Mandarin Oriental Ritz

Madrid’s first luxury hotel, (now owned by Mandarin Oriental) renowned for impeccable service, is also the place to see and be seen.

• Service fit for royalty
• Connecting rooms and suites to accommodate families
• The Lobby’s elegant and intimate Champagne Bar, with just eight seats

People often cite the “Guggenheim effect,” referring to the Frank Gehry–designed museum, in describing Bilbao’s transformation from mining backwater to international arts star. The Ritz Madrid played a similar role in the evolution of the capital city. After traveling around Europe, Spanish king Alfonso XIII returned to his hometown determined to give it some of the sophistication of London and Paris by constructing a high-end hotel there on a par with those in the cities he had visited. He joined forces with the legendary hotelier César Ritz, and in 1910 opened Madrid’s first true luxury property. Thanks to its impeccably designed interiors, grand Baroque architecture and unrivaled location next to the Prado, the property quickly became the place for the day’s movers and shakers to meet, and it remains the hub of the city’s social and political scene today. In 2015, Mandarin Oriental bought the hotel, and the property underwent a massive (and long overdue) renovation. The property reopened in 2021 with a new, fresh feeling that still honors its traditional style and unique history.

The Ritz’s 153 rooms, including 53 suites, now align more closely with 21st century Madrid, offering a more chic and contemporary residential style, while still delivering on the opulent touches and outstanding service expected of the classic property. Thanks to their high ceilings and large windows, accommodations of every category feel larger than their modern-hotel equivalents. Classic rooms start at around 300 square feet, and the suites begin at 540 square feet. For those looking to splurge, the Royal Suite is 2,450 sq. ft. with two bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms fit for kings and queens.

All rooms were designed for longer stays because, when the hotel opened, guests tended to check in for weeks and months (as some families still do) rather than a few days. Closets line entire walls in most rooms, and adjoining rooms and suites have connections allowing them to be merged to accommodate traveling families. In deference to modern travelers’ needs, management has added plasma TVs and wi-fi access. The bathrooms are marble-clad with gold fixtures and amenities like towel warmers. The hotel charms its guests with its authenticity and old-world sophistication, and now that the renovations are complete, sophisticated clients of all ages are found in its spectacular, buzzing lobby.

Aside from its wonderful location and wellness spa, with a fully-equipped gym, the Ritz’s biggest bragging point must be its staff, who are efficient, friendly and without an ounce of snobbery. Many have been employed at the hotel for decades, and they take pride in preserving its reputation for the best service in town. They have done this so successfully that former King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofía would hire hotel staff to serve honored guests of the state.

With its access to Retiro Park and the neighboring Prado Museum, this is a great choice for anyone looking for a prime location and full-service option in Madrid. It is also well-suited for families as it has many connecting room options. Anyone who appreciates a sense of history will enjoy this iconic property.