Hotel Neri Relais & Chateaux

Hotel Neri Relais & Chateaux is housed in what used to be two separate mansions, one that dates back to the 12th century. The result is gorgeous architecture seen in the Library's original wood coffering and stone arch in the lobby. All public spaces are thoughtfully decorated, like a velvet couch, cool wire light fixture and colorful paintings. Glass candle holders spread out along the floor and vases holding white lilies create a romantic vibe; the hotel primarily attracts couples, though families and business travelers will also be comfortable here. The rooftop garden is a serene spot to have a cocktail or snack in a space filled with lucite stools, hammocks and wicker chairs. Inside, the Library is chic with shelves of Barcelona-centric books, white slip-covered chairs and silver spherical decorations.

The hotel is located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, the center or the Old City which houses many buildings dating to Medieval times. The neighborhood's western border is La Rambla, the iconic tree-lined street teeming with vendors, street performers, and tourists; its southern border is the Mediterranean; and its northern border is Playa de Catalunya. It's one of the most popular neighborhoods among tourists, and there are tons of restaurants (many al fresco), high-end shops, and specialty shops with local favorites like fans and espadrilles. Due to their popularity, these restaurants and shops can be very expensive and the neighborhood is victim to high rates of pickpocketing. The Barcelona airport is a 20-minute drive away and there are ample public transportation options surrounding the hotel. Note that some guests have had problems with their taxi driver knowing where the hotel is located, so setting up transportation through the hotel may be easier.

Even Standard Rooms at Hotel Neri are spacious and attractively decorated with wood floors, Victorian velvet chairs, and heavy, colorful drapes. Beds are comfortable with plush white bedding and a gray comforter; large paintings or distressed silver and gold fixtures hang above them. Intricate hanging wire lights are unique touches. Wooden desks, stocked minibars, and flat-screen TVs are standard. The bathrooms are gorgeously outfitted in quartzite stone and feature a large glass walk-in shower, cozy robes and luxury toiletries. Higher-priced guest rooms, like Deluxe Rooms and Suites, have a tub/shower combo. Upgrade to a Junior Suite for more seating. Some rooms have balconies of varying size and those overlooking the courtyard experience the most noise, as many local musicians flock there to play at night. Some guests have also complained that lighting in the rooms is too dim.

The small boutique property lacks a gym, pool and spa, but in-room massages are available. The Neri Restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a stylish space for all three meals and receives good reviews. The attached Lounge Bar is open from morning 'til around 1 a.m., and both guests and non-guests can order coffee, cocktails and snacks there. The outdoor Terrace is in the pretty courtyard and serves drinks and small bites. The rooftop garden is a highlight; brown wicker chairs and tables, lucite stools, and hammocks are mixed in with blooming flowers and plants. Drinks and appetizers can be ordered here. A private room seating 12 people is also available.