A baroque palace and a Golden Triangle landmark, The Ritz Madrid is one of the finest luxury hotels in the city. Elegant and refined, it occupies a prime spot between the Prado and Thyssen museums, in the exclusive Retiro district. The building is a magnificent example of the Belle Epoch style, and the hotel itself has been entertaining royalty and heads of state since its inauguration by King Alfonso XIII in 1910.

The facilities

Plentiful facilities, as befits its five-star status. Signature restaurant Goya is superb, serving creative Mediterranean cuisine to an impeccable standard. The Afternoon Tea spread is a complete institution across the chain, and the Ritz Madrid's is no different. Expect wafer-thin cucumber sandwiches, hot scones and pastries alongside the finest teas, all taken in the super-elegant Lobby Bar.

The Bodyna Spa provides an extensive range of beauty and relaxation treatments, and has a sauna and fitness centre attached too. There's a personal trainer on-site (you're recommended to book well in advance, and the first session is complimentary). The chic outdoor terrace and garden area is an absolute gem in such a bustling metropolis.

The rooms

Each of the Ritz's 137 bedrooms (including 30 suites) is traditional in style. Every one is individually designed, with antique furnishings, sumptuous fabrics, hand-woven rugs and marble bathrooms. Flat screen televisions, DVD players, WiFi and king-size beds come as standard.