Hotel Casa Fuster

Passeig de Gràcia 132, Barcelona, Catalonia 08008, Spain
Fodor's Choice
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Why We Like It

This hotel is old-fashioned luxury at its finest and from the moment you arrive you’ll feel like you’re being taken back to an age of refinement - with loads of Art Nouveau touches. Inside, the luxurious surroundings are wrapped in Modernist details as the whole building was designed by an architectural master. Service is of the highest level here and anything can be arranged from the expertly trained staff. The best thing at this hotel is its jazz nights, where on Tuesday the café comes alive with live music masters who play for locals and tourists alike.

Fodor's Expert Review

In a former house that was actually built by Antoní Gaudí’s teacher, Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this opulent, five-star hotel dates to 1908 and is the epitome of old-world class, luxury, and Modernist design. As you’re met outside by men in top hats and tails, you’re shuffled into a regal palace with marble floors and columns, arched ceilings, and high-end service. As a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, you can expect the best of everything from the dining and drinking to the ample amenities.

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Room

Though every room in the hotel is slightly different (the law only allows so much renovation in historically preserved properties), what is similar in all is hardwood floors, balcony views, light blue wallpaper, and maple wood furnishings. Nespresso pods and bottles of water are changed out daily and you’ll also find plush slippers and super convenient outlets by the beds.

Bathroom

Depending on category, you’ll see separate baths and showers or a combo of the two. Sinks, floors, and walls are all marble and Chopard bath products come standard. Other bonuses include Jacuzzis and bidets – but again, depending on category.

Lobby

The majestic lobby has original marble floors, stone pillars, arched ceilings, and is a stunning example of Art Nouveau design. It’s more of a waiting area, but you can ogle the architectural mastery while you sit in Gaudí designed chairs.

Pool

There’s a small rectangular pool on the roof that’s only open in the summer. Stunning views of Passeig de Gràcia reach all the way to water.

Spa

A spa is alleged to be coming soon, but at the moment there’s only a sauna on the roof if you want to sweat out your stresses.

Gym

Open 24/7, the gym has Life Fitness machines, free weights, apples, and water and sits atop hardwood floors and has ample natural light.

Dining

There is a surprising amount of dining outlets here. The best is probably Galaxo, which serves modern Mediterranean cuisine for lunch and dinner. The most interesting however is Café Vienés, a bumping spot that’s been in operation for more than 85 years and features live jazz that was actually started by Woody Allen. The Café has set menus on jazz nights that includes the price of admission.

Drinking

On the roof by the pool is Terrassa Mirador and is open from March to October (weather pending) for classic cocktails. But if you’re going to drink here, head to Café Vienés on Thursdays for jazz nights. Woody Allen performed here while filming Vicky Cristina Barcelona and from that moment on, live music was part of the hotel. Tickets cost 19 Euros and that includes a drink, or you can get a tasting menu for dinner which includes the tickets.

Tip The rooftop terrace also has live music on Sundays during summer months.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

Casa Fuster is in the Raval neighborhood, just north of Eixample which is dissected by Avinguda Diagonal which cuts across the entire city. This quiet and safe neighborhood has posh restaurants and bars and the hotel sits at the top of Passeig de Gràcia which is the nicest shopping street in town. Although it’s a little far from the city center, the closest metro is only five-minutes away and can get you there quickly. Taxis are always right outside the hotel if you want to get around by car.

Restaurants

A favorite amongst locals and tourists for tapas and vermouth is Bar Mut (4-minute walk), a casual joint just around the corner. If you love seafood, you can find some of the best and freshest fish at PUR (6-minute walk).

Bars

Boca Chica (6-minute walk) is a chic bar with an incredible cocktail program. For gin lovers, one of the best bars is Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar (2-minute walk) that is right around the corner from the hotel.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 93-255–3000