Hotel SERHS Rivoli Rambla

Hotel Serhs Rivoli Rambla offers a modern take on its Neo-classical facade, but lacks the charm and flair of some its more architecturally flamboyant neighbors. A major 2016 renovation has spruced up the reception area with white marble tile floors, swirly patterned wallpaper, and button-padded retro seating. Pillars and part of the ceiling still feature colorful paintings by Barcelonan artist Perico Pastor and walls are decorated with original black-and-white artwork. To the rear of the lobby lounge is a piano bar area with a snug alcove. While polished and bright, the overall result feels overly whimsical and lacks coherence. A pair of (rather small) elevators service the property's seven floors. Two outdoor spaces include a decked terrace that extends from the restaurant and a spacious rooftop terrace with views over the surrounding cityscape. This chain hotel attracts all sorts of clientele, from weekending couples to young families, groups of friends, and business travelers. 

Hotel Serhs Rivoli Barcelona is located overlooking the north end of the famous and bustling Las Ramblas promenade, less than a five-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya. Set in the Ciutat Vella's El Raval neighborhood -- it's one of the oldest areas of Barcelona and full of shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Also close to many of the city's most popular attractions, the famed Boqueria market is four minutes on foot and the Barcelona Cathedral is 10 minutes away. The nearest metro station is Liceu, a five minutes' walk aways. Buses run to Barceloneta Beach in around 20 minutes. It's a 40-minute journey to Barcelona-El Prat Airport via public transport (or a 20-minute cab ride).

The hotel has 120 relatively spacious guest rooms and six suites, most of which follow modern though uninspiring styling that combines parquet floors, simple contemporary furniture, and Barcelona-themed artwork. Many rooms have high ceilings with ornate coving and glass doors that open to private terraces or balconies. Rooms facing La Rambla are prone to noise, so light sleepers should ask for those overlooking the inner courtyard (though rear views can be dreary). Flat-screen TVs are either 26- or 32-inches (with limited English-speaking channels) and all rooms come with minibars, air-conditioning, and safes. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge, though signal can be inconsistent. Coffee- and tea-making facilities tend to only be included in upgraded rooms. Some bathrooms look more modern than others (with some bordering on dated), with shower/tub combos, hose-style wall-mounted hairdryers, and generic toiletries. Suites add separate showers and whirlpool tubs.

The hotel's 128 Rambla restaurant is bright and modern (if a little lacking in ambience) with large windows overlooking Las Ramblas and a pleasant decked alfresco terrace that opens over the warmer months. Breakfast is not included in the room rates and is composed of a continental buffet of pastries, fresh fruit, cold cuts, and cheeses. A choice of three set menus are available for lunch and dinner, including tapas, rice-based, or Mediterranean-style dishes. There's also a lobby bar where evening drinks are often accompanied by live piano music. As well as a lovely rooftop terrace with views over the surrounding rooftops, there's a top floor health center with sauna, fitness room, and whirlpool tub with city views. There's an hourly fee for use of the spa facilities and massage treatments can also be booked for a charge. Parking isn't available on-site, though a transfer service can be arrange (for a fee). Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but the signal can be spotty.