7 Dreamy Hotels For A Stylish Stay In Barcelona
Barcelona is known for its beachside city vibes, and creative contribution to the art, architecture and culinary scenes. Here, we share seven hotels that showcase the Catalan capital at its finest. By KATIE BERRINGTON
Casa Sagnier
A homage to Barcelona’s creative heritage, Casa Sagnier is the former family home and self-designed studio of architect Enric Sagnier. Built in 1892, this statuesque property – now a 51-room hotel – is situated on the elegant Rambla de Catalunya, and close to some of the most iconic Modernist monuments designed not only by Sagnier, but also his better-known contemporary, Antoni Gaudí.
Wittmore Hotel
It’s adults-only at the discrete, boutique Wittmore Hotel, which is situated in the old town’s Gothic Quarter. Duck in from the bustling streets – just a stone’s throw from the sea – to discover a sophisticated yet utterly inviting 22-room haven. Boasting a speakeasy atmosphere, leafy courtyard patio, plus a Mediterranean rooftop terrace decked in yolk-yellow-and-white stripes, this is a true city gem you won’t want to miss.
Nobu Hotel
A sleek addition to the Catalan hotel scene, Nobu Hotel occupies 25 stylish floors close to the characterful neighborhood of Eixample, with lifts whisking guests up to some of the city’s most expansive vistas. The globally renowned Nobu restaurant sits on the property’s 23rd floor, serving up its signature dishes, plus some local influences to boot – opt for the Omakase menu for a taste of the chef’s most-loved specialties. Meanwhile, the panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline are surpassed only by the hotel’s newly opened rooftop, which sits two storeys above and serves innovative cocktails against an uninterrupted backdrop of the city – think Mount Tibidabo, the Sagrada Familia and Montjuïc hill.
Soho House Barcelona
If there is a design element that unites Soho House’s city outposts, it’s the rooftops, which always share a striking seating theme and daybeds dotted around a centerpiece pool. The main Barcelona house is situated in a pastel-hued, 18th-century building in the Gothic Quarter, delivering glorious views over Port Vell marina from the pool. For those wishing to experience an alternative side of the city, Little Beach House is a 40-minute drive away and offers a cool, more low-key seaside vibe.
Almanac
Set right in the center of Barcelona, Almanac boasts an enviable address just off Passeig de Gràcia, giving guests strollable access to plenty of the city’s talking-point destinations. At the hotel, rooms are spacious, with many immersing visitors in the locale via picture windows – some suites even feature private decks complete with fire pits. But the hotel’s high point, so to speak, is the enchanting rooftop, where its Azimuth Bar serves up captivating views and a menu of craft cocktails.
Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental properties have a hallmark of luxury and opulence, and the Barcelona iteration is no exception. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, rooms, suites and shared spaces are appointed to the utmost elegance – from the two-Michelin-starred Catalan Moments restaurant, helmed by chef Carme Ruscalleda, to the atmospheric Banker’s Bar, which pays tribute to the building’s history. Also: the spa is a masterpiece – expect a serene urban oasis with an expert treatment menu and slick indoor pool (you’ll find a further pool on the rooftop).
El Palace
Formerly The Ritz of Barcelona, El Palace is a lavish, grand city dame, and its decadent past is celebrated today via several Art Suites named after cultural figures who have frequented its hallways – from dancer Josephine Baker to musician Ronnie Wood and artist Salvador Dalí. Head to its vast, romantic rooftop to discover a foliage-adorned secret garden, ponds, an alfresco pool, plus pretty pergolas – the perfect spot for a special sundowner.