5 Best Boutique Hotels in Barcelona: Where to Stay

Strolling through the lively streets of Barcelona, you’ll likely notice its incredibly unique blend of modern architecture, rich history and incredible food and tapas bars.

This dynamic city is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces, from Gaudi’s stunning creations to the charm of the Gothic Quarter.

In this article, I recommend where to stay in a comprehensive list of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona.

Boutique Hotels in Barcelona

When deciding where to stay in Barcelona, you’ll first want to think about which area you would like to base yourself.

The two most popular districts for tourists in Barcelona are:

• Ciutat Vella (Old City): This district includes the famous Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), El Raval, and El Born neighbourhoods. It’s known for its narrow streets, historic architecture, and landmarks such as the Barcelona Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and the bustling pedestrian street La Rambla.
• Eixample: This district is famous for its Modernist architecture, including iconic works by Antoni Gaudí, like the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Eixample is characterised by its grid-like layout and wide streets, where you’ll find a mix of high-end shopping, restaurants and nightlife.

While my top hotel pick remains a personal favourite, I’ve also handpicked a few other boutique hotels for you to consider. Each of these alternatives stands out for its prime location, distinctive style, or commitment to eco-friendliness.

Next Best

Sansi Pedralbes
Address: Avenida Pearson, 1-3, Les Corts, Barcelona, Spain
Location: Pedralbes
Sansi Pedralbes is a boutique hotel that emphasises an exceptional guest experience through its meticulously curated decor, stylish rooms and designer features. Each space is thoughtfully designed to blend comfort and elegance, creating a luxurious retreat for visitors. Situated in a prestigious neighbourhood surrounded by academic institutions, the hotel is just a short walk from the lively Sarrià area, where popular bars and cafés invite guests to relax and indulge.

Cool and Unique Hotel

As an adventurous traveller with an affinity for cool and unique boutique hotels, you might like to choose a hotel that showcases distinctive design elements and artistic flair.

Boutique hotels are ideal in this case as they often provide a cool and unique atmosphere and exceptional service.

This next hotel is a great example of a cool hotel in Barcelona.

ME Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Casp 1-13, Eixample, Barcelona, Spain
Location: Plaza Catalunya, Eixample District
Experience the vibrant heart of Barcelona at the ME Barcelona, a cool and unique boutique hotel with a beautiful terrace and stylish bar. Immerse yourself in the modern design that evokes an art gallery atmosphere, and enjoy the warm welcome provided by the staff through personal hotel tours.

Don’t miss the rooftop with its fantastic views, making it a must-visit destination during summer. Start your day with a delicious, highly-rated breakfast. Later you can savour Italian and Mediterranean cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant with vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options. The boutique hotel’s central location puts you close to Tivoli Theatre, Palau de la Musica Catalana and Portal de l’Angel.

Luxury Boutique Hotel

The following hotel recommendation ticks all the boxes for a true luxury boutique experience. Imagine an intimate haven where personalised service meets exclusivity and where sophisticated design effortlessly merges with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Ohla Eixample
Address: Còrsega, 289, Eixample, Barcelona, Spain
Location: Eixample
Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, the Ohla Eixample offers an ideal base for exploring the city on foot or by metro. Spacious, immaculate rooms and showers await, providing a sanctuary after a day of sightseeing. Venture beyond the hotel to discover a plethora of fantastic restaurants or stay in to experience the complex’s diverse dining options.

Just a short 10-minute stroll from Gaudí’s iconic La Pedrera and Casa Batlló, Ohla Eixample is a treasure trove of luxurious comfort. Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast featuring an array of local delicacies, and later, treat yourself to a gastronomic journey at the Michelin-starred Xerta Restaurant, showcasing the best of the Ebro Region’s traditional cuisine.

The Lobby Bar serves as a vibrant hub for mingling with locals and fellow travellers alike, while the Sky Bar tempts with creative cocktails and stunning views. With stylishly modern rooms, plush beds, and an unbeatable location, Ohla Eixample promises an exceptional stay that delivers fantastic value for your money.

Eco-Friendly Hotel

Here’s one of the best hotels for my fellow eco-conscious travellers. The following sustainable hotel is working to reduce its environmental impact while uplifting local communities.

Although the following is a luxury boutique hostel, they have private rooms that are of an excellent standard. Click through, and you might be surprised by what hostels are doing these days.

Eco Boutique Hostal Grau
Address: Ramelleres, 27, Ciutat Vella, Barcelona, Spain
Location: Plaza Catalunya, Eixample District
Experience sustainability at its finest while staying at the Eco Boutique Hostal Grau, where most food is locally sourced, supporting local food security. Bask in the energy-efficient glow of LED bulbs that are used throughout the property and, most importantly, 100% renewable electricity usage. The hotel is dedicated to minimising food wastage and ensuring a responsible stay.

Feel at home in the cosy, simple, and functional atmosphere, surrounded by an excellent location that makes walking to main tourist places easy. Enjoy the spacious, quiet rooms with street balconies and tasteful decor while just steps from Plaza Catalunya.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

As you plan your visit to Barcelona, consider these vibrant neighbourhoods when deciding where to stay in Barcelona, especially if you’re looking to book a boutique hotel. Each area has its own unique charm and appeals to different interests:

• Ciutat Vella (Old City): Barcelona’s historic core, Ciutat Vella, is home to the incredible Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), El Raval, and El Born. You can immerse yourself in the city’s past by strolling through the labyrinthine streets, admiring ancient architecture, and exploring iconic sites and attractions.
• Eixample: As a prime example of Barcelona’s urban expansion, Eixample displays a unique grid-like layout characterised by its octagonal street intersections and broad avenues. The district is home to many architectural highlights, including Gaudi’s lesser-known works and a vibrant cultural scene with art galleries, theatres and museums. Eixample is where you’ll find the Superblocks (or “Superilles” in Catalan), an innovative urban planning concept aimed at reducing traffic, improving air quality, and promoting green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas within the district. The Superblocks are formed by closing off certain streets to through traffic, allowing only local vehicles and creating a calmer, safer environment for residents and visitors to walk, cycle, and socialise. Eixample’s central location makes it an attractive base for exploring the city’s various attractions.
• El Born: This is a fashionable, artistic district teeming with galleries, stylish boutiques, and a bustling cafe scene, making it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a creative and energetic atmosphere.
• El Raval: This lively, multicultural neighbourhood features a flourishing art scene, unique independent stores, and an eclectic mix of bars and nightlife options, perfect for those looking for a vibrant and diverse experience.
• Gràcia: This district has a village-like charm and a strong sense of community. Its independent shops, restaurants, and picturesque squares create a perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon.
• Barceloneta: Situated by the beach, Barceloneta offers a relaxed atmosphere, delicious seafood restaurants, and a laid-back cafe culture, perfect for those seeking a city beach experience.
• El Poblenou: Once an industrial area, El Poblenou has been revitalised and now hosts innovative art galleries, refreshing green spaces, and an increasing number of trendy bars and eateries.
• Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: This upscale residential area features elegant architecture, luxury shopping, and a variety of chic cafes and restaurants, catering to visitors seeking a refined experience.
• Pedralbes: An affluent, tranquil district known for its beautiful green spaces, such as the Parc de Pedralbes, and its impressive mansions. The district is home to the Monastery of Pedralbes, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the prestigious University of Barcelona campus.

By choosing one of these neighbourhoods, you’ll immerse yourself in the best Barcelona offers, from its cafe culture and independent stores to its galleries, museums, green spaces, cool bars and nightlife.

Discover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks of Spain with my comprehensive guide, which provides invaluable insights, expert recommendations, and tailored suggestions to ensure your journey is as captivating and enriching as the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

At Barcelona’s tourist office, you’ll find a wealth of information, expert advice, and valuable resources designed to help you make the most of your Barcelona experience. The information can cater to your interests and needs as you explore this brilliant city.

Responsible Travel Tips

Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are a few ideas on how we can travel more responsibly in Barcelona.

To travel more responsibly in Barcelona, consider these ideas:

• Use sustainable transport options: Barcelona has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. Choose these over taxis or private cars to minimise your emissions. Additionally, take advantage of the city’s bike-sharing program, Bicing, or explore on foot.
• Stay in eco-friendly accommodations: Opt for boutique hotels with sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy, minimising food waste and supporting local initiatives. Research your options and choose a place that aligns with your environmental values.
• Adopt a sustainable diet: Savour local, seasonal ingredients and try plant-based dishes at Barcelona’s numerous vegetarian and vegan restaurants. By reducing your consumption of meat and dairy, you’ll help lower your environmental impact. There are so many incredible food options and great tapas bars in Barcelona that you won’t miss out on flavour by making this small but impactful change.
• Support local businesses: Shop at independent stores, eat at locally-owned restaurants, and attend events hosted by neighbourhood establishments. This helps promote the local economy and preserve the city’s unique character. This is easy to do in Barcelona with its fantastic local boutique stores and restaurants.
• Minimise food waste: Be conscious of your portion sizes when dining out, and take leftovers with you if possible. Visit local markets like La Boqueria or Santa Caterina to buy fresh produce and reduce packaging waste.
• Use renewable energy options: When planning activities, consider those that incorporate renewable energy sources, such as solar-powered boat tours or electric bike rentals.
• Opt for train travel over flying: If you’re exploring other destinations in Spain or Europe, consider taking the train instead of flying. The high-speed AVE train connects Barcelona with major cities like Madrid and Valencia, offering a more sustainable alternative to air travel.

By incorporating these practices, you’ll contribute to a more sustainable tourism experience in Barcelona, benefiting both the environment and the local community.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Embarking on your journey to Barcelona, remember that discovering the perfect boutique hotel involves finding a place that reflects your personality and enhances your travel experience.

Take the time to explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, allowing their unique charm to inspire your choice of accommodation.

A great boutique hotel should provide exceptional service, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and a prime location for exploring the city’s many attractions.

By immersing yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and artistic spirit that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll create a travel experience that truly captures the essence of this enchanting destination.

If you have questions or want to leave a hotel review, please do so in the comments.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels in Barcelona, Spain. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.