 9, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

pensión

noun • /[pen-SYON]/

guesthouse; small inn

Example:

Nos quedamos en una pensión familiar muy acogedora.

We stayed in a very cozy family guesthouse.

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🧠 What does pensión mean?

A "pensión" in Spanish refers to a type of modest, family-run lodging, similar to a guesthouse or small inn. They often offer basic accommodations and sometimes meals, making them a budget-friendly option for travelers. Think of it as a cozy and more personal alternative to a large hotel.

📚 Extra examples

  • Nos alojamos en una pensión encantadora en Sevilla.
    We stayed at a charming guesthouse in Seville.
  • La pensión ofrecía desayuno y cena incluidos en el precio.
    The guesthouse offered breakfast and dinner included in the price.
  • Mi abuela tenía una pensión en la costa.
    My grandmother had a small inn on the coast.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'guesthouse' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'guesthouse' is "pensión". "Hostal" is another option, often slightly larger than a pensión, and "casa de huéspedes" (literally 'house of guests') is also used.
How do you pronounce 'pensión' in Spanish?
It's pronounced pen-see-OHN, with the stress on the last syllable. Make sure to roll the 'r' slightly.
How do you use 'pensión' in a sentence?
Here are some examples: "Buscábamos una pensión cerca de la playa." (We were looking for a guesthouse near the beach.) or "La pensión tenía un patio interior precioso." (The guesthouse had a beautiful interior patio.)
What is the English translation of 'pensión'?
The English translation of 'pensión' is 'guesthouse' or 'small inn'.
Does 'pensión' change for gender or number?
No, 'pensión' is always feminine and its plural is 'pensiones'.
Is 'pensión' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'pensión' is a common word used when discussing travel and accommodation, particularly in Spain.
Does 'pensión' have slang or double meanings?
In some contexts, 'pensión' can also mean 'pension' or 'retirement payment,' but when discussing travel, it clearly refers to a type of accommodation.
Is 'pensión' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
While understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, in Latin America, 'hostal' or 'hospedaje' are often used more frequently for similar types of lodging.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "pensión"

Synonyms: hostal, casa de huéspedes, alojamiento
Opposites: hotel, resort

💡 Did You Know?

In Spain, some "pensiones" have been run by the same families for generations, offering a unique and authentic experience.

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