Classic grand hotel opened in 1919, exuding timeless elegance on Gran Via. Barcelona's original luxury hotel has hosted royalty and celebrities. Features beautiful terrace, pool, and Caelis restaurant with Michelin star.
El Palace Barcelona opened in 1919 as the Hotel Ritz and has remained one of Spain's defining grand hotels for over a century, standing on Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes in the Eixample district of Barcelona, Catalonia. The Belle Époque façade conceals a succession of gilded salons, marble corridors, and an inner garden terrace that has hosted royalty, heads of state, and artists across its history. The 120 rooms and suites are furnished with period detail — hand-painted ceilings, silk fabrics, and antique furnishings — while incorporating modern amenities. Several suites have private terraces over the inner garden. The rooftop pool is a refined retreat available from spring through autumn, with panoramic city views from the surrounding sun terrace. Caelis, the hotel's flagship restaurant, holds a Michelin star and serves modern Catalan and European cuisine in a formally elegant setting; the Sunday brunch is among the most celebrated in Barcelona. The El Jardín bar and terrace are favoured for afternoon tea, champagne, and pre-dinner cocktails. A spa with treatment rooms, sauna, and gym completes the wellness offering. The concierge is well versed in arranging private cultural tours, Liceu opera tickets, and access to exclusive restaurant tables across the city. Passeig de Gràcia metro station is a short walk, and the Ramblas, Gothic Quarter, and Barceloneta beach are all accessible within 20 minutes on foot.
Amenities
- pool
- spa
- gym
- restaurant
- bar
- wifi
- concierge
Location
Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 668, 08010 Barcelona
41.3921, 2.1688 View on map
Highlights
- Centenary grand hotel opened in 1919 with Belle Époque salons, marble corridors, and original period furnishings
- Caelis restaurant with one Michelin star serving modern Catalan cuisine in the hotel's formal dining room
- Rooftop pool and sun terrace with panoramic Eixample views, available spring through autumn
- Inner garden terrace — a tranquil outdoor space in the heart of the Eixample grid
- Expert concierge with access to Liceu opera tickets and exclusive Barcelona restaurant reservations
Tips for visiting
- Ask for a terrace-facing suite overlooking the inner garden for the most atmospheric rooms in the hotel.
- The Caelis Sunday brunch is one of Barcelona's finest — book at least a week ahead.
- Weekend rates are sometimes lower than weekday corporate rates; check the hotel's own site for the best price.
- El Jardín bar serves afternoon tea from 15:30 — a calm alternative to the busier hotel bars near the Ramblas.
- The Gran Via tram stop near the hotel connects to Camp Nou in under 20 minutes.
When to visit
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable conditions for the rooftop pool and the surrounding Eixample neighbourhood. Winter rates are lower with a quieter atmosphere throughout the hotel.
Accessibility
El Palace Barcelona has a step-free main entrance with lift access to all floors. Accessible rooms with widened doorways and adapted bathrooms are available on request. The inner garden terrace is reachable without steps; guests with specific mobility requirements are advised to contact the hotel at the time of booking.
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Frequently asked questions
When did El Palace Barcelona first open?
The hotel opened in 1919 as Hotel Ritz, one of the first luxury hotels in Barcelona. It was renamed El Palace in 2012 while retaining its historic character and services.
Where is El Palace Barcelona in relation to main sights?
The hotel sits on Gran Via in the Eixample, a 10-minute walk from Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, 15 minutes from the Gothic Quarter, and about 25 minutes from Barceloneta beach on foot.
Does El Palace Barcelona have a pool?
There is a rooftop pool open to guests from spring through autumn, along with a sun terrace with city views. A spa with treatment rooms and sauna is available year-round.
Is Caelis restaurant only for hotel guests?
Caelis is open to all diners. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings. The Michelin-starred menu features modern Catalan and European dishes using seasonal ingredients.