When I’m planning my hotels for a European vacation, I try to balance budget with a splurge here and there. This InterContinental Barcelona is a 5-star luxury hotel in Spain. Not only is it centrally located, but it’s also close to El Pratt International Airport.
My friend and I had walked from the Metro to the InterContinental Barcelona in Spain. I was wearing my backpack and my friend was rolling her suitcase over the cobblestones. I was a little sweaty from the afternoon sun. The staff at reception were warm and welcoming. This was a welcome relief, as the reception at our Marriott Bonvoy 5-star Granada hotel gave an air of “you don’t belong here” upon check-in. I’m always impressed with the service level at InterContinental hotels. The staff members make everyone feel like a VIP.
InterContinental Barcelona 5-star luxury hotel rooms
This 7-story hotel featured 273 rooms, including 17 suites and 1 presidential suite. I had reserved a classic room with 2 twin beds, and was hoping for an upgrade. Due to my IHG hotel status, we were rewarded with a premium twin room, #541, and club-level access.
Little did we know that the Real Madrid soccer players would be staying at our Barcelona hotel before the El Classico match. My friend and I both had positive encounters with Roberto Carlos, a former Real Madrid player.
All hotel rooms, from classic to premium suites, include air conditioning, minibar, espresso maker, robe, slippers, and large smart televisions. Our premium room included a separate bathtub and a walk-in rain shower fixture. Byredo Bal d’Afrique bath amenities made my hair and skin feel soft and smooth.
- Get an eSim to be able to use your smartphone abroad.
- Buy Travel Insurance
- Get a universal plug adapter
- Get a Car Rental
- Guided Tours in Spain
InterContinental Barcelona amenities
One night at InterContinental Barcelona was not enough time to experience the hotel’s 5-star luxury. The weather didn’t cooperate for me to enjoy the rooftop infinity pool. I also didn’t get a chance to visit Spa InterContinental. No matter. These hotel amenities will be waiting for me on my next visit to Barcelona.
InterContinental drinks and dining
There were quite a few drinking and dining options at InterContinental Barcelona. Unfortunately, I was not able to experience Arrel restaurant, Quirat, an exclusive restaurant, or Gebre, the cocktail bar with over 200 whiskeys on offer. I did have a tasty glass of sangria and enjoyed the views at 173 Rooftop Terrace.
As I mentioned, we were granted access to the Club Lounge at InterContinental Barcelona. Here, hotel guests had access to afternoon tapas and drinks, board games, and a quiet place to relax. The Club Lounge breakfast buffet at InterContinental Barcelona was impressive. Not only were there the usual cold cereals, pastries, fresh fruits, yogurts, cheeses, and meats. The Club Lounge offered a menu of hot items made to order. I selected Eggs Benedict, while my traveling companion requested gluten-free options. One of my favorite items on the buffet was the fresh honeycomb. The Manchego cheese with honey was a regional treat.
Room rates at InterContinental Barcelona started at $485 for the entry-level hotel category. Room service was available 24 hours at the hotel. On-site parking, both self-park and valet, was available for an additional fee. Live music, Sunday Brunch, and yoga were offered during the summer months. Personally, I’ll stick to off-season travel when I holiday in Europe.
Check rates online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Hotels.com.
Hotel review and photography supplied by travel destination expert Nancy D. Brown. She paid for this 1-night stay for review purposes. As always, all opinions are her own.
