Renaissance Barcelona Hotel

Modern both inside and out, this hotel is housed in an 11-story contemporary building of glass and steel. It doesn't exactly track with the classic style embodies by Barcelona, but it's a polished and refined place to bed down while in town -- especially for those looking to hang out in the posh Eixample. The spacious lobby is bright, mostly white and black, with plenty of cushy lounge seating areas where guests can hang out. In fact, there are a number of places for guests to unwind throughout the property, including a great rooftop bar and terrace that's open in warm weather. With its extensive offerings and good location, this hotel draws both leisure and business guests, including couples, families, and groups. 

This hotel is located in Barcelona's Eixample, a busy and buzzing part of the city and one of the more posh areas of town. It's prime for shoppers, as the upmarket design houses of Passeig de Gracia are just a block away. It's also convenient to the city's historic sights, and is about a five- to 10-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya and Las Ramblas. Gaudi's quirky Casa Mila (La Pedrera) and the whimsical Casa Battlo are both less than 10 minutes away on foot, and the Passeig de Gracia Metro station is about a three-minute walk. There are also many restaurants, bars, and shops in almost every direction. Barcelona-El Prat Airport is 20 to 25 minutes away by car, or 40 minutes by public transportation. 

Rooms are contemporary and chic, with upscale clean-lined furniture, rugs over hardwood floors, tall upholstered headboards, and gray accent walls. Teal and beige are used as accents on the pillows, headboards, and rugs, giving everything a subtly shimmery finish. Business guests can make use of the chrome and glass work desk. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, high-end coffeemakers, safes, and minibars with free bottled water. The minibars could have a better selection, especially given the hotel's luxury claims. Bathrooms are covered in a dramatic green marble tiling and come with magnifying mirrors, glass countertops, hairdryers, tub/shower combos, and premium toiletries. They don't really feel luxurious, though, which is surprising given the hotel's own claims -- rainfall showerheads would have upped the pampering effect. Executive Rooms are larger and offer turn-down service plus free breakfast and Wi-Fi, though all other guests must pay for Wi-Fi. Some rooms have balconies with views of the city. Room service is available around-the-clock.   

There are a number of features on-site here, in line with the brand's reputation. Two restaurants are available, and guests have several options for breakfast, including a buffet, continental, full American, grab-n-go, and hot dishes. CUIT Restaurant & Lounge serves Spanish cuisine for all meals, and CRU Restaurant & Steakhouse is the place for breakfast and private group lunches and dinners. A lovely rooftop bar and terrace is open seasonally, and the hip lobby bar is open year-round.  Massage and facial treatments are available at Mayan Luxury Spa. The modern fitness center offers cardio and weight-training machines as well as free weights and exercise balls. Water, towels, and fruit are provided, and it's open 24/7. There's a small splash pool on the rooftop terrace as well, though it's tiny. Seven meeting rooms offer more than 5,000 square feet of space for business and social gatherings. The largest room can hold up to 140 people. Catering and tech assistance are available, and planners work out the details. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property for a fee.