The 12 best boutique hotels in Barcelona, for a memorable siesta

The oh-so stylish hotel brand The Hoxton has over 15 establishments to its name, from LA to Vienna. Despite it being a chain, the brand works hard to make each location feel unique, boutique-esque and true to the city it resides in. Their Barcelona base is right by Gran Clariana gardens and just over 2km away from Nova Icaria beach. Expect a heavy dose of cool, colour and culture as soon as you enter, with statement furniture pieces and retro tiling around every corner. Enjoy poolside tacos and margaritas on the roof or tuck into a Detroit-style pizza on the terrace. 

Mood? Too cool for school. 
Location perks? Set in Poblenou, a Barcelona district that gives you a real flavour of local life. 
Budget range? Prices can be reasonable if you're not fussed about dates. 

The Mood: Cosy and vibrant, with a touch of eclectic charm 

Location Perks: A short stroll from the lively heart of Barcelona

Budget Range: Ideal and affordable

If you're looking for a basecamp right in the heart of Barcelona in a lovely boutique hotel, the Mercer could be your dream come true. Set in an ancient stone building in the Gothic Quarter, the motif is carried throughout the 28 rooms and suites of the hotel with stone walls that add the perfect splash of extra charm. The three-story Mercer was built in 2012, so you've also got all the perks of modern, up-to-date facilities, combined with the beauty of the Roman ruins surrounding it. On the rooftop terrace, you can grab a drink at the bar or take a dip in the pool. And with major monuments just a stone's throw away, you've got plenty to explore when you head out.

Mood? Five-star luxury.
Location perks? Right up in the hustle and bustle of Barcelona's busiest district.
Budget range? One heck of a price tag (but worth it).

Set in the Poble-sec neighbourhood near Montjuïc, the Brummell grants you easy access to both the city centre and the seaside mountain's museums and gardens. The hotel's fabulous garden patio has proved to be popular among the locals, so enjoy a drink or a snack and see what nifty knowledge you can pick up. If you're looking for the wow factor, splurge for the Penthouse among the 20 designer rooms, and take a plunge in the private outdoor bathtub with warm water and foam. All guests enjoy full access to the sauna and swimming pool, and you get free yoga classes (there's even a courtesy mat in your room).

Mood? Designer oasis.
Location perks? Did we mention the gorgeous garden on-site?
Budget range? Mid to high end.

The clue is in the name of this picturesque palace. As you may have guessed, it's in a small (by palace standards) former palace that dates to the nineteenth century, it's very close to the famous Boqueria Market on La Rambla, and it boasts a lovely private courtyard and garden – with trees that are a century old. With a dozen different room types, everyone's invited to feel welcome, whether you're travelling on your own or in a group of six, whether you need no more than a small double or if you're after an apartment duplex. Ask about bicycle rental, romance packs or other special offers to suit you.

Mood? Historic charm.
Location perks? Located in the Gothic Quarter and a minute's walk from Liceu Metro Station.
Budget range? On the pricier side.

A design hotel that’s popular with cosmopolitan, image-conscious party people, Axel’s main clientele is the LQBTQ+ crowd, but it’s also hetero-friendly. Rooms are comfortable and elegant in calming neutral tones – while king-size beds come as standard, as does the erotic artwork. The hotel itself makes for an awesome hangout – thanks to the Sky Bar's rooftop pool, hot tub and chill-out area, a Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant, and an extensive spa that offers massages, a thermal circuit, more fitness machines than in your average city gym, and personal trainers in a gorgeously designed space. When you’re in the mood for a big night out without having to stray too far from your home away from home, the Axel hosts regular club nights and live music performances.

Mood? Love all round.
Location perks? With a continuous party on-site, you won't need to venture far from your room for a good night.
Budget range? A great deal.

Right on the beautiful, historic, and incredibly central Plaça Reial that's just off La Rambla, you'll find this five-star hotel that looks big enough to house more than the intimate 18 rooms it's got. That means lovely spacious rooms and common areas for you to relax in. If attention to detail and free extras are what you're into, you've found the right place: breakfast, a welcome drink, an hour’s free access to the spa, free non-alcoholic minibar, free snacks and fruit every day, and pillow and aroma menus are some of the items on the list. If you're looking to make your stay extra special, treat yourself to the rooftop room, with its own private terrace and pool. Lush.

Mood? Mediterranean vibes.
Location perks? Just off Las Ramblas, in the beautiful Plaza Reial.
Budget range? A little spenny.

The Ohla stands on enviable real estate between the historic Barri Gòtic and the lively Born neighbourhoods. You're practically opposite the famous Palau de la Música Catalana concert hall, and just down the road from the Barcelona Cathedral and La Rambla. When you're ready to rest, head up to the stunning rooftop terrace for drinks at the bar or a dip in the pool, weather permitting, as you take in incredible views of the Old City and beyond. For an extra special stay, definitely look into the Experiences packages: the staff will help you set up a romantic proposal, plan a memorable birthday celebration, provide you with a bath butler (we like the sound of this!), or even make sure you've got everything you can dream of for a perfect night's sleep.

Mood? Contemporary design.
Location perks? The rooftop pool and bar will make sure you never want to leave...
Budget range? A wide variety of options. 

From the designer furniture to the promotion of slow food and the plant-lined rooftop terrace hosting DJs and aperitif sessions, the Pulitzer is hip with a capital H. The bedrooms are light and have a cool European loft vibe, with fittings made from natural materials and elements in bright colours to keep things interesting. The Pulitzer is tucked into a little street that leads onto Plaça Catalunya, so you can enjoy the glitz and glam of being in the city centre but when the torrent of tourists proves too much, it's a breeze slip back to the hotel. If you enjoy staying in places that focus on comfort, design and living well, the Pulitzer fits the bill.

Mood? Bohemian dreams.
Location perks? Within close walking distance of the Arc de Triomf – no, not the Parisian one.
Budget range? Surprisingly affordable. 

Anna, Emma, Pau, Carla and Gerard are your Room Mates in Barcelona. They all live fairly near each other and have a lot in common. Today we're introducing you to Anna. A bit farther out of the central hub, Anna's in the fashionable Eixample district, just off Passeig de Gràcia, where you can satisfy all your shopping needs, visit architectural monuments and stroll all the way to Plaça Catalunya, La Rambla and beyond. Anna's rooms are not shy, with bolder versions of colours found in nature: lilac, avocado, lemon and sunset. The plunge pool on the terrace's wooden deck is small but chic and surrounded by zebra-striped sofas for lounging about. Bonus: breakfast is served until noon.

Mood? Eclectic energy.
Location perks? Nestled in Barcelona's city centre.
Budget range? Fantastic value for money.