"How often do you get to walk down an ancient cobblestoned alley to reach your hotel? Needless to say, the architecture is a rare treat for history buffs, and the location oozes charm. The narrow, winding path to the Mercer, through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, is partially built into the city’s ancient Roman wall, which dates back to the fourth century AD. Rooms at the Mercer are bright, spacious, and impeccably laid out; some have even been built into an ancient Roman defense tower, which means walls of gorgeous, centuries-old brickwork. The food here is superior, without being stuffy—you’ll find foie gras and caviar, yes, but also patatas bravas and beer. It's pricey here, but worth it. If you want an intimate, secluded, five-star boutique hotel—and you’re willing to splash the cash—there’s no better spot in Barcelona than the Mercer." - Gemma Askham, Isabelle Kliger
