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 brunch, everything about this hotel is baroque and over-the-top.

What we think

A Madrid icon, the 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 rooms and suites share the elegant throwback style of public spaces, with colorful porcelain lamps, gold accents and tufted headboards. There are two restaurants—and a fitness center.

You're here because

Madrid was the seat of a great empire, and your accommodations will be fittingly regal.

The Moment

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

Restaurants & Bars

27 Club:Cocktail bar and museum honoring Generation '27, designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán.

La Cupula: All-day restaurant and bar under the renovated stained-glass dome.

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.