Gothic Quarter, Barcelona
Grand Hotel Central
Central, Comfortable and Chic
What it is
A 147-room Gothic District kingpin with Deco-inspired interiors.
What it isn't
Loud, despite its downtown address. All rooms are soundproofed.
What we think
The first thing friends will tell you about after they’ve stayed at this hotel is the rooftop pool, because what a pool it is: an infinity of clean-lined turquoise lapping against the city’s spired skyline. But the hotel is so much more than fun in the Spanish sun. A sexy candlelit Mediterranean bistro lures with charcoal-grilled turbot and duck and foie gras meatballs; the cocktails in the bar are the stuff of local legend (order the Mayan Secret, with mezcal, pineapple, rosemary and chili powder.) Modern, even minimalist, rooms are fitted with Grohe rain showers, Egyptian cotton sheets, and complimentary minibar items (really!). After 45 minutes in the spa’s glowing red thermal suite (part steam sauna, part dry sauna), you’ll emerge as renewed as a character in Cocoon.
You're here because
There’s nothing like stepping right from the lobby to the Catedral and the trendy Born district—and nothing like stepping into that pool after a day sightseeing in the sun.
The Moment
Sipping cava on the terrace just after sunset, as the pool’s glow languidly changes from blue to orange to red, you forgive yourself for ripping up your return flight ticket.
Restaurants & Bars
City Restaurant - Part bistro, part gastropub, serving market-fresh Mediterranean cuisine
Skybar - An outdoor space on the roof of the hotel where a wonderful swimming pool stretches towards infinity
City Bar - Offering a wide selection of tapas and delicious desserts
Location
In central Barcelona, between the Gothic Quarter and El Born. Your neighbors include Museu Picasso, Plaça de Catalunya and leafy Parc de la Ciutadella—plus about a bajillion tapas bars.