SOFIA

Pl. Pius XII 4, Barcelona, Catalonia 08028, Spain

Why We Like It

While this hotel’s location is away from the city center and traditional Barcelona attractions, don’t let that dissuade you from coming. Inside this gargantuan property there are award-level restaurants, a really fun nightlife scene, and maybe the best spa in the city with treatments you have to experience to understand. On top of that, the newly renovated property has ultra-modern rooms with a bevy of solid (and free) amenities that adds an extra level of comfort to any stay. If you’re a fan of FC Barcelona, the stadium is really close by, or if you just want the best that a modern hotel can offer, this is a perfect option for high-end travelers.

Fodor's Expert Review

After a complete renovation, the newly named SOFIA hotel is now one of the most modern and stylish joints in Barcelona. It’s also one of the biggest. With more than 400 rooms, this towering behemoth is equipped with an amazing spa, large pool, incredible F&B outlets, and insanely beautiful views. Now considered a lifestyle hotel, a young and creative clientele can stay here and be endlessly entertained, well fed, liquored up, and totally pampered. It might be a little far from the city center, but with all the renovations, it’s worth making the trip.

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Room

Super modern rooms are split into various categories like Harmony, Sphere, and Infinity. And while they’re all different, they have many things in common like white marble or polished hardwood floors, sleek and minimalist furnishings, and uber comfy beds. State-of-the-art technology controls every aspect as buttons raise and lower curtains and set the temperature control. All rooms come with Nespresso machines and bottled water and there are smart TVs and pillow menus as well.

Tip There’s sort of a hotel within the hotel here. The Wish Suites are on the top floors, have their own private club lounge, butler service, and their own private reception.

Bathroom

Modernity extends into the bathrooms with motion sensor lights, back-lit circular mirrors, peekaboo rain showers (not for the prude), and plush robes and slippers. Suites have standalone sunken tubs and all bath products are by Natura Bissé.

Lobby

The jaw-dropping lobby is a precursor for all things at this hotel. Geodesic ceilings give trippy reflections off the mirrored pillars and hanging art pieces. White slate floors contrast well with the jungle-level of foliage strewn throughout. It’s more of a waiting area than a hangout, but you’ll find a number of the F&B outlets off the lobby floor.

Pool

A total oasis, the lap-worthy pool is open from May-September and resembles a tropical paradise with palm fronds and blue loungers surrounding the reflective water. There’s a pool bar and lunch area that are also active during summer months.

Spa

The spa is one of the most stunning parts of this hotel. In this expansive space are eight treatment cabins (two for couples), hot and cold plunge pools, a giant hammam, sauna and steam rooms, green day beds, a salt cave, experience showers, and more. You could spend hours here and forget about touring Barcelona entirely (might be worth it).

You Should Know The first time you visit the spa it’s free. After that, it’s 45 Euros, which is a total bummer.

Gym

Open 24/7, the gym is bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and giant mirrors. Every type of workout equipment is here including TechnoGym machines, free weights, yoga mats, rowing machines, etc.

Dining

Gastronomy is a huge focus of the newly redesigned hotel and there’s a lot to show for it. First is Philosofia, a bookish café that’s literally lined with book shelves, and serves piping hot coffee and fresh pastries daily. The space is also used for lectures, book readings, and other events. Next is 1MPAR, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and serves a wide range of international and Mediterranean cuisine. Finally there’s Sofia Be So, a haute cuisine space for lunch and dinner that’s an intimate dining experience with experimental dishes using all local and seasonal products.

Drinking

Sofia Bar is a classy and refined spot with a chic circular bar and stunning ceiling displays. This cozy nook is open late and also home to the hotel’s delightful afternoon tea. For a wilder night, head down to the hotel basement where you’ll find Zuu. Baked in deep reds and cryptic skulls on the walls, Zuu is a live dinner experience with cabaret dancers, live music, and more in an exceptionally sexy and flirty space.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

The hotel resides in the Les Corts neighborhood on the northwest side of the city. Though it’s far from the center, this shouldn’t be a deterrent as there are still loads of great things to see and do in the immediate vicinity (like going to a FC Barcelona match!). If you do want to get to the center, there are two metro stops across the street and a tram that runs along Avinguda Diagonal.

Restaurants

You might not necessarily think of Indian food when you’re here, but there happens to be a stellar Michelin-rated spot called Shanti (11-minute tram) that’s just up the street. For more Michelin dining, this one with one star, check out Via Veneto (13-minute tram) which serves traditional Catalan with inventive twists.

Bars

Fans of original cocktails should hail a taxi and ride over to Konbe (6-minute drive), which also has live music and comedy (hope you understand Catalan). For beer lovers, head over to El Tap (10-minute tram) which has loads of options on (yes) tap.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 93-508–1000