The hype
Travelers love the modern design and epic views but are divided on the location—some find it peaceful, others feel isolated.
Tembo Barcelona
$115-250/ night
Book this if You want a spacious, modern apartment with a killer view and don't mind a 20-minute tram ride to the Gothic Quarter.
Why People Love It
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic sea or city views
- Spacious rooms with kitchenettes (rare for Barcelona hotels)
- Rooftop infinity pool with a bar that feels like a beach club
Quick Take: It's a glossy, high-rise oasis on the edge of a gritty neighborhood, offering space you'd never get in the city center.
Reviewed by @conciergekate: I felt like a wealthy local staying here. The apartment-style layout gave me so much space, and sipping coffee on that terrace while looking out at the Barcelona skyline was the highlight of my trip. Definitely requesting a high floor next time!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are not 'steps away' from Las Ramblas; you are a commuter now.
- You are traveling with family and need a separate bedroom and kitchen
- You prefer a modern, American-style hotel experience over quirky historic buildings
- You are attending a conference at the CCIB (it's right next door)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily service is generally praised, though some long-stay guests note missed details like dusting under beds.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Modern grout and glass are well-maintained.
- Maintenance: The building is new, so everything works, though elevator logic can be glitchy.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, but towels can be on the smaller side.
- Odors & scents: Mostly fresh, with occasional reports of a 'musty' smell in hallways or lobby areas.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street noise on lower levels
- Hallway noise due to heavy doors
Before you book
Good to know
- The T4 tram stop (El Maresme | Fòrum) is your lifeline; buy a T-mobilitat card immediately.
- There is a massive Diagonal Mar shopping mall 5 minutes away for groceries and essentials.
- Luggage storage is available, but double-check if there's a fee for long-term holding.
What to pack
- Dishwasher tablets (starter pack provided, but bring extras if staying long)
- Pool slides for the rooftop
- A light jacket for the windy rooftop terrace
Room Genie
Best picks
- Panoramic Suites (10th floor and up) for unobstructed sea or city views
- 2-Bedroom Apartments for families needing real separation
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floor rooms facing the street (less privacy, more noise)
- Rooms near the elevator banks if you're a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on the 10th floor or higher, preferably a 'Panoramic' unit facing the sea for the best view and reduced street noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
No, the rooftop infinity pool is unheated and seasonal. It's refreshing in summer but strictly for viewing in winter.
Is the neighborhood safe?
Generally yes, but it borders La Mina, which has a rough reputation. The walk to the tram and mall is safe, but avoid wandering into the residential blocks inland at night.
How far is the city center?
About 20-25 minutes by Metro (L4 yellow line) or Tram (T4). It's not walkable to the main tourist sites.
Is there a kitchen in every room?
Yes, all studios and apartments come with a kitchenette including a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher.
Do I have to clean the kitchen?
Yes. If you leave dirty dishes or a mess, you will be charged a €100 cleaning fee. This is strictly enforced.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no, unless booked in a package. It costs around €25 per adult and is a large buffet spread.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Tembo Family Club' offers a massive indoor play area and brunch spot perfect for tiring out toddlers.
- ✨
You can smoke on the 17th-floor terrace, but doing so on your room balcony carries a €300 fine.
- ✨
Skip the hotel taxi service for the airport; a standard cab hailed from the street or an Uber is often cheaper.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators can be maddeningly slow during the morning rush—allow 10 extra minutes.
💡The 'Sea View' sometimes includes a view of a construction site or industrial lot in the foreground.
💡There is a smell of 'damp mop' or mustiness occasionally reported in the public corridors.
💡The deposit is steep (€50/night), so make sure you have credit limit available.
💡You are right next to the incinerator plant (visible from some rooms), though it doesn't usually smell.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Tembo Barcelona is located and what's nearby.