Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and one of the largest metropolises in the European Union. Known for its rich cultural heritage, spectacular architecture, delectable cuisine, and thriving nightlife, Barcelona is one of the most popular and most visited tourist destinations in the world.
My two visits to Barcelona were both last minute decisions. I certainly learned that with so much to see and experience, it’s pivotal to plan all the aspects of your trip in advance, so that you can have a the best possible trip and create memories that you can cherish for a long time.
One of the most critical aspects of your trip that you need to plan well in advance is your accommodation. Barcelona offers an exceptionally wide range of accommodation choices – from luxury hotels with panoramic views to cozy guest houses tucked away in historic neighborhoods. Each option can provide you with a unique experience and can shape your vacation experience. It’s why your accommodation choice matters a lot – almost as much as choosing the vehicle you want to drive.
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In this article, we take a look at Barcelona’s accommodation scene and the diverse range of lodgings available for visitors. Whether you are a budget-conscious backpacker, a family seeking a comfortable stay, or a couple in search of a romantic retreat, we can help you find the right accommodation for you.
👉Also read: Barcelona Craft Beer Guide – Drinking The Best Craft Beer In Barcelona
How are the Hotels in Barcelona?
The accommodation choices available in Barcelona are as diverse as the city itself. Your choices include luxury hotels, boutique hotels, hostels, guesthouses, bed & breakfasts, budget hotels, and apartments. No matter what kind of amenities you are looking for, what your budget is, and what your other preferences are, you can find a hotel that suits your needs to a T.
The city’s hotel scene has evolved a lot over the years. The city experienced a significant boom in tourism during the latter half of the 20th century, which led to the construction of a large number of hotels to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
The 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona acted as a catalyst for the city’s tourism industry. New infrastructure and accommodations were developed to host the influx of visitors during the games. Many hotels upgraded their facilities and adopted international standards in order to meet the needs of travelers from around the world. Soon after, many international hotel chains began to establish their presence in the city.
Over the last few decades, the accommodation options in Barcelona have diversified to a great extent – thanks to the changing needs of visitors. With the growing awareness of environmental issues, many hotels have started adopting sustainable practices – ranging from energy-efficient lighting to plastic waste reduction, water conservation, and waste recycling measures.
The rise of boutique and themed hotels is also a notable development in Barcelona’s hospitality industry. These hotels are known for their trendy design and stylish décor and provide a personalized service to visitors. This type of accommodation is particularly popular with millennials and zoomers.
Our Recommendations For The Top Barcelona Hotels
| BARCELONA HOTEL | BEST FOR | RATES FROM | WHERE TO BOOK |
| 🏨Hotel Arts Barcelona | 🌺💆 Best For Spa Lovers | $422 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 The Barcelona EDITION | 🏨✨ Best For Cultural Explorers | $491 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Mandarin Oriental | 🌟✈️ Best For Luxury Travelers | $1,125 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Wittmore Hotel | 🏰❤️ Best For Romantic Getaways | $469 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Mercer Barcelona | 🏰🍽️ Best For History and Culinary Enthusiasts | $514 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Sir Victor | 🏨🌞 Best For Urban Luxury Retreat | $363 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Alma Barcelona | 🌿🍽️ Suitable For Discerning Travelers | $599 | 💶 Check Rates |
The Best Luxury Hotels in Barcelona
Barcelona has an endless range of luxury accommodation options in store for those who can afford to splurge. Some of the best hotels in Barcelona are as follows:
Hotel Arts Barcelona
Hotel Arts Barcelona is an iconic symbol of sophistication and luxury in Barcelona. Housed in a 44-story skyscraper, the hotel offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea as well as the city. The rooms and suites have everything you need – from plush bedding to luxurious furnishings, marble bathrooms, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, private balconies, and more.
One of the most notable features of the hotel is 43 The Spa, which offers a wide range of rejuvenation treatments and is considered one of the best spas in the city. There is also an outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, where you can bask in the Mediterranean sun and relax.
The Barcelona EDITION
The Barcelona EDITION combines modern luxury with a touch of old-world charm. The hotel’s interior is adorned with a carefully curated selection of contemporary artwork and furniture pieces designed by Catalan icons like Salvador Dali and Antoni Gaudi.
The hotel is located conveniently close to the iconic Barcelona Cathedral, Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, Santa Caterina Market, Palau Guell, Picasso Museum, and numerous other top attractions in Barcelona.
One of the most notable amenities is The Roof, a rooftop terrace with lounge seating offering panoramic views of Barcelona sights and local attractions. The hotel also has an outdoor plunge pool, spa, and fitness center.
Mandarin Oriental
Located on Passeig de Gracia, the Mandarin Oriental combines elegant design and top-notch amenities with impeccable service. The hotel has a luxury spa, which offers a variety of holistic rituals and treatments, and an indoor swimming pool. The hotel’s restaurant, which is led by award-winning chef Carme Ruscalleda, serves an exciting range of Catalan delicacies.
One of the best things about staying at the Mandarin Oriental is that you can enjoy the best of what Barcelona has to offer. The hotel offers an array of unique experiences for its guests including sailing, scuba diving, helicopter rides, and many more.
Wittmore Hotel
The Wittmore Hotel, discreetly nestled in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, is a seductive escape from the bustling streets. Upon entering, its plush, red velvet interiors and exclusive adults-only ambiance create the allure of a secret, members-only club.
The rooms, ranging from small to medium-sized, embrace the same opulence, with red velvet curtains and a unique twist—none offer city views. Instead, they face an inner courtyard and vertical garden, enhancing the sense of exclusivity.
For an unforgettable romantic experience, the Roofless Suite allows you to privatize the rooftop terrace, offering a choice to sleep under the stars. The beds are large and comfortable, and the bathrooms are stocked with premium toiletries.
Wittmore’s common spaces, from a cozy library to a sunny rooftop terrace with a plunge pool, beckon guests to stay and savor the ambiance. The Contraban restaurant on the ground floor serves delightful dishes in an intimate setting.
Wittmore Hotel balances sultry charm with modern luxury, creating a captivating retreat in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
The Best Boutique Hotels in Barcelona
Mercer Barcelona
Located at the heart of the Gothic Quarter, Mercer Barcelona is an oasis of luxurious comfort in a historic setting. Housed within a meticulously restored medieval palace, the hotel integrates historical elements with contemporary design. You can find several well-preserved remains from the Roman period as well as other periods of historical significance.
The hotel’s location makes it an ideal place to explore Barcelona’s most popular attractions including Las Ramblas, the Cathedral, and the Boqueria market.
The hotel has a high-end Mediterranean restaurant, where you can enjoy the finest of Catalan and French culinary delicacies. The rooms are comfortable and well-furnished and have large windows, which provide an excellent view of the Gothic Quarter.
One of the best things about the hotel is Le Bouchon – a charming gastro bar where you can enjoy the finest of Catalonian tapas, seasonal delicacies, wine, and cocktails. Speaking of tapas, make sure you check out our authentic Spanish tapas recipes!
Sir Victor
Located just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Casa Mila, Sir Victor has everything you might expect in a boutique hotel. The rooms are neatly furnished and have large, floor-to-ceiling windows, through which an abundance of natural light streams all day. Some of the rooms have private balconies, which offer a spectacular view of Passeig de Gracia.
The restaurant – MR PORTER – is elegantly designed and offers an assortment of steaks, seafood delicacies, and vegetarian options. The roof terrace bar – literally named The Rooftop – is a perfect place to spend a relaxing evening, sipping Mediterranean-themed cocktails.
The hotel has an organic and vegan spa, which is the first of its kind in Barcelona. It also has a state-of-the-art fitness center, where you can shed the extra calories you load up at the restaurant.
Alma Barcelona
Located at the heart of Barcelona’s Eixample district, Alma Barcelona embodies the essence of exclusivity and personalized comfort. Housed in a stunning 20th-century building, this boutique hotel offers a unique blend of classic architecture and contemporary design.
One of the highlights of the hotel is its restaurant – Jardin del Alma – which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers seasonal delicacies made with locally sourced fresh produce. The cocktail bar – which is also set in a lush green garden – offers an exceptional range of cocktails paired with delicious tapas.
The spa has a relaxing and comforting feel to it and offers a number of indulgent treatments, massages, and wellness therapies. One of the hallmarks of Alma Barcelona is its service. The hotel’s attentive staff goes above and beyond their duty to cater to your unique needs and preferences.
The Best Budget Hotels in Barcelona
If you are on a budget and do not want to spend too much on lodging, budget hotels are your best bet. There are a number of hotels that are affordable and give great value for your money, yet do not compromise on comfort or quality. Many of these hotels are located near the city’s central square, with many of the must-see local attractions only being a few minutes walk away.
Given below is a brief list of the best Barcelona hotels for budget-conscious travelers.
- Malda Singular Hotel (Gothic Quarter)
- Motel One (El Born)
- Room Mate Carla (Eixample)
- The Market (Antoni)
- Brummell (Poble Sec)
- Jazz (Eixample)
- Hostalin Barcelona Gran Via (Las Ramblas)
Nightlife in Barcelona
Barcelona is a city renowned for its vibrant nightlife. If you want to experience the best of Barcelona nightlife, you need to stay in a neighborhood known for its dynamic nightlife scene. Gothic Quarter, El Raval, Gracia, Poblenou, Eixample, and Barceloneta are some of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona known for their thriving nightlife. You can find a number of trendy cocktail lounges, rooftop bars, clubs, live music venues, bodegas, and tapas bars here.
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Factors to Consider While Planning a Trip to Barcelona
When it comes to planning a trip to Barcelona, there are a number of factors you need to consider – especially if this is your first visit to the city. Given below is a list of factors you should take into account for a stress-free and memorable trip.
Travel Documents and Insurance
Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip. Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa. Also, make sure you buy travel insurance to plan for contingencies like trip cancellations and medical emergencies.
Weather
Consider the weather in Barcelona while choosing your travel dates. Ideally, you should plan your trip during spring (April to May), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Budget
Determine your budget for the trip – including accommodation, food, outdoor activities, transportation, and shopping. Make sure you have an emergency fund for medical emergencies and unplanned expenses.
Accommodation
Book your accommodation in advance. Consider factors like location, amenities, proximity to local attractions, pet-friendly accommodation, and budget to choose the right hotel to stay in.
Packing
Pack appropriate clothing for the season as well as any specific activities that you plan to do. Make sure you pack the essentials like comfortable walking shoes, a universal adapter, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles. To find out more about what to pack for a Barcelona trip, check out our in-depth guide here.
Communication
While many people in Barcelona can understand and speak English, it is a good idea for you to learn some basic Spanish or Catalan phrases to communicate with the locals.
Attractions and Activities
Make a list of the local attractions you want to visit – from the historically significant Barcelona museums to cathedrals, beaches, markets, parks, and many more. Do your research and make a note of all the necessary details like opening and closing hours, ticket availability, and ticket price.
Make the Most of Your Trip to Barcelona
By considering these aforementioned factors, choosing the right accommodation, and planning ahead, you can make the most of your trip to Barcelona and have the time of your life here.