Madrid and Barcelona are famous for their history—Gothic quarters, centuries-old plazas, and cathedrals that took 200 years to build. But there is another side to Spain: a design scene so cutting-edge it makes New York look tired.
For the traveler who appreciates sleek lines over stone arches, the “Urban Design Hotel” is the only choice.
At The Expat Tours, we know that after a day of walking on 14th-century cobblestones, you don’t want a creaky floorboard. You want acoustic silence, curated art, and a shower that remembers your temperature settings.
1. The Sky-High Social Club (Rooftops)
In Spain, life happens on the roof. In Madrid and Barcelona, a hotel is only as good as its terraza.
The Scene: We don’t book hotels with “viewing platforms.” We book hotels with destinations. Think infinity plunge pools in the Gothic Quarter and resident DJs spinning deep house while the sun dips behind the mountains.
The Velvet Rope: In summer, the best rooftops (like The Barcelona EDITION or Madrid’s Círculo) have lines down the block. As a guest, you are the VIP. You skip the velvet rope and walk straight to the reserved sunset table.
2. The Ultimate Luxury: Silence
Spanish cities are vibrant, electric, and famously loud. The hallmark of a true luxury hotel here isn’t the gold taps; it’s the soundproofing.
The Oasis: You might be staying directly on the Gran Vía or Passeig de Gràcia—the absolute center of the action. But the moment you step into the lobby, the city volume drops to zero.
The Aesthetic: We favor the “Japandi” style popular in modern Spanish design—warm oak, natural stone, neutral tones, and bathrooms that feel like personal spas. It is a visual detox from the chaotic energy outside.
3. Art You Can Sleep In
Forget generic landscape paintings bolted to the wall. The hotels in our collection act as galleries for the city’s thriving art scene.
Living Gallery: In our Barcelona properties, you might find oversized sculptures in the atrium. In Madrid, your room key often grants you access to a private library of TASCHEN art books and design journals.
The Crowd: These aren’t just places to sleep; they are hubs for the local creative class. You are just as likely to see a fashion shoot in the lobby as you are a tourist map.
4. Strategic Positioning
We choose Design Hotels for the “Power Traveler” who wants to be in the mix.
In Madrid: You are in the Barrio de Salamanca or Justicia, steps from the “Triangle of Art” (Prado, Thyssen, and Reina Sofia museums) but surrounded by high-end boutiques.
In Barcelona: You are in the Eixample, positioned perfectly between the luxury shopping of Diagonal and the historic labyrinth of the Gothic Quarter.
Sleep in Style
Experience the modern pulse of Spain.
???? The “City Slicker” Welcome Book your Urban Design stay with us, and we kick things off properly. We include a complimentary welcome cocktail at the rooftop bar upon arrival because the best way to get your bearings is with a gin & tonic in hand, looking down at the skyline.
