Radisson Blu 1882 Hotel, Barcelona Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

Pros

• The location is just two blocks from Plaça de la Sagrada Família and its famed masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí—a perfect spot if you're planning an early visit to the monument.
• The lodging's common spaces feel cozy and local despite being managed by a big hotel chain. 
• The rooftop terrace features views of Sagrada Família, a bar with trendy seating, sun loungers, and an outdoor pool.
• The on-site restaurant serves meals all day, including a breakfast buffet, and three bars serve drinks and snacks. 
• Guests can enjoy a free guided walk through the Eixample neighborhood.
• On-site parking is a convenient perk.
• Zip around the city with the property's bike program, which only requires a refundable deposit. 

Cons

• It's a chain hotel, so some in-room decor is bland.
• The pool is small and gets crowded in summer.
• There's no spa on-site.
• The rooftop bar closes comparatively early.

It's not often I want to recommend a large hotel, but this lodging offers authentic shared spaces and one of the best views in the city. If you prefer a smaller property, at least stop here to enjoy the rooftop terrace with its picture-perfect view of Sagrada Família. Sip a drink and relax on the cozy bench with rows of plants as your backdrop and the historic spires before you. 

Authenticity

The rooftop views and common areas give this big-name hotel charm and authenticity. There aren't many properties near Sagrada Família offering a comfortable stay, but this hotel does it while providing leafy seating areas that provide relaxing Barcelona vibes. Plus, you'll be in the Eixample neighborhood, where you can enjoy the city's signature block architecture. 

Location

Surprisingly, there aren't many recommendable hotels near Sagrada Família, but Hotel Barcelona 1882 is just down the street from the city's iconic monument. A quick five-minute walk takes you to the Plaça de la Sagrada Família, so this is the ideal spot for avoiding the crowds and enjoying an early-morning visit to the church. A 20-minute walk in the other direction leads to Casa Milà and Passeig de Gràcia, but you'll also be near the metro for easy access to other big sites. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms are spacious, modern, and comfortable, taking on the look of other Radisson hotels. All have air-conditioning, minifridges, and desks. Keep in mind that some face an inner courtyard, so ask for a street-facing room if you prefer slightly better views. Family rooms have sofabeds in a slightly separated area, though groups or those with older kids can request connecting rooms, too. 

Amenities

The hotel's big highlight is the rooftop, with its trendy bar, direct views of the Sagrada Família, sun deck, and outdoor pool. The hotel has over 4,000 plants, including an 861-square-foot (80 square meters) vertical ecosystem on the rooftop terrace that filters dust and generates oxygen. The on-site gym is open 24/7.
The hotel offers free guided tours of the neighborhood and complimentary use of bicycles. 

Family-Friendliness

The hotel is family-friendly, and kids aged 0 to 11 stay for free. They'll receive a welcome pack with books, quizzes, activities, crayons, a free drink coupon, and a passport to collect stamps at various locations throughout the hotel. The restaurant offers kid-friendly dishes. Kids' bath products are provided. Families will enjoy the hotel's free guided tours of the neighborhood and the complimentary bikes provided.

Other Highlights

The hotel has several dining and drinking venues. A great breakfast buffet (with made-to-order omelets) is served in El Bosc restaurant. Adjacent to the restaurant is El Bosc Terrace Bar, serving drinks and snacks. In the hotel's lobby, Bobo Bar serves wine and beer alongside modern Catalan dishes. El Cel Bar is on the hotel's rooftop. A favorite of locals and tourists, it offers sweeping views and an extensive list of drinks and cocktails daily from 10 am to 9 pm.