Hotel Praktik Vinoteca

Housed in a classic Eixample building with Juliet balconies adorning the facade, this gem of a boutique hotel blends a tasteful wine theme with bohemian vintage details. Designed by Spanish artist and designer Lazaro Rosa-Violan, decor has a distinct urban-rustic edge, with wine-related objects like corks, bottles, and wood found throughout. The bright, open lobby doubles as a wine bar and is the place for wine tastings hosted by the hotel, which dram locals and hotel guests alike. The space features a warm wood floor, leather chesterfield sofas and chairs, and about 900 bottles of wine on display. It's a cozy space for hanging out and having a glass of wine or two. The hotel mostly attracts couples, but despite its oenophilic leanings it's suitable for any traveler, whether they're friends, singles, or businesspeople. Keep in mind that rooms are compact, though, and may be a tight fit for families.

This hotel is located in Barcelona's iconic Eixample district, and there are almost innumerable restaurants, bars, and shops just outside of its front door. The Museu del Modernisme Catala is next door, for a glimpse into the city's famous architectural and art movement. There is a bus stop right in front of the hotel, and the Passeig de Gracia Metro station is just five minutes away on foot. Passeig de Gracia itself is a partially pedestrianized street that's home to upmarket shopping and two of Gaudi's most well-known projects: Casa Batllo (a five-minute walk) and La Pedrera (a 10-minute walk). It's also a 10-minute walk to Barcelona's main square, Plaza Catalunya, as well as MACBA -- the city's contemporary art museum -- and Las Ramblas. It will take just a couple more minutes to the medieval part of town, Barri Gotic, on foot. Expect a 20-minute metro ride to Sagrada Familia and a 15-minute ride to Barceloneta, the city's beachside neighborhood. Barcelona–El Prat Airport is about 20 minutes away by car or 40 minutes by public transportation.

In keeping with the rest of the hotel, guest rooms feature a wine theme that is, yet again, tastefully executed. The classic bohemian style is a bit more restrained in guest rooms than it is in the common areas, with ceiling-height wood-plank headboards and a wine-inspired print or two hanging on the walls serving as the only real decor. Details like rebar clothing racks add some urban-chic flair, and floors are done in dark wood. Rooms are compact, and guests shouldn't expect any seating in rooms beyond the beds. 

Flat-screen TVs are mounted on the wall to help conserve space, and other modern amenities include electronic safes, free Wi-Fi, and heating and air-conditioning. Small bathrooms come with hairdryers, rainfall showers, and toiletries. They are done in trendy white metro tiling and have contemporary fixtures, but lack any real counter space. Interior Rooms are quieter, but they have no view. Exterior Rooms either have French doors that open to tiny balconies overlooking the street, or they face the hotel's courtyard. Those facing the street will likely pick up a bit of street noise. Connecting rooms are available for families or groups of up to four people. 

A breakfast buffet is served daily in a lovely, open, and airy multipurpose room at the back of the hotel. Offerings are pretty standard continental fare, and cheaper breakfast options can be had in the neighborhood. The space includes warm, rich wood featured in columns and furniture, along with a plush brown velvet banquette and supple leather chairs. Industrial-style lighting hangs from the glass ceiling, and wine-themed artwork adds color to the white walls. A Nespresso machine dispenses coffee. An adjacent terrace is beautiful, with huge woven wicker hangings against walls draped in greenery. More wood-trimmed seating invites guests to lounge in the open air. Potted plants add to the nice ambiance. A business desk by the lobby has a couple of computers and a printer for guests to use, though Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. The hotel also has a concierge desk that's staffed around the clock.