Barcelona’s hotel scene reflects the city’s passion for art, design and architecture. While local regulations prevent new hotel construction, recent years have seen a wave of exciting revamps of existing properties, joining well-established stays. The compact, walkable city means no neighbourhood is too far from any other.
Design-led Casa Bonay in Eixample Dreta remains a favourite among style-savvy visitors and locals. Every space nods to Catalan architecture or arts and crafts, from geometric hydraulic tiles to navy blue blankets by a local artisan. The rooftop spa with sauna, hammam and treatments is a recent addition, while Bodega Bonay serves Catalan-meets-Italian tapas.
In lively El Born, Borneta occupies a restored 19th-century building opposite Parc de la Ciutadella. Its rooftop terrace features vintage patterned tiling and an orb-like art installation, while rooms use muted Mediterranean tones and local antiques. The lobby restaurant Volta attracts both hotel guests and a local crowd for dinner and cocktails.
Mandarin Oriental Barcelona on Passeig de Gràcia offers an ultra-luxe experience in a former bank. Michelin-starred Moments serves seasonal Catalan menus by chef Raül Balam and his mother Carme Ruscalleda. The rooftop has a plunge pool and tapas bar with city views, while rooms are dressed in terracotta and ocean blue.
Antiga Casa Buenavista, a family-run 43-room hotel in Sant Antoni, won a 2024 Michelin Key award. Housed in a muralled 1870s building, it blends Modernista style with contemporary touches, including high-tech rooms with stained-glass doors and Natura Bissé bath products. Superior rooms have olive-fringed terraces with circular outdoor baths, and the rooftop pool is surrounded by lavender and cypresses.
Nobu Barcelona opposite Sants station appeals to style lovers with its sleek design and a 25th-floor rooftop bar serving spice-infused cocktails. The plunge pool is decorated with patterned tilework, adding to the hotel’s glamorous appeal.
