Barcelona is a perennial European destination that satisfies the ‘cultural riches’ set while also catering for those more inclined to sipping sangria on the terraces. In this first instalment of a mini-series of articles (ahem…), we’ll take a shot at the first issue facing prospective visitors: where to stay? Check out our favourite hotels, hand-picked to showcase the luxury, beauty, and, well… oddity… that only Barcelona can offer…

Hotel Casa Camper
If you’re tired of chain hotels with all the usual routine services and dull uniform rooms, head over to the Casa Camper pronto. This is a hotel with a twist, big time! The Spanish shoe company Camper founded this ecological hotel, located close to the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona.  The decoration is eccentric to say the least – it’s hard to imagine a guest taking the look of this place for granted. Most startling of all, the price includes full use of a 24-hour buffet in the hotel lobby. Out of my way!
RamblaPrim 1-17, 08018, Barcelona

Hotel Arts
The first thing you’ll notice about Hotel Arts will almost certainly be the Frank Gehry copper fish statue perched just outside. It’s a good landmark, and a fitting one, for one of the city’s most chic venues. As far as facilities go, the sauna has a lot going for it, not least the jaw-dropping view across the bay.
C/ Marina 19-21, 08005 Barcelona

Hotel Diagonal
Once again, the view is the clincher here, as the bizarrely-named Hotel Diagonal offers a swimming pool on its roof with an unbelievable perspective over the city. Sipping on a cocktail by this pool is enough to make any guest feel exceedingly privileged indeed. You’ll find this swish joint next to the Torre Agbar.
AvingudaDiagonal 205, Barcelona

Hotel Omm

Bare bones it is not.

Finally, a touch of sheer unadulterated class for the more refined, not to say well off, types amongst you. This top-end design hotel is loated just off the famous Rambla and the Barri Gòtic. Bare bones it is not. Bathe yourself in luxury, quite literally, in the beautiful spa and rooftop swimming pool, before engaging in designer gluttony of the first order in MOO, the double-Michelin Star restaurant downstairs. Send the bill to the European Union.
Rosselló 265 , 08008 Barcelona