Grand Hotel Central

"How did it strike you on arrival?The smart lobby of the Grand Hotel Central looks exactly as you’d expect for a city-center five-star hotel. What’s the crowd like?Well-heeled North American and European couples in their 30s and 40s make up the bulk of travelers here. Tell us about your room.Room 626 is one of Grand Hotel Central’s generously appointed Superior King rooms. The room has a spectacular view of the Santa Maria del Mar, a Gothic basilica erected in the 14th century and one of Barcelona’s most prominent historic buildings. How are the beds?The king-size bed comes with four hypoallergenic pillows and 100 percent Egyptian-cotton sheets. What are the in-room amenities?Nespresso machine with complimentary coffee capsules, teabags, infusions, and a minibar stuffed with complimentary soft drinks and snacks. Check and check. The 32-inch flat-screen TV gets more than 100 international channels. How are the bathrooms?The rain shower is by Grohe and the bathrooms products come from Finca Gayeta in Mallorca. Close to 90 percent of Grand Hotel Central’s rooms come with a bathtub. Is there Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi is free and available in all areas of the hotel. Anything stand out about other services and features?With its infinity pool and panoramic views stretching from the Sagrada Família on one side to the Mediterranean and the hilltop of Montjuïc on the other, it's no big surprise that the rooftop of the Grand Hotel Central pops up often on "best hotel terraces" lists. It also happens to be one of the best spots in the city for a sunset drink. What was most memorable about your stay?The roof terrace is the definite standout feature. Bottom line: worth it, and why?If you’re looking for a solid five-star stay in the center of town, this is it. Rooms are neither inexpensive nor wildly overpriced." - Isabelle Kliger