The Bar/Lounge at Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona

"It's also surprisingly good value for money, but take a closer look and you'll notice where they've made savings: The cups in the bathrooms are paper not glass, there's a low-power hair dryer, and you'll find no minibar (although there are free-access fridges stocked with water)"

"The stylish Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona offers a great location in the buzzing El Born district, which is known for its trendy bars and cafes"

"A bargain-priced design hotel for grown-ups, the Ciutat Barcelona has soothing a contemporary look to its rooms, including chairs and light fixtures that could have come straight from the showroom at Design Within Reach"

"Not much more expensive than a pensión, the unpretentious but friendly Ciutat de Barcelona offers the facilities you would expect of a hotel, with a decent restaurant, well-staffed reception and — most importantly — a funky pool area with tables where you bring your own picnic"