Barcelona: Where to Stay: Luxury: Gran Hotel La Florida

Gran Hotel La Florida

Overlooking Barcelona from atop Mt. Tibidabo, the Florida was the city’s most glamorous hotel in the 1950s, hosting everyone from Europe’s royals to Ernest Hemingway and James Stewart. It was completely renovated some years ago, and today it surpasses even its former glory. It’s about a twenty-minute commute to the center of town, so stay here only if this is not your first visit. If you have a few lazy days, there’s nothing more fabulous than to lounge by the stainless-steel pool with Barcelona at your feet. In general, the rooms are generously sized, though the Tibidabo and Sky Terrace suites are definitely worth the splurge. The former was designed by Cristina Macaya and features a fantastic silver color scheme; the latter was dreamed up by international artist Rebecca Horn and offers a spacious private patio with a Jacuzzi and unbeatable views. For those who prefer to be based in the city, come here for brunch or dinner and reserve a table on the outdoor terrace. Rooms from $542.

To read a postcard about Gran Hotel La Florida, click here.