The Serras, Barcelona, Spain

Located in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, with views of the swish new Marina Port Vell, The Serras hotel neatly sums up the city’s breezy attitude. Housed in a 19th century building by celebrated Spanish architect Francesc Daniel Molina, the structure – which now has a restored façade – is locally noted for being the site of Pablo Picasso’s first studio in 1896. Inside, contemporary additions abound; the in-house tapas restaurant, Informal, led by Michelin-starred Catalan chef Marc Gascons serves Mediterranean classics, while a rooftop terrace pulls in both locals and guests, thanks to a slick lounge area and infinity pool. Suitably bound together by designer Eva Martinez, a smooth mix of linen fabrics, rustic iron and wood create a light and airy atmosphere, while monochrome guestrooms equate the calmness of public spaces, each commanded by oversized headboards fashioned from hydraulic tiles, panelled walls, ash wood flooring and freestanding baths.