Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel GL

We opted for a family suite to spend a low-key two nights before taking a cruise from Barcelona. The room was roomy and suited our family of four. We had lunch at the restaurant, which was alright but quite expensive. We hoped to spend a relaxing afternoon at the pool, yet when we arrived, a large group had just come in turning it into a very rambunctious 18-30s setting with many people smoking and clearly inebriated. Our 6 and 9 year old felt scared and we had to leave. No attempt was made by the hotel to remediate the situation to make it more family-friendly, and to make matters worse, our kids' much-anticipated afternoon was ruined. If you have young children, our advice would be to look elsewhere for a place to stay - this hotel seems to prioritize large groups of inebriated party-goers over families.

The overall experience was terrible. When asked for an early check-in, we were told they "would try". We ended up entering our room after the guaranteed check-in time. When we got the keys, we only got access to one room instead of two, and had to make another trip to the lobby. Additionally, room service couldn't take our order correctly, so we had to go ask in person. We waited over an hour for basic food as well. We were told breakfast was included at check-in, then when we went down the next morning, that was not the case. We were overcharged for a suite room, expecting breakfast that never arrived. The service was appalling, and we won't be returning. Avoid this place at all costs.

This place was lovely. The highlight was definitely the Director/Manager, Ricardo Silvestre, who I originally believed to be a concierge. He had the most incredible customer service; a real beacon of hospitality! Most of the front desk staff were also really accommodating and kind. The accommodation was neat and tidy. I really wish I had opted for the breakfast buffet - I'll need to remember that for next time!

I have neglected to review following my first visit last summer. I had read mixed reviews before booking but booked anyway as I wanted a room with a balcony and a view. I was not disappointed, I was actually amazed. I have traveled widely and stayed in some great hotels but I have never had a room with a view this magnificent. Most city hotels, no matter how luxurious, cannot offer a view like this. I will post one of the many photos I took from my balcony. But first as to some of the negative comments. Yes it is a "convention/conference style" hotel. It is big and a little impersonal. The common areas are not grand, but nice nonetheless. That said, I found the check-in staff to be excellent. I did not interact with many staff, again that is part of the nature of a large hotel like this, except the front desk and, mostly, the bartenders at the second floor bar who had to tolerate this ice-loving American bothering them daily for ice. They did so with a smile. The location, literally above the water and adjacent to the port and the conference center, is both great and sometimes less so, but only for short amounts of time. Why? Great because, again, the views are breathtaking, especially if you like ports, ships, ferries, etc like I do. The downside is that it can get a little smoky at times outside and especially on the rooftop bar when ships are departing and ships often dock literally adjacent to the hotel. I also read about cleanliness issues but I did not experience any concern with cleanliness. My room was perfectly clean and in great condition. I splurged for a Grand Suite on this visit and I am glad I did. The room was modern and well equipped with a great bathroom, a wonderful bed, an amazing terrace and, I'll say it again, the most amazing views one can imagine. The room was larger than one person could really take advantage of but the view was worth it. The location, which gives it such views, is pretty great if you are a good walker. It is a fairly short walk to the base of La Rambla but nothing, except a really tasty cafe, is actually nearby. Bikes can be rented nearby and the location to start a bike ride is perfect. If you are willing to trade being slightly away from the main tourist areas (which can also be a GREAT thing), you will more than make up for it with the views from this Port Vell location. Breathtaking. I will return as soon as I can.

Staying at this 5 star accommodation in Europe proved to be one of our best experiences ever. We arrived at the location for my husband's business conference, and were delighted to find that the room was spacious, quiet and the bed was incredibly comfortable. The shower was luxurious, and the cleaning staff checked in with us multiple times to make sure our stay was satisfactory. There was complimentary water in the room, and we explored the rooftop bar where we had a stunning view and some delightful octopus and croquettes. We got to meet other guests from the UK and Switzerland, and all the staff spoke English extremely well - which proved to be a great help (I only speak a little Spanish). Breakfast was a great selection, and the lunch and appetizers during the conference were superb - including colourful buns on sliders. The location was great too, easily walkable to La Ramblas and Port Vell. Commuting to the train station was 15 Euros, and the airport 28 Euros. We would definitely stay here again, and recommend it to others.