Grand Hotel Central

On the edge of the fashionable El Born district, moments from the Picasso Museum and the Gothic Quarter, this perfectly-located – and chic – hotel is all about its stylish rooftop with an infinity pool, loungers and bar.

Inside, the hotel retains its original 1920s wooden floors and wrought-iron details, now incorporated into a sleek, minimalist interior.

Rooms are decorated with pared-back elegance in pale grey and white, some with fabulous views over the old city.

This historic neighbourhood, with its narrow alleys and secret squares, contains some of the city’s best boutiques, bars and restaurants. It’s also convenient for exploring the adjacent Gothic Quarter and walking down to the beaches.

The hotel also has good-value ‘Romance’ or ‘Family’ packages, throwing in extras such as breakfast, dinner or entry to a local sight.