H10 Metropolitan ★★★★ Sup

If arriving in Plaça de Catalunya feels like stepping into the middle of Barcelona’s universe, that’s because you have. All roads lead here to this irresistibly touristy mêlée of statues and fountains; from this point, you realise, you have Barcelona in the palm of your hand. But let’s not get too distracted thinking about forthcoming adventures - you meander up a smart side road to find the H10 Metropolitan **** surrounded by trendy tapas bars that spill out onto the pavement. To your right an endless string of enticing shops and restaurants stretch long into the distance – if you’re after a vibrant hub of Barcelona’s delights you can’t get better than this.

Stepping in from the cold – don’t be deceived by the bright sun and azure skies, Barcelona gets chilly – the soft lighting and burgundy velvet armchairs are an immensely welcoming sight for your travel weary muscles. While largely based on a 19th century industrial style, quirky art deco twists are woven into the fabric of the hotel creating something modern yet quintessentially Barcelona. Bespoke light fittings and fun bursts of colour bring the H10 Metropolitan **** into the 21st century while retaining its old school charm – like the silver trolley service and kind, attentive staff.

Being in the core of the city you could be forgiven for worrying about noise; yet, to your surprise, the roar of Barcelona becomes no more than a distant hum in your room, instead exuding calm thanks to the abundant use of white. Peaceful nights sleep are followed by magnificent breakfasts downstairs, where the dedicated breakfast area feels like a classic take on a hipster coffee shops (if hipster coffee shops had à la carte menus and spectacular buffets) and you prepare for a day of relentless shopping and sightseeing. The H10 Metropolitan **** may enjoy one of the most exclusive addresses in the effervescent city, but this cosmopolitan abode is ready to treat you to some well-deserved R&R!