Aerial view of Barceloneta from sea side. Barcelona, Spain. Barceloneta Beach - one of the most popular in the city
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock

The best hotels in Barcelona, Spain for 2025

The best Barcelona hotels chosen by our experts, including luxury stays, arty boutiques and hidden gems

María José Gómez
Contributors: Iker Morán & Jana Serra
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Don’t settle for just any place to stay. Barcelona is home to whole load of hotels that offer far, far more than just a bed for the night. We’re talking about historic buildings, icons of design, showcases of contemporary architecture and lots more. On our list below, you’ll find our top recommendations for hotels in Barcelona – selected for everything they bring to the table: unbeatable views, indulgent spas, brilliant culture and outstanding food.

What is the best area to stay in Barcelona?

Barcelona is a pretty big place, so naturally, different areas are good for different things. But our pals over at Time Out Barcelona are big, big fans of Gràcia – especially for your first time in the city. It’s packed full of sights, beautiful buildings and one of the best hotels in the city, Casa Fuster, which you’ll find on our list below. The Raval and Eixample are well worth considering too – you can find our full guide to where to stay right here

📍 Discover our ultimate guide to hotels in Barcelona

Who makes the cut?

Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world – new openings, old classics and everything in between – to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. Along with our brilliant team over at Time Out Barcelona, every hotel on this list has been individually selected for a reason: we’ve been there, we think it’s great, and we’d genuinely recommend it. By the way, this article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

🏘️ More of an Airbnb person? Here are our favourite Airbnbs in the city

Good hotels to stay in Barcelona

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Ciutat Vella
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Sometimes, you can tell a lot about a hotel from its name, and Grand Hotel Central certainly fits the bill. As you expect, this hotel is grand and central, but it certainly doesn’t let that do all the heavy lifting. The Grand Central Hotel offers a unique blend of historic opulence and contemporary luxury design. Rooms are chic, spacious and designed with thoughtful mid-century modern execution – beautiful, clean lines and stylish modern wood panelling create a cool and classy finish. The classic rooms tick all the boxes for a simple stay, while the grand suite sits at the other end of the scale, offering opulent luxury in the city. There are no bad options; it all comes down to your budget and personal preference.

The hotel is located in a building once famous for being the tallest in Europe, and right at the top, you’ll find its rooftop terrace and pool, chilled-out by day and raucous at night. Much like the rooftop bar, it maximises space without feeling crowded or cluttered. Restaurant Can Bo serves delicious tapas, curated and created by fine dining chef par excellence Oliver Peña, and the wine cellar is packed with some of the finest creations oneophiles will find in the city.

At Grand Hotel Central, it all comes back to the rooftop. Many would-be travellers dreaming of a Barcelona adventure might conjure up images of rooftop pools and sunset views, and you’ll find all that and more here. The infinity pool provides the perfect backdrop for a spectacular aesthetic experience, whether you are looking for the sunrise or the sunset. Maybe hold off on that cocktail until the latter, of course. The building itself is a real treasure of Barcelona's history, and was one of the first to have an elevator. We’re happy that it still uses them today.

Time Out tip: Head to the eighth floor to learn about the life of Catalonia politician Francesc Cambó, with plenty of Barcelona history to boot.

Address: Via Laietana, 30, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €150
Closest transport: Jaume I metro station (Line L4), under 100 metres away

Iker Morán
Iker Morán
Periodista
  • Hotels
  • Sant Martí
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

This is one of Barcelona’s most iconic hotels for good reason. Well, a collection of reasons, namely its location right by the sea, its striking design, and its standout restaurant. And the rooms, of course, because a reputation isn’t built on location alone. The 432 rooms and suites are gorgeously weighted with large windows allowing the beauty of Barcelona to do much of the heavy lifting, all contemporary design and effortless grace, with comfortable beds and modern amenities. There are no bad options.

Going back to the restaurant, chef Paco Pérez is at the helm, blending local traditions and seasonal ingredients with his signature creativity. At Enoteca Paco Pérez, you’ll find imaginative reinterpretations of classic Mediterranean cuisine. You can also enjoy the chic terrace, complete with stunning sea views and an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. The wine list touches on around 700 different wines, and if that doesn’t get your Barcelona senses tingling, we don’t know what to say. If you want something a little less formal, there are four other food and drink options, although two (P41 and Lokal) are closed for renovation at the time of writing.

The charm continues away from bed and board, and the hotel’s gardens are among the most charming in the city. Wandering through them is one thing, but viewing them from an infinity pool is another entirely, as the magic of Mediterranean culture unfolds in front of you. When a doctor discusses the Mediterranean diet, they may be referring to this specific approach. And then there’s the spa, evolving from an already elite standard into something entirely new, with expert therapists on hand to provide relaxation and recuperation in equal measure. The wellness centre is located on the fourth floor of the hotel, but you will feel sky high once you settle into your massage. There is also a fitness centre open every hour of every day.

Time Out tip: Don’t be afraid to have a long chat with the sommelier when deciding on your wine. There are no bad options, but trust the professionals.

Address: Marina 19–21, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €265 
Closest transport: Ciutadella, Vila Olímpica metro station
Iker Morán
Iker Morán
Periodista
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  • Hotels
  • Ciutat Vella
  • price 3 of 4
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Located opposite Ciutadella Park, under the charming arcades of Passeig Picasso, Hotel Borneta is part of the new generation of boutique hotels in Barcelona: welcoming, rooted in the neighbourhood, and with a contemporary design cared for down to the last detail. Opened in 2024, it occupies a characterful building that had already housed a hotel before. Its 92 rooms – some with a balcony or terrace – feature modern décor, extremely comfortable beds, and Le Labo amenities.

Food is one of its strong points: the Volta restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with Italian and Middle Eastern influences, and its Sunday brunch is among our favourites in the city. There is a small rooftop pool with views over the city and a compact but pleasant gym. Service is friendly and efficient, with well-used common spaces such as the terrace, bar and library. Ideal for city breaks as a couple or with friends, and also suitable for families and pets.

What sets Borneta apart is its atmosphere: relaxed and informal, almost like staying at a friend’s home. Music drifts through the lifts, staff are approachable without being fussy, and there’s even a courtesy room for early arrivals or late departures. Location-wise, you’re in El Born, with the Picasso Museum and Gothic Quarter an easy walk away and Barceloneta beach also close by. We also love the rooftop bar and the library. With its international vibe and pet-friendly policy, is the perfect base for exploring the city.

Time Out tip: Got an awkward flight time? Make use of the hotel’s courtesy room, where you can store bags, shower and change if you’ve checked out already (or your room isn’t ready yet). 

Address: Passeig de Picasso, 26, 30, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
Price: Rooms from €270 per night 
Nearest transport: well connected in the city centre. The airport is about 40 minutes away.

Iker Morán
Iker Morán
Periodista
  • Hotels
  • Eixample
  • price 3 of 4
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Staying at the Majestic means staying in a luxury hotel housed in a neoclassical building on Passeig de Gràcia, complete with its original façade. The rooms run from classic deluxes that are perfect for couples, all the way to complete apartments straight out of a dream. The size of the rooms generally corresponds to the price point, but you won’t be cramped for space at any point. Families will be thrilled to hear that deluxe rooms can be connected, although that is always subject to availability. It almost feels redundant to note that the rooms are equipped with modern conveniences, but if you need confirmation, there it is.

Outside of the rooms, you’ll find a piano bar, a cocktail bar, and the stylish Gourmet Bar on the rooftop terrace by the pool. From up there, the views are truly breathtaking: look one way and you’ll see Montjuïc hill, another and the sea framed between the twin towers, and in yet another direction, the iconic Sagrada Família. Barcelona is a city that shines brightest when framed, and you’ll struggle to find a more romantic view than the one found up here. Michelin-starred chef Nandu Jubany oversees the Solc restaurant – a tribute to local produce and Mediterranean cuisine. El Bar del Majestic is one of the city’s famous meeting points, a place to make plans over a late brunch or a colourful cocktail.

The full-service spa maintains the sophisticated ambience, offering a diverse range of treatments that include hydrotherapy, facials, massages, and more. The spa offers numerous special packages for those seeking to make a day of it, and they are well worth every penny. The spa says that its services have been “designed to offset the harming effects of urban life,” and such things have never been more necessary.

Time Out tip: Be sure to make a reservation for the restaurant, and get ready for a spectacular meal.

Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 68, L'Eixample, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting at around €400 a night
Closest transport: Tenerife South airport is an 11-minute drive

Jana Serra
Editora
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  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Sants - Montjuïc
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Hotel Miramar Barcelona is one of the city’s top hotels, thanks to its setting in a former Noucentista-style palace that still retains original architectural features, paired with a sleek and elegant interior. Surrounded by gardens in the picturesque Montjuïc area, it offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean Sea, which is precisely what you want from a 5-star luxury hotel in this beautiful city. It describes itself as “Barcelona’s best-kept secret,” but that isn’t going to be the case for much longer. The views from the rooms are spectacular, the perfect way to fall in love with the city before you do any exploring. Most deluxe rooms feature balconies or terraces, while the premium rooms and suites offer an even higher level of excellence. The Gran Suite Mediterránea is the ultimate in luxury, a setting so special that you might just try and lock yourself in for all eternity.

You’ll probably (by which we mean definitely) find yourself stopping at the terrace bar at some point – and it’s hard to resist the spectacular outdoor pool, perfect for a refreshing dip, or the soothing spa for a moment of calm. The amenities dotted around Hotel Miramar are truly elite, starting with the Studio Miramar restaurant. The restaurant makes the most of excellent regional produce to create delicious contemporary dishes, all accentuated by a comprehensive wine list to cover all palates. The Lobby Bar is where stories start, and Thursday evenings are given over to live piano music that is every bit as atmospheric as you assume.

The wellness and health facilities combine serenity and luxury with the confidence of a veteran, offering a range of treatments. There is even a hair spa on-site, if you feel like your bonnet needs a bit of a touch-up, and a fully equipped fitness centre for energetic visitors.

Time Out tip: Keep walking downhill and you’ll eventually reach the old port and the end of La Rambla.

Address: Plaça de Carlos Ibáñez, 3, Sants-Montjuïc, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €200 per night
Closest transport: Paral.lel metro station

Jana Serra
Editora
  • Hotels
  • Ciutat Vella
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Hotel Peninsular stands out as one of the most centrally located hotels in Barcelona. Just a one-minute walk from La Rambla, it’s perfect for travellers who want to make the most of every moment without wasting time on transport. The Hotel Peninsular’s story begins in 1876 and has been passed through many owners over the years, with the property being held by a diverse range of individuals, including Augustinian friars and Italian businessmen, with plenty of interesting characters at every turn. The hotel found its voice in the 1960s, adopting a striking Modernist architecture that features a bright central courtyard with three open storeys and balconies. There is a no frills element to the rooms that is refreshing in an increasingly opulent city, and you’ll find singles, doubles, triples, and family rooms available at Hotel Peninsular. The singles are small but perfectly formed, while larger rooms offer the option of adding extra beds.

There’s a Modernist-style bar and restaurant with elegant 19th-century décor that takes you back in time, although the food is very much of the here and now, albeit with a delicious doff of the cap to local traditions and recipes. Its location couldn’t be better – just 200 metres from Liceu metro station and right next to the lively Raval neighbourhood, known for its buzzing bars and nightlife.

The hotel has an internal courtyard that is positively dripping in romance, the perfect place to take in the charm of Barcelona before heading out into the chaotic city streets. Many of the city’s most famous attractions are just a short walk away, making Hotel Peninsular an excellent option for anyone looking to stay in the heart of the action. The hotel remains in the hands of the Herrero-Catalán family, with the third generation now taking charge of this delightful spot.

Time Out tip: If you get the chance to sit and listen to the family’s stories, make sure to do so.

Address: The Peninsula, 1 Grosvenor Pl, London SW1X 7HJ
Price per night: Starting from around €110
Closest transport: Liceu metro station

Jana Serra
Editora
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7. Hotel W

Now that’s a piece of architecture. This gleaming, sail-shaped tower on the edge of the Mediterranean could be your home for as many nights as your budget allows – and it comes with all the luxury you’ve been dreaming of. Picture yourself unwinding in a stylish room with sweeping views over the beach. Easily done, but there’s a good chance that the reality will exceed even those most delightful expectations. This place is a well-oiled machine, with 473 rooms and 67 suites in a Ricardo Bofill Leví-designed building that is ready and waiting to take up serious space in your camera roll. Some of the views are borderline unbelievable, although the same can be said about some of the beds. We’ve tried sneaking one out in our hand luggage, but it just isn’t happening.

When you’re ready to venture out, you’ve got a spa, pools, gourmet restaurants and the rooftop ECLIPSE bar to enjoy. In many ways, Hotel W is more seaside resort than traditional hotel, and you’ll find almost everything you’ll need within the glass walls of this curious construction. There are beach clubs for all your lounging desires, while the two-floor spa covers everything from manicures to pedicures via massages, facials, and the rest, with a fabulous sauna and steam bath.

If you want to work up a sweat before embracing serenity, the gym is open 24 hours and has spectacular views that will drive you towards new PBs (or distract you from the workout). There is even an elite hair salon to get a perfect cut after the sweating and the scrubbing, the prettiest of bows on this absolute treat of a hotel. And if you can tear yourself away from the complex, you’re right on Barceloneta Beach and just minutes from the old town.

Time Out tip: Spend a little extra and snag a room on one of the higher floors. The views are breathtaking and worth every euro.

Address: Plaça de la Rosa dels Vents 1, 08039 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €265 
Closest transport: Bus stops Pg Joan de Borbó, Moll de Catalunya

  • Hotels
  • Hostels
  • Gràcia
  • price 1 of 4
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Generator Barcelona blurs the line between hostel and hotel, offering both budget-friendly dorm beds and sleek private rooms with terraces overlooking the Sagrada Família at remarkably affordable prices. Expect a lively, youthful vibe in shared spaces, but peace and comfort upstairs. The rooms are clean and quiet, offering great views that harken back to the glory days of hostel travel without sacrificing modern comfort. Generator offers 4-, 6-, and 8-bed dorms, and female-only rooms are also available. The beds are comfy, there is a decent amount of space, and the plugs work. Breakfast is basic but convenient, and DIY check-in is smooth.

However, and we apologise for being somewhat blunt, but nobody is staying in a hostel for the room. The hostel industry (and its legendary status among travellers) was built on community and conversation, and Generator Barcelona does all it can to keep that flame burning. The common area somehow manages to be a throwback while hurtling into the future, providing ample space for in-depth conversations with your new best friends and travel companions. This is one of the most sociable hostels in the city, and you’ll not be wanting for drinking buddies when staying at Generator Barcelona. Let your hair down, and you might just make memories to last a lifetime (provided they survive the morning after).

The classic hostel amenities continue, including bike hire, laundry, luggage storage, and more, giving guests every opportunity to make the most of their time in Barcelona while keeping their budget on track. Located between Gràcia and Eixample, Generator is close to the top sights and metro links, as well as the best bars and clubs in the centre of Barcelona. A solid, affordable stay – if you don’t mind the party crowd.

Time Out tip: Depending on your mileage, the 4-bed dorm is almost always the way to go in hostels.

Address: Carrer de Còrsega 377, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €84
Closest transport: Diagonal metro station (Line L3)

James Manning
James Manning
Content Director, EMEA
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9. Hotel Casa Fuster

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

This beautiful Modernist building sits right at the stylish heart of Barcelona, at the top of Passeig de Gràcia. The stunning Casa Fuster is a monument in its own right, built in 1908 by the Modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. His work, including this hotel, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it isn’t difficult to understand why. Casa Fuster is a stunner, and spending a night or two here is a real privilege. The 105 rooms and suites are almost as stylish as the architecture, complete with modern conveniences such as coffee and tea makers, pillow menu, slippers, bathrobes, a bidet, a wake-up service, and more. Breakfast in bed is also an option if you can’t bring yourself to leave the bed.

Staying at Casa Fuster isn’t just about enjoying a luxurious five-star hotel – it’s about living inside a work of art. There’s also a rooftop terrace with a pool and fantastic city views, as well as a Mediterranean restaurant called Café Vienés – a unique, history-filled space. There is a hair and beauty salon ready and waiting to help you look your very best, and the therapeutic massages are everything a therapeutic massage should be. Keeping up with your workouts is easy, as the fitness centre operates 24/7 with free weights, cardio machines, and all the other amenities.

Befitting the stylish architecture, Casa Fuster becomes a jazz Mecca every Thursday evening from 9 pm until 11 pm. Many of the biggest names in musical innovation have performed at the Café Vienés, including the New Orleans Rag Trio, the Barcelona Swing Serenaders, Eddy Davis, and many more. The jazz club also featured as one of the sets of “Vicky, Cristina, Barcelona,” adding a slice of cinema stardom to a laundry list of achievements.

Time Out tip: The best way to enjoy the weekly jazz nights is to pair it with a delicious dinner, but be sure to reserve a spot in advance.

Address: Passeig de Gràcia 132, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €200 
Closest transport: Diagonal metro station

10. The Hoxton, Poblenou

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Hoxton hotels are renowned for going the extra mile when it comes to design and decor, and this Barcelona address is no exception. Each of the 240 light, breezy rooms is filled with terracotta walls and floors, stylish mid-century furniture and textured furnishings, as well as added touches like statement headboards, Roberts radios and handcrafted artwork. The rooms are a delight, gorgeous spots that shimmer with Mediterranean style and class. Some rooms have views, while others feature hot tubs. The “Homey” rooms are ideal for longer stays, complete with kitchenettes and dining tables. No matter where you lay your head, you are in for a real treat of an evening.

The real gems of the place, however, are the dining areas, which offer dazzling views over the city. Four Corners is an experience in itself, a curious mix of Italian American flavours and Catalonian charm that is utterly delicious, whether you go for the oysters, the pasta, the pizza, or anything else on the menu. Four Corners offers a special daily menu between midday and 4 pm, featuring an affordable selection of dishes that will fill you up ahead of a day of sightseeing. If you find yourself hankering for some tacos, head to the rooftop for Mexican-inspired dishes at the excellent Tope. Tacos with a view? Where do we sign?

The rooftop pool is the perfect spot to catch some rays from sunrise to sunset, offering a gorgeous view that is exclusively open to hotel guests. When the sun dips below the horizon, the terrace turns into an adults-only spot where the vibes are every bit as good as the drinks.

Time Out tip: Book directly through the hotel’s website, and you can check in and out at any time you like (just let them know beforehand).

Time Out tip: You’re right in the middle of Poblenou, Barcelona’s arty, post-industrial district. 

Address: Avinguda Diagonal 205, 08018 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €150
Closest transport: Glòries metro station (Line L4)

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11. Hotel Neri

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

This exclusive 22-room hotel is set in an 18th-century aristocratic house overlooking one of Barcelona’s most beautiful and historic squares – Sant Felip Neri. Hotel Neri claims to be the most unique hotel in the city, and we aren’t about to disagree. The original façade has been preserved and faces the square, and there’s even a 17th-century stone wall separating the lounge bar from the restaurant. Each floor of the building is dedicated to a specific category of room, each as charming as the next, ranging from the dapper classic rooms to art-filled suites with views of the Gothic streets below.

If you’re peckish at Hotel Neri, you’re in luck. Sure, there are many magnificent restaurants within walking distance of the hotel, but guests looking to eat before exploring will find plenty to love at “a” restaurant, an eatery that makes up in taste what it lacks in moniker. The menu is packed with Catalan classics that have been upgraded with modern techniques and global influences. On the top floor, Robe Estesa is one of Barcelona’s most romantic tapas restaurants (think of the ground that covers), an absolute fairytale of a place with gorgeous lights and a truly undeniable atmosphere.

With all that in mind, it’s no surprise that Hotel Neri has been granted Special Monument status. The location is part of the charm, while a sleep menu will ensure the best night’s sleep possible. It isn’t often that you get to stay in a medieval castle, and it feels like an opportunity to snap up with both hands. Step outside the magic of the hotel and you’re just moments from both Las Ramblas and the Cathedral, two absolute musts on any Barcelona bucket list worth its salt. Hotel Neri ticks all the boxes with a most sophisticated pen.

Time Out tip: It goes without saying, but if you can get a room with a balcony, get a room with a balcony.

Address: Carrer de Sant Sever, 5, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €400
Closest transport: Jaume I (L4) or Liceu (L3) metro stations

12. Cotton House Hotel

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

You can’t go wrong with the Autograph Collection, and that excellence continues with this fabulous 5-star hotel. The Cotton House building was once home to the Cotton Manufacturers’ Guild, and you’ll still spot plenty of decorative and architectural details that nod to its past. The hotel is designed with guest comfort in mind, offering luxurious rooms and a charming terrace in the interior courtyard – a classic feature of this part of the Eixample. Design is everything in the rooms, and nothing has been left to chance. With natural materials, gorgeous textures, and soothing tones, the space is tailor-made for relaxation, no matter which of the 78 rooms or five suites you find yourself in. The hotel isn’t shy about singing the praises of the quality cotton sheets it uses, and every word is justified.

When it is time to feast, the Batuar Restaurant and Bar is a triumph. The name is a nod to the cotton gin that removed impurities from the famous material, a tribute to Barcelona’s rich textile history, showcased through elite cocktails and delicious dishes. The menu changes with the seasons, serving fabulous food in a gorgeous space and a large, verdant terrace. It’s the perfect spot for a daytime snack or a glass of cava in the evening.

In many ways, the Cotton House Hotel is the perfect spot, full stop. The building dates back to 1879 and has seen plenty of changes over the years without losing its charm. The lower two floors of the building are the oldest, the house of a cotton businessman who certainly did well for himself, commissioning a Neo-Classical stunner, the envy of all around. Today, it is one of Barcelona’s best hotels, another fantastic addition to the Autograph Collection.

Time Out tip: Be sure to scan the many QR codes found around the hotel to learn more about the building’s history.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 670, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €250
Closest transport: Provença

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13. El Palace

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

El Palace is a piece of living history in the city. The building first opened its doors in 1919 and still features a neoclassical façade and elegant, classically styled rooms that have been fully modernised. There are 120 rooms in total, accommodating between one and seven guests, making El Palace an excellent choice for everyone from solo travellers to vacationing families. There is character and history everywhere, with suites named after famous guests (Ronnie Wood, Joséphine Baker, and more) and an entire art wing dedicated to some of the most creative minds in history. There are classic rooms available for those after something a little simpler, although don’t make the mistake of thinking this means bare bones. Quite the opposite; the classic rooms are elegant, comfortable, and packed with mod cons.

When you’re feeling hungry, head to aMar Barcelona, the restaurant run by Rafa Zafra, or kick off (or end) your night at Bluesman, where you’ll find great cocktails and live music. There is a speakeasy element to the bar that makes those colourful cocktails just that little bit tastier, transporting drinkers back to the 1920s while keeping the drinks modern and fresh. And if you’re in need of some serious relaxation, the hotel’s spa is just the place to unwind and forget all your stress.

There is history around every corner of El Palace, although you might assume that to be the case with such a name. El Palace is a cornerstone of Catalonian accommodation, a 5-star luxury hotel that pays homage to its past while staying in touch with modern trends and standards. The rooftop garden is the cherry on top, a magically romantic space packed with beautiful flora, glittering fountains, and a swimming pool that is just about as inviting as pools get. You can understand why Dalí chose to spend so much time in the hotel.

Time Out tip: The suites in the art wing are positively dripping in style. They aren’t the cheapest, but they are magnificent.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 668, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €500 
Closest transport: Urquinaona metro station

14. Alma Barcelona GL

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Alma Barcelona is in a prime location – just one street from La Pedrera, a five-minute walk from Casa Batlló, and only a kilometre from Plaça Catalunya. If you want to explore Barcelona’s hits, look no further. The rooms and suites are top-notch without being overly flashy. After all, there’s no need to complicate this, just provide a delightfully comfortable bed in stylish surroundings with plenty of natural light and a well-stocked bathroom. Everything else is a bonus. The deluxe room at Alma takes care of the basics, and there are more elaborate options for vacationers seeking a little more pizzazz with their sleeping arrangements.

Alma’s rooms are excellent, but its greatest luxury is the restaurant, a lush, leafy garden where you can eat or sip a drink in total tranquillity. The menu is constructed around seasonal, organic produce, guaranteeing freshness in every bite. The restaurant is named after the garden, one of the hotel’s most important attributes and a vital part of what makes this place so magnificent. Barcelona’s restaurants are among the best on the planet, and Jardín del Alma is another to add to the list.

And if that’s not enough, you can unwind in the hotel’s spa, with its indoor pool, hammam and sauna – perfect for a peaceful escape from the city buzz. The spa offers a comprehensive range of therapeutic and beauty treatments, ideal for guests seeking to look and feel their best. Additionally, numerous exercise options are available for those seeking a workout. The therapists provide a professional service packed with character, which is a fairly apt way of summing up every aspect of Alma Barcelona. There is even a private chauffeur service, if that is your sort of thing.

Time Out tip: Barcelona has no shortage of fantastic restaurants, but Jardín del Alma is one of the best.

Address: Mallorca 271, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €335
Closest transport: Diagonal metro station

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15. Sir Victor Hotel

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Right next to Passeig de Gràcia, Sir Victo Hotel captures the vibrant and creative spirit of Barcelona. It features 91 rooms with stunning city views, all big and bright with plenty of natural light and balconies that are perfect for people-watching. There is a homely quality to the rooms that is to be admired, one that is completely in check with the vibe of the hotel and its neighbourhood. Local art covers the walls of the rooms, and the spacious bathrooms contain excellent toiletries and amenities. Bibliophiles will be particularly excited by the literature on offer, with each room containing a selection of local and international works.

On top of all that is a luxury spa with fantastic treatments, a sauna, steam room, indoor pool, and more, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing or building up your stamina ahead of some exciting adventures. There is also a treatment room with space for two, ideal for couples on a romantic retreat. Prior reservations are required, but it is well worth planning ahead for. The facilities are tremendous, with the water area deserving particular attention. Brave visitors can give cryotherapy (also known as cold therapy) a try.

The food? Delicious, although you knew that already. Sir Victor Hotel is home to Mr Porter, a sophisticated spot serving steaks, seafood, and more in a gorgeous environment. There are also fantastic vegetarian options available. The excellence continues with a rooftop pool terrace, a private members’ club, and multiple spaces for meetings and events. At the very top is The Rooftop, a dining space with magnificent views of Casa Milà and the Sagrada Família, where you can enjoy an outstanding menu inspired by local and Mediterranean cuisine.

Time Out tip: It sounds obvious, but make a cup of coffee and take a book onto the balcony to live your best life.

Address: Carrer del Rosselló 265, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €230
Closest transport: Diagonal metro station

16. Primero Primera

  • 3 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Primero Primera in Sarrià doesn’t follow the usual look of a hotel in its category. With stone and wood taking the lead, it feels more like a cosy mountain retreat, a breath of fresh air in a city of luxury hotels, modern chain accommodation, and questionable rentals. The 30 spacious rooms are flooded with natural light, all thoughtfully decorated and meticulously designed to maximise comfort and provide the perfect stay outside the city. Some of the rooms are incredibly spacious, featuring gorgeous balconies and desks for travellers looking to get work done on the road. The medium-sized rooms are spacious in their own right and not lacking in charm.

The hotel is located in Les Tres Torres, a residential neighbourhood with plenty of shopping, just 10 minutes outside the city centre, which could be a million miles away (in the best possible way). The hotel takes its name from the family that owns it and has lived in the building since 1955, a hard-working group that reworked the building in 2011, creating a stunning spectacle of traditional living with contemporary flourishes. There is a timelessness to the place that really gets the soul bouncing. Formula 1 fans, take note; the family counts Luis Pérez-Sala among its members, the first Spanish driver to earn points in the modern era of F1.

One of the loveliest corners of this boutique hotel is its leafy side patio, as well as the rear terrace – perfect for a relaxed meal or drink. The Planta Baja restaurant is elegance personified, serving delicious dishes defined by simplicity and a tremendously talented kitchen team that looks to maximise every ingredient. The results are delightful. In fact, everything at Primero Primera is delightful.

Time Out tip: While the distance from the centre might be a little too much for some, Primero Primera is a fantastic option for digital nomads on the go.

Address: Carrer Doctor Carulla 25, 08017 Sarrià‑Sant Gervasi, Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €320
Closest transport: Les Tres Torres FGC station

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17. ABaC Restaurant Hotel

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

When a hotel has the word ‘restaurant’ in its name, you already know where its main appeal lies. And sure enough, ABaC is one of only four restaurants in all of Barcelona to hold three Michelin stars, thanks to the renowned chef Jordi Cruz. As the restaurant’s tagline suggests, this is a place where “emotion is served,” and the passion is clear in every bite. It really is food that engages all the senses, although we’d be lying if we said that taste didn’t come front and centre. If you’re into high-quality food, this is the place for you.

The restaurant is spectacular, but this is an article about hotels, right? Luckily, ABaC sparkles on the accommodation front. This boutique hotel features 15 soundproofed rooms that are both cosy and spacious, ranging from the comfort options to the exquisite penthouse, offering a once-in-a-lifetime accommodation experience complete with a jacuzzi, chill-out zone, and separate dining area, not to mention Bulgari toiletries and a special welcome gift. No matter which room you choose, you can expect a comfortable stay where style and practicality coexist peacefully at the top of the list.

There’s no standalone pool, but head to the spa and you’ll find water to soak in, heated stone loungers to enjoy afterwards, a hammam, and a range of other deeply relaxing experiences. The gym is equipped with modern equipment to keep visitors up to date with their workouts, with plenty of options for cardio lovers to enjoy. We assume there are cardio lovers out there somewhere, right? Either way, ABaC is a tremendous accommodation option in Barcelona, and not just because the restaurant is a worldie (it really is a worldie, that is a true understatement).

Time Out tip: Opt for a suite with a private jacuzzi, or one that comes with an extra room designed specifically for your dream horseshoe-shaped sofa.

Address: Avenida Tibidabo 1, 08022 Sarrià‑Sant Gervasi, Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €185
Closest transport: Plaça Kennedy tram stop and Avinguda Tibidabo FGC station

18. Barceló Raval

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

At Barceló Raval, you’ll stay in a stylish, cosmopolitan hotel right in one of Barcelona’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. That doesn’t even begin to do it justice, and the 182 rooms and four suites are charming places to relax and unwind after a busy day of working through that Barcelona bucket list. The neighbourhood in question is none other than Las Ramblas, making this a fantastic option if you want to stay in the heart of the action. The rooms are sophisticated and spacious, full of little quirks that add a layer of character to an already excellent stay. Guests can choose from standard rooms to superiors, with interconnecting rooms also available for families and groups. There is something for everyone at Barceló Raval.

Set in a striking oval-shaped building, the hotel’s crown jewel is its 360º rooftop bar and terrace, complete with binoculars so you can zoom in on some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. There is plenty of food available for hungry visitors, featuring social tapas and larger mains, along with an excellent selection of drinks on offer. The shining star (aside from the panoramic views, of course) is the Sunday brunch, one of the best in Barcelona. Reservations are required for the brunch, but it is well worth making this a must on your Barca itinerary.

Ultimately, the location (well, and the brunch) is the major selling point of this hotel. Everything is in the right place, but there aren’t many better spots for travellers looking to dive headfirst into the hustle and bustle of modern Barcelona. Barceló Raval is truly on the doorstep of Las Ramblas, meaning you can finish your breakfast, brush your teeth, and exit the hotel directly into the city. The quality of the hotel’s amenities feels like pure profit.

Time Out tip: We don’t want to sound like a broken record, but do make a point of requesting a room with a city view. It makes a huge difference

Address: Rambla del Raval 17-21, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €105-€150
Closest transport: Liceu metro station

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19. METT

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

You can truly escape it all up on Tibidabo hill, where spectacular views stretch over the entire city of Barcelona and out to the Mediterranean Sea. That’s the setting for this impressive five-star hotel, which should get tongues wagging ahead of that dream Barca adventure. There are 70 gorgeous rooms to choose from, all elegantly furnished and delightfully designed, some overlooking the hill and others overlooking the city, but all are a pleasure to experience. Either way, the sunrises are something special, as you’d expect from this vantage point.

While staying here, you can unwind in the Occitane spa and enjoy gourmet Catalan, Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine in some of the hotel’s standout restaurants. Albarada serves up contemporary cuisine in a classy setting, with dishes informed by the fertile region and the sweeping seas of the Mediterranean. For something more Catalonian, dine at La Vermuteria 1925, the name a reference to the building’s year of construction. History and heritage are part of life here, and you can taste that in almost every bite. The Pool Club is exactly what the name suggests, a sun lounger-filled setting perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

It’s also a great spot to connect with nature, situated in the Collserola Natural Park and adjacent to attractions such as the Tibidabo amusement park and the Temple of the Sacred Heart. However, if you’d prefer to stay indoors for your relaxation, look no further than the Valmont Red Carpet Spa. Here, you’ll find professional therapists with magic hands providing fantastic treatments, all designed to leave you feeling like a brand new you. No trip to the METT is complete without some time in the spa.

Time Out tip: The lifestyle deluxe rooms come with direct pool access, so make a point of booking those if you’re looking to spend your vacation lounging in the sun.

Address: Carretera Vallvidrera al Tibidabo 83-93, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €420
Closest transport: Tibidabo funicular

20. Ohla Barcelona

  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter stands a majestic hotel with a Neo-Classical façade and a modern interior design, built over the ruins of ancient Roman water channels – on the very site where the first Count of Barcelona once had his palace. Ohla Barcelona is this beautiful city at its very best. There are 74 stylish rooms at this gorgeous hotel just a few minutes from the heart of Barcelona, all wooden floors and white walls, spaces where style and comfort come together with clarity. They say that this is Barcelona’s “hotel with eyes,” and while we aren’t entirely sure what that means, it also seems to fit perfectly.

Up on the rooftop, you’ll find a unique glass-bottomed pool, one-of-a-kind in Barcelona, offering views over some of the city centre’s most iconic landmarks. The pool is only available to hotel guests, adding an element of exclusivity that accentuates the unbeatable views and delightful serenity. The space is filled with sofas, loungers, and tables, creating an atmosphere straight out of the most romantic dreams. Long story short, it is utterly splendid, the perfect way to end the perfect day in one of Europe’s most marvellous cities.

The hotel’s cuisine is overseen by chef Romain Fornell, who serves up contemporary dishes that blend innovative creations with refined takes on traditional recipes. The French chef was one of the youngest ever to earn a Michelin Star, and Fornell has brought every ounce of that excellence to the kitchen at Ohla. Caelis is the hotel’s fine dining restaurant (reservations are a must), while La Plassohla serves tapas in a charming space. Fornell also runs the breakfast, and it doesn’t get much better than a Michelin Star breakfast.

Time Out tip: Best breakfast in the city? Look no further.

Address: Via Laietana 49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Price per night: Starting from around €260
Closest transport: Urquinaona metro station

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