Review of Meliá Barcelona Sarrià: A Serene Hotel in Barcelona

We may earn income from links in this post. Please read this Disclosure for details.

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel that’s away from the intense crowds of central Barcelona but close enough to enjoy its world-famous architecture, nightlife and exciting attractions, then you’ll want to read this review of Meliá Barcelona Sarrià.

Located in the often-overlooked district of Les Corts, near the posh Sarrià neighbourhood northwest of downtown Barcelona, this high-rise hotel has loads of luxury amenities that make it a strategic choice when visiting Barcelona.

Why We Liked The Meliá Barcelona Sarrià Location

With its nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 26 Michelin-star restaurants and leading role as a cruise port, Barcelona is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

With so much going on, finding tranquility in Barcelona can seem an impossible quest. That’s where a hotel like the Meliá Barcelona Sarrià can be a savvy choice.

I love the excitement of Europe’s large cities like Rome and Paris. But as you’ve likely guessed from my travels to villages in Puglia, Italy and windswept Azores Islands, I also like green spaces, quiet cafes and the feel of residential streets where locals live.

Set on Avenida Sarriá (Google Map) a 10-minute drive to the heart of the city, the Melià Barcelona Sarriá is close enough to soak up all the excitement of Barcelona.

Yet it’s far enough away that you can take a breath without bumping into a souvenir kiosk or a tout with an armful of selfie sticks.

It also has a local vibe. We strolled around Avinguda Diagonal (the broad boulevard that bisects Barcelona), mingling with people headed to work, lunch with friends or walking well-groomed dogs.

We relaxed at cafes and ate at local tavernas that served fantastic tapas at bargain prices.

While the neighbourhood isn’t as famous as the Gothic Quarter or El Raval, it has lots going for it.

It makes a convenient base for exploring the many things to do in Barcelona, such as taking a paella cooking class, but has its own charms and conveniences.

Quick Overview of Meliá Sarrià Hotel

Advantages

• The hotel’s location in Les Corts, a business district near the upscale, residential Sarrià neighbourhood, isn’t touristy.
• Away from the hustle and bustle of central Barcelona.
• Just 13 km to the Barcelona–El Prat Airport
• Offers good value for its spacious, modern and well appointed rooms.
• The Level offers a luxury experience.
• Recently renovated.
• Handy to attractions like the FC Barca Stadium and Camp Nou Stadium.
• It’s located near stops on the Red and Blue Routes of the double-decker Barcelona Bus Turístic.
• Less than 10 Euros by taxi to central Barcelona. Lots of taxis available nearby.
• Excellent breakfast buffet with Catalan specialties. Or, go exploring and try Nordic or Italian fare at these popular Barcelona breakfast cafes and restaurants.

Good to Know

• There’s no rooftop bar or rooftop swimming pool. But there may be one in the future if renovation plans proceed.

Hotel Layout

The Meliá Barcelona Sarrià is a modern, high-rise hotel with a contemporary decor. Many of the rooms have been recently renovated.

It has 321 guest rooms. The Level suites located on the 20th floor. Some rooms are adjoining.

Best Barcelona Hotel with a View

This high-rise hotel is set on a commanding location overlooking Barcelona which means many of the rooms have fantastic views.

Upgrade to The Level Suite category (as we were) and your suite will be on the 20th floor. From this perch you’ll enjoy panoramic views from sunrise to sunset.

Room Amenities

Our The Level suite (The Monjuic) was very spacious with a King size bed in the master and a pull-out sofa bed in the living room, which was separated by glass French doors.

The living area had its own powder room as well as a kitchen bar with a sink. It was equipped with a coffee maker, kettle, glassware and a minibar.

The master washroom featured his and hers sinks, a rain shower, a bidet and toilet as well as a jacuzzi bath and plush bathrobes.

The walk-in closet made unpacking effortless. Flat screen TVs, a dining table, coffee tables and arm chairs rounded out the modern decor.

Another memorable feature of The Level suite was the wall of windows in both the living area and bedroom.

They offered a panoramic view of the skyline of Barcelona, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.

The king-sized bed was exceptionally comfortable with premium linens and bedside tables, table lamps and connections for mobile devices.

Yhi Wellness Spa

The Yhi Wellness Spa is another welcome amenity at the Meliá Sarrià. It features a jet pool as well as a sauna and steam bath.

We didn’t have an opportunity to enjoy it as we were too busy but I took a peek inside. It looked very appealing, quite private and luxurious.

Dining and Restaurants

If you’ve upgraded to The Level you can enjoy breakfast in the swanky lounge where there’s a selection of hot and cold food items as well as specialty coffee, tea and drinks.

But you also don’t want to miss the buffet breakfast in the first floor dining space, a light-filled series of specious rooms overlooking Sarrià.

The Melia Sarrià offers one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve seen in Barcelona. There’s a wide selection of hot and cold items (with British, American and Catalan favourites) too numerous to list.

But I have to mention that the buffet includes a food station where guests can make their own pa amb tomàquet, the Catalan specialty of toasted country bread drizzled with crushed tomato and Extra Virgin Spanish Olive Oil.

On the main floor, the popular new Prezzemoto Trattoria restaurant serves artisanal pizzas, salads and house-made pasta dishes.

Prezzemoto Trattoria also features a terrace if you’re interested in some al fresco dining.

The Level Amenities

The Level lounge is on the 1st floor and conveniently shared with the gym, spa and the breakfast room.

There’s also an open bar with with cava, premium Spanish wines and the fixin’s for crafting cocktails like a Spanish Gin & Tonic.

Things to Do Nearby

1. Stroll the Neighbourhood

One of the best ways to experience the Sarrià and Les Corts districts is by taking a stroll around its picturesque boulevards and admiring the architecture.

Families with kids will enjoy visiting the Sant Gervasi Park, where they can picnic, rent bicycles and run around.

2. Sample Catalan Cuisine at a Local Taverna

One of the advantages of staying in a residential and business district rather than a tourist zone is that you can eat where locals eat. There are lots of old-school tavernas in Les Corts and Sarrià where you can find great food.

When at the Melia Sarria make time to sample Catalan food specialties such as Esqueixada de Bacalao (Catalan Cod Fish Salad), cod fritters, fideua (paella but with noodles), and other classic tapas and raciones at the nearby La Taberna Del Bierzo.

It’s located across the street from the Melia (Google Map) and offers bargain prices and seasonal fare.

🌟 For a taste of Spain, get our easy recipe for Spanish Chicken Stew and Chorizo.

3. Soak Up Some History at Monestir de Pedralbes

Another must-see attraction is the Monestir de Pedralbes, a 14th-century monastery built by Queen Elisenda de Montcada.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the monastery, which includes the cloister, chapel, and gothic church.

3. Ride the Barcelona City Sightseeing Hop on, Hop Off Bus

Another advantage of a stay at the Meliá Barcelona Sarrià is that it’s easy to access both the Blue and the Red Routes of the City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Tour.

Taking a tour on a Hop On, Hop Off Bus is one of my favourite things to do in any city. It’s a must on any Barcelona itinerary as the city’s major sights and neighbourhoods are quite spread out.

Board at either of the two stops near the Meliá Sarrià and then hop on and off as many times you want at any of the 40+ stops on the two routes!

You’ll see the best of Barcelona’s attractions —  La Sagrada Familia Basilica, Park Güell, Montjuic Cable Car — on the City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Tour.

Relax on the open top Double Decker Bus with commentary along the way. The Gaudí Trail and Parc Guëll are bucket list experiences in Spain so you don’t want to miss this tour.

Check rates and availability of the City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Tour on Viator.com

4. Journey into the Heart and Soul of FC Barcelona

If you’re a dedicated football (aka soccer) fan or just appreciate the beauty of the game, then taking a tour of the Barca Stadium/Museum and Spotify Camp Nou is an experience that you cannot miss.

This popular Barcelona attraction offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to delve into the rich history of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs.

Explore the Leo Messi area, take a walk through the changing room and sit on the players’ bench, and marvel at the vast collection of European trophies.

You can even walk in the footsteps of your favourite players and get a behind-the-scenes look at everything that makes this club great.

Check prices and availability of Skip-the-Line Tickets to Barca Experience – Camp Nou & Museum on Viator.com.

🌟 Insider Tip: Don’t be surprised if you see the next football (soccer) superstar at breakfast! The Meliá Barcelona Sarrià is a popular place for up and coming players to stay.

5. Marvel at Torre de Bellesguard

Head a bit north to visit the historic landmark of the Torre de Bellesguard, a unique gothic-style house designed by world-renowned architect Antoni Gaudi (Google Map).

6. Enjoy the Old World Charm of the Pedralbes Royal Palace

The Pedralbes Royal Palace or Palau Reial (Google Map) is a magnificent and elegant complex of majestic buildings originally built as a palace for the Spanish royal family during the late 16th century.

Just a 25 minute walk from the hotel and one of the stops on the Barcelona Hop on, Hop Off Bus, it’s a very popular Barcelona attraction.

Especially nice in spring and summer due to its gardens, the Palau Reial has an ornate facade, grand courtyards and sweeping views of the city.

Is it Worth Upgrading to The Level?

You might be wondering if it’s worth upgrading to The Level category of room. While it’s always nice to get VIP service and perks, at some hotels it’s not worth the price tag. So it’s wise to compare rates.

Here’s what I found. Looking at select travel dates in June 2023, a Meliá Guest Room (City View, No Breakfast) is priced at Euro 187 for one night, two adults.

A room on the same date in The Level, is Euro 268 for one night, two adults. It includes breakfast, private check-in, lounge access with drinks as well as hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, Yhi spa access as well as a location on the upper floor of the hotel.

In my opinion, it’s worth upgrading to The Level category if you’ll be in the hotel long enough to enjoy the lounge. It’s also worth it for the memorable view if you’re celebrating a special occasion or feel like treating yourself.

🌟 Insider Tip: Sign up for the MeliaRewards loyalty programme and get a discount on the room rate and/or perks.

Summary of this Melià Barcelona Sarriá Review

With its contemporary decor, superior VIP lounge and polished service, the Meliá Barcelona Sarrià is a great choice for business, solo, couples and groups of friends travelling together.

It also offers excellent value and an opportunity to escape the crowds in downtown Barcelona.

The next time you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, be sure to consider the Melià Barcelona Sarriá as a base for explorations.

Planning

Address: Avinguda de Sarrià 50, Barcelona

Barcelona Tourism: Get official tourism information at Visit Barcelona.

Melia Hotels: Visit the official Melia Hotel Website.

Check rates and availability of Meliá Barcelona Sarrià on Booking.com. 

FAQs

Other Top Food and Travel Experiences in Spain

Save to Pinterest!