The Best Boutique Hotels in Madrid

With the hotel name drawing inspiration from the traditional Spanish hat ‘Montera’, this neoclassical property offers panoramic rooftop vistas, and elegant interiors drawing from the eclectic character of the area. Aside from the 93 tranquil and sustainable rooms, after a long day in the sunshine be sure to check out the world-class rooftop cocktail bar ‘El Cielo de Chicote’, sister to the city’s famous Museo Chicote. If you fancy some traditional tapas head to La Braseri, which serves everything from Madrilenian cuisine to international culinary delights.

Located between the happening Chueca neighbourhood and posh Salamanca district, this adults-only hotel fuses the best of both worlds. It’s housed in a fancy 19th-century building and retains original features, but it’s all been brought up to date with an interior design from the much-lauded Lázaro Rosa-Violán. There are 10 impressive room types, plus lavish Thai-themed wellness experiences and a refined restaurant serving healthy dishes inspired by flavours from the Spanish capital.

While the 19th-century building that’s home to the Heritage Hotel has an understated elegance, inside is quite a different story. Upon entering, you’re met with rococo-style furnishings, museum-worthy antiques and gilt-framed oil paintings that combine to create an impressive scene of lavishness – without being gaudy. Although still sumptuous, rooms dial it down with hand-printed wallpaper and vintage etchings. If you can’t choose among the many eating options of the surrounding Salamanca neighbourhood, you can always settle for the double-Michelin-starred dining just downstairs.

Occupying a slice of neo-classical architecture that holds its own among the finest in Madrid, the URSO Hotel & Spa is an appropriately swish affair within. Original features, such as the mahogany lift brimming with art nouveau panache, contrast pleasantly with interiors that combine eye-catching Japanese prints with a breezy modern palette. A real highlight is the bijou wellness centre, with a hydromassage pool, steam room and long list of treatments to help you relax and revive.

The smart-yet-understated facade of the Totém Madrid sets the tone for much of this boutique hotel, located in swanky Salamanca. The guest rooms are finished with a soothing lightness of touch, chicly minimal but utterly inviting. High-thread bedsheets and waffle robes add a touch of luxury. They’ve dialled up the decor in the gorgeous cocktail bar, which also attracts a local evening crowd, as does the bright and breezy Basque restaurant. It’s understandably popular, so book your table ahead.

Historic 19th-century architecture collides with contemporary design at this cosy boutique in the La Latina neighbourhood, a stone’s throw from Plaza Mayor and the busy public square, Puerta del Sol. Work by local artists decorates the bedroom walls, while exposed wooden beams give the space a rustic feel. You can while away an evening at the in-house restaurant, La Enotaberna, and enjoy one of more than 300 bottles of Spanish wine. Sample a traditional dish of cocido madrileño, a hearty stew of chickpeas, sausages, and vegetables native to Madrid.

Located next to Plaza de España, Dear Hotel offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city. In just a short walk, you can visit the Royal Palace or watch a musical at Lope de Vega Theatre on the Gran Vía. Inside, bedrooms are elegantly designed using harmonious colours, natural wood and modern finishes. The neutral decor turns the space into a relaxing retreat away from the noise of the big city. To make your stay extra special, swim in the hotel sky pool at sunset and marvel at the 360-degree city views. The rooftop terrace offers restaurant dining and a DJ at weekends.

Located in the historic Las Letras neighbourhood, Axel Hotel is aimed at LGBTQ travellers, while also describing itself as hetero-friendly; staff create a welcoming atmosphere for all sexual orientations. Bedrooms are stately and glamorous, while the rest of the hotel is inspired by the 1980s with striking designs, bold graphics and colour pops. The ’80s decor references La Movida Madrileña, a time in Madrid’s history when the gay rights movement was in full swing. After a long day, lounge by the rooftop terrace pool or enjoy a late-night cocktail in the underground cave bar.

Set in a 19th-century building in the upscale Salamanca neighbourhood, Relais and Châteaux stays true to its historic roots. Decorated with handpicked period furniture, each room is unique, setting Hotel Orfila apart from the cookie-cutter chains. Dining is as decadent as the decor, with the Michelin-star El Jardín de Orfila on site. If you’re looking to relax, head to the private and serene back garden.

In a city that allows dogs on trains and in many bars and restaurants, there is no reason to leave your pooch behind. For a small daily surcharge, pets are welcome at Hotel Hospes Puerta de Alcalá. Handily, the hotel is situated right next to Retiro Park, one of the largest green spaces in Madrid, so you can go on a scenic dog walk before grabbing lunch at one of the nearby terraces. After exploring, hit up the elegant spa in the hotel, where you can get a massage or a facial or just unwind in the large jacuzzi.

Live like royalty at the former residence of the Duke of Santo Mauro, a member of the Madrid elite during the late 1800s. You can now relax in decadent common areas such as the Red Room, or dine in the former library, which has since been turned into a lavish dining room. If the bustle of the city gets overwhelming, escape to the lush garden terrace for a drink or two.
Leon Beckenham contributed additional reporting to this article.