Convenient, central location near La Rambla
Charming, historic rooms with modern finishes
Magnificent restored Casa Climent Arola building
Lovely outdoor terrace with lots of lounge space
Sunny reading room with espresso machine
Rooms are individually decorated; some have balconies
Original architectural details such as tiled floors
Small business center and free Wi-Fi
Smaller rooms don’t have views and are tight on space
Street noise, particularly in front-facing rooms, may be problematic
The 37-room Hotel Praktik Rambla is a small, charming boutique in a convenient, central location near La Rambla. This early 19th-century building is full of character with intricate tiled floors and magnificent ceiling molding. These historic details are juxtaposed with modern finishes, including in the rooms with striking artwork, angular furniture, and cool bathrooms. There is a sunny reading room with espresso machine and bay windows, and an interior courtyard with lounge areas. While some rooms can be small, they are clean and attractive.
Scene
Modern boutique in a historic building
The historic building of Hotel Praktik Rambla sets the atmosphere for the property. Erected in the 19th century, the edifice is the oeuvre of Francisco de P. Villar i Carmona, considered to have been the original architect of the Sagrada Familia before Gaudí stole the building plans (as legend goes). The hotel has maintained its striking facade and magnificent interior architecture including Romanesque columns, intricate tiled floors, and vaulted hallways; these stunning visuals are juxtaposed against clean-lined, modern furnishings in blonde and black woods. The result is a romantic property with plenty of spaces to relax. The dim, chic lobby is on the small side but guests gather in the sunny reading room with its beautiful bay windows or outside on the interior terrace.
Location
In the heart of the city’s historic shopping district
La Rambla is one of Barcelona’s most famed paseos, a tree-lined pedestrian mall rife with cafes, small museums, and boutique shops. Hotel Praktik Rambla is right in the center of this neighborhood, a few blocks from Plaça de Catalanya, where the city’s 19th century architecture collides with its Gothic section; many consider this to be the center of Barcelona. The airport is directly accessible via city bus (1 hour) or is a 20-minute cab ride away.
Rooms
Charming rooms with dramatic architecture
Decorative, richly hued geometric tiles cover the floors in this hotel's rooms, which also feature striking lighting, the occasional view of the city, and framed artwork. Some rooms can be very small, but guests have commented favorably on the inventive use of storage space in these cases. Minimalist decor combines attractively with the 19th-century charm of ceiling moldings and mirrored doors. Bathrooms, which may be dimly lit, have high ceilings, rain-style showers, and are tiled in a deep emerald color. Street noise, particularly in rooms facing front, could be a reason to bring earplugs.
Features
Reading room, espresso machine, and outdoor terrace
The breakfast service (not included in the room fee) provided in the restaurant next door can be slightly disorganized; guests have recommended skipping this service and heading straight to one of the many nearby cafés. The true luxury of this hotel are the multiple areas to relax, including the wood terrace with its stone fountain, and the light-filled reading room on the second floor with the wraparound couch and self-serve espresso machine.