Book this if You want high-end Japanese minimalism and a killer rooftop pool without the chaotic noise of the Gothic Quarter.
Why People Love It
The rooftop pool is the highest in Barcelona with 360-degree views
Directly across from Sants Station (perfect for high-speed trains to Madrid/Paris)
Soundproofed rooms that actually block out the city buzz
Quick Take: It’s a sexy, high-design tower stranded in a transit hub—perfect for train travelers, less so for beach bums.
Reviewed by @wherejesstravels: I honestly didn't want to leave my room—the floor-to-ceiling windows frame Barcelona like a painting. Having fresh sashimi while watching the sunset over the Sagrada Familia was the highlight of my trip. It’s the perfect spot if you want luxury with a serious view.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
The hype
Travelers rave about the comfortable beds and the stunning views from upper floors, but many feel the location is 'soulless' compared to the city center.
Reality check
You will likely need to take a taxi or metro to get to the main tourist sights like Sagrada Familia or the beach.
You have an early train from Sants Station
You value silence and blackout curtains over historic charm
You love the Nobu aesthetic (concrete, wood, mood lighting)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.1
Housekeeping: Daily service is consistent and thorough; very few complaints about missed spots.
Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Marble surfaces and glass showers are kept streak-free.
Maintenance: Excellent. The property was renovated recently (2019), so fixtures are modern and functional.
Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp white linens; towels are plush and replaced daily.
Odors & scents: Lobby smells of signature Nobu scent (citrus/wood); rooms are neutral and fresh.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
Hallway noise (doors closing)
HVAC hum (minor)
Before you book
Good to know
City tax is ~€6-7 per person per night, payable at check-in.
The main entrance is grand, but the immediate surrounding streets can feel gritty at night.
Breakfast is excellent but pricey (~€40); plenty of local cafes nearby for a fraction of the cost.
What to pack
European power adapter (Type C/F)
Swimsuit for the rooftop (if visiting May-Oct)
Earplugs (just in case, though soundproofing is good)
Room Genie
Best picks
Premium Skyline Room (Floors 12-22) for unobstructed views of the Sagrada Familia
Sake Suite for corner views and extra living space
Rooms to avoid
Deluxe City Rooms on floors 3-11 (views are of the station roof/street)
Rooms near the elevator bank (can be noisy with foot traffic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a 'Skyline' category room on the highest possible floor, facing the Sagrada Familia if available. Please avoid rooms directly adjacent to the elevator.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool open year-round?
No, it is seasonal (typically May to October) and weather-dependent.
Is it walkable to the beach?
No. It is a 15-20 minute taxi or 30-minute metro ride to Barceloneta Beach.
Does the hotel have parking?
Yes, there is on-site parking for roughly €26/day, which is reasonable for Barcelona.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no, unless you book a specific package. It costs around €40 per person.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, it is dog-friendly (up to 30kg) for a fee of €50 per night.
Is the area safe?
Yes, Sants is safe, but it is a busy transit hub, so keep an eye on pockets and bags outside.
Insider Tips
✨
The 'Kozara' bar in the lobby serves excellent snacks if you don't want to splurge on the main Nobu restaurant.
✨
Ask for a 'Turndown Service' specifically if you want evening water and refresh; it's not always automatic.
✨
Use the Sants Station 'Dragon' entrance for the quickest walk to the hotel.
5 things to know before you go
💡The hotel is a rebrand of the old 'Gran Hotel Torre Catalunya'—the bones are 1970s, but the skin is 2020s luxury.
💡The pool is actually quite small—more for dipping and posing than swimming laps.
💡You can see the FC Barcelona stadium (Camp Nou) from some west-facing rooms.
💡The elevators can be slow during peak check-out times due to the tower's height.
💡The 'Shinto' style entrance gate is massive and makes for a dramatic arrival, unlike most cramped city hotels.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Nobu Hotel Barcelona is located and what's nearby.