Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid
When Alfonso XIII married in 1906, he was dismayed that Madrid lacked accommodation befitting his guests, so he engaged César Ritz to consult on the design for this legendary hotel a stone’s throw from the Prado. More than a century after it opened in 1910, many of its gorgeous Belle Époque details have been restored—notably in the exquisite Palm Court lobby where sunlight streams again through the crystal canopy. Although today’s hotel features the latest in contemporary comforts—and Quique da Costa’s cutting-edge restaurant Deessa—a whiff of vintage glamour pervades its rooms and suites with period furniture, elegant chandeliers, and gilt touches. Famous guests have included Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier, who honeymooned here. Frank Sinatra serenaded Ava Gardner at its piano—she was later banned for lewd behavior in the lobby. While a stay here is likely beyond most pockets—even entry-level rooms average a 1,000€ per night—you could treat yourself to afternoon tea (56€) and people watching in the Palm Court, or the set menu with a glass of champagne (95€) on the garden terrace of El Jardín del Ritz.
When Alfonso XIII married in 1906, he was dismayed that Madrid lacked accommodation befitting his guests, so he engaged César Ritz to consult on the design for this legendary hotel a stone’s throw from the Prado. More than a century after it opened in 1910, many of its gorgeous Belle Époque details have been restored—notably in the exquisite Palm Court lobby where sunlight streams again through the crystal canopy. Although today’s hotel features the latest in contemporary comforts—and Quique da Costa’s cutting-edge restaurant Deessa—a whiff of vintage glamour pervades its rooms and suites with period furniture, elegant chandeliers, and gilt touches. Famous guests have included Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier, who honeymooned here. Frank Sinatra serenaded Ava Gardner at its piano—she was later banned for lewd behavior in the lobby. While a stay here is likely beyond most pockets—even entry-level rooms average a 1,000€ per night—you could treat yourself to afternoon tea (56€) and people watching in the Palm Court, or the set menu with a glass of champagne (95€) on the garden terrace of El Jardín del Ritz.
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