Image courtesy of Hotel Bagués Barcelona
Barcelona’s top boutique hotels are stylish bases to explore the historic city’s buzzing, gorgeous streets. In early 2025, a group of Fora Advisors visited the city as part of a familiarization trip (a.k.a. FAM trip). Their insights — along with those of a few advisors who had previously been or lived in Barcelona — informed our breakdown of the luxurious, hip and best-placed boutique hotels Barcelona has to offer below.
The best boutique hotels Barcelona offers are found in Eixample and Ciutat Vella
You’ll find luxurious boutique hotels throughout Ciutat Vella (Barcelona’s old city) — which encompasses the Gothic Quarter, El Raval and La Barceloneta (the city’s main beach) — and Eixample. These two areas are among the city’s most coveted destinations. Both are teeming with historical landmarks, restaurants and a mix of luxury retail and boutique shopping. Read our complementary article if you’d like a comprehensive breakdown of where to stay in Barcelona, Spain, including both neighborhood and hotel recs.
Alma Barcelona (Eixample)
Image courtesy of Alma Barcelona
Alma Barcelona is a sanctuary of sophisticated style at the center of Eixample, one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Here, modern minimalism is artfully melded with historical elegance. Luxe rooms, many overlook Alma’s interior garden, with sleek hardwood floors, moody color palettes and sparse, thoughtful décor serve as peaceful retreats amid Barcelona’s urban hustle.
“This hotel was everything to me: the vibe, the design, the room layout, the location,” Fora Advisor Suzanne Lee said.
She added that the Alma Signature Suite, an expansive apartment-style unit, is a standout option. The suite has a library-office space that opens up to living and dining areas, plus two bathrooms and a massive bedroom.
“Alma Barcelona is my new go-to for clients seeking a serene urban retreat,” Fora Advisor Wieteke Maris said. “The minimalist design creates such a calming atmosphere, and the interior courtyard is a hidden oasis.”
Fora Advisor Valeriya Vygodnaya also loved Alma Barcelona’s courtyard garden.
“It is a favorite spot among locals who come to unwind, enjoy a coffee or have a romantic dinner,” she said. “The lush greenery and intimate setting make it easy to forget that you are in the center of Barcelona.”
Along with the courtyard, there’s a rooftop terrace, the Solarium, with views of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and the city center. Lounge chairs allow you to soak in rays while servers bring you drinks. There’s also a luxurious spa with a hammam, a sauna, two massage rooms (we recommend booking in advance) and a heated pool.
“I find Alma Barcelona perfect for those who value tranquility and understated luxury amidst Barcelona's buzz,” Wieteke said. “It really is a place to recharge.”
The hotel is within walking distance of many of Antoni Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces, upscale boutiques and fine restaurants. Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is roughly 30 minutes away on foot.
Fora Reserve perks include complimentary mini bar and Nespresso, a welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Wittmore Hotel (Gothic Quarter)
Image courtesy of Wittmore Hotel
The Wittmore's stylish interiors and meticulously curated décor create a refined atmosphere, inviting you to unwind in a space that echoes the charm of the medieval Gothic Quarter streets outside. A prime but hidden location allows for effortless exploration of nearby landmarks, winding alleys and vibrant local cafés without sacrificing privacy or exclusivity.
“If you're looking for a truly unique, adults-only experience in Barcelona, I can't recommend The Wittmore enough,” Wieteke said. “It's like stepping into a private club, with its intimate atmosphere and speakeasy vibe — but it’s far from stuffy. It’s sophisticated with a wink, and sultry without trying too hard.”
Fora X Advisor Jaime Windau noted that this luxury boutique hotel features a mere 22 rooms, ensuring personable service. Other features she highlighted include the hotel’s vertical garden — the tallest in Barcelona — a rooftop plunge pool and The Wittmore’s signature restaurant, Contraban. The foodie hotspot is dark-lit and sophisticated, with a mid-century modern theme and eclectic contemporary décor. Enjoy Michelin-caliber international dishes like carpaccio de carabinero and salmon marinated in a soy-yuzu glaze.
“The Wittmore Hotel is a place where you can feel like you’ve stumbled upon a well-kept secret,” Wieteke said. “There’s a sense of intimacy, almost conspiratorial, like the city itself is letting you in on one of its most exclusive hideaways.”
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, welcome amenities, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Almanac Barcelona (Eixample)
Image courtesy of Almanac Barcelona
Almanac is a contemporary, luxurious boutique hotel in Barcelona housed in an eco-conscious, design-forward building. Tastefully appointed rooms and communal spaces are stylish retreats for discerning travelers. Indulge in a sustainability-minded gastronomic experience at its innovative restaurant, Virens, and unwind on a rooftop terrace that captures panoramic views of the cityscape.
“Architect-owned and art-infused, this hotel celebrates Barcelona's creative spirit,” Wieteke said. “It's a place where design tells a story.”
Art is a major theme of the hotel; every room contains unique works authored by renowned local artists. The hotel places you between the busiest streets of Eixample and the Gothic Quarter — you can’t get much more central. Designer shops, Gaudi works and high-end international eateries are steps away.
“Almanac Barcelona completely won me over with its attention to detail, from the thoughtfully designed rooms to the bespoke service,” Fora X Advisor Seasen Acevedo-Zullo said. “Their Azimuth rooftop bar is my secret spot for watching the sunset over Barcelona's distinctive skyline with a handcrafted cocktail in hand.”
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Serras Barcelona (Gothic Quarter)
Image courtesy of Serras Barcelona
The 28-room Serras Barcelona is in a beautifully restored Gothic Quarter heritage building along the Port Vel Marina area. Inside, the hotel has a stylish, modern aesthetic emphasized by heavy use of geometric patterns and a contrast between natural wood tones and sleek, black furnishings.
“The rooms are gorgeously and elegantly furnished, and the beds are simply some of the most comfortable I've ever slept in,” Fora Advisor Anny Chen said.
The hotel’s rooftop terrace and pool were standout features for Fora Advisor Arlette Diederiks. She noted that the intimate space provides panoramic views of the marina, sea and Gothic Quarter. Additionally, Arlette highlighted the hotel’s excellent service.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, a complimentary tapa and Champagne, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Neri (Gothic Quarter)
Image courtesy of Hotel Neri
Hotel Neri, a Relais & Châteaux property, distances itself from many of the boutique hotels in Barcelona mentioned thus far by adopting a bright and bold — though highly refined — style. Plentiful Plants fill the rooftop terrace and interior courtyard, the ideal scenic hideaway for when you’re not busy exploring the Gothic Quarter’s streets.
“Perfectly positioned near Barcelona's cathedral, it provides a sophisticated retreat where history and luxury converge,” Arlette said.
The hotel’s setting on a narrow, stone street facilitates the illusion of staying somewhere exclusive and somewhat remote. Follow the narrowing path northeast, however, and you’ll find yourself in front of the imposing (and equally enchanting) Cathredal of Barcelona in the center of the city.
Jaime noted that Hotel Neri is The Wittmore’s sister hotel, and a great option if you’re visiting Barcelona with kids. In addition to its 22 rooms, there are six apartments — each with plenty of space for kids.
Fora’s Relais & Châteaux partner perks include daily breakfast.
Casa Bonay (Eixample)
Image courtesy of Casa Bonay
Casa Bonay is among the most iconic boutique hotels Barcelona hosts. It regularly holds events like culinary pop-ups — great if you want to experience the city’s more experimental cuisine — and music performances. The hotel occupies a restored 19th-century building. Original pieces like mosaic tile floors and wooden shutters complement a glamorous and vibrant contemporary aesthetic.
Fora Advisor Lauren Harvey described Casa Bonay as a chic and artsy boutique hotel in Barcelona’s Eixample area. She highlighted the hotel’s twin rooftop areas — one a low-key, beachy restaurant, the other a chic outdoor lounge — as well as its local vibe.
Fora Perks include welcome amenities, an upgrade and extended check-out whenever possible.
Hotel Bagués Barcelona (El Raval)
Image courtesy of Hotel Bagués Barcelona
Hotel Bagués has a museum-like atmosphere that feels at home on La Rambla, a major street at the edge of the Gothic Quarter. Art Nouveau artifacts and works, like vases crafted by Émile Gallé, are tastefully juxtaposed by the hotel’s artful, modern design. Spacious rooms and suites — some as large as 430 square feet — feature plush bedding, sumptuous leather or suede furnishings and storage spaces hidden within the walls. Hotel Bagués also features two bars — one a ritzy cocktail lounge where you can also enjoy a light breakfast, the other a chic and bright rooftop terrace.
Fora Reserve perks include complimentary access to Barcelona’s Egyptian Museum, welcome amenities, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona (Eixample)
Image courtesy of Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona
Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona is a bright and airy property near the Catalunya Plaza, which separates Eixample from the Gothic Quarter. The boutique hotel’s design emphasizes natural elements and lighting; think hardwood floors and accents throughout, potted plants and large windows that allow plenty of light to shine through. Like many of the best boutique hotels Barcelona offers, Hotel Pulitzer hosts a hip rooftop terrace where you can enjoy tapas, cocktails and, on occasion, live music.
Fora Perks include welcome amenities, an upgrade and extended check-out whenever possible.
Kimpton Vividora (Gothic Quarter)
Image courtesy of Kimpton Vividora Barcelona
Kimpton Vividora is a boutique-style luxury hotel with exceptional service and a fresh, trendy design. Colorful, expansive rooms inspired by the Mediterranean boast locally made furniture and accents. It flirts with the definition of a true boutique hotel (it’s a bit larger than what some might consider “boutiqe”) but you can enjoy IHG rewards, familiar service and a wide range of amenities like a spa, gym and rooftop terrace with a pool and morning yoga sessions. There’s also a coffee shop that turns into a cocktail lounge at night, as well as a fine restaurant with a Catalan flair.
Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Margot House (Eixample)
Image courtesy of Margot House
Margot House is a small boutique hotel on Barcelona’s Gracia Avenue, offering an unparalleled mix of intimacy and location. The property is only a few blocks from both the heart of the Gothic Quarter and Eixample. Only nine rooms — including a family- or group-friendly suite — ensures an exclusive environment, while chic common spaces are ideal for socializing and enjoying a light breakfast, coffee or tea.
“Margot House is an authentic oasis of privacy and calm in the heart of Barcelona,” Fora Advisor Becca Santos said.
She added that Casa Batlló, an incredible example of Catalan modernism (and Gaudi work), is across the street.
H10 Montcada (Gothic Quarter)
Image courtesy of H10 Montcada
H10 Montcada is an approachably priced boutique hotel in Barcelona’s city center. It’s surrounded by busy shops and eateries, and only steps away from the Barcelona Cathedral. Inside, the hotel strikes a balance between its historical setting and modern styles. Vintage furniture and eclectic décor fill its common spaces, and rooms have a simple, cozy style. Its Library Restaurant has a fun vibe with a smart but whimsical theme paired with a menu of light bites and pastries. Enjoy a cocktail at the hotel’s lobby café frequented by locals and guests. The space serves coffee and sandwiches by day, and tapas and cocktails by night.
Lauren called H10 Montcada a “Gothic Quarter gem with boutique charm” and unbeatable city views from its rooftop terrace.
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