Gran Melia Palacio de los Duques

Set behind an Elizabethan-style facade, the Gran Melia Palacio de los Duques is a luxury hotel in the heart of Madrid. Combining avant-garde flair with architectural splendor, the property offers a prime location next to the Royal Palace in the Madrid of the Austrias.

Occupying a former 19th century palace, there is a historic garden, and the styling of the guest rooms and suites is based on the Velazquez masterpiece, Las Meninas. Providing classical elegance infused with modern flair, accommodations have the latest technology, clean lines, and fine textiles. Plus, extra-long beds, minibars, and 59-inch flat-screen TVs.

For dining, the hotel offers three restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Restaurant Dos Cielos Madrid by Hermanos Torres with a locally-inspired menu and exclusive location in the area formerly occupied by the Palace stables. Coroa Royal Gallery & Garden combines contemporary cocktails with modern cooking such as tapas and dishes of the day amidst large reproductions of Velazquez paintings. Montmartre Restaurant provides a journey through Spanish and French gastronomy with wine playing a starring role.

The seasonal pool and whirlpool on the top floor of the property offers a solarium, cocktail bar, and panoramic views of the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and the district of the Americas. Massages and a variety of treatments are available in the Thai Room Wellness Center, and there's a 24-hour fitness center.