Nobu says guests can expect a warm welcome
The Nobu Hotel Barcelona is eager to welcome visitors to a city it insists they will in turn find welcoming as well.
The hotel, which opened in 2019 as part of the Nobu brand, provides upscale stays in Barcelona, enabling them to easily explore the Mediterranean-fronting city.
“Nobu Hotel Barcelona opened its doors in September 2019. After a temporary closure due to the pandemic, we reopened in February 2022, bringing our luxury experience back to the heart of this vibrant city,” says hotel general manager Alberto Selas. “Nobu Hotel Barcelona offers a unique blend of luxury lifestyle and local charm. Our ‘reasons why’ (guests should choose it) encompass our location, service philosophy, views and design.”
Barcelona was at times in the news last year as many residents took to the streets, complaining about negative impacts tourism was having on their city, but Selas insists that Nobu guests will find themselves being welcomed by a hotel that has bonded with locals.
“At Nobu Hotel Barcelona, we are dedicated to providing a unique and authentic experience for our guests while being mindful of local concerns,” he says. “Our location, slightly away from the centre between the Eixample and Sants-Montjuïc neighbourhoods, offers our guests a truly local experience, encouraging guests to visit local businesses and restaurants and immerse themselves in Catalan culture.
“We also make an effort to positively impact on the local community, offering guests the chance to experience Barcelona responsibly. For example, 78% of our suppliers are local – from the city and wider region – and we regularly collaborate with neighbourhood associations and events.
“To those interested in visiting, Barcelona is still a welcoming, vibrant city. Most locals are proud of their city and enjoy sharing it with travellers. We encourage our visitors to immerse themselves in Catalan culture and experience the city like a local.”
Selas adds that Barcelona’s tourism scene is healthy, attracting a more international, higher spending visitor during 2024 with an increased interest in cultural visits.
“The numerous international events, congresses, and concerts that the city hosts every year as well as its rich cultural landscape attract a mixture of business and leisure visitors throughout the year,” he continues. “Barcelona is a true Mediterranean city with something for everyone: beautiful beaches, world-class art and architecture, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant cultural scene. This year Catalonia has been designated World Region of Gastronomy, and our cocktail bars feature in the top 10 in the world while the cultural scene celebrates many miles stones: 50 years of the Miró Foundation, 30 years of the MACBA Modern Art Museum and we eagerly await the opening of the Thyssen Museum in 2026. We also await the opening of the newly rebuilt Camp Nou – home of (the soccer team) FC Barcelona.
“Barcelona’s location between the sea and mountains also makes it a fantastic destination to combine with other trips, such as discovering Medieval Girona, the Costa Brava, Balearic Islands or connecting to Madrid or French cities by high-speed rail.
“We anticipate a vibrant and busy summer, with guests flocking to the city to enjoy the many events and attractions the city has to offer combined with time to relax by the sea. The city has a packed calendar of summer concerts and festivals, including Primavera Sound, Sónar, Brunch Electronik, OFF Sónar, Guns N’ Roses, Billie Eilish, Robbie Williams, Kendrick Lamar & SZA. Barcelona Pride Week is celebrated in July with parades throughout the city and the Formula One comes to Barcelona at the end of May. “We’d love to welcome everyone, including Canadian visitors, to Nobu Hotel Barcelona and share our incredible city and secret spots. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a combination of both, we aim to provide a truly unforgettable experience.”
Selas says Nobu has what he calls a unique upside-down model – being restaurant-first – and “therefore dining is at the core of everything we do. Our hotel designs embody minimalist luxury, reflecting a zen-inspired atmosphere with uncluttered rooms that create a comfortable, peaceful environment. What sets Nobu apart is our unwavering commitment to excellence in every detail – from our signature Japanese cuisine to our innovative hotel design and impeccable service.”
Among specific attributes Selas cites about his hotel are:
- Food is our heart and soul: We put the dining experience ahead of everything else. ‘Nobu style’ is simple luxury without the formality. No matter if in-room dining, breakfast, sharing plates on our rooftop or your coffee break, our menus are different from your traditional hotel experience.
- Sky High Views: The majority of rooms as well as Nobu Restaurant offer spectacular panoramic views of the city – all the way up to the 25th floor with our Nobu Rooftop – the highest in the city.
- Accessibility: Nobu Hotel Barcelona is located a 2-minute walk from Sants Railway Station with high-speed rail links to Madrid and the rest of Spain, as well as Paris, Lyon and other cities in France. Sants Railway Station also connects with L5 and L3 of the Barcelona Metro. Nobu Hotel Barcelona has secure underground car parking available to all guests at an extra cost. Barcelona El Prat Airport is a short 20-minute taxi journey from the hotel. While you are away from the busy streets you are still close enough to get to most points of interest in the city within a 10-minute car or train ride.
- Local vibe, Nobu spirit: Our hotels’ designs, food and services embrace each location they are in keeping the same Nobu spirit. Our aim is for you to have an authentic Catalan experience while in Barcelona. The hotel is located between the charming Eixample neighbourhood and authentic Sants, with Montjuïc Museum Quarter a ten-minute walk.
- Design and Comfort: Every design detail has a story taking you on a journey of discovery while walking through the space. At Nobu Hotel Barcelona minimalist Japanese design meets Catalan influences, giving a true sense of place.
Meanwhile, Selas says Nobu’s upcoming debut in this country will help elevate brand recognition among Canadians.
“Nobu is a globally recognized brand, known for its luxury hotels, exclusive locations, and world-class dining experiences,” Selas adds. “With properties in major cities around the world, Nobu has become a symbol of high-end hospitality, particularly popular among travelers from North America and the UK who seek both Nobu style and local charm.
“In fact, the Nobu Restaurant in Toronto will be joined this summer with the opening of Nobu Hotel Toronto – which will help to increase awareness about the brand with the Canadian traveler. We look forward to working more closely with Canadian travel advisors to continue to build awareness amongst the important feeder markets throughout Canada.”
