The best boutique hotels in Barcelona, Spain offer colourful stays in the Catalonian capital
The Catalonian capital is calling your name, and we know where to stay.
From London to Paris and over in Rome, Europe is filled with so many stunning cities to discover. Famous for its enticing culinary and arts scene along with a vibrant nightlife, Barcelona promises an authentic sojourn steeped in Spanish heritage and history. Adding to the Catalonian capital’s vivacious identity are the very best boutique hotels in Barcelona each with a distinct personality that complements the city’s artistic modern-meets-vintage aura.
The best boutique hotels in Barcelona
1. Sir Victor
The 91-room Sir Victor grants its guests one of the best locations for a vacation in Barcelona. A step away from Passeig de Gràcia, the city’s premier shopping destination, the hotel’s modern ambience merges beautifully with the exclusivity of its neighbourhood. Furthermore, the interiors, envisioned by architectural firm Baranowitz + Kronenberg and Sir Victor’s in-house design team, incorporate art by local artists, essential comforts, and a sense of vintage chic to make every stay a remarkable experience.
The bedrooms at Sir Victor range from petit to family lodgings. All feature luxe conveniences like Bluetooth speakers, rain showers, minibars, Nespresso machines, curated books, and signature bathrobes. The suites come with freestanding bathtubs, four-poster beds, and private balconies. While not minimalistic, the furnishings do not crowd or overpower the space.
Our favourite spot at Sir Victor’s is The Rooftop, their in-house bar and restaurant. Gifting views of Casa Milà and La Sagrada Família, it’s an idyllic spot for a lazy brunch or a romantic dinner. The hotel is also home to the popular steakhouse Mr Porters, famous for its 360° bar and juicy carnivorous preparations.
Find out more about Sir Victor
2. Seventy Barcelona
A grandeur of a different kind engulfs Núñez i Navarro Hotels‘ latest addition to the city, Seventy Barcelona. Located alongside the neighbourhood of Gràcia, it allows guests immersion into both old-world and new-age fashionable Barcelona. Consequently, the trendy boutique hotel wows visitors as soon as they enter through its buzzing vibe, floor-to-ceiling windows, book walls that go up to the top, and ceilings that require you to crane your neck in amazement.
The 152 rooms cement the modern-chic atmosphere one experiences while walking through the 1500 sq-m open lobby. Dark colour schemes contrast the white to create temperamental abodes fitted with curated art, comfy sofas and chairs, shuttered windows and eclectic design elements. In-room facilities range from a pillow menu and climate control to free WiFi, Bluetooth connection for music, and en-suites with tubs or showers.
Designer aspects extend throughout the property. The rooftop pool and lounge exude serenity, while the swimming pool’s glass wall makes for an excellent photo-op. Down below, the spa provides personalised relaxation with its indoor pool, dry sauna, steam, and treatment rooms. Nourishment is available at The Patio and Kitchen & Timeless, cosy eating places that embrace the hotel’s zeitgeist of health and simplicity associated with a classic Mediterranean aura.
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3. Casa Bonay
Unlike any other accommodation in the city, Casa Bonay allows guests to instantly immerse themselves into Barcelona’s way of life. Situated in an 1869 mansion, the concept of the hotel started as co-owner Inés Miró-Sans’s MBA project. In it, she perceived a space that brought together artists from the local community to create a mutually beneficial and singly eclectic habitat.
The realisation of Inés’ dream is one of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona. A place where every element has a touch of artisanal magic. From branding by Mucho and furniture by Marc Morro of AOO to lighting by Nina Masó and interiors by Studio Tack, the collaborative effort gives Casa Bonay a truly unmatched pizzazz.
The charm of Casa Bonay continues in its rooms that comprise amenities such as yoga mats, streaming movies, hand-selected magazines, free WiFi, and room service. Personally, we love their courtyard suite, which has the most incredible outdoor shower, hammock, and minibar with local products. And when feeling peckish, you can drop in at Casa Bonay’s wine bar Bodega Bonay or enjoy a casual rooftop barbeque at El Chiringuito.
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4. Alma Barcelona
Alma Barcelona guarantees a tranquil respite to avid travellers wishing a momentary escape from the city’s engaging yet hectic composition. A residence where luxury, style, and Barcelona’s design ideology seamlessly connect, the hotel boasts a contemporary heart inside a classically unique frontage. The building of Alma, dating back to 1860, celebrates Barcelona’s initial plan that included gardens amongst residential buildups. Jardín del Alma is one of the few remaining such gardens, giving the hotel a genuinely distinct appeal.
Among the best boutique hotels in Barcelona, the 72-room Alma further impresses with its tech-savvy mindset. Entry into the rooms, for instance, is via guest fingerprints. Inside, one finds clean and muted design aesthetics that immediately ease the mind into a restful state.
When planning a stay here, book the much in demand Alma Suite. The spacious abode on the top floor has five rooms, a private terrace, spectacular city views, smart TV, Bulgari amenities, a standalone bathtub, and a separate works area.
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5. Antiga Casa Buenavista
A family-run establishment, Antigua Casa Buenavista started as a restaurant back in 1918. Today, it stands as a testament to the love locals hold for the city and their passion for welcoming guests to showcase Barcelona’s many wonders and renowned hospitality. The credit for the change lies firmly on the shoulders of TDB Arquitectura, a design firm that incorporated the building’s classic aesthetics into its new persona.
Worth noticing across the property and in the 43 rooms are the gorgeous plaster mouldings, cement-tiled floors, vintage-styled balconies, stained glass windows, and many more beautiful modernist architectural embellishments. The guest rooms take on individual identities featuring contemporary design and creature comforts such as Smart TVs, PressReader digital library, Nespresso machines, soundproofing, yoga mats, and home automation systems.
Culinary indulgence at Casa Buenavista is possible and recommended at Casa de Comidas. On the menu is an array of traditional dishes prepared passionately using local products. And when the sun is shining, head over to the rooftop for poolside lounging with a cocktail in hand.
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6. Villa Emilia
Designed and decorated by owners Katja and Antoine, Villa Emilia is a chic abode that encapsulates Barcelona’s playful nature. Located inside a family-owned building named after Katja’s grandmother, Villa Emilia has an attractive atmosphere that oozes exclusivity with a pleasing laidback appeal.
The 100% smoke-free, pet-friendly hotel welcomes guests to stay in colourful rooms while giving comfort utmost priority. Additionally, the use of wood, accent walls, and large windows enhance the area’s inviting character. In-room conveniences at the hotel include free WiFi, entertainment centres, cot and pet beds, and Egyptian linen.
All the best boutique hotels in Barcelona provide their guests with both staying and dining options. In the case of Villa Emilia, residents can pick from their up-market bistro-style eatery, Bistrot. The restaurant plates weekly menus in an intimate yet casual setting. Else, relish live music and cocktails at Zinc Bar or snacks under the afternoon sun at the rooftop café, La Terrassa.
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7. Musik Boutique Hotel
Musik Boutique Hotel in Barcelona is a true gem, hiding amongst the lively small alleyways of the Gothic Quarter that form a part of the Sant Pere neighbourhood. The accommodation revels in its surroundings with its 18th-century exteriors but, at the same time, displays a rebellious character through interiors that take on a more contemporary outlook.
Divided into four categories, the 23 rooms follow clean-lined decor aesthetics with plush furnishings. Wood and delicate fabrics further give the spaces an elegant appeal. Comforts include free WiFi, flatscreen TVs, Bluetooth speakers, stocked minibar, and bathrooms with showers.
Boutique amenities at Musik include bicycle rentals at a nominal rate, a 24-hour bar, and fresh breakfast every morning. Do make the most of the hotel’s location as it places you minutes away from some of the best eateries in town.
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8. Casagrand Luxury Suites
With modern-day tourists travelling in groups and preferring to stay longer in one destination, there’s been a rise in apartment accommodations at popular destinations. Casagrand, with its 13 luxury apartments, takes care of this necessity in the Catalonian capital.
Situated in the hip Eixample district, inside a 1929 Enric Sagnier constructed building, Casagrand has three types of apartments. The Summum with five bedrooms, four baths, and inspiring city views is perfect for families. We, however, found the one-bedroom Penthouse with a private terrace on the top floor to be the cutest escape for couples visiting Barcelona.
Although Casagrand offers self-catering apartments, it does come with hotel-like services. The rooms have soundproofing, terraces, WiFi, large living spaces, Netflix, Nespresso, in-room dining, and housekeeping. The common areas include a spa, outdoor pool, sauna, sun beds, a concierge, and a manager to overlook the proper functioning of the apartments.
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9. Hotel España
Design and function walk hand-in-hand at the four-star Hotel España nestled in the Las Ramblas neighbourhood of the city. Steeped in hospitality heritage, the hotel’s building dates back to 1859 when it was an inn known as Fonda de España. However, in the early 20th century, Lluís Domènech i Montaner refurbished the site adding classic Catalonian Modernism features. The same elements integrated with modern comforts now welcome guests to what is one of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona.
Never without surprises, Hotel España’s rooms are an exciting mix of the rustic and the new. Brick walls, stylish backlit headboards, and contemporary amenities give the spaces a playful and inviting elegance. Of the 83 abodes, we suggest picking one with a balcony, the perfect spot to relish your morning coffee while admiring expansive views of the city.
The rooftop pool at Hotel España might be a tad small, but the hotel makes up for it by offering a trio of dining options. Fonda España pays homage to the hotel’s beginnings while serving delectable tasting menus based on seasonal produce. The original alabaster fireplace in Bar Arbnau alone is a reason to visit this establishment known for its cocktails and tapas. And the hotel’s rooftop bar, Alair Ramblas, is where you go, not for city views but for its whimsical and intimate ambience.
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10. Primero Primera
Primero Primera is a 30-room accommodation in Tres Torres, 15 minutes from the city centre, in a relatively quiet neighbourhood. The hotel occupies a former residence built in 1955 that is now part of the Pérez-Sala legacy, a family famous for their involvement in motorsports.
The hotel’s uniqueness comes from its rooms being individually styled, giving each space its own distinctiveness. Still, we couldn’t help notice a continuous flow of textures and fabrics, complementing each other, throughout the private and common areas.
As with most boutique hotels in Barcelona, Primero Primera presents its guests with various living choices. While the XL and Junior suites are incredible abodes, we treasured the smaller rooms’ compact and cosy nature. Other facilities that give the hotel an edge are the in-house library, 24-hour free snacks, a refreshing outdoor pool, room service, and an honest bar with a fireplace. Guests staying at Primero Primera can also ask for a private shopper or tour of the city, excellent ways to discover some of Barcelona’s hidden gems.
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11. The Loft Suites at Hotel Arts Barcelona
For those who love to be by the beach, in one of the Loft Suites at Hotel Arts Barcelona is where you want to be. Situated in the tallest building in town and offering exceptional views of both the ocean and the downtown (including La Sagrada Familia), these stunning suites are a little slice of paradise.
Inclusive in the room rate are butlers along with access to The Club, where food changes five times throughout the day and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are served.
Inside the multi-level suites, you’ll enjoy exceptionally comfortable over-sized beds, unique furniture designed by Jaime Tresserra, and huge bath tubs with continuous views of the coast.
Read our full review on the Loft Suites at Hotel Arts Barcelona.
Find out more about Hotel Arts Barcelona
12. Casa Mathilda
For a homely boutique hotel stay in the heart of Barcelona Eixample Area, Casa Mathilde is the ideal base. Located on the main floor of a stately home formerly owned by one of the most prominent local textile-manufacturing families, it’s all about contemporary chic with vintage touches at this bed & breakfast.
Rooms come in there sizes: Interior, Street, and Terrace, with the latter leading onto a sun-filled terrace. Breakfast includes a range of local delicacies, including ham, fresh fruit, and a selection of juices.
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13. Ohla Barcelona
The artistic temperament of the city is in full display at the Ohla. As one of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona, its eye-catching exteriors showcase the city’s quirk factor in all its eccentric glory. The brainchild of Frederic Amatlike and Antoni Cumella, this façade consists of a thousand ceramic eyes pinned to the walls. Step inside, and Samuel Salcedo’s masks displaying 18 human emotions reveal that Ohla is no ordinary residence.
Once the Palace of the Count of Barcelona, the city’s first department store, and even a police station, the neoclassical building of Ohla now has 74 gorgeous rooms. This transformation took five years under the leadership of Alonso Balaguer Y Arquitectos Asociados. The result is a design-centric space where thoughtful use of white and black leads to interiors high on creative expressions throughout the hotel.
The rooms of Ohla, with their wooden flooring, rain showers, and limited furniture, are comfortable and welcoming. For us, though, the hotel’s highlight is their 13-metre-long iconic rooftop pool with glass walls and spectacular views. While at Ohla, don’t miss out on the chance to dine at their one Michelin star winning restaurant, Caelis.
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14. The Barcelona Edition
In tune with other properties under the Edition brand worldwide, The Barcelona Edition exhibits a universally elegant character interspersed with characteristic local elements. Among these unique embellishments, chairs designed by Salvador Dalí and Òscar Tusquets have a particular wow factor. What less can one expect when leading the design team of Barcelona Edition is Ian Schrager, co-owner of Studio54, also famous for revolutionising the boutique hotel industry.
Working closely with Carlos Ferrater Studio and interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, Ian gave Barcelona a new address that redefines the boutique experience. The 100 rooms of the hotel have truly exceptional features like walnut panelling, embossed headboards, and Italian linen. The highlight of the rooms for us were the cosy bow windows with seating offering picturesque city panoramas.
While the bedrooms at Barcelona Edition exude a sense of mellowness, its common areas are energetic spaces ideal for socialising. Head over to Bar Veraz and try the local Vermouth or else go up to The Roof for a romantic culinary affair post sundown.
Find out more about The Barcelona Edition
15. Soho House Barcelona
Fashionable, elite, fun, and dynamic are but a few words that typically describe Soho hotels across the globe. Soho House Barcelona is no different. This 56-room boutique retreat is a member’s only establishment close to Marina Port Vell and several of the city’s hip restaurants and bars.
Conceptualised by their in-house team of Nick Jones, Vicky Charles, and James Waterworth, the interiors here are an amalgamation of rich colours, textures, and patterns. Inspired by Mediterranean and Spanish designs, the rooms are more homely in look thanks to floral curtains, beds with designer headboards, and separate living and dining spaces. Moreover, the stunning views of the marina or Barcelona’s ancient architecture from the rooms are a constant reminder that a world of wonders is just outside the door.
Helping make every stay at Soho House memorable are the hotel’s top-notch facilities. Guests have round the clock access to their technologically advanced gym or can request yoga and pilates classes. At the same time, gourmands will find Soho’s House Kitchen or the quintessential rooftop bar excellent options for a culinary outing.
Find out more about Soho House Barcelona
16. Yurbban Ramblas
Architectural history defines every inch of this majestic city, and the best boutique hotels in Barcelona proudly enclasp its design heritage. Yurbban Ramblas is no different, a chic residence housed inside an 1889 building with an attractive facade opposite the famous Fonte de Canaletas. The soul of the hotel celebrates artisanal legacy. The interiors, architectural modifications, and photographs on the walls are all products of regional artists and professionals.
The black and white colour schemes across the rooms have a surprisingly soothing effect. Even more endearing are the stacks of books that add a hint of personalisation to each space. Conveniences come in the form of free WiFi, express laundry, raindrop showers, minibars, and TVs with satellite channels.
Various spaces throughout the hotel give it a more home-like character. The terrace is a quaint little nook that offers a bird’s eye view of city rooftops and Ramblas below. Workaholics can use the coworking space, whereas the honesty bar is apt for an evening drink before bed. Our favourite spot in the hotel had to be Canaletes Cerveseria. This cute little in-house eatery serves the most delicious grilled cuisine.
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17. Hotel 1898
It was 1881 when architect Josep Oriol Mestres first designed the colonial-styled residence in the heart of Barcelona’s iconic Ramblas. 1929 saw the building become the headquarters of General Philippines Tobacco Company. Fast-forward to 2003, the structure got a new lease of life, albeit with its history and heritage intact, through Nùñez i Navarro. Hotel 1898’s moniker, though, refers to another instrumental period, the year when Cuba and the Philippines declared independence from Spain.
Understated yet royally distinguished in appearance, the 169 rooms at 1898 make it one of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona. Wooden skirtings, regal colour tones, leather ottomans and chairs, floor-to-ceiling windows, parquet flooring, and thoughtful use of glass to break the monotony result in snug abodes. At the same time, LED TVs, marble baths with tubs and showers, pillow menus, free WiFi, and bath amenities up the opulence quotient.
As alluring as the cosines of the rooms might be, there is plenty more to 1898’s charm. Their organic and vegan spa in what was once a coal bunker is atmospheric and luxurious, to say the least. In contrast, the terrace has a less moody disposition, offering a pool to refresh, loungers to sunbathe, a bar to drink up, and views that leave you in awe of the glorious city.
Find out more about Hotel 1898
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