Hotel Arts Barcelona

Rising 44 floors above the beach at Port Olímpic, Hotel Arts is one of the two towers that frame Barcelona's waterfront, built in the area redeveloped for the 1992 Olympic Games. It is run by Ritz-Carlton, and many of its rooms and suites, including duplex penthouses on the upper floors, look straight out over the Mediterranean or back across the city to the hills. Beside the hotel stands Frank Gehry's golden fish sculpture, El Peix, made for the Olympics and one of the landmarks of the seafront.

Resort-style facilities set it apart from the city-centre luxury hotels. There are two outdoor pools: a family pool and the adults-only Gehry Pool, an infinity pool with views of the fish sculpture. The Arts Wellness spa and fitness area is on the fourth floor. For dining, Enoteca Paco Pérez, led by the Catalan chef Paco Pérez, holds two Michelin stars and specialises in creative Mediterranean seafood, while Marina Coastal Food offers a more relaxed menu by the water and Bites & Sips serves lighter food and drinks.

The hotel is in the final phase of a renovation programme that runs until June 2027, and during this period some indoor and outdoor spaces may be temporarily or partially closed, so check what will be open when you book. Check-in is from 3pm and check-out by noon.

Hotel Arts suits couples, families and business travellers who want the beach on their doorstep together with the facilities of a large luxury hotel. The beaches of Nova Icària and Barceloneta are a short walk away, and the promenade is good for running, walking or cycling. The downside is distance from the old town, about half an hour on foot, though taxis and the metro make it easy to get around.

Ciutadella-Vila Olímpica station on metro line L4 is around ten minutes' walk away, and the tram along Avinguda d'Icària is nearby. The marina of Port Olímpic, with its restaurants and bars, is at the foot of the tower. Barceloneta, with seafood restaurants such as Can Solé, is reached by walking along the seafront, and the Parc de la Ciutadella is about 20 minutes on foot. The airport is around half an hour away by taxi, depending on traffic.