Category: General

  • A Famed Swedish Architect Conjured This $5.3 Million Terraced Penthouse in Stockholm

    A Famed Swedish Architect Conjured This $5.3 Million Terraced Penthouse in Stockholm

    Designed by Andreas Martin-Löf, the Ersta Penthouse’s sleek lines are softened by occasional curves and an array of natural elements. Designed by Andreas Martin-Löf, the Ersta Penthouse’s sleek lines are softened by occasional curves and an array of natural elements.

  • $2 Million Worth of Nike Sneakers Have Been Stolen From Trains Over the Last Year

    $2 Million Worth of Nike Sneakers Have Been Stolen From Trains Over the Last Year

    Trains carrying valuable Nikes have been targeted in remote areas in California and Arizona. Trains carrying valuable Nikes have been targeted in remote areas in California and Arizona.

  • This $5 Million Santa Barbara Loft Was Designed By a Prominent Local Architect as His Personal Home

    This $5 Million Santa Barbara Loft Was Designed By a Prominent Local Architect as His Personal Home

    The 3-story Robin Donaldson-designed home in the lively Funk Zone has solar panels and a rooftop terrace with a cedar soaking tub and 360-degree views. The 3-story Robin Donaldson-designed home in the lively Funk Zone has solar panels and a rooftop terrace with a cedar soaking tub and 360-degree views.

  • Michter’s Just Unveiled a Barrel-Strength Rye That Defies the Hazmat Whiskey Trend

    Michter’s Just Unveiled a Barrel-Strength Rye That Defies the Hazmat Whiskey Trend

    And its 110.5 proof is a key part of why this spirit is so good. And its 110.5 proof is a key part of why this spirit is so good.

  • Baseball Great Greg Maddux Lists His Coastal San Diego Home for $4 Million

    Baseball Great Greg Maddux Lists His Coastal San Diego Home for $4 Million

    The Hall of Fame pitcher’s Sunset Cliffs spread includes a 1,000-square-foot rooftop deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Hall of Fame pitcher’s Sunset Cliffs spread includes a 1,000-square-foot rooftop deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

  • Bing Crosby’s Longtime Bay Area Home Just Landed on the Market for $40 Million

    Bing Crosby’s Longtime Bay Area Home Just Landed on the Market for $40 Million

    The late star’s 1920s French-style chateau is now available in the San Francisco suburb of Hillsborough for the first time in nearly 60 years. The late star’s 1920s French-style chateau is now available in the San Francisco suburb of Hillsborough for the first time in nearly 60 years.

  • First Drive: This Restomod Tribute to the ‘Sebring Sprite’ Demands Your Best Behind the Wheel

    First Drive: This Restomod Tribute to the ‘Sebring Sprite’ Demands Your Best Behind the Wheel

    U.K.-based Mythron Cars has reimagined Austin-Healey’s motorsport-focused model variant raced by both Steve McQueen and Stirling Moss. U.K.-based Mythron Cars has reimagined Austin-Healey’s motorsport-focused model variant raced by both Steve McQueen and Stirling Moss.

  • The Best Hotels in Barcelona

    The Best Hotels in Barcelona

    Barcelona is one of Europe’s most picturesque coastal cities. 

    Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

    Set against the backdrop of the glittering Mediterranean, Barcelona is one of Europe’s most picturesque coastal cities. The Spanish destination is a year-round hotspot for culture lovers, famed for its world-class restaurants, vibrant nightlife, rich art scene and unique architecture.

    Visitors can enjoy strolling the boutique-lined back alleys, discover the towering architecture of Gaudi and spend summer days unwinding on Barcelona’s lively beaches. For those who enjoy the finer things in life, luxury runs through the veins of the city. Superyachts dot the marina, with the exclusive Superyacht Show arriving every May, penthouses offer panoramic views over the sea and a wealth of Michelin-starred restaurants and private members’ clubs promise a glamorous city break to remember.

    Here at Elite Traveler we’ve curated a list of the best hotels in Barcelona that capture the city’s rich history and unique culture in true modern luxury. Whether you’re looking to dive head first into Catalan cuisine or spend long afternoons sipping sangria on a sleek rooftop, Barcelona’s impressive selection of luxury hotels offers something for everyone.

    [See also: Exploring Spain: A Guide for Senior Travelers]

    Almanac Barcelona

    Almanac Barcelona
    Almanac Barcelona / ©Almanac Barcleona

    As the flagship for the forward-thinking Almanac hotel brand, Almanac Barcelona carves out a hotel experience conceived for a new generation of travelers. While landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia Basilica and Mount Tibidabo continue to quicken guests’ hearts from the hotel’s Azimuth rooftop bar, with its plunge pool and 360-degree vistas, the hotel gainfully forms a contemporary take on the old city. Think: art and treasures gleaned from local galleries, cutting-edge technology, and custom scents and amenities from perfumer Jimmy Boyd.

    Grand Penthouse Suite

    Alamanac Barcelona Penthouse Suite
    The Penthouse Suite / ©Almanac Barcelona

    Head up to the Grand Penthouse Suite where panoramic windows embrace views of the bustling Gran Via from two entirely private terraces. This suite is the amalgamation of three one-bedroom suites, allowing guests to privatize a large section of the hotel’s most exclusive floor. With three bedrooms, separate marble-sheathed bathrooms, walk-in closets, a sleek living room and a dining room, the suite can sleep up to eight people – and can also host an intimate gathering in the eight-person dining room. The mid-century interiors make for a stylish city retreat, one you’d be proud to share with guests.

    almanachotels.com

    [See also: Cilo Marbella: The Pinnacle of Luxury Living in Spain]

    Hotel Arts Barcelona

    Hotel Arts Barcelona
    The Fish sculpture by Frank Ghery sits outside Hotel Arts Barcelona / ©Hotel Arts Barcelona

    Hotel Arts Barcelona blends contemporary design with a prime seaside location. Set along the city’s waterfront, Hotel Arts Barcelona is known for its striking glass and steel façade that rises above the Mediterranean. The rooms and suites are spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sea or city views. A selection of dining options includes Michelin-starred cuisine and casual beachfront dining. The outdoor pool and gardens provide a relaxing retreat, while the spa, located on the 43rd floor, offers treatments with panoramic views. Positioned near Port Olímpic and Barceloneta Beach, the hotel is ideal for guests looking to enjoy both the city and the coast.

    The Royal Penthouse

    Offering one of the highest viewpoints in all of Barcelona, The Royal Penthouse is one of few suites to offer a truly complete vision of the beautiful city. Enjoy the vistas from your private terrace, where the hotel offers daily in-suite breakfasts and round-the-clock butler service. With private check-in and a Mini Cooper available throughout your stay, this is the perfect place for those who value discretion above all else. A stay also includes a shopping experience in the upmarket neighborhood of La Rocca, where a dedicated concierge will translate and transport all your bags back to the hotel.

    ritzcarlton.com

    Majestic Hotel & Spa

    Majestic Hotel & Spa
    Majestic Hotel & Spa / ©Majestic Hotel & Spa

    A landmark on Passeig de Gràcia, Majestic Hotel & Spa has been welcoming guests for over a century. The interiors combine classic elegance with modern comfort, featuring marble finishes, high ceilings and refined decor. The rooftop terrace offers a pool and lounge area with views of Sagrada Família, while the spa provides a quiet space for relaxation. Dining options range from a fine-dining restaurant to a stylish cafe serving Catalan specialties. With Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces and luxury boutiques just steps away, the Majestic Hotel & Spa places guests at the center of Barcelona’s cultural and shopping district.

    Majestic Royal Penthouse

    Majestic Royal Penthouse at Majestic Hotel & Spa
    The Majestic Royal Penthouse / ©Majestic Hotel & Spa

    One of the largest hotel suites in Barcelona, the Majestic Royal Penthouse is as tranquil and private as it gets in this central location. Enjoy rooftop views and day-long sunshine from the wraparound terrace – there are sunbeds and Jacuzzis – or use it as an alfresco dining space in the warmer months. If the weather does turn against you, you’ll be well looked after inside. Ornate wallpaper and neo-classical furniture make for an elegant and regal space.

    majestichotels.com

    [See also: Timeless Elegance: Inside Rosewood Vienna]

    Grand Hotel Central

    The Grand Hotel Central Barcelona
    La Terraza at the Grand Hotel Central Barcelona / ©Grand Hotel Central Barcelona

    A seamless blend of heritage and contemporary luxury, Grand Hotel Central offers a front-row seat to Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter. Housed in a stately 1920s building, the hotel exudes understated elegance, with sleek interiors that balance modern design with original architectural details. The rooftop infinity pool is its crowning jewel, offering breathtaking views over the city’s rooftops and cathedral spires. Inside, rooms are stylish yet serene, with warm wood tones and luxurious amenities.

    Two Bedroom Grand Suite

    two bedroom grand suite
    Two Bedroom Grand Suite at Grand Hotel Central / ©Grand Central

    Renovated as recently as 2024, the Two Bedroom Grand Suite re-emerged with a suitably stylish look, including bespoke furniture and interiors inspired by the simple lines of the Catalan Noucentisme movement. Its sophisticated design complements its surroundings in the Gothic Quarter, while fantastical art brings welcomed pops of color to the master bedroom. The suite comes with exclusive access to the hotel’s sauna and hammam and a complimentary 60-minute massage for one person.

    grandhotelcentral.com

    Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

    Mandarin Oriental Barcelona
    Mandarin Oriental Barcelona / ©Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

    A blend of modern design and classic refinement, Mandarin Oriental Barcelona is housed in a restored bank building on Passeig de Gràcia. The rooms and suites feature contemporary interiors with subtle Asian influences, while many offer private terraces overlooking the city. The hotel is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a tranquil spa specializing in holistic treatments. Just moments from Casa Batlló and other iconic landmarks, it provides easy access to Barcelona’s architectural wonders and high-end shopping. Mandarin Oriental Barcelona offers a balance of understated luxury and a prime location in one of the city’s most exclusive areas.

    Penthouse Suite

    Penthouse Suite at the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona
    Penthouse Suite / ©Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

    The sophisticated Penthouse Suite at Mandarin Oriental Barcelona has been decorated in shades of mink, white and gray, and is dotted with bespoke furnishings and contemporary artworks. Ideal for entertaining, the Penthouse Suite has a spacious dining area with room for eight guests and an expansive living area. The pièce de résistance, however, is the sprawling outdoor terrace — a gorgeous setting to relax with a cocktail and watch the sunset over the city. Occupying the entire top floor, it’s the perfect suite for those in need of complete discretion.

    mandarinoriental.com

    [See also: The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Hotels]

    ME Barcelona

    A sleek, modern retreat in the heart of the city, ME Barcelona embraces contemporary architecture and bold interior design. Rooms and suites are designed with clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a neutral palette that highlights the urban landscape. A rooftop terrace with a pool and bar provides a relaxing space with views over Barcelona. Positioned near Passeig de Gràcia, ME Barcelona offers easy access to some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, making it an excellent choice for design-conscious travelers.

    Ultimate ME+ Suite City View

    Ultimate ME+ Suite City View
    The Ultimate ME+ Suite City View / ©ME Barcelona

    The Ultimate ME+ Suite City View offers guests a contemporary and modern living space with striking artwork adorning the walls. The suite’s footprint is more than doubled by its large terrace, making it a fitting place to host close friends on warm evenings. Grab a bottle of wine from the maxibar and enjoy an alfresco get-together with views of the buzzing Plaza Catalunya. The suite can also be connected with an adjoining room, just in case your guests want to hang around for a little while longer.

    El Palace Barcelona

    A beacon of Belle Époque grandeur, El Palace Barcelona has been an icon of luxury since 1919. Nestled in the heart of the city, the hotel exudes old-world charm with its opulent chandeliers, regal marble columns, and gilded detailing. The rooftop garden, inspired by Salvador Dalí and the Mediterranean, offers panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline. Inside, rooms and suites are timelessly elegant, blending period furnishings with modern comforts.

    Two Bedroom El Palace Suite Ronnie Wood

    As the name suggests, this suite is dedicated to Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, who was in residence at the hotel while renovating his Barcelona apartment. The Art Deco suite is an homage to Wood’s time spent at the hotel, including an impromptu jam session in the Bluesman Cocktail Bar. Original Rolling Stones artwork adorns the walls while a jukebox contains all your favorite hits on vinyl. The suite also comes with some welcome amenities, such as Bubbles O’Clock, where a selection of champagne and canapes are delivered to your door each afternoon.

    melia.com

    Nobu Hotel Barcelona

    Combining Japanese minimalism with Barcelona’s vibrant energy, Nobu Hotel Barcelona brings a unique aesthetic to the city’s hospitality scene. The rooms feature warm wood tones, sleek furnishings, and expansive views of Montjuïc or the Mediterranean. The signature Nobu restaurant serves its renowned Japanese cuisine, while the rooftop bar offers cocktails with a view. Nobu Hotel Barcelona merges contemporary style with a distinctive culinary experience, making it an appealing choice for travelers looking for something modern yet rooted in the brand’s signature approach to luxury.

    Nobu Suite

    Nobu Hotel Suite
    The Nobu Suite / ©Nobu Hotel Barcelona

    The Nobu Suite is the epitome of the hotel chain’s ethos: Japanese inspiration with local vibes. You’ll find subtle nods to traditional Catalan design, such as warm natural materials, mixed in with unmistakable Japanese minimalism. Located on the 27th floor, the views stretch from Mount Tibidado to the coast. The bathroom is positively spa-like in size and nature, including a two-person, onsen-inspired wooden bathtub. Planning on entertaining? The suite has ample dining space and a private bar.

    nobuhotels.com

    The Barcelona EDITION

    the barcelona EDITION
    The Barcelona EDITION / ©The Barcelona EDITION

    A sleek and stylish retreat in the heart of El Born, The Barcelona EDITION redefines modern luxury with its effortlessly cool aesthetic and vibrant social scene. Designed by Ian Schrager, the hotel exudes understated elegance, with warm oak-paneled interiors, plush textures, and curated artwork. The rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the Gothic Quarter, while the lively Punch Room serves expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting. Rooms and suites are minimalist yet inviting, featuring bespoke furnishings and luxurious touches.

    Barcelona Penthouse

    The Penthouse at The Barcelona EDITION /©The Barcelona EDITION

    With a private terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can enjoy panoramic city views from every corner of The Barcelona Penthouse. The interiors let the views do the talking with light wood walls and neutral furniture. You’ll get all-day sun from the two-sided terrace, but when the night closes in, head to the suite’s dedicated dining room for a private dinner. A full kitchenette with a service entrance makes it perfect for those opting to sample the restaurant’s delights in-suite.

    editionhotels.com

    The One Barcelona

    Designed with contemporary elegance, The One Barcelona offers a sophisticated stay in the upscale Eixample district. The rooms and suites are finished with neutral tones, fine materials, and large windows that bring in natural light. A rooftop pool and bar create a relaxed space for enjoying views over the city, while the wellness center and spa offer a calming retreat. Situated near Passeig de Gràcia, guests are within walking distance of Gaudí landmarks and high-end boutiques. The One Barcelona delivers modern comfort with an emphasis on personalized service.

    Penthouse Suite The One

    The Penthouse Suite at The One Barcelona
    The Penthouse Suite / ©The One Barcelona

    It’s all about the bedding in Penthouse Suite The One. You’ll find the king-sized bed adorned in Bassols 1790 Egyptian cotton bedding and 100% goose feather pillows, making for one of the comfiest nights in all of Barcelona. When it’s time to get up, head straight out to the terrace to soak in the city’s famous year-round sunshine. The terrace is an all-day affair, with a Jacuzzi and outdoor shower to warm you up and cool you down as needed. Views of the city are, naturally, best taken in a dusk with sundowner cocktails just a phonecall away.

    hotelstheone.com

    Alma Barcelona

    A hidden gem of the city, Alma Barcelona blends historic charm with modern luxury. Behind its elegant early 20th-century façade lies a refined retreat where timeless design meets contemporary comforts. The hotel’s serene inner garden offers an oasis of calm, while the rooftop terrace boasts sweeping views of Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces. Inside, rooms are sleek yet inviting, with natural wood accents and plush furnishings.

    Alma Signature Suite

    Designed like a sophisticated penthouse apartment, the Alma Signature Suite sits on the main floor of Hotel Alma Barcelona. Priority has been given to making this suite a comfortable and functional space with a dedicated workspace and ample living area taking up the lion’s share of its footprint. The dining room seats up to four, and the hotel will arrange a private dinner from Restaurant Alma as part of your stay.

    almahotels.com

    W Barcelona

    W Hotel Barcelona / ©W Hotel Barcelona

    A striking glass tower on the beachfront, W Barcelona is instantly recognizable along the city’s coastline. The rooms and suites feature sleek, modern interiors with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views of the Mediterranean or the urban skyline. A lively social scene unfolds across the rooftop bar, beachfront restaurant, and infinity pool, while the spa and fitness facilities provide space to unwind. Located at the edge of Barceloneta Beach, the hotel offers direct access to the waterfront promenade and vibrant nightlife.

    Extreme Wow Suite

    Extreme Wow Suite at W Barcelona
    Extreme Wow Suite / ©W Barcelona

    Feel like you’re sailing the Mediterranean in the nautical-inspired Extreme WOW Suite. The interior color palette complements the endless ocean views with a medley of dark blues and warm golds. While there is plenty of space to unwind (the terrace feels like a superyacht Owner’s Suite), this suite is designed for entertaining. With a DJ booth available upon request, you can host late into the night. Enjoy world-class cocktails served at your private, Gaudi-inspired bar while friends face off on the foosball table. When it’s time to sleep, the revolving bed will ensure a good night’s (or day’s) sleep.

    marriott.com

  • Michael Strahan Is Launching His Own Tailoring Shop

    Michael Strahan Is Launching His Own Tailoring Shop

    The Hall of Famer’s Design Lab goes live today. The Hall of Famer’s Design Lab goes live today.

  • $2.2 Million Worth of Ancient Artifacts Trafficked Through New York Are Returning to Greece and Italy

    $2.2 Million Worth of Ancient Artifacts Trafficked Through New York Are Returning to Greece and Italy

    A repatriation ceremony took place on February 25 for 11 ancient Greek artifacts. A repatriation ceremony took place on February 25 for 11 ancient Greek artifacts.