Hotel Arts Barcelona

Located right on the beach, this is one of the premier hotels in the city. Part of the Ritz Carlton chain, no detail goes unnoticed, and it shows in the experience provided by this top notch hotel.

Location: B

While it is right on the beach, its far from almost everything else. But, if a beach vacation is what you're looking for, this is probably your best bet. The W is maybe a marginally better strictly beach hotel, but it is seriously far from the city, so this is at least a more happy medium. Also, if you're into clubbing, the Hotel Arts is right above some of the best clubs in the city (and in the world).

Rooms: A

I was fortunate enough to be upgraded to a Junior Suite. Corner room overlooking the ocean and the city (lined perfectly with the Sagrada Familia), expansive with a separate living room and bedroom, and a stunning bathroom. What more could you ask for?

I also had the opportunity to tour the Presidential Suite, and man, let me tell you, that room was ridiculous. Its been host to a bevy of celebrities, including Lady Gaga, and for good reason. Spread out over two floors, with retro interior décor, a gym, kitchen, and the highest private balcony in the city, this is where you want to stay if you have the dough to expend. Just let these photos do the talking.

Service: A

I was given a great tour by the PR Director, Sergio, who was just one example of the OUTSTANDING service this hotel provided. We had an early morning flight out of Barcelona, so we actually checked out, partied all night, then left for the airport. Not only did the Hotel Arts hold our luggage, but they even provided us with free coffee to get us up and ready for a day of traveling. Every interaction was outstanding, as you would expect from a Ritz Carlton.

Food: A-

All I had was an egg and avocado flatbread delivered to my room, but it was fantastic, if not too small. I also had coffee from an apparently famous coffee master which was, as you'd expect from a famous coffee master, fantastic, even for someone who isn't necessarily huge on coffee. Other than that, Sergio toured me around the dining options of the hotel, all of which looked fantastic (just out of my already stretched budget).

Amenities: A+

The spa on the top floor is absolutely fantastic. At first, I thought it was a bit small for a hotel of this size, but I went three times in my two days here and never encountered anyone else at the same time. There's a beautiful pool area complete with a family and adults only pool. It's near the beach. There's a huge gym. Gorgeous lobby area (did some work in here for a couple hours). Whatever you could want in a hotel, you can find it here. It's one of only a few true destination hotels in Barcelona, if that's what you're looking for.

If you want to be on the beach (but not too far from the city) and have access to amenities galore, this is the best option Barcelona has to offer.