Best hotels in Madrid

Rosewood Villa Magna, Madrid

Rosewood Villa Magna sits on the prestigious Paseo de la Castellana, occupying the historic site of the 19th-century Anglada Palace. While the original palace is long gone, the hotel pays homage to its aristocratic roots through its sophisticated design, masterfully reimagined by the Australian-based BAR Studio during a major 2021 renovation.

“Perched along Madrid’s posh Paseo de la Castellana, Rosewood Villa Magna exudes an air of understated luxury more akin to a prestigious social club than a trendy hotel. And that’s exactly why Rosewood’s following of high-end clientele flocks to the Salamanca address.”

Relais & Châteaux Orfila, Madrid

Relais & Châteaux Orfila is a hidden gem in Madrid’s quiet, upscale Chamberí district. Housed in a charming 1886 palace, this small, family-owned hotel feels more like a private art gallery than a typical city stay, complete with marble floors, antique furniture, and a tranquil, flower-filled courtyard garden.

“The Orfila is a converted 19th-century palace. Close enough to the Castellana to feel the pulse of the city’s main artery, set back enough to sleep quietly and stroll along sedate side streets.”

The Edition, Madrid

The Madrid EDITION, envisioned by Ian Schrager, is a sophisticated urban resort located in the heart of the city at Plaza de Celenque. The property is a fascinating blend of architectural styles, featuring a modern, clean-lined structure that incorporates a salvaged 18th-century Baroque portal originally designed by Pedro de Ribera. This unique juxtaposition of historical preservation and sleek, contemporary design defines its character.

“The new EDITION is plainly the cherry on the cake – or the prawn on the paella. The drama of the building – cunningly repurposed from a boxy modern former bank HQ on the old-town Plaza de Celenque – begins with the ornate 18th-century granite doorway by Pedro de Rivera and continues into a vast spiral staircase in pearly-white stone, curving spectacularly upwards like a giant seashell.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s Hotlist 2023.

Only You Boutique Hotel, Madrid

Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid is a stunning transformation of a 19th-century palace that once belonged to the Marquesa of Alhama. Located on Calle Barquillo in the heart of the fashionable Chueca district, the property masterfully balances its historic colonial architecture—think high archways and original azulejo tiles—with a bold, contemporary redesign.

“Since opening in the fall of 2013, the Only You Hotel has quickly made a name for itself among design-conscious travelers and locals who frequent the lively bar. Besides the bar and restaurant there is a gorgeous sun-lit lobby atrium downstairs and 70 rooms upstairs with plush midnight blue velvet wall coverings and crisp white lacquered furnishings.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Madrid.

Brach, Madrid

Brach Madrid, part of the prestigious Evok Collection, is a stunning five-star hotel situated right on Madrid’s famous Gran Vía. Housed within the historic Seguros La Estrella building, which dates back to 1922, the property has been masterfully reimagined by the visionary French designer Philippe Starck. His design blends the building's original architectural grandeur with a modern, theatrical aesthetic, featuring eclectic art, warm terracotta tones, and sleek, contemporary furnishings.

“Smack-dab on Gran Vía, Evok Collection’s second opening outside France is leading the third hotel wave in the Spanish capital—unsurprising given that one of the men who invented the boutique hotel helmed the design: Philippe Starck. The elegant, belvedere-topped seven-story building finished in 1922 now tucks in 57 bedrooms.”

Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini, Madrid

Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is a unique boutique aparthotel perfectly positioned across from the Royal Palace of Madrid. Combining the independence of a private apartment with hotel-style amenities, its studios and suites are equipped with kitchenettes, making them an ideal choice for both short city breaks and longer stays.

“Modern, spacious studios and suites are only half the story at this terrific property just down the hill from Plaza de España. Definitely pay extra for a room with a view over the lovely Jardines de Sabatini – simply brilliant.”

Hotel NH Collection Suecia, Madrid

The NH Collection Madrid Suecia is a historic gem tucked just off the bustling Gran Vía. Originally opened in 1956 by the Swedish royal family, the building famously served as a home-away-from-home for legendary figures like Ernest Hemingway and Che Guevara during their visits to the Spanish capital.

“After being shuttered for years the Hotel Suecia reopened in January 2014 as the Innside Madrid Suecia, a new concept hotel by the Spanish Melía chain for on-the-go travelers. The décor features blond woods and nubby fabrics; the building was once home to both the Swedish Cultural Institute and Ernest Hemingway. It has 127 rooms, an all-day restaurant and a fabulous roof terrace just one tranquil block away from the Paseo del Prado.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Madrid.

Urso Hotel & Spa, Madrid

The Urso Hotel & Spa is a stunning boutique retreat housed in a restored early 20th-century palace that once served as the headquarters for the "Papelera Española" company. Its transformation into a luxury hotel was masterfully overseen by architect and designer Antonio Obrador, who successfully balanced the building’s original neoclassical elegance—such as its grand marble staircase and colourful stained-glass windows—with fresh, modern interiors.

“Set in the central Alonso Martínez neighborhood, Urso Hotel & Spa is a chic boutique property in a restored early 20th-century palace replete with marble stairs, a wrought-iron balustrade and stained-glass windows.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Madrid.

Tótem Hotel, Madrid

Tótem Madrid is a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of the capital's exclusive Salamanca district. Housed in a meticulously restored 19th-century building, it preserves its protected historical façade and an impressive, original pine staircase that serves as a centerpiece for the property.

“Since moving into tony Salamanca at the end of last year, Tótem has quickly become one of Madrid’s most coveted accommodations. Its 1920s-inspired décor features potted palms, blue velvet sofas and a Mediterranean restaurant inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Beautiful and Damned.'”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Madrid.

The Principal Hotel, Madrid

The Principal Madrid stands as a sophisticated urban retreat right on the iconic Gran Vía. Housed in a stately building dating back to 1917, the hotel beautifully blends its original Spanish Renaissance architecture—complete with ornate ironwork and soaring ceilings—with contemporary interiors designed by Pilar García-Nieto and the studio Luzio.

“Combining comfort and style in the rooms with a prime address for business, culture and night life, the Principal has a lot going for it. For guests who like rubbing shoulders with a steady stream of Madrid’s creative class, just head up to the roof.”

CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha, Madrid

CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha is a stunning boutique hotel set in a restored 1852 nobleman’s palace. Originally the opulent townhouse of Nemesio Sancha, a high-ranking official in the Order of Charles III, the building retains much of its regal heritage. You can still spot the original decorative ceilings, intricate frescoes, and a grand, protected staircase that serves as a reminder of its 19th-century splendor.

“CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha, in an 1850s palace in the historic city center, has some of the most spacious rooms in Madrid, not to mention top-floor suites with large decks and hot tubs.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Madrid.

Hostel The Hat, Madrid

The Hat Madrid is a stylish boutique hostel that perfectly balances historic charm with modern, functional design. Opened in 2014, the property is situated in an authentic building that features original columns and unique vaulted ceilings. One of its standout architectural quirks is the "cave" common area, an atmospheric space that serves as a cool retreat for guests to relax or grab a snack.

“The Hat hikes up the standard of Madrid hostels with the style of a boutique hotel and lots of good ideas for a comfortable, fun stay without paying silly prices. Sights, shops and restaurants are on the doorstep and there is a groovy bar up on the roof. Unsurprisingly, it attracts all ages.”

TOC Hostel, Madrid

TOC Hostel Madrid is a uniquely modern space nestled in the historic heart of the city. Situated in the emblematic Plaza de Celenque, the property occupies a building with deep roots; in the 15th century, the site was a prestigious area frequented by local marquises and duchesses.

“If you want to stay somewhere comfortable, fun and reasonably priced in the centre of Madrid, this new-style hostel might fit the bill. With double and family rooms as well as dorms, smart contemporary design and a handsome traditional building, the TOC is a refreshingly modern place to stay.”

Hotel Emperador, Madrid

Hotel Emperador stands as an iconic fixture on Madrid’s famous Gran Vía. Designed by architects Julián and Joaquín Otamendi, the building was completed in 1947 and quickly became a glamorous hub for the city's cultural elite. Throughout its history, the hotel has hosted legendary figures like Ernest Hemingway, Ava Gardner, and Sophia Loren, cementing its status as a symbol of mid-century sophistication.

“The chief recommendation at The Emperador, certainly in the summer, would be the roof-top swimming pool. There’s a bar up there, too, and captivating 360-degree views of the Spanish capital.”

Hotel Praktik Metropol, Madrid

Hotel Praktik Metropol is a standout boutique hotel in the heart of Madrid, located right on Calle de la Montera. Housed in a charming historic building, the property is celebrated for its "less is luxe" philosophy, which aims to provide comfortable, stylish accommodation at an accessible price point.

“You’d be hard-pressed to find better value anywhere in Europe than here in this overhauled hotel. Rooms have a fresh, contemporary look with white wood furnishings, and some have brilliant views down to Gran Vía.”

Room007 Ventura Hostel, Madrid

Room007 Ventura Hostel is a standout choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting to be right in the heart of Madrid. Located on Ventura de la Vega street, it’s tucked away in the lively Literary Quarter, an area famous for its historic associations with Spanish writers.

“Many city hostels occupy top spots, have a strong design ethos and offer more services than five-star hotels – all for a fraction of the price. Among the best of the best: Room 007 in the Chueca, Sol and Ventura neighbourhoods of Madrid.”

Hotel Catalonia Las Cortes, Madrid

The Catalonia Las Cortes is a stunning boutique hotel that offers a rare opportunity to stay within a piece of Madrid’s history. The property is housed in a grand 18th-century neoclassical mansion, which once served as the private residence of the Duke of Noblejas.

“An elegant and ingeniously converted palace, Hotel Catalonia Las Cortes was once the residence of the Duke of Nobelejas. In some of the suites, guests will gaze up at frescoed ceilings.”

Hostal Central Palace, Madrid

Hostal Central Palace Madrid is an elegant guest house that enjoys one of the most enviable addresses in the city. Located directly on the historic Plaza de Oriente, it is the only accommodation situated right in the square, offering guests a front-row seat to Madrid’s regal heritage.

“Now here’s something special. The views alone would be reason enough to come to this hotel and definitely worth paying extra for – rooms with balconies look out over the Palacio Real and Plaza de Oriente.”

Hotel Puerta América, Madrid

Hotel Puerta América in Madrid is a bold architectural statement, often described as an avant-garde "space that invites guests to dream." Opened in 2005, the hotel is a unique collaborative project that brought together nineteen world-renowned architects and designers from thirteen different countries, each tasked with creating a completely different concept for their assigned floor.

“Give 22 of architecture’s most creative names (eg Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster, Ron Arad, David Chipperfield, Jean Nouvel) a floor each to design. The result is an extravagant pastiche of styles.”