El Palace

Top choice in L'Eixample


Launched in 1919 as the Ritz (with Paris, London and Madrid), Barcelona's dazzling luxury original continues to wow a century later. The 120 exquisitely updated rooms retain their historic charm; the six top-tier suites are styled for celebrity guests. It's all complemented by state-of-the-art facilities including a Mayan-inspired spa and Modernista-style rooftop gardens with pool, restaurant and bar basking in 360-degree views.

Other drinking and dining options include a plush basement cocktail bar with its own humidor. Cots, high chairs and kids' menus are available for junior guests.

Freddie Mercury famously composed Exercises in Free Love at the piano here.