Catalonia Portal de l'Ángel

A sensitively updated 19th-century palace in the thick of Barcelona, set around a handsome interior courtyard and marble staircase. Behind the restored neoclassical facade, rooms are smartly done in contemporary style with grey or beige velvet pillows, writing desks and tea/coffee kits. Those at the back have balconies, while a small pool, gardens and a glassed-in breakfast pagoda grace the quiet terrace.