Walter Ponce
As I stepped onto the rooftop terrace of La Terraza del Claris, I was immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication and luxury. Unlike many other rooftop bars in Barcelona, this hidden gem boasts not only a mixology cocktail bar but also a separate restaurant of top-class quality.
The decor, adorned in striking black and white hues, transported me to the sun-drenched terraces of Mykonos, evoking a sense of Mediterranean charm and elegance. The ambiance was undeniably chic, with a luxurious lounge vibe that beckoned me to unwind and indulge.
Perusing the extensive drink menu, I was delighted to find a wide range of signature cocktails alongside more classic options. While the prices were on the higher end, the quality of both the drinks and the food undoubtedly justified the expense.
Although the view from the terrace was not the most breathtaking in the city, the cozy ambiance of the restaurant more than made up for it. As I savored each sip of my negroni, priced at 16.5 euros, I couldn’t help but appreciate the masterful balance between elegance and comfort that La Terraza del Claris effortlessly achieved.
While I have yet to experience the rooftop during the colder months when the glass walls of the restaurant are closed, I have no doubt that the allure of this rooftop oasis remains unchanged.
For guests staying at the Claris Hotel & Spa, the added bonus of a lovely rooftop pool only enhances the allure of La Terraza del Claris.
In conclusion, La Terraza del Claris offers an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends elegance with relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening under the stars or a stylish night out with friends, La Terraza del Claris is a surefire bet for an unforgettable time.
**La Terraza Claris Address: **C/ de Pau Claris, 150, L’Eixample, 08009 Barcelona
**La Terraza Claris Website: **https://www.hotelclaris.com/en
About the Claris Hotel and Its Rooftop
La Terraza del Claris sits on the top floor of the Claris Hotel & Spa, a five-star hotel set inside a 19th-century palace in the Eixample district. The building keeps its classic stone facade, while the interior mixes contemporary design with pieces of art and antiquities from the owners’ collection.
The rooftop is split into two clear areas:
- The cocktail bar, built around signature drinks and classic cocktails, with lounge seating and a relaxed music level.
- The restaurant, a glass-walled space that can be opened in summer and closed in cooler months, so it works for dinner all year round.
The hotel pool sits on the same floor and is reserved for hotel guests, so non-guests usually come for drinks or a meal rather than a swim.
Where It Is and How to Get There
The hotel is on Carrer de Pau Claris, one block from Passeig de Gràcia, which is one of the most central and walkable parts of Barcelona.
- Metro: Passeig de Gràcia station (lines L2, L3 and L4) is a short walk away. Girona station (L4) is also close.
- On foot: Plaça de Catalunya is around 10 to 15 minutes away, and the Gothic Quarter a little further.
- Taxi: Easy to reach from anywhere in the city, and taxis are easy to find on Passeig de Gràcia at night.
What to See Nearby
Because it sits in the heart of the Eixample, the rooftop is a natural stop before or after a day of sightseeing. Within walking distance you will find:
- Casa Batlló and Casa Amatller on Passeig de Gràcia, part of the famous “Block of Discord”.
- Casa Milà (La Pedrera), Gaudí’s wave-shaped apartment building with its own rooftop of chimneys.
- Passeig de Gràcia shopping, from luxury flagships to Spanish high-street brands.
- Rambla de Catalunya, a calmer, tree-lined street full of cafés and terraces.
A good plan is to visit one of the Gaudí houses in the late afternoon and then head up for a cocktail at sunset.
Best Time to Go
Barcelona’s rooftop season is longest from late spring to early autumn, when evenings are warm and the sun sets late. Sunset is the most popular moment, so the terrace can fill up quickly around that time, especially on weekends.
If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, an early evening drink on a weekday tends to be calmer. In winter, the closed glass restaurant makes it a cosy option for dinner when open-air rooftops in the city are less comfortable.
Opening hours and seasonal schedules for hotel rooftops in Barcelona can change, so check current hours on the hotel website before you go.
Tips for Your Visit
- Book ahead for the restaurant, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Dress smart casual. It is a five-star hotel, so beachwear and sports clothes are not a good fit.
- Expect hotel-bar pricing. Cocktails at Barcelona’s hotel rooftops generally cost more than in a neighbourhood bar, so plan your budget accordingly.
- Ask about the view side. Some tables look over the Eixample rooftops more openly than others.
- Combine it with dinner. Barcelona eats late, so a cocktail at 8pm followed by dinner at 9:30pm is completely normal.
Other Rooftops in the Area
If you enjoy hotel rooftops, the Eixample and the city centre have several others worth comparing. Many of the big hotels around Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça de Catalunya run their own terrace bars, each with a different view and style. Some are more about the panorama, others about the cocktails or the food. Trying a couple of them is a nice way to see the city from above.
FAQ
Do you need to be a hotel guest to visit La Terraza del Claris? No, the rooftop bar and restaurant are generally open to non-guests. The pool, however, is for hotel guests only.
Is there a dress code? Smart casual is the safe choice. Avoid flip-flops, swimwear and sportswear.
Is it open in winter? The restaurant has glass walls that can be closed in colder months, which makes it usable outside the summer season. Check current opening times before you go.
How do I get there by metro? Take lines L2, L3 or L4 to Passeig de Gràcia and walk about five minutes.
Is it good for a date? Yes. The lounge atmosphere and black-and-white decor make it a popular choice for a romantic drink or dinner.
Should I reserve? For the restaurant, booking is recommended. For drinks, arriving earlier in the evening improves your chances of getting a table.
