Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá

Donde Spanish Historia Lives in Luxury

A palatial hotel near the Royal Palace with Velazquez-inspired interiors, rooftop terraces with city views, and the refined elegancia of Spanish aristocracy.

Madrid has always been the seat of Spanish power and cultura, and Palacio de los Duques channels that heritage beautifully, chica. Named for the Dukes of Santo Mauro and built on land that once belonged to Spanish nobility, the hotel pays tribute to Spain's golden age while delivering thoroughly modern lujo. There's something about staying in a place with this kind of historia that makes every moment feel more significant—you're not just visiting Madrid, you're living within its story.

The design takes inspiration from Velazquez, Spain's master painter and court artist to King Philip IV. You'll find references to his works throughout the hotel, from the decor to the carefully curated art collection to the color palettes in each space. The location could not be more ideal—steps from the Royal Palace, Plaza de Espana, and the Gran Via. The rooftop terrace restaurant offers sweeping views of la ciudad and the Royal Gardens. And the service has that particular Spanish warmth that's so different from cold Nordic efficiency or American over-familiarity—formal but genuinely welcoming, proud but never pretentious.

Las Habitaciones

The rooms and suites here are decorated in what I can only describe as understated aristocratic elegancia—rich fabrics, classic furniture, and those Velazquez-inspired details that make you feel like you've stepped into a painting. Higher category rooms offer views of the Royal Palace or the hermoso inner courtyard, and waking up to either is a genuine pleasure. The beds are supremely comfortable, the bathrooms feature quality fixtures and amenities, and modern technology is integrated thoughtfully without disrupting the classic atmosphere. The suites are particularly impressive, some with separate living areas and terraces that feel like private retreats within the hotel. What I appreciated most was the quiet—despite the central location, the rooms are remarkably peaceful, a testament to thoughtful construction and design.

El Spa y Bienestar

The Thai Room Wellness spa brings an unexpected but welcome Asian influence to this very Spanish setting. The treatments draw on traditional Thai techniques—the Thai massage here is authentic and skilled, not the watered-down version you often find in hotel spas. They also offer a range of other treatments from facials to body wraps, many using high-quality products and incorporating local Spanish ingredients. The spa itself is intimate rather than sprawling, which gives it a more personal, exclusive feeling. The courtyard pool is a genuine oasis in the corazón of Madrid—swimming beneath el cielo while surrounded by historic architecture feels like a secreto pleasure known only to hotel guests. The fitness center is well-equipped for maintaining your routine while traveling.

La Gastronomía

The rooftop restaurant Coroa is the star of the dining scene here, offering contemporary Spanish cuisine with those espectacular views of Madrid's skyline and the Royal Gardens. Watching el sol set over the Royal Palace while sipping wine and enjoying perfectly prepared tapas is one of those quintessential Madrid momentos. The menu celebrates Spanish culinary tradiciones with modern techniques—expect beautifully plated dishes featuring the finest Iberian ham, fresh seafood, and seasonal ingredients. Dos Cielos by the Torres brothers brings Michelin-starred creativity to the hotel's fine dining experiencia. For more casual momentos, the bar and lobby lounges serve excellent coffee, cocktails, and light bites throughout the day. Breakfast is a highlight—the spread includes both international options and Spanish specialties that set you up perfectly for a day of exploring.

Ubicación y Actividades

Start with churros y chocolate at a traditional chocolateria—it's a Madrid essential, the thick hot chocolate meant for dipping, not sipping. Walk to the Royal Palace for morning tours before the crowds descend; the sheer scale and opulence are staggering. Explore the Prado Museum's increíble collection, including those original Velazquez works that inspired this hotel. The Reina Sofia houses Picasso's Guernica, one of art's most powerful anti-war statements. Lunch in La Latina neighborhood with tapas and vermut (vermouth), hopping from bar to bar as locals do. Rest by the hotel's courtyard pool during the afternoon heat. Watch sunset from the rooftop terrace with wine and jamon. Dine late, as Madrilenos do—9pm is early here, 10pm is normal, 11pm is not unusual. Then stroll through the illuminated streets or catch an authentic flamenco show—the pasión and artistry will leave you breathless.

Tips de Sofía

Book a room with Royal Palace views if available—waking up to that vista is mágico. The rooftop restaurant is perfecto for sunset drinks; book dinner there for special occasions or anniversaries. Madrid runs late—adjust your schedule and embrace the Spanish rhythm, which means siesta time in the afternoon and late nights for dining and socializing. The Reina Sofia museum has Picasso's Guernica, absolutely not to be missed. San Miguel Market is touristy but fun for first-timers to sample Spanish specialties. For more authentic tapas, head to Malasana or Chueca neighborhoods where young Madrilenos actually eat. Sunday's El Rastro flea market is a Madrid institution—go early, watch your belongings, and enjoy the chaos. Definitely try cocido madrileno, la ciudad's traditional chickpea stew served in stages as soup, vegetables, and meats. One more thing: the metro here is excellent, but Madrid is actually very walkable, and you'll discover so much more on foot.

Madrid is where Spanish passion runs deep.
Live like royalty—con elegancia española