Originally Posted by spainlover

I would go for the Le Meridien or the Cotton House. Would only do Renaissance if much less expensive. Le Meridien and Cotton House are two of my favorite properties.
LM has been a favorite for a dozen-plus years. Have stayed there many times with very good upgrade success - initially as SPG Platinum, now as Lifetime Titanium. It’s very centric if wanting to be in a touristy area, right on Las Ramblas and a 10-minute walk from the start of Passeig de Gracia or El Born neighborhood. They have a jacuzzi and sun beds on a high floor with fantastic views of Barcelona.

I have only stayed at Cotton House once, but it was for a month this year on a long stay rate available due to Covid. I absolutely love the architecture and interior design of the hotel. I slightly prefer this location as it’s a bit off the most touristy spots. Still very close but I just like not being on Las Ramblas. It’s right between Passeig de Gracia and Arc de Triomf, and a 30-minute walk to the beach (LM is about same distance to the beach, although I suggest going to Bogatell or Mar Bella beaches rather than La Barceloneta if looking for a beach in the city). There’s a terrific large outdoor terrace on which breakfast is served as well as other meals and cocktails (you can eat inside too, I just don’t know why you would unless weather was bad!)

Originally Posted by Radiation Station

Have you considered the EDITION? It’s in a similar location to the Cotton House and seems to tick the boxes you’re looking for. I would highly recommend the EDITION based on two recent stays.