El Palace Barcelona

Before it was El Palace, this hotel on the Gran Via was The Ritz, which opened in 1919 and became the grandest address in Barcelona. Under its current name it remains a five-star palace hotel, and it still honours its past: suites are dedicated to figures linked to its history, from the hotelier César Ritz to Salvador Dalí, who stayed here, and the novelist Carlos Ruiz Zafón, who wrote about it. The public rooms keep the gilded grandeur of a classic European palace hotel.

The Grand Hall and El Jardín breakfast room set a formal, elegant tone, while Amar, led by the chef Rafa Zafra, focuses on refined dishes built on top-quality produce. On the roof, the Rooftop Garden offers panoramic views over the city and is a lovely place for a drink in the warmer months. The Mayan Luxury Spa, inspired by Mayan traditions, adds a place to relax.

Rooms range from doubles to large suites, decorated in a traditional style. Service is formal and attentive, as you would expect from a hotel of this standing. Prices are at the top of the market, though they compare well with other five-star hotels in the city, especially outside peak season.

El Palace suits couples, honeymooners and travellers who appreciate history and traditional luxury rather than minimalist design. It is also a popular setting for celebrations and events. A meal at Amar or a drink on the Rooftop Garden is a way to experience the hotel without staying overnight; check current opening times on the hotel's website.

The hotel stands on the Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, just steps from Passeig de Gràcia, a few minutes' walk from Passeig de Gràcia station on lines L2, L3 and L4 and from Urquinaona on lines L1 and L4. Casa Batlló, Plaça de Catalunya and the start of La Rambla are all within ten minutes on foot, and the Palau de la Música Catalana and the Barri Gòtic are a short walk downhill. The Eixample streets around the hotel are full of restaurants and shops, and Rambla de Catalunya, a few blocks west, is pleasant for an evening stroll.