Barcelona has a variety of accommodations, from polished, newly-built hotels to contemporary designs and classic styles, grandeur and lavish luxury – hotels with rooftop pools, stunning views, nightclubs, fitness centers, spas and internationally acclaimed chefs.

Barcelona has experienced a luxury hotel boom in the past 3 years, and the choice of 4 and 5 star hotels in the city centre and surrounding areas can offer accommodation to the most discerning visitor. International hotel chains have established themselves in the city with interiors designed by some of the finest renowned architects, setting Barcelona firmly on the map for contemporary styles and unique architecture. Here are just a few of the most famous hotels to look out for.

A beautiful ocean view hotel, the Hotel W is affectionately known by the locals as LA VELA. Designed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill, it has been designed to resemble a gigantic glass sail of a boat. Born in Barcelona in 1939, Bofill is well-known for his architectural structures that act in harmony with different local cultures; amongst his creations are The Shiseido headquarters in Tokyo and the headquarters for Cartier and Christian Dior in Paris.

Located at the beach at the end of La Barceloneta, the hotel has 27 floors, 473 rooms, including 67 suites, with contemporary interiors and bathrooms featuring rainfall showers. There is also a wellness spa, 2 swimming pools, and bars and restaurants that offer sunset views overlooking the beaches and cityscape. Eclipse is a rooftop bar on the 26th-floor rooftop bar, and the restaurant, Bravo 24, is managed by Michelin-Star winner and acclaimed Catalan chef, Carles Abellan.

The Mandarin Oriental is a recently opened first-rate hotel situated on the prestigious Passeig de Gràcia and possibly the most expensive hotel in Barcelona. Located in an elegant mid 20th century building, its luxury interior was designed by Spanish born designer Patricia Urquiola. The lobby space is a spectacular sight with its soaring ceilings, large scale metal space dividers, lush foliage hanging at different levels and fanciful furnishings. The design is bold and fresh with the space divided up into separate areas, offering intimate corners for conversation.

The Mandarin has 98 rooms and suites with highly sophisticated in-room entertainment systems and the latest technology. The spa offers a wide range of holistic rituals plus its own signature programmes created exclusively by the hotel, the in-house restaurant 'Moments' is run by the multi Michelin starred chef Carme Ruscalleda, and the elegant Banker's Bar is a popular place for people to meet up. If you decide to book a few nights at this lavish hotel, take advantage of the mild Mediterranean weather and al fresco dining in the hotel's spectacular Mimosa garden or relax by Terrat's rooftop dipping pool with views over the city's famous architectural skyline.

Located conveniently on the Rambla del Raval is Barcelo, with panoramic views of the city and outstanding for its distinctive oval structure and avant-garde interior design. Staying at the Barcelo is likened to 'being suspended high above the city' as you look down at the view through floor to ceiling glass windows. Considerable thought has been given to every detail, with innovative materials and the latest technologies smoothly incorporated into the stylish décor.

Hotel Me Barcelona is a retro glass tower situated in the 22@ district on Diagonal Avenue at Pere IV, between the Glories Plaza and the Forum area. Its unique design by French architect Dominique Perrault has made the most of the city views and its design is contemporary, electrifying and Victorian, with vintage style décor and furniture. Crystal candelabra have created a modern, romantic and unique atmosphere.

Angel's & King's Club is a dynamic union between ME hotels, musician Pete Wentz, Crush Management, Stephen Westman and Matt Eiles, making this a top exclusive social venue in the city. Guests can relax on the large terrace beside the open-air pool with its stunning views.

An alternative to hotel accommodation is to rent an apartment in the city. Luxury apartments can be found in all the fashionable areas and within walking distance to the popular sights and nighttime entertainment. Choose an apartment according to your requirements - design and luxury, near the beach, with terrace, open-plan living areas and cooking facilities. Just look online for a selection. With prices starting from 50€/per/night an apartment offers a much more economical choice