BARCELONA

Barcelona is one of the world's most popular destinations. There are good hotels in every price bracket throughout the city, but you'll be limited for choice unless you book in advance. Traditionally, visitors head to La Rambla, but elsewhere you'll get more comfort for your buck.



Hostal San Medín

ADVERTISEMENT

Carrer Gran de Gràcia 125
Gràcia
tel: 93 217 30 68   
Of the various little pensiones hidden around the streets of Gràcia, this is one of the best, although it doesn't look much from the outside. The main advantage of staying here is being away from the other tourists and diving into the life of the barri.

Hotel Claris
L'Eixample
Carrer de Pau Claris 150
tel: 93 487 62 62    Website
The designer upgrade of the 19th-century Palacio Verdura has resulted in one of the city's most stylish hotels. It houses a permanent art collection, including five original Warhols in the East 47 bar and a whole floor of ancient Egyptian art. Room decor varies greatly: some rooms are strikingly modern, while others cede to more classic tastes in luxury.

Hotel Gran Via
Gran Vía de les Corts Catalánes 642
L'Eixample
tel: 93 318 19 00    Website
This place oozes old-fashioned charm and much of its 19th-century interior remains intact. Guest rooms have been comfortably tweaked but the public areas, complete with antique furnishings, retain the grace of another age and there's a wonderful courtyard in which to relax after a long day.