Hotel España Ramblas, Barcelona

Pros

• As one of the city's oldest hotels, you'll stay in a renovated 150-year-old building with beautiful historical elements.
• Its excellent location puts you next door to the Gran Teatre del Liceu, less than a block from La Rambla, and two blocks from Mercat de la Boqueria.
• The hip rooftop bar and pool area offer comfy seating, live music, light snacks, and occasional events.
• The onsite restaurant features a tasting menu, wine pairings, and a unique dining area decorated elegantly with a Modernist style.
• Sip local wine, beer, and cocktails in the sleek lobby bar.

Cons

• The hotel's age is apparent in some common spaces and rooms.
• The rooms feel a bit simple and old-fashioned.

Authenticity

Hotel España is one of the oldest hotels in Barcelona, dating back to 1850. Between 1898 and 1901, it underwent a Modernist renovation and won architecture awards and praise. In 2010, the owners renovated the hotel, maintaining its Modernist charms. You may feel like you're stepping back in time as you enter the lobby and admire the inner courtyard and patios. 

Location

Hotel España is in the Gothic Quarter next door to the Gran Teatre del Liceu and at the heart of La Rambla, the city's famous street. Nearly everything is within walking distance, including the Mercat de la Boqueria, Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça de Catalunya, and the medieval Plaça del Rei.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Although the hotel has an unmistakable air of elegance, history, and charm, the rooms feel a little left behind, though they certainly get the job done. We recommend skipping the smaller boutique rooms and opting for a deluxe room or suite, which provides more space and a balcony or terrace. Bathrooms are clean and modern and come with the hotel's toiletries brand. 

Amenities

The hotel has a rooftop terrace, a bar serving tapas and other small bites, and a plunge pool. You can enjoy panoramic views of the oldest part of Barcelona from the terrace, the Ciutat Vella, and take in the Catalan sun on the rooftop solarium with its lounge chairs before cooling off with a dip in the pool. All floors are accessible via an elevator, and you’ll also find rooms that are accessible. 

Family-Friendliness

Although the hotel doesn’t feature family-friendly amenities or activities, there are family rooms and suites that can fit families of three, and children under 12 get to stay for free. 

Other Highlights

There are quite a few highlights at Hotel España, one of the main ones being its sleek restaurant with a Modernist dining room, tasting menu, and wine pairings. Occasionally, you'll find events and live music atop the roof, and you can lounge in the impressive common spaces, like the lobby bar, patio, and inner courtyard.