Barcelona, Spain
Historic five‑star landmark in central Barcelona offering classic elegance, refined dining and a rooftop oasis with city views
Our review
El Place is in central Barcelona and the old grand hotel in the city. Built in 1919, it has an imposing lobby with tall marble pillars and sweeping staircase either side with brass handrails on top of the black ironwork and impressive floral displays. It closed for two years for major refurbishment and re-opened in 2009. The salon is designed to reflect the glamour of the 1930s, so has floor length mirrors disguised as windows graced with yards of top quality Italian silks. Also in the room is Italian antique occasional furniture, French clocks and Chinese ginger jars converted into lamps. With occasional sofas in groups, it’s a welcome respite from the busy city. Off the salon is a side room with attractive murals of garden scenes and then the breakfast room or terrace – an outdoor area covered by tented material and dressed in black and white with checkered floor. Palms and greenery give the room life but the overall impression is one of light.
All rooms have a hallway and are large for a city hotel. Some rooms have original fireplaces; these have a mirror over the mantelpiece that doubles as a television. Beds are king-size and most rooms have separate bath and shower. Full-length opening windows are another feature. The bathroom has double sinks and a vase with a single red rose. L’Occitaine toiletries feature in rooms throughout.
The Dali suite is quite fabulous – he stayed here – with four-poster bed, a Roman bath – that you step down to – as well as a ‘normal’ bath and separate shower.
The small fitness room has four machines. The authentic Mayan spa is Mexican-inspired and run by a Mexican. There are four treatment rooms.
For a stylish stay in an excellent location, the hotel is highly recommended.
Rooms
El Palace Barcelona offers around 120 rooms and suites, each designed in a neo‑classical style that reflects the hotel’s heritage. Rooms are spacious and elegant, featuring marble bathrooms, high ceilings and classic furnishings. Suites provide separate living areas, enhanced privacy and views over the city or the hotel’s courtyard.
Food and Drink
Amar Barcelona is the hotel’s signature restaurant, led by chef Rafa Zafra, showcasing Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood and seasonal produce. Dining settings range from elegant interiors to relaxed spaces inspired by classic brasseries.
The hotel also features a rooftop garden restaurant offering light dishes with panoramic views, while the Bluesman Cocktail Bar delivers a refined speakeasy atmosphere for cocktails, live music and evening drinks.
Wellness
The Mayan Luxury Spa is inspired by ancient wellness rituals and features a Temazcal sauna, treatment rooms and relaxation areas. Facilities include a fitness centre and a rooftop swimming pool, providing a peaceful retreat above the city.
Facilities
- Rooftop garden with swimming pool
- Mayan‑inspired luxury spa
- Fitness centre
- Signature restaurant and cocktail bar
- Afternoon tea and lounge spaces
- Business and event facilities
- Concierge and chauffeur services
- Free Wi‑Fi
Location
El Palace Barcelona is located in the Eixample district, steps from Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça de Catalunya. Nearby attractions include the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, Casa Batlló and the city’s premier shopping and cultural landmarks.
Getting there
Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 668, Barcelona, Spain
Arriving by air: Barcelona El Prat Airport – Located 8 miles (14 km) 15 minutes by car.
More information
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* Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.