Art-filled and design-led, these are the best boutique hotels in Madrid, Spain
For your next Spanish sojourn.
The capital of Spain, Madrid, embodies the romance and idiosyncrasies of the country, presenting its visitors with a refined selection of sights and sounds. Unique in its disposition, the city’s enthralling architecture, colourful lifestyle, delectable food scene, and historical importance make it one of the most frequented destinations in Europe. Unsurprisingly, the best boutique hotels in Madrid live up to the city’s reputation, welcoming guests to relish its charms while inundating themselves in delightful abodes affluent in comfort, design, luxury, and eclecticism.
The best boutique hotels in Madrid, Spain
1. Bless Hotel Madrid
An amplitude of 19th-century elegance encapsulates corners of Bless Hotel, a luxurious stay hidden in the heart of Madrid’s Salamanca neighbourhood. The novel lodging highlights the artistic genius of Barcelona-based architectural designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, known for blending contemporary with the classic to create exceptional spaces.
No matter the guest room at Bless, we found them spacious and sophisticated, having bright decor with colourful furnishings pop against otherwise white backgrounds. Distinct amenities such as standalone bathtubs, rain showers, double sinks in the en-suites, sofa beds, 55” TVs, electric fireplaces, and living areas help make every stay even more restful.
Do not miss out on Bless’ spa and culinary offerings too. Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast and made-to-order eggs, followed by a swim in the hotel’s rooftop swimming pool next to the terrace bar. Afternoons are ideal for a rejuvenating Beldon Beauty treatment. Evenings, though, are best reserved for dinner at the Japanese-Mediterranean SLVJ, chased by a nightcap at Bless’ lobby bar.
Find out more about Bless Hotel Madrid
2. The Principal Madrid
One of the most noticeable highlights of a holiday at The Principal is the dynamic juxtaposition between its 76 modern designer rooms and Madrid’s classical architecture visible through the windows. Inside, opulence exudes everywhere you look, from the walk-in shower with hydro massage and Egyptian cotton sheets to the Nespresso machines, integrated Bluetooth speakers, free WiFi, and 40” televisions.
As Gran Via’s first five-star property, The Principal more than lives up to its reputation. It provides a home-like sojourn, placing guests in the centre of Madrid’s top activities. At the same time, The Principal is famous for being a gracious host, regularly holding community events such as the ever-so-popular Comedy Sunset Sessions.
Gastronomic delights at what is undoubtedly one of Madrid’s most entertaining boutique hotels come in two forms. La Terraza enchants with citywide views at first and then satiates cravings through a delectable menu by Ramoń Freida. The two Michelin Star chef further showcases his culinary prowess at Ático, the hotel’s rooftop alfresco and indoor fine dining restaurant promising something new every time you visit. Remember, both eateries have limited seating, so be sure to book yourself a table well in advance.
Learn more about The Principal Madrid
3. Hotel Urso
Hotel Urso is a result of architect and designer Antonio Obrador’s dream to present guests with a residential option that flawlessly merges boutique with luxury. The same holds for its 20th-century building, where a Neoclassic facade greets you into a cosmopolitan space enriched with vintage originals, from marble flooring and stained-glass windows to a mahogany lift and decades-old wall tiles.
The 78-room strategically situated city escape pampers its visitors with spacious suites and rooms featuring four poster beds, large windows, terraces, and stunning views, including that of the Villagonzalo Palace. Add to that creature comforts we’ve all come to expect from every best boutique property. That certain rooms are pet-friendly further makes Hotel Urso an ideal vacation spot for those who love to travel with their furry companions.
The in-house spa is convenient and intimate, even though it is open to the public. Nothing beats the freshness of a locally sourced breakfast served under a glass roof at The Conservatory for that perfect start to your day.
Find out more about Hotel Urso
4. Dear Hotel Madrid
Situated next to Plaza de España, Dear Hotel Madrid epitomises what it means to be a boutique hotel in Madrid. Its list of services, as well as complimentary and premium amenities, runs a couple of pages, comprising attributes like free WiFi, video and audio streaming, soundproofed rooms, pillow menu, room service, personalised tourist planning, and in-room massage. However, three facilities that stand out and make you want to spend your entire holiday inside the hotel are the terrace plunge pool, solarium, and gorgeous lounge bar offering 360° city panoramas.
Dear Hotel manifests the Scandi-chic design brilliance of Sandra Tarruella by creating an attractive residence brimming with bespoke elements. The play of light and dark colours in the 162 rooms is subtle yet striking enough to make a noticeable impression. While not minimalistic, one notices some industrial influence in the light fixtures and open cupboards.
Conveniences, be it filtered water, safe, kettle or the individual air conditioner, rain shower, and 40” smart TV, are aplenty. Dear Hotel’s 14th-floor eatery, Nice To Meet You, is a hip place to eat, mingle, and admire Madrid from above. The restaurant operates as a multi-purpose space where guests can enjoy DJ music on weekends, a romantic culinary escapade, or an evening sundowner before heading out to explore the city’s nightlife.
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5. 7 Islas Hotel
Design takes centerstage at 7 Islas Hotel, a property fueled by artistic passion, located between Malasaña and Gran Via. Started two decades ago by Juan Rosa, the present-day hotel is still a family-owned operation run by the three granddaughters of the patriarch. A project composed in symphony with studio Kikekellar, 7 Islas has quickly become a destination revered for its creative and gastronomic exuberance.
Guests can pick from three categories of rooms: Easy, Deluxe, and the Penthouse with a terrace. The latter charmed us with its bright interiors, hammock, yoga kit, carpets, and en-suite with a shower and tub. However, no matter your choice or room features like the steel and leather headboards in Deluxe rooms, where Kikekellar has collaborated with various masters of trades, give each abode a distinct feel.
Food and art form the fundamental ethos on which the 7 Islas Hotel resides. 7 Kitchen & Bar is a dynamic epicurean hub from late mornings to midnight, famous for concocting some of the best cocktails in town. As for guests in the mood for reflection, head over to the 7i Art Gallery, famous for displaying the works of new and upcoming artists on rotation.
Find out more about 7 Islas Hotel
6. Posada del Dragon
Named after the mythical stone dragon who stood guard protecting Puerta de Moros, La Posada del Dragón is among Madrid’s best boutique hotels that allow complete immersion into local life. Its location in the La Latina neighbourhood near several sightseeing spots makes it a convenient and lively stay. At the same time, history runs through its walls, integrating the city’s 12th-century Christian wall with the Inn’s 16th-century construction.
The 27 rooms at La Posada del Dragón contrast its surroundings, often showcasing the personalities of the hotel’s present owners, Oscar and Lars. Bright, colourful accent walls, designer side tables, and modern conveniences result in a consortium of designs, ideas, and materials that elevate the rooms’ hip quotient.
Traditionalism emerges once again at the hotel’s restaurant, La Antoñita. The atmospherically cosy eatery prides itself on using the freshest local ingredients to plate up recipes passed down from generation to generation.
Find out more about Posada del Dragon
7. H10 Villa de la Reina Boutique Hotel
Travellers wishing to reside in the city’s heart should consider booking a room at H10 Villa de la Reina,, ideally located on Gran Via. Occupying an early 20th-century building which was once a bank, the hotel flaunts a heavy influence of classic French ornate interiors woven with in-vogue design elements.
Furthermore, each of H10 Villa’s 74 rooms comes laden with boutique features, including a welcome gift, a Nespresso machine, individual climate control, en-suites, a minibar, and more. Should you opt for one of the larger suites, expect added benefits ranging from a media hub and pillow menu to larger TVs, complimentary wine, a terrace, and even a Jacuzzi.
La Villa Bar is our favourite spot in H10 Villa. The lobby bar elicits conversations over drinks and nibbles and even comes with its own reading nook. Las Infantas Restaurant is a great starting point for something a little more filling, plating a lavish breakfast that should keep your cravings at bay until much later in the day.
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8. Totem Madrid
Restored to new-age glory, the 19th-century building of Tótem, under the Marugal group’s management, celebrates Madrid’s long standing architectural heritage through its protected exteriors. Although contemporary inside, vintage features such as the pine wood and iron main staircase give the interiors a sophisticated and simultaneously bold look.
The 64-room hotel consists of suites as well as pet-friendly accommodations spread out throughout the complex. Consequently, while some offer magnificent views of the Salamanca neighbourhood, others let you experience total quietude. Design-wise, there exists a sleekness to the minimalism that engulfs the abodes. Wooden flooring, Nespresso machines, soundproofing, walk-in rain showers, bathtubs, turndown service, and streaming options add to the richness of the rooms.
Although there are plenty of amazing places to dine in Madrid, a booking at Tótem is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a memorable meal at the in-house El Pimiento Verde. Open from breakfast to dinner, make a reservation here to indulge in authentic Basque cuisine.
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9. The Pavilions Madrid
The Pavilions Madrid presents visitors with a distinctly situated sojourn next to Plaza de Colón. It’s central enough for touristy things, yet hidden in a quiet street, should you desire serenity. Fear not, there’s much activity all around, with eateries and retail shops only a few steps away.
The 28 rooms and suites at what is one of the most preferred boutique hotels in Madrid by business persons are bold in composition. The use of deep and dark shades enhances the temperament of the rooms. At the same time, installations and paintings by emerging artists bring about a sense of unconventionality to the same spaces. We particularly loved the curation of books in every room and the furnishings, some of which feature bespoke Madrid-themed upholstery.
Breakfast at The Pavilions is a casual affair. Served in the garden, it comprises a mix of morning essentials and local specialities like cured Iberian ham, broiled turkey, and house-made jams.
Learn more about The Pavilions Madrid
10. Hotel One Shot Luchana 22
Rows of Neoclassical, Neo-Gothic, and Modernist homes populate the Chamberí district of Madrid, known for its aristocratic mansions, gardens, historical sites, and museums. Inside one such building, Luchana Palace, lies Hotel One Shot, a contemporary hideaway with a modish spirit.
Elegantly basic in composition, the rooms at Hotel One Shot come with desks, air-conditioning, designer chairs, high mattresses, rain showers, free WiFi, parquet flooring, and TVs. Standouts among the inventory are the Premium Rooms, boasting a round layout, large windows, balconies, and canopy beds.
Influenced by Italian food retail stores, the hotel’s restaurant, La Saluttería, is a busy tavern famous for its range of imported Italian delights as well as wines, cheese, pasta dishes, and aperitif.
Learn more about Hotel One Shot Luchana 22
11. Barceló Torre de Madrid
Madrid’s five-star boutique property, Barceló Torre de Madrid is a melange of colourful boho interiors exalted by designer Jamie Hayon’s eccentricity. The 258-room property on Plaza de España basks in the glory of its iconic building. However, while it honours the local culture, the hotel doesn’t hide from showcasing its character through a cacophony of myriad architectural impressions, from Roman to Arabic.
The rooms carry forth the vibrancy of the lobby and lounge, where the sculpture of a zebra-striped bear is most noteworthy. The wide selection of rooms makes Barceló the perfect choice whether you are a single traveller, a couple, on business, or in Madrid for a family holiday. Amenities cover the everyday basics, such as en-suites with rain showers, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, iPhone dock stations, and coffee/tea makers. All the rooms are spacious, but the ones with city views are worth the extra dough.
Facilities at Barceló include three culinary hotspots. Restaurants Somos grants spectacular views to enjoy while savouring traditional Spanish cuisine. Lobby Bar Claw is a lovely area to mingle and snack on tapas while appreciating a drink. Mornings, however, are all about healthy eating at B-LikeEat, where you’ll find a buffet specially curated by nutritionist Vanessa Losada.
Learn more about Barceló Torre de Madrid
12. Only YOU Boutique Hotel
The award-winning Only YOU is an integral part of Madrid’s Salesas neighbourhood and a preferred stay for travellers who relish authenticity and world-class luxury. Housed in a 19th-century residence, the hotel exhibits the imaginative splendour of Lázaro Rosa-Violán most noticeable in Only YOU’s common spaces, such as the lobby, galleries, and restaurant.
Although there are ample options when it comes to room types at the hotel, two stand out. The Fabulofts quickly become your home away from home with their exposed, original wooden beamed slanted ceilings, rain showers, and spacious layout. At the same time, the Suiteheart impresses with its indoor and outdoor free-flowing space and an awe-inspiring book wall.
Not to miss out are the Asian-influenced treatments at the Thai Room on the first floor, much helpful after a long day of exploring Madrid. Follow that up with a stop at one of the hotel’s culinary offerings, from Celicioso bakery to Padrino cocktail bar and Younique, the hotel’s restaurant that also doubles as an art gallery.
Find out more about Only YOU Boutique Hotel
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