Calabria, 115, Barcelona, Spain | 3 (493) 252-5285
Convenient central location close to Passeig de Gracia and the metro
Large rooms (by European standards) with floor-to-ceiling windows that open
Sleek bathrooms with stall showers, some with large soaking tubs
Prime outdoor space on rooftop terrace
Excellent and affordable on-site dining at Zinc
Stylish rooms with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi
Floor-to-ceiling windows are barred up (although this allows them to fully open)
Some bathrooms having standing showers only
The Villa Emilia is a chic boutique option close to the Passeig de Gracia and the metro. Rooms are cozy, clean, inviting, and large by Barcelona standards. Floor-to-ceiling windows actually open fully, maximizing fresh air in the room. Sleek bathrooms sport stone stall showers and some have large soaking tubs. The common areas of the hotel carry over the stylish vibe, including Zinc for great dining and the rooftop for relaxing in prime outdoor space. With free Wi-Fi and a superb central location, the 53-room Villa Emilia is a solid pick.
Location
On a quiet side street in Eixample, 100 yards from the metro
The Villa Emilia is located on a quieter side street in Eixample. It's blocks away from Montjuic Park and one block away from the metro. Guests can take a short walk to the bustle of Passeig de Gracia for shopping and dining and then retreat to the hotel's slightly calmer surroundings at night.
Eixample is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Barcelona and certainly the most affluent in the downtown area, with some of the most stunning architecture in the city center. It is characterized by a unique grid system, tree-lined streets, and Modernist architecture. La Pedrera, Casa Batllo, and even the jaw-dropping Sagrada Familia cathedral are all located here.
Passeig de Gracia is its main thoroughfare, with 19th century architecture, upscale boutiques, and wonderful restaurants. The side streets are equally splendid, but somewhat quieter. The area exudes history and elegance -- but long lines in front of tourist attractions can be a bit annoying, and prices are definitely higher than in the rest of the city.