What it is

Century-old grandeur in an iconic palace on the Paseo del Prado.

What it isn't

Restrained. From the stained-glass cupola in the lobby to the opera brunch, everything about this hotel is baroque and over-the-top.

What we think

A Madrid icon, the Westin Palace is fit for Spanish royalty—indeed, it was built at the request of King Alfonso XIII. First opened in 1912, it remains a kaleidoscope of stained glass, crystal chandeliers, colorful frescoes and intricate marble work. The 467 rooms and suites share the elegant throwback style of public spaces, with colorful porcelain lamps, gold accents and tufted headboards. Bathrooms aren't huge (this was the first hotel in Spain to have ensuite baths in every room) but are covered in marble. There are two restaurants—including La Rotonda, under that impressive glass dome—and a fitness center, but no spa or pool. This being a Westin, service is efficient and warm, and caters as well to visiting families as to executive travelers.

You're here because

Madrid was the seat of a great empire, and your accommodations should be fittingly regal—and furnished with Heavenly Beds.

The Moment

Tucking into a bite of silky potato-and-egg tortilla under the sparkling stained-glass dome of La Rotonda, a soprano and tenor serenade you to the strains of Bizet at the hotel's fabulous Sunday Opera Brunch.

Restaurants & Bars

La Rotonda - A la carte dining with national and international flavors beneath the magnificent stained glass dome.

Asia Gallery - Haute-Chinese.

Green T - Small and cozy sushi bar.

1912 Museo Bar - Once a favorite watering hole of Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dali, the buzzy bar maintains a happening profile.

Location

Covetably central: Smack on the Paseo del Prado, right across the street from the Prado Museum and a short walk to the Retiro Park.