Barcelona has an eclectic mix of hotels, from ultra modern five star hotels to atmospheric boutique hotels in medieval buildings. Where you stay depends very much where you plan to propose and what you want to do during your stay. Most people choose a hotel in downtown Barcelona, while some prefer to stay in the historic Gothic Quarter. You could also stay a little out of town if you’d like to get away from the crowds.

Where to Stay in Downtown Barcelona

If you’d like modern luxury in the center of the city, the Hotel Rey Juan Carlos I is a fabulous choice. It is located on the Avinguda Diagonal, one of the main avenues in Barcelona that crosses the city diagonally from west to east. The hotel benefits from views over the city and every modern luxury, as well as tranquil Mediterranean gardens and outdoor pools.

Just off the Avinguda Diagonal, the Hotel Omm, located on the Paseo de Gracia, is a very modern and stylish choice, with light and airy bedrooms providing direct access to the rooftop terrace with pool and bar. Another hotel with a rooftop pool in the same area is the Hotel Casa Fuster, an incredible restored modernist building with a fantastic reputation for service, luxury, and romance.

On the other side of the Avinguda Diagonal, in the Eixample close to Las Ramblas, the Praktik Rambla is a stylish boutique hotel that features modern design concepts and a relaxing terrace, at a more affordable price than many hotels in the area.

Where to Stay in the Gothic Quarter

There are plenty of fantastic boutique hotels to choose from in the Gothic Quarter, and one of the most atmospheric is the Hotel Neri, a former medieval palace on the Placa Sant Felip Neri. As well as warm colors and natural materials, music plays a large part in the ambiance of the Hotel Neri.

Another great choice in the Gothic Quarter is the H10 Montcada, built in the neoclassical style that is typical of the Via Laietana Avenue. The modern interior makes it a comfortable place to stay and the rooftop terrace with jacuzzi and fabulous views is a great place to unwind.

Only a few minutes walk from the Gothic Quarter, the Duquesa de Cardona hotel is located in front of the Port Moll de la Fusta. The sixteenth century building has been carefully restored to provide modern comfort without losing the original feel of this truly romantic location. The terrace provides one of the best views of the harbor in Barcelona.

Where to Stay on the Outskirts of Barcelona

If you’re planning to propose on Mount Tibidabo, one of the best places to stay would be the Gran Hotel La Florida, a luxury hotel built in the 1920s which houses a fantastic collection of art alongside a superb spa and restaurants. The hotel is located on Tibidabo itself and all the rooms have fantastic views over Barcelona or the Pyrenees and you can book a suite with a private terrace.

If you’d like to stay right on the waterfront in Barcelona, the Arts Hotel, a Ritz Carlton hotel located right on the Marina, is a fabulous choice. As well as an open air pool and jacuzzi, a luxurious spa, and a selection of boutiques and restaurants, the Arts Hotel has a fabulous view of the Port Olimpic and the Mediterranean Ocean.

Catalan cuisine is often quite distinct from Mediterranean cuisine in general, and there is an emphasis on pork based dishes with sauces or stews and local vegetables such as eggplant, artichoke, and tomato. Because Barcelona is located on the coast, you will also find fabulous seafood, often cooked with rice to form delicious risottos. There are plenty of wonderful restaurants in Barcelona whether you’re looking for Michelin starred gastronomy or a cozy romantic hideaway that is popular with the locals.

Cinc Sentits is a well known Michelin starred restaurant in the Eixample area serving contemporary Catalan cuisine made with the freshest local ingredients. There is no a la carte menu, but a selection of modern tasting menus, and advance reservations are advised.

Gaig is another fantastic option in the Eixample area with a Michelin star, and is well known for combining traditional cuisine with innovative methods. The cosy red interior is very romantic, which complements the excellent menu.

Els Pescadors is one of the best seafood restaurants in Barcelona, and would be idea for those considering a proposal around Poblenou and Placa Prim. You can choose to eat in the old tavern, the modern dining room, or outside on the terrace.

Can Majo is another excellent family run seafood restaurant on the sea front in the Barceloneta area of Barcelona, often known as the Sailor’s district. The Carnorali Risotto with truffles and lobster is certainly worth a try.

Pla is a cosy romantic choice in the Gothic Quarter, located on Bellafila Street, and is perfect for those looking for candle lit intimacy. It serves mainly Mediterranean cuisine, but incorporates influences from other cultures.

Gardunya is the best known restaurant in Barcelona’s covered market, La Boqueria. While it may not be luxurious, the food is absolutely fantastic and it’s a real taste of Barcelona as all the ingredients come straight from the market each day. An ideal spot for lunch.

Restaurant Abac, part of the hotel of the same name, is located in the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi area of Barcelona, and would be a great choice for dinner following a Park Guell proposal. Holder of two Michelin stars, this restaurant is a gastronomic experience not to be missed.

Torre d’Alta Mar is located 75 meters above the sea in an iconic watch tower, which has been converted into an avante-garde restaurant offering superb views and traditional Mediterranean cuisine. This is a fantastic place for a romantic evening overlooking the lights of Barcelona.

Once your Barcelona proposal has had the desired result and your girlfriend has become your fiancée, you’ll want to continue the romantic theme of your vacation. Here are a few romantic activities you could include in your trip.

• Take a walk on Las Ramblas and don’t forget to buy your fiancée some flowers
• Get lost together in the famous Laberint d’Horta and look for the statue of Eros
• Book an early morning hot air balloon ride from Montseny Natural Park
• Stroll around the Boqueria Market to see the best of Catalonian products all in one place
• See the opera at the Gran Teatre del Liceu, or less formally at Palau Dalmases
• Visit the impressive Museum of Modern Art and the Picasso Museum
• Hire a pedalo and take a spin on the lake at Parc Ciutadella
• Climb aboard a horse and carriage ride at end of Las Ramblas at Portal de la Pau