Hotel España Ramblas

This accommodation was one of the worst experiences we have had for a long time. Our room did not even come close to the pictures - it was cramped and dark, with just enough room for the bed. The internet would not work and the TV would not switch on. The building used cheap materials in poor condition, with old wood panelling and furniture, and it looked unclean and neglected. Despite being close to the main road, even the staff advised against strolling around the local side streets at night! The worst thing was the staff's discourteous and apathetic attitude. We had requested a twin room for my father and I as we had said it was our birthday trip, yet they gave us a double room on both occasions, despite promising to change it or at least separate the beds. Every time we questioned it, the staff provided one word replies with no politeness. This was for nearly 300€! We would not advise this place to anyone who wants to simply relax and not worry.

This hotel was outstanding! The family room was really nice with room service and daily cleaning, while the breakfast buffet was absolutely superb. The pool deck and bar had wonderful food and drinks, and the location couldn't have been better; just steps away from the shops and eateries of Las Ramblas.

The location was absolutely ideal, and the common area was stunning. The pool and deck on the upper floor were a great way to cool down after a hot day. Unfortunately, the staff were not the friendliest, which we've found to be a common thing in Europe compared to Australian service standards. The hotel restaurant was not open and breakfast was quite basic. The rooms were very small and basic, and the walls were so thin we could hear everything - from conversations to someone's alarm going off in another room!

This place looks great from the outside, but unfortunately, reality is far from it. The service here is quite poor, and the overall quality of the hotel fails to meet expectations for the price you are asked to pay. The building itself is beautiful, but the actual rooms are quite unappealing and very basic. The breakfast is quite average, and the staff don't seem to be at all motivated. Even having to ask for the rooftop pool to be opened is a sign of how the staff are not on top of things. Unfortunately, my stay here was only one night, and it certainly wasn't cheap. Even the essentials in the room, such as the tea and coffee, were of extremely low quality. The shower cubicle looked nice, but the fixtures and fittings were flimsy and I was scared to touch them in case they fell off. It's a real shame that this place, which looks like it could be amazing, ended up being so disappointing.

This hotel has a great deal to offer. To start with, its location is unbeatable: a few steps away from the buzzing La Rambla street, and right next to the Gothic quarter, with plenty of restaurants within walking distance. The personnel are truly top-notch, with Marta and Luis at the front desk going above and beyond. The rooms are typical of big European cities, however, very limited in space and without anywhere to sit other than the bed. The sliding door between the bathroom and bedroom did not work, and its step-in-tub and lack of anti-slip treatments as well as grab bars make it an unsafe option for elderly guests or those with limited mobility. Yet, the overall decor is very attractive, with Barcelonian vibes. The breakfast is amazing, though the restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. There is also a bar with some snacks available on the top floor, as well as a small pool. All in all, I would very much like to come back here, provided that the safety issues in the bathrooms are addressed.