The Bar/Lounge at Hotel Espana Ramblas

"The modernista icon has been sumptuously restored, and the gem-like interior – colourful tiles, bright mosaics, sculpted marble, iron swirls and marine motifs – has no equal in Barcelona"

"Or take a seat at the curvaceous alabaster fireplace as you sip a nightcap in the Bar Arnau"

"The decorative and sculptural detail is remarkable: don't miss the alabaster fireplace in the bar lounge, by Eusebio Arnau, and the undersea motif murals in the breakfast room by Ramon Casas, a pioneer of Modernisme and co-founder of the art salon Els Quatre Gats"

"There's a small plunge pool and sun deck on the roof terrace, along with a bar"

"A rooftop pool and bar is open in the warmer months"

"Since the revamp, the public spaces at the España have been embraced by locals, who pop by Bar Arnau for an expertly made whiskey sour or a glass of cava before heading to the opera, or for a taste of Martín Berasategui's sturdy Catalan food at the Fonda España"

"Pleasant lounge area with some historical details, plus comfortable, albeit rather small guestrooms with a contemporary design"

"Air-conditioning is fierce, and high-tech amenities include flat-screen cable TVs along the walls, Nespresso machines, iPod docking stations and minibars stocked with free non-alcoholic refreshments"