Madrid, Spain
Once Europe’s largest hotel, this Grand Belle Époque hotel is in central Madrid, set beside the Prado museums and known for elegant dining beneath a historic glass dome
Our review
Don’t let the small lobby area put you off; go up the steps and there is much more space with rooms leading off.
In particular, the Cupola salon has a magnificent original leaded coloured glass Art Nouveaux roof and is the hub of the hotel. The room has been refurbished and the colours of the roof picked up in the new carpet and furniture – lime greens and rose red that is most attractive. The circular room is ideal for daytime teas and coffees and cocktails in the evening.
The hotel was built in 1912 and opened a year after the Ritz – in record time using reinforced concrete – a first in Madrid. It was also the first hotel in Spain to have telephone and bath in every room.
It is a large hotel with 467 rooms including 50 suites. I was very impressed with the meeting rooms – one of the best in the city with both traditional meeting rooms and newly opened large modern spaces – big enough to have a car drive in, which explains several car launches that have been held there.
Special ‘heavenly beds’ ensure a good nights sleep. While original features have been retained such as the dark wooden wardrobes and some antique furniture, many of the rooms have been refurbished and are fresher and to my mind, more tasteful. The hotel has its own brand of toiletries. There are double sinks in all bathrooms most of which have separate shower and bath. Wi-Fi is free in the public areas and complimentary for higher-grade rooms. Of course, I think Wi-Fi should be free for all.
The Rotunda lounge area morphs into a bar area called the 1912 Museo-Bar. This is a pleasant space with leather chairs and sofas and we enjoyed a cocktail here.
In a good central location and with old world charm, I would certainly recommend staying here.
Rooms
The Palace Hotel Madrid offers around 470 rooms and suites, combining historic elegance with modern comfort. Rooms feature high ceilings, refined classical décor, marble bathrooms and contemporary amenities, with many offering views towards the Neptuno Fountain or tranquil interior courtyards.
Food and Drink
Dining centres on La Cúpula, an iconic restaurant set beneath the hotel’s stained‑glass dome, serving Mediterranean and international cuisine in a dramatic setting. The 27 Club Bar is a historic cocktail destination inspired by the hotel’s literary and artistic past, offering classic and signature drinks in an elegant lounge atmosphere.
Wellness
Wellness facilities include a modern fitness centre, treatment rooms offering massages and beauty therapies, and quiet relaxation areas designed to support restoration after exploring the city.
Facilities
- Signature restaurant beneath a glass dome
- Historic cocktail bar
- Fitness centre and treatment rooms
- Meeting and event spaces
- Concierge and business services
- On‑site parking and valet service
- Pet‑friendly accommodation
- Free Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
Location
Located on Plaza de las Cortes in the Landscape of Light district, the hotel is steps from the Prado, Thyssen‑Bornemisza and Reina Sofía museums, with central Madrid landmarks easily reached on foot.
Getting there
Address: Plaza de las Cortes, 7 Madrid 28014 · Spain
Arriving by air: Madrid Barajas Airport– Located 11 miles (14 km) 14 minutes by car.
More information
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* Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.