Barcelona is one of those timeless destinations that captivates travelers from every corner of the globe. With its striking architecture, vibrant food scene, and breezy Mediterranean climate, it’s no wonder people keep returning for fresh experiences in Catalonia’s capital. Whenever we find ourselves heading back to Barcelona, we love trying out different luxury properties to see how they stack up—especially if we can snag a great deal through points or a premium booking channel. During our latest visit, we had the chance to spend one night at the ME Barcelona by Meliá, a modern hotel promising avant-garde design and upscale service right in the heart of the city. We booked this stay through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts and were eager to see how the property lived up to its hype.

Before we dive into the specifics, a quick note on how we got here: as Oneworld flyers, we typically rely on carriers like American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, British Airways, and Iberia to reach Europe. For this particular journey, we hopped across the Atlantic on American Airlines, then connected to Barcelona’s El Prat Airport (BCN). After a smooth flight and a short taxi ride into the city, we arrived ready to soak up all that ME Barcelona had to offer.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive review that covers everything from the booking process, location, design, and dining, to the overall vibe of this Meliá property. If you’re thinking of a quick weekend escape, a business trip, or a layover stay in Barcelona, we hope our experience helps you gauge whether ME Barcelona by Meliá is the right spot for you. And if you need any last-minute travel essentials—like a sturdy anti-theft bag for city exploring or a portable power bank for all your on-the-go charging—feel free to browse our curated Amazon Storefront. We’ve handpicked items that can make any urban getaway smoother and more enjoyable.

Considering a short stay with your Amex Platinum or Centurion card? Don’t overlook the potential value of booking through Fine Hotels & Resorts, which can significantly enhance a one-night hotel experience.

Booking the ME Barcelona Through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts
ME Barcelona Location & First Impressions
Arrival Experience & Check-In
A Look at Our Room
Dining & Bars at ME Barcelona
Amenities: Pool, Gym & Spa
Service & Staff Interactions
Who Is This Property Right For?
Comparing ME Barcelona to Other Luxury Options
Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Booking the ME Barcelona Through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts

Why We Chose ME Barcelona

We have been eager to try out the ME by Meliá brand for quite some time—this line focuses on contemporary design, modern art elements, and an upscale lifestyle vibe. So, when we saw that ME Barcelona had joined the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts program (often abbreviated as FHR), we jumped on the opportunity. FHR often provides perks like daily breakfast credits, room upgrades upon availability, late checkout, and more. Plus, when your stay is just a single night, it’s nice to maximize those benefits within a short window.

The Rate & Perks

For our one-night stay, we found a rate of roughly EUR 320 (plus taxes and fees) through the Amex FHR portal. That might sound on the higher end, but the FHR benefits we received included:

Daily Breakfast Credit: Generous enough for two people to enjoy a lavish continental spread or partial hot items.
Property Credit: We were given a 90€ credit, which we could use on food, spa treatments, or even some in-room extras.
Guaranteed Late Checkout: Until 4 PM, subject to availability. For a short stay, this perk alone can be priceless, giving you extra time to enjoy the hotel’s amenities or explore the city without worrying about your bags.
Potential Room Upgrade: Subject to availability. We always cross our fingers for a better view or more square footage, although on a single-night stay, it’s truly the icing on the cake.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts benefits

Overall Value

One night might not seem like a lot of time to fully experience a hotel, but booking through FHR gave us enough added value to make the short visit worthwhile. If you factor in the breakfast benefit (which could easily exceed 40€ per person in some properties) plus the property credit, you can effectively reduce your net cost by a decent margin. For travelers who are Amex Platinum or Centurion cardholders, the FHR program continues to be a game-changer for short luxury getaways.

If you’re not an Amex Platinum or Centurion holder, keep in mind that Meliá sometimes runs promotions on their direct booking site. Alternatively, you could also explore using MeliáRewards points if you’re a loyalist to that program, though we found the FHR perks far more attractive in this instance.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Entrance

ME Barcelona Location & First Impressions

The Neighborhood

ME Barcelona by Meliá is nestled right in the bustling heart of the city, near the iconic Passeig de Gràcia and within walking distance of Plaza Catalunya. This prime location instantly appealed to us since we only had one night to immerse ourselves in Barcelona’s urban spirit. From the hotel, it’s a manageable stroll to major attractions like Casa Batlló, the Gothic Quarter, and Las Ramblas. If you have more time to explore, you can easily hail a taxi or hop on public transport to reach Sagrada Família or the beachside neighborhoods like Barceloneta.

For business travelers, the location is also convenient—many corporate offices are scattered around the Eixample district, and the area itself is well-connected by the city’s efficient metro system. Meanwhile, if you’re the type who loves to shop or dine out in trendy restaurants, the chic boutiques along Passeig de Gràcia and the countless tapas bars in El Born are just minutes away.

First Impressions From the Outside

Upon our arrival, the building stood out with its sleek, contemporary facade—large windows, minimalist lines, and the bold “ME” signage, which seems to embody the brand’s emphasis on modern design and a vibrant social scene. We arrived around early afternoon, and even though the day was a bit overcast, the façade gave a sense of understated, modern glamor. If you like hotels that weave seamlessly into the modern cityscape, you’ll likely appreciate the aesthetic ME Barcelona is going for.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Lobby

Entering the Lobby

Stepping into the lobby, it’s clear this property aims for a high-end boutique vibe. There’s a curated playlist of ambient music playing quietly, staff members wearing stylish uniforms, and a general air of sophistication. Plush seating areas and contemporary art pieces adorn the communal spaces. While some lobbies in Barcelona can feel cramped or overshadowed by older buildings, ME Barcelona’s space felt reasonably open, with plenty of room to relax.

We immediately noticed the “living lobby” concept: a place for both guests and locals to mingle, possibly stopping by for a drink or two in the lounge area. If you’re someone who loves hotels that double as social hotspots, the vibe might resonate with you. If you prefer something more traditional or subdued, you might find it slightly “trendy” for your taste. As for us, we like a balance of modern energy and comfort, so it felt like a strong start.

Arrival Experience & Check-In

The Check-In Process

Since we had booked through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts, we were eager to see how smoothly the check-in would go and whether the staff would be well-versed in the additional perks. We arrived at around 1 PM, earlier than the typical 3 PM check-in time. The reception desk is situated off to one side of the lobby, tucked under a canopy of sleek lighting fixtures and modern décor elements.

A friendly associate greeted us, confirmed our booking, and acknowledged our FHR benefits without us having to prompt them. They explained the breakfast credit, property credit, and offered us a potential upgrade to a higher-floor room. We were glad to see that the staff were not only well-trained on the FHR inclusions but also enthusiastic about offering an elevated experience. The check-in took about 10 minutes. We had to provide our passports for verification, fill out a quick registration card, and then we were off to our room.

Early Check-In & Room Upgrade

At first, the associate mentioned our upgraded room might not be ready until 3 PM. However, upon some additional checking, she discovered a similar category was available for immediate occupancy, just a floor lower than the assigned upgrade. We opted for the immediate room, as we wanted to freshen up and head out to explore Barcelona. The difference in floors wasn’t a big deal to us—especially for a single-night stay.

We were also handed our keys in a minimalistic black ME-branded envelope, which aligns with the property’s stylish branding. Interestingly, they let us know about an app-based key option, but we stuck with the physical card keys for convenience.

Bags & Bell Service

Our baggage arrived at our room promptly—within 5 minutes of us stepping inside. The bellhop was courteous, gave us a quick rundown of the room’s features, and asked if we needed any dining recommendations. Overall, the check-in and baggage delivery experience was efficient, friendly, and in line with what you’d expect from a high-end city hotel.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Room

A Look at Our Room

The Overall Room Design

Meliá’s ME brand is known for combining style, comfort, and tech-savvy elements. Upon entering our upgraded room, we immediately felt a sense of sophisticated minimalism. The color palette leaned towards neutral hues like whites, greys, and subtle metallic accents, punctuated by occasional pops of color in the artwork. Large windows allowed in plenty of daylight (even on an overcast afternoon), which brightened the space considerably. The room was neither overly huge nor cramped, but for a European city hotel it felt spacious enough—especially for a single-night city stopover.

Sleeping Area

The bed was a plush king with crisp white linens, multiple pillow options, and a stylish grey headboard that extended horizontally across the wall. A duvet-style comforter added a layer of comfort, and we appreciated the dual nightstands with integrated reading lights. We both slept quite well that night; the bed felt supportive but not overly firm.

Seating & Workspace

Across from the bed was a seating arrangement featuring a small chaise lounge and a compact table. While it’s not large enough to entertain a group, it’s perfectly adequate for enjoying a glass of wine or a cup of coffee. Adjacent to that area was a streamlined desk setup with a comfortable chair and enough space to accommodate a laptop and some paperwork. Power outlets, including USB ports, were strategically placed to facilitate easy device charging—always a welcomed detail in modern hotels.

Tech Features

We noticed the room’s smart TV came loaded with a user-friendly interface that allowed for streaming apps if you logged in with your credentials. The lighting system was also intuitive: a few labeled switches let you choose between different ambiances like “Relax,” “Bright,” or “Night.” This might sound trivial, but lighting can significantly impact how comfortable you feel in a space, and ME Barcelona seemed to get this balance right.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review

Bathroom Layout

One of the highlights was the sleek, modern bathroom. We encountered a walk-in rainfall shower, floor-to-ceiling glass panels, and a wide vanity with a single sink. High-end bath amenities from a Spanish brand were stocked in refillable dispensers—a nod to environmental consciousness. Plush towels and a soft bathrobe added a touch of luxury. The water pressure was robust (important for washing off city grit after a day of exploring), and the temperature was consistent. A separate water closet for the toilet also contributed to the sense of convenience and privacy.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Bathroom

Views

Our room was on a mid-level floor, offering partial street views and glimpses of Barcelona’s architectural skyline. Higher floors might provide more sweeping city vistas, but we were content with our vantage point. The double-glazed windows effectively drowned out street noise—perfect for a good night’s rest in a bustling city.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Room entrance

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Dry bar

Any Downsides?

If we were to nitpick, we might say the lighting in the entryway to the bathroom could have been brighter for shaving or makeup application. Also, the neutral color scheme, while sophisticated, might feel a bit too austere for travelers preferring a cozier or more classical ambiance. Nonetheless, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise thoughtfully designed room.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Breakfast and restaurant

Dining & Bars at ME Barcelona

In-House Restaurants

ME Barcelona features a couple of dining options, though note that hours and offerings can fluctuate by season. The hotel aims to cater to both hotel guests and Barcelona locals seeking a stylish place for cocktails or a meal. Since our stay was brief, we only had the chance to sample breakfast and enjoy a quick afternoon bite, but we can share our impressions.

BELBO Terrenal (Breakfast Venue):
- Ambiance: Located on a mezzanine level with ample natural light. The décor merges modern lines with comfortable seating.
- Breakfast Spread: Because of our American Express FHR booking, we had a generous daily breakfast credit. The selection included a continental spread of pastries, cheeses, cold cuts, fresh fruit, and yogurt. There were also hot items like scrambled eggs, bacon, grilled vegetables, and sausages. We also had the option to order a few cooked-to-order dishes from the kitchen, like omelets or pancakes. The staff was attentive, ensuring we always had coffee refills and offered fresh orange juice—a nice local touch.

Lobby Bar & Rooftop Lounge

We also popped into the Lobby Bar, which aims for a chic lounge vibe. Decor elements included plush chairs, subdued lighting, and a curated cocktail menu featuring both classics and Spanish twists (e.g., a signature sangria with top-shelf cava). Given the quickness of our stay, we didn’t indulge in a long lounge session but tried an aperol spritz and a refreshing negroni. The bartenders were friendly, and we could see the space being quite lively in the evenings.

If you’re into rooftop bars—especially in Barcelona’s mild climate—it’s worth checking if ME Barcelona’s rooftop lounge is open. We heard it has a smaller swimming pool, daybeds, and a panoramic view of the city skyline. Unfortunately, it was drizzling that afternoon, so we only took a quick peek. On a sunny day, this rooftop space would be an appealing spot to unwind.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Patio

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review - Bar

Amenities: Pool, Gym & Spa

The Pool Scene

One of ME Barcelona’s selling points is its pool deck, which is located on a rooftop level. Given the unpredictable winter weather we faced, we weren’t able to experience the pool. That said, we did step out for a moment when the rain paused. The pool is a decent size for a city-center hotel, featuring a few daybeds and a sleek glass barrier that separates the pool from the city backdrop. If you’re looking to do a serious swim, you might find it more suited for a relaxing dip than laps.

Fitness Center

Next, we checked out the fitness center, which is open 24/7. Don’t expect a massive gym, but it has the essentials for a solid workout: a handful of cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes), free weights up to about 50 pounds, and a multipurpose cable machine. The space itself is bright, well-ventilated, and accompanied by a small area to stretch or do yoga. Towels and bottled water were readily available, which we appreciated. As far as city hotel gyms go, it’s functional, modern, and more than enough for a quick session.

Spa Offerings

ME Barcelona also hosts a modest spa, focusing on massage treatments, facials, and other wellness therapies. The spa area itself is small and intimate—think a couple of treatment rooms rather than a sprawling facility. If you’re someone who enjoys a long spa session, you could be satisfied with the selection, though we’d recommend booking a slot in advance. Because we only stayed for one night, we didn’t partake in any treatments, but the menu offered standard massages (Swedish, deep tissue, aromatherapy) and specialized facials using European skincare products. Prices were in line with most upscale city hotels, so not cheap, but potentially worth it if you have the property credit to use.

Service & Staff Interactions

Overall Vibe

The staff at ME Barcelona leaned more toward the “contemporary-lux” approach. Instead of a traditional uniform, many wore stylish, minimalist outfits befitting a trendy lifestyle hotel. Conversations were casual yet professional. From the front desk to the bartenders, everyone appeared to be well-versed in Catalan, English, Spanish, and were incredibly friendly.

Housekeeping

Since we only stayed one night, we didn’t get a sense of housekeeping beyond the initial condition of our room. However, the space was immaculate upon arrival—fresh sheets, polished surfaces, and no stray hairs in the bathroom (always a major test!). It’s a small detail but often indicates how attentive housekeeping is.

Responsiveness

We called down for extra amenities—specifically extra coffee and an extra pillow—just after check-in. Within 10 minutes, a staff member delivered everything we requested, which is commendable for a busy city hotel. This efficiency carried through other interactions we witnessed as well, such as staff promptly assisting a guest who needed a converter for their electronics.

Special Touches

Because we were traveling with the Amex FHR benefits, the property left a small welcome treat in our room: a plate of macarons and a handwritten note from the manager. Such gestures can help a property stand out, especially in a city saturated with luxury hotel options. While a small token overall, these personal touches leave a positive impression.

Who Is This Property Right For?

Business Travelers
If you’re doing business in central Barcelona, the location is unbeatable. You’re a short hop from the major financial areas, with easy access to the metro, taxis, or even walking routes to key offices.
Couples Seeking a Modern Aesthetic
ME Barcelona’s emphasis on design and ambiance sets the stage for a chic city getaway. If you and your partner enjoy minimalist vibes, curated music, and a lively social scene, this hotel fits the bill.
Solo Explorers
Solo travelers might appreciate the approachable luxury vibe without the formality of more traditional five-star properties. The neighborhood is safe, well-lit, and full of dining and cultural attractions.
Short Stays or Layovers
With robust public transportation and easy connections to the airport, ME Barcelona is an excellent choice if you only have a quick night or two in town. Late checkout courtesy of Amex FHR further sweetens a short trip.
Design Enthusiasts
Architecture buffs or design aficionados might find inspiration in the hotel’s modern approach. From the lobby art installations to the in-room furniture, ME Barcelona has an aesthetic bent that fans of contemporary design will appreciate.

Who it might not be ideal for: Families with young children or travelers seeking a more classic, traditional Spanish ambiance. The property’s vibe is firmly rooted in modern luxury, so if you crave old-world charm or bigger communal spaces specifically geared toward families, you might look to alternative properties in the area.

Comparing ME Barcelona to Other Luxury Options

Versus Classic Luxury Hotels

Barcelona is home to numerous luxury properties, including iconic grand hotels that showcase more historical architecture and grand public spaces. If you crave that old-world grandeur or something more traditional, you might not find ME Barcelona’s minimalistic design as appealing. That said, ME Barcelona excels in contemporary style and a younger, fresher ambiance, catering to those who love modern touches.

Versus Other Meliá Properties

Meliá is a well-known Spanish hotel chain with numerous properties in Spain and across the world. The “ME” line stands out for its lifestyle edge, whereas other Meliá hotels might offer a more mainstream or family-friendly environment. If you’ve tried Meliá’s standard properties before, be prepared for a different, more high-energy spin with ME.

Cost & Value

While we found our rate fair given the FHR perks, it’s worth noting that hotel prices in Barcelona can fluctuate wildly depending on events, conventions, and seasonality. In peak times—like during Mobile World Congress or major holidays—rates can skyrocket across the city. Always compare offers between direct booking channels, FHR, and other booking sites to gauge the best value.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

For a one-night stay, ME Barcelona by Meliá delivered a solid dose of contemporary style, friendly service, and an enviable location that allowed us to explore the heart of the city. It’s part of a new wave of urban lifestyle hotels seeking to blend art, music, and hospitality into an immersive package. While it might not win over travelers who prefer classic luxury or a low-key, traditional hotel experience, it’ll likely excite those who enjoy modern flair, a dash of nightlife, and the convenience of being near Barcelona’s biggest attractions.

From check-in to checkout, staff were attentive, well-informed about our Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts perks, and eager to make our short stay memorable. The dining and bar offerings, while a bit pricey, fit the upscale vibe and showcased some creative Spanish takes on classics. The rooftop pool and lounge area hold a lot of potential—especially when the Mediterranean sun is shining.

Would we stay here again? For a short, style-focused city break or a special occasion that calls for contemporary vibes, definitely yes. On longer stays, we might consider rotating among other properties in Barcelona simply to experience different corners of the city. However, ME Barcelona has certainly earned a spot on our shortlist of recommended boutique luxury hotels in this vibrant metropolis.

Barcelona always leaves us with stories to tell—rich architecture, gastronomic delights, and a unique blend of Catalan culture and modern European sophistication. ME Barcelona by Meliá injects a stylish, contemporary twist into that tapestry, making it an appealing choice for travelers who appreciate design-forward spaces and a well-located base for exploration. Here’s hoping you find your perfect match in this mesmerizing city, and that your travels bring you back for another unforgettable round of Catalonian magic! Safe travels, and stay inspired on your journeys.

A One-Night Stay at ME Barcelona by Meliá: Our Honest Review

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