OUR TOP THREE PICKS FOR HOTELS IN BARCELONA
As a tourist destination, Barcelona is characterised by its vibrant energy and stunning architectural design. Luckily for you, its world-class line-up of hotels offer an overnight experience to match. Here are the top three picks from our most recent visit to the city.
Most Unique Stay
Claris Hotel & Spa 5*GL
The design is quirky so it may not be to everyone’s taste, but Claris Hotel certainly stands out for its individuality. The owner (Jordi Clos) has the world’s largest private collection of Egyptian antiquities and actually showcases unique pieces – along with other hand-selected works of art, sculptures and furnishings he has collected over the years – throughout the hotel, from the lobby area to the 124 individually designed rooms and suites. If you are impressed by what you see in the hotel you will want to cross the road to visit the Egyptian Museum (also owned by Jordi), with hotel guests receiving complimentary passes. In addition, the hotel offers memorable fine dining experiences. Start the day right with a VIP breakfast of oysters and champagne (you have to book it by 7pm the night before) and spend at least one evening dining on the hotel’s rooftop terrace where the exquisite tasting menu features standout dishes such as the Basque specialty, Hake Kokotxas.
Best for Business Travellers
Hotel Pullman Barcelona Skipper
www.pullman-barcelona-skipper.com
Blending business with pleasure, Hotel Pullman Barcelona Skipper conquers a unique corner of the coveted business market whilst retaining the stylish atmosphere you would expect of this flourishing, trendy city for those travelling for leisure. Conveniently located in the charming maritime shore district, this four-star hotel is just a short walk from the beach as well as the sporting port of Barcelona, Port Olímpic, with its bustling ambience of bars, restaurants and casinos. The property houses a floor of fully-equipped function rooms, all bathed in natural Mediterranean light and accommodating up to 800 delegates. Rooms are bright and contemporary, with minimalist design showcasing only the highest quality facilities and furnishings. A rooftop swimming pool completes the package, providing guests with the opportunity for some blissful downtime in this eternally entrancing, non-stop city.
Best for Pampered Luxury
Hotel Arts Barcelona
Positioned next to Frank Gehry’s iconic golden fish sculpture, right on Barcelona’s seafront with a slew of surfer-cool bars and restaurants nearby, Hotel Arts welcomes visitors to one of Europe’s hippest cities with enviable views over both the Mediterranean and the city skyline. For the ultimate in luxury travel experiences, opt for one of the 28 duplex penthouses that seem to float high above the ocean on the hotel’s top floors. They come with their own Mini Cabrio to explore the city, a private butler, luxury private transfers and even a personal shopping concierge. Everything about the experience at Hotel Arts is flawless from the modern living spaces and well-appointed club lounge to the sumptuous spa offering and choice of six restaurants and bars, serving everything from informal brunches to exceptional two Michelin star cuisine.