The Best Boutique Hotels in Madrid
Now more than ever, Madrid is awash with big-brand corporate hotels that lack personality and sense of place. Choose one of these smaller-scale boutique hotels—from converted palaces to historic mansions to trendster hotspots—and discover a more intimate side of the Spanish capital.
Hotel Sardinero Madrid
Why it made the list
There’s an effortless elegance about Hotel Sardinero, located between gay-friendly Chueca and artsy Malasaña, that makes you want to stay awhile. While the building’s opulent past is ever-present—the spiraling central stairway and neoclassical façade are salient reminders—modern furnishings and tasteful art land this property squarely in the here-and-now.
Barceló Emperatriz
Why it made the list
You may not be steps from Madrid’s main attractions at Barceló Emperatriz, but the hotel is a vacation in itself with its designer décor, decadent rooms, and impeccable service. Real Madrid fans will appreciate its proximity to Santiago Bernabeu stadium, and every type of traveler will feel at home in Barrio Salamanca, a true-blue Madrileño neighborhood with hidden-gem hangouts around every corner.
AC Santo Mauro, Autograph Collection
Why it made the list
This fin-de-siècle palace in the Chamberí district, first a duke's residence and later the Canadian embassy, is now an intimate luxury hotel (managed by Marriott), an oasis of calm removed from the city center. You'll feel like a VIP every time the front-desk staff welcomes you by name; make a beeline for the concierge desk upon arrival to save yourself the hassle of buying tickets to museums and events.
Dear Hotel
Why it made the list
Located on Gran Vía overlooking the tree-lined Plaza de España, Dear Hotel is a sleek urban property designed by Tarruella Trenchs Studio, the firm behind such lauded projects as H10 La Mimosa hotel in Barcelona and La Bien Aparecida restaurant in Madrid. Its homey, minimalist rooms—think blond woods, white sheets, and square wall molding—flood with natural light (all are street-facing), and some even boast outdoor patios.
Only You Boutique Hotel
Why it made the list
Only You has all the advantages of a boutique luxury hotel—swanky bar, impeccable décor, a 24-hour gym—but remains understated and comfortable at its core. Its central location in Chueca, one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods, plus its laid-back lobby and welcoming personnel, are sure to make this relative newcomer a Madrid classic.
URSO Hotel & Spa
Why it made the list
Housed in a regal turn-of-the-century municipal building, this luxury hotel and spa boasts Old World luxury and avant-garde design to satisfy alternative types and jetsetters alike. Tucked behind the bustling Tribunal station, URSO is within walking distance from the city’s top attractions, yet removed enough from the tourist track to lend it an air of exclusivity.
Tótem Madrid
Why it made the list
A breath of fresh air on the Madrid hotel scene, Tótem checks all the boxes: genial service, state-of-the-art design, sought-after location, terrific food and cocktails—you name it, they’ve got it. (To treat yourself, splurge on a junior suite; the costlier standard suites may be more spacious, but they’re far less feng shui.) The hotel is situated in the Salamanca district, a tree-lined area north of Retiro park known for its high-end boutiques, timeless restaurants, and casual-chic lounges and nightclubs.
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