El Palace remains an independent, five-star luxury hotel in the heart of Barcelona. Formerly The Ritz, it opened its doors back in 1919 as the first five-star property in the city. Nowadays, it creates a new identity for itself as” El Palace Hotel,” full of flair, elegance, energy, and dynamism.
The property engages loyal repeat guests and new generations through activations that capture passion and imagination, with entertainment activations, culinary or beverage offers, art partnerships, or leisure activities. El Palace Barcelona is by far the most famous hotel in the city, an epicenter of social activity and gatherings, and one of Europe´s most iconic hotels. While honoring its rich past, this iconic luxury property is rich in history; nobility, celebrities, artists, or all genres and socialites have graced its halls over many decades. Host of iconic and historical events, it is a well-documented property with its history intertwined with that of the city.
The hotel was completely renovated from 2007 to 2009 by Chilean decorator Jaime Beriestain. In 2015 the rooftop garden was built, and in 2017 our main suites were renovated to create our six Art Suites (Salvador Dalí, Josephine Baker, Cesar Ritz, Carlos Ruiz Zafón, Joan Miró, and Ronnie Wood). In 2020 our ballroom was renovated, improving all lighting, look and feel. It is now known as the Golden Room or Gran Vía Ballroom.
In 2021 we started creating a new gastronomic restaurant which will open in early 2022, with celebrity Chef Rafa Zafra, the Michelin-rated chef. We also refurbished the Grand Hall, giving it a fresher look with temporary art exhibits and a new central bar which is the focal point of this grand space.