Located in an area known for its upscale, expensive hotels, the Actual stands out for its great rates and excellent setting around the corner from posh Passeig de Gracia and its dozens of designer shops. Though simple, interiors are contemporary and stylish, with striped wallpaper in brown hues and dark-wood paneling throughout. Several low lamps and a few white and cream-colored accents give common spaces a cozy feel, and large windows in the lobby and the adjacent cafe let in lots of light. Decorated with cute black-and-white photos, dark wooden floors, and plush armchairs, the library is a pleasant spot for a quiet break, especially as most guests spend little time on-site. The hotel’s central location and good value for money draw mostly couples, but its business-friendly services -- including free Wi-Fi and an on-site cafe serving a great breakfast -- make it a suitable pick for business travelers as well. 

Hotel Actual is located on a small street in Eixample, an area known for its upscale shopping, great restaurants, unique Modernist architecture, and varied nightlife scene. The property is right around the corner from Passeig de Gracia, a handsome boulevard lined with Gaudi-designed buildings and high-end designer shops. La Pedrera, one of Barcelona’s most recognizable buildings, is right across the street, and Casa Batllo -- another of Gaudi’s top Modernist works -- is less than 10 minutes on foot down the street. Diagonal Metro station is just a couple of minutes from the hotel. Famous Placa de Catalunya and Las Ramblas boulevard are about a 20-minute walk from the hotel, as is Sagrada Familia Basilica. The Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria Market, and the Museum of Contemporary Art can be reached in about 25 minutes. The hotel is a 20-minute drive from the airport.

The hotel has 35 air-conditioned rooms, all decorated in a fresh, contemporary style that combines a range of brown hues with blond-wood furniture and matching laminate floors. Starting at just 162 square feet, rooms are compact, but minimalist lines and a streamlined color palette keep them from feeling cramped. Junior Suites are a little larger than both Standard and Superior Rooms, and most feature beautifully restored frescoed ceilings with golden moldings and crystal chandeliers. These also have sleek sitting areas. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and safes. Electric kettles with free tea and instant coffee are provided in all rooms as well, which is a rarity for mid-range hotels in Barcelona. Many rooms have small balconies with either La Pedrera or Passeig de Gracia views, but a few overlook the back of the building and are a tad darker. Bathrooms are contemporary and clean, and feature either walk-in rainfall showers or shower/tub combos, up-to-date hairdryers, and a few toiletries. 

Breakfast is served every morning in a pleasant, sunny cafe on the first floor. The spread is varied and tasty, and includes cold and hot continental options, including ham, cheese, fresh fruit, several types of bread, and pastries. Breakfast is not included in the standard rate, but most guests find it to offer good value for the price. Free tea and coffee are also available in the afternoon, but no other meals are served on-site. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and there is one computer with internet access that guests can use free of charge. The hotel offers discounted rates at a parking lot a few blocks away.