This may shock you, but up until earlier this year I had never been to Barcelona.
One of those cities I've always had in the back of my mind but just never got round to booking, Barcelona is the cosmopolitan capital of Spain's Catalonia region and is widely known for its art and architecture, with landmarks such as the Sagrada Família and other modernist buildings dotting the perfectly symmetrical streets.
It is the destination to go if you're looking for a city break and relaxing holiday rolled into one this summer, and as for the place to stay? It's got to be ME Barcelona.
Barcelona is exactly what you make it because it has the best of both worlds: beach and city. If you're looking for a relaxing trip where soaking up the balmy Mediterranean sun is high on your agenda, then the best time of year to visit Barcelona is during the summer (May-September). If you want to avoid the crowds, however, and would prefer to take in the rich history of museums, gardens and galleries, then March, April and October are ideal.
What is the best part of Barcelona to stay in?The charming Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, of Barcelona is where people tend to gravitate towards. Its home to a lot of popular attractions and famous restaurants, and it often gets a lot of footfall because of it.
Situated just above the Gothic Quarter in the heart of the Passeig de Gràcia (the Barcelona Golden Mile), and just a short walk from virtually every must-see place, ME Barcelona's location is as unbeatable as its interiors. With two restaurants (more on these in a moment) and a chic cocktail bar adorned with hanging bougainvillea, ME Barcelona also features a rooftop terrace with a heated pool, a spa, and a fitness room for those who feel like they haven't got enough steps in after a day of exploring.
Barcelona is known, and adored, for its food. From paella to croquettes, jamon to patatas bravas, the cuisine is one of the main attractions of the city. As for which restaurants to go to, however, you really can't go wrong. The restaurants which you can't book tend to be the best and most authentic ones, but if you're looking for somewhere to mark a special occasion then ME Barcelona's Belbo Fasto restaurant has got to be on your list.
Elegant dining mixed with a nightclub-esque vibe is exactly how I'd describe it – so it's spot on for those looking to get cosy on a date. Belbo Fasto combines traditional Spanish dining with Italian twists for an innovative result; think carpaccio, fresh fish and meat dishes, pastas and antipasti. With a resident DJ providing the entertainment, you and the other guests are guaranteed to be sending compliments to the staff all night.
The hotel's second restaurant, Belbo Terrenal, is where you'll find yourself starting the day each morning with a buffet-style breakfast that has everything you could ever crave. Fresh fruit? Check. Pastries? Yep. Omelettes ready to be made at your request? You bet. They even have a selection of mini donuts on offer for a sweet treat on your way out.
The hotel rooms themselves are spacious, modern, clean and comfortable, which is everything you could want from somewhere to lay your head. The mini bar is anything but mini, too, equipped with spirits to make your favourite cocktails, snacks and soft drinks for a pre or post-dinner refreshment.
Myself and my partner stayed for a total of three nights, which we felt was ample time to see the sights we had planned, visit the beach and even go shopping (you can't stop me from browsing a Zara if I spot one). The staff were more than friendly and provided personal finishing touches wherever possible, which is something I always appreciate wherever I go. We honestly didn't want to leave and are already considering our next trip back – the true sign of a good time. Thank you for an unforgettable stay, ME Barcelona.
Prices start from around £246 per night on Booking.com, and you can save on your stay with these Booking.com discount codes. Be sure to check out these easyJet promo codes and Jet2 promo codes, too, for further savings.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
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