The Westin Palace, Madrid

"The undisputed grande-dame hotel of Madrid—based on a clever idea King Alfonso XIII had just before World War I—faces Plaza Neptuno’s fountains and one of the world’s seriously great art museums, El Prado. Whether you stay here or not, save time for a cocktail in La Rotonda lobby bar beneath the famous stained-glass cupola. And have a wander around the hotel’s small museum, which reveals its life over the past century, name-dropping Hemingway, Picasso, the Rolling Stones, and Dalí, who was fond of doodling on the walls. Bedrooms are defined by a restrained, Belle Epoque elegance, with the brand’s signature focus on wellbeing—super-food ingredients on the room-service menus, white-tea-scented bathroom bottles, staff-led jogging paths—and beds that will swallow you up whole."

"T+L readers voted The Westin Palace as a winner in our World’s Best Awards in 2023, deeming their plush beds some of the dreamiest around, and delighting in the Art Nouveau hotel’s prime location beside the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofia Museums in the city’s famed Art Walk. The 470-room property is a true Grand Dame hotel, commissioned by King Alfonso XIII in 1912 and so embedded in the city’s cultural fabric of the last century that it’s home to a museum dedicated to its own history." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"The Westin Palace, Madrid is a luxurious option where Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant cardholders can redeem their free night award."

"Start us off with an overview.The Westin Palace takes up a full block across from Plaza de Neptuno—an indication of its importance on the Madrid hotel scene. In fact, it's among the city's most famous, having welcomed visitors of all stripes, including Bill Clinton, Salvador Dalí, and Christina Aguilera. The regal lobby and stained glass cupola of the lounge cement this idea long before you reach the ornate, elegant hallways and guest rooms. What's the backstory?Built in 1912, this regal building, the brainchild of King Alfonso XIII, was intended to serve Madrid visitors with all the luxuries of a modern hotel—the largest in Europe at the time. That mandate continues today; even as it's become more modern, it has retained its century-old grandeur. Over the years, the structure has taken on various functions; it was even used as a military hospital during the Spanish Civil War. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Marble hallways lead to the guest rooms, which have plush carpeting and the brand's signature Westin Heavenly Bed. Contemporary art and mirrors line the walls; USB and power outlets by the beds and fog-free mirrors in bathrooms are a plus. Most rooms face the interior courtyard or neighboring streets suites; if you can swing it, opt for one of the Premium View rooms, which overlook the Neptune Fountain and Prado Museum across the street. (A few have small balconies.) Most of the suites have been renovated; they range from junior suites to the Royal Suite, which thanks to a 2019 update now boasts modern flamenco art, separate dining and living areas, and a private bar with small fireplace. Wallpapered baths contain white tea–scented toiletries and thick terry-cloth towels. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Marriott Bonvoy members get free WiFi. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?La Rotonda, the stained glass cupola lounge beyond the lobby, is a photo stop, but you won’t experience the real thing without staying for a drink. If you're looking to eat onsite you could do worse; additionally, Asia Gallery serves terrific Cantonese dishes, including a knockout Peking duck. If you want to booze where Salvador Dalí and Ernest Hemingway famously did, the 1912 Museo Bar awaits. And the service?From the doormen in top hats to the housekeeper delivering mints with turndown, the staff is incredible. What type of travelers will you find here?Americans continue to flood the doors now that Marriott Bonvoy is growing, but the clientele is international. You'll also see plenty of name tag–clad conventioneers. What about the neighborhood?Smack dab in the heart of the Paseo del Arte, the Westin couldn't possibly be any closer to Madrid's three main art museums. CaixaForum Madrid is down the street, as is Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. Is there anything you'd change?Given the elegance of the public areas, a dress code at the bar would be a nice touch. Any other hotel features worth noting?There are plenty of memorabilia and photos from the hotel's past—they're on view here. Anything else we should know?If you’re looking for loyalty points combined with a famous address, Westin Palace Madrid has no match." - Ramsey Qubein

"The Westin Palace takes up a full block across from Plaza de Neptuno—an indication of its importance on the Madrid hotel scene. In fact, it's among the city's most famous, having welcomed visitors of all stripes, including Bill Clinton, Salvador Dalí, and Christina Aguilera. The regal lobby and stained glass cupola of the lounge cement this idea long before you reach the ornate, elegant hallways and guest rooms; you also can booze at the 1912 Museo Bar, where Salvador Dalí and Ernest Hemingway famously did. If you’re looking for loyalty points combined with a famous address, Westin Palace Madrid has no match." - Ramsey Qubein