Best Design Hotels in Barcelona

Located in the very heart of Barcelona on Passeig de Gràcia, the Mandarin Oriental is just seconds away from the city’s luxury boutiques and only a 2-minute walk from the Gaudi-designed Casa Batlló. Fusing modern interiors and timeless style from Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola, the 120 rooms are bright and airy. Book a suite for a freestanding whirlpool tub, terrace and even kitchen. Gourmet Michelin-star dining is available in three restaurants – one of which is al fresco. The addition of a  relaxing spa, first-floor terrace, indoor pool for year-round dips and a rooftop pool with views out over the city makes the hotel one not to be missed.

Part of the Ritz Carlton group, the Hotel Arts Barcelona is one of the city’s original luxury hotels, mixing tradition luxury service with minimalist aesthetics. The iconic building was designed by architects Bruce Graham and Miguel Ruano, originally for the Olympic Games. Providing outstanding views out to sea and across the city, its location on the seafront is ideal for those seeking to fuse a city and beach break (you will need to take a taxi into the city centre). A great swimming pool, 483 rooms spread over 44 impressive stories, 5 restaurants (from bistro to two Michelin-starred Enoteca) and impeccable service place this hotel at the premium end of the contemporary luxury scale.

With its own unique cabaret supper club, signature restaurant Bar Veraz, rooftop bar and bespoke cocktail bar the Punch Room, you don’t need to step out fo the front doors to experience a fantastic night out. Found on the edge of the El Born district, this 100 room boutique hotel with gym and saltwater pool is just steps away from the Santa Caterina market. Bedrooms are adorned in walnut panelling – echoing the traditional city shutters – and feature imported Anichini linens and Spanish leather headboards following a complete metamorphosis by Carlos Ferrater Studio.

Just off Passeig de Gràcia, a stone’s throw from Gaudí’s Casa Milà and close to Avinguda Diagonal, home to most of Barcelona’s designer boutiques, sits Barcelona’s the Sir Victor Hotel. Its ever-evolving design has kept its cutting edge since it opened in 2003 and the hotel’s restaurant Moo is one of Barcelona’s best. The communal areas are a work of art, with the 91 rooms taking a crisp and fresh design and featuring original artworks, Bose sound systems, Nespresso machines and rainfall showers The hotel’s rooftop terrace and plunge swimming pool are the pinnacles of urban living.

Located on the newer Barcelona boardwalk area, with views looking out to sea this hotel has the WOW factor from start to finish. Away from the city centre, this is perfect for beachgoers but like the Hotel Arts Barcelona, you will need to take a taxi to reach the city centre. With a nod towards Dubai’s Burj al Arab, the W looks like a giant sail at sea. The funky poolside area feels like you’re in Miami. And with three restaurants and a super trendy lounge bar, this a great hotel to feel instantly in the holiday party mood.

This Grand Luxe hotel occupies what was once the Palau Vedruna, dating back to the 19th century. In 1992 it was completely remodelled to create 124 suites, resplendent in Brazilian rosewood panelling, silk and leather upholstery. Make free calls and use the data on your in-room mobile, and enjoy White Company toiletries. Fans of art, Egypt and all things Avant-garde will especially appreciate the aesthetics here – the owner Jordi Clos is an Egyptologist, with a selection of his collection forming a small museum on the first floor. Dine at the East 47 first-floor restaurant, grab some delectable dim sum at Mr Kao or eat on the rooftop with a view, when the weather is clement.

Offering understated luxury, the Ohla Hotel is located on the busy Via Laietana, the border between Barri Gòtic and Born areas. The style here is hip, smart and chic, inviting to both holidaymakers and young professionals visiting for business. Games consoles, massages and round-the-clock room service are all part of the appeal at this 74-room boutique hotel. The awe-inspiring glass-sided rooftop pool is the perfect place to unwind before enjoying a refined dinner at the Michelin-starred Caelis restaurant or sampling a sensory journey of different culinary traditions in the form of tapas and small plates to share at La Plassohla – both led by Chef Romain Fornell.

Also part of the slick H10 brand, The One is found in the sought-after modernist district of L’Eixample. With sophisticated styling from award-winning interior designer Jamie Beriestain, the decor soothes in greys and white hues. This posh 89-room hotel boasts cathedral view suites with private hot tub and terraces. Winter travellers can still enjoy a swim in the indoor pool (or rooftop one if feeling brave), while the divine wellness centre attracts many seeking a relaxing Spanish spa break. There are two restaurants and a bar, a well as a host of fantastic eateries and trendy boutiques to be discovered on its refined doorstep.

The Kimpton Vividora Barcelona combines contemporary design with plenty of local personality in Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter. This 5-star boutique hotel features stylish rooms, Spa de Vivi wellness treatments, a rooftop pool and bar with city views, Mediterranean Catalan dining at Fauna restaurant, and local vibes at GOT Coffee & Cocktails lobby bar that serves morning coffee and evening drinks, as well as hosting a social hour for guests with complimentary wines. Located steps from the Metropolitan Cathedral and City Hall, the pet-friendly Kimpton Vivadora Barcelona immerses guests within modern vibrancy of Barcelona.

This Avant Garde hotel is in the heart of Barcelona, close to the celebrated Passeig de Gràcia next to Casa Rocamora and just a step away from Plaça Catalunya on the city’s golden mile. The contemporary hotel design brings together innovation, art, music and technology along with exclusive experiences to enjoy the local scene. Rooms and suites present a neutral and stylish design with a range of sizes, views and upgrades such as a private terrace or Jacuzzi to suit every occasion. Guests can make use of the gym fitted with the latest fitness technology and equipment or pamper themselves with sophisticated beauty and well-being treatments. The hotel also has two restaurants in which Mediterranean cuisine with an innovative flair provides healthy, unique, surprising and sustainable dining experiences using fresh and organic ingredients harvested from our own urban garden. The Rooftop Bar is the perfect place to unwind with a drink and take in the views of Plaça Catalunya and the Sagrada Familia.

Part of the collection of Curio by Hilton Hotels, the designer boutique Hotel Alexandra is located in a renovated 19th-century building near Passeig de Gracia, the fashion and cultural heart of the city. The 116 rooms feature traditional features such as original mosaic flooring mixed with contemporary fixtures and furnishings in a warm but neutral palette of greys and browns. The hotel is minimal but still warm and comfortable and full of the added extras expected of a luxury residence. Suites here are extra special, many with terraces and outdoor bathtubs, and for the budding foodies, the hotel is home to a two-floor brasserie and an amazing charcuterie bar – the best place for some wine and nibbles after a hard day sight-seeing!

A bold waterfront destination in Barcelona’s emerging Port Fòrum district, SLS Barcelona brings signature glamour to the marina with 471 balcony rooms, rooftop pools, and theatrical interiors by Rockwell Group. The property anchors the area’s urban renewal with innovative Mediterranean dining, DJ-driven nightlife, and extravagant design that celebrates playful and glamorous excess over minimalism.