Hotel Colonial Barcelona

Although this beautiful old building was renovated in 2013, it still manages to maintain its traditional charm. The spacious, airy lobby feels grand, with high floor-to-ceiling windows and shiny tiled floors. It's not all old-school style, though, and a striking, contemporary butterfly installation is suspended from the ceiling near the front desk. Modern elements like this are contrasted with leather Chesterfield sofas, large vases, and a big antique bookcase that stands at the back of the room. The cozy bar area has a similar feel, with check-print armchairs and a large dark wood bookcase running along the length of the wall. The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, and rarely feels overcrowded, which is fitting given its higher-class vibe. It mostly attracts families, couples, and groups, rather than business travelers. Some noise should be expected from the bustling street outside, but the rest of the hotel is generally quiet. 

The Hotel Colonial Barcelona is a great base to explore the city. Situated in the city's historic Gothic Quarter, it's within easy walking distance to many popular attractions. El Born -- a hyper-trendy area of posh cafes, boutiques, and restaurants -- is just across the street. The golden sands of Barceloneta Beach are a 20-minute walk from the hotel, while the Port of Barcelona, Barcelona Cathedral, Plaza Catalunya, and Las Ramblas boulevard are around a 10-minute walk. The Jaume I Metro station is just up the road, a five-minute walk, and it will take about 20 minutes to reach Gaudi's famous Sagrada Familia by metro. Alternatively, you can jump in cab and be there in 10 minutes. Barcelona-El Prat International Airport is roughly 20 minutes away by car, or 45 minutes by public transit.

All 81 rooms are spotless and simple, with high ceilings and dark wood furniture that comes together for a pleasantly modern look. Double or twin beds are dressed in plain white bedding, while tall leaded windows let in plenty of natural light. Some rooms have doors that open out onto small balconies or terraces, overlooking the busy street below. Big wooden headboards frame the beds, with soft bedside wall lamps and adjustable reading lights. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, mini-fridges, safes, phones, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are small but modern, with tiled walls and large mirrors. They include glass-enclosed rainfall showers, vessel sinks, hairdryers, and free basic toiletries. It's worth mentioning that some road noise can be heard from street-side rooms, which may bother some guests.

A continental breakfast buffet is served daily in the dining area in the hotel's basement level, though there is an additional charge for this. Offerings are basic, including cereal, toast, cheeses, cold cuts, yogurts, fruit, tea, and coffee, though there are plenty of other breakfast options in the area. A cozy, Colonial-style bar is located next to the lobby, serving drinks, snacks, and coffee, and there is a large air-conditioned meeting room, though it lacks up-to-date technology. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, room service, tour desk, laundry, free daily newspapers, and free Wi-Fi. Parking is available nearby, though there is an extra charge for this. Guests should note that this hotel has no spa, pool, or fitness center.