Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá, Madrid, Spain

This was the first five-star hotel in the city centre, and you can't beat it for its proximity to tourist attractions. From the rooftop terrace, you can see the Royal Palace, the cathedral, the Casa de Campo (Madrid's largest green space) and the Opera House, Teatro Real. The busy street of theatres and shops, the Gran Via, is just a five-minute walk away.

By plane: there are direct flights to Madrid-Barajas Airport from London (2 hours 20 mins), Manchester (2 hours 40 mins) and Edinburgh (2 hours 45 mins). The hotel is around a 35-minute drive from the airport. Book trains to Madrid.

Set across two buildings - a 19th-century former residence of the dukes of Granada and a 13th-century convent - the contemporary styling with lots of gold and black takes inspiration from the Spanish painter Velazquez's masterpieces, large prints of which feature on the walls of the breakfast room.

From the personalised welcome at the door on arrival to the attentive housekeeping staff, the service is slick and friendly. Facilities include a rooftop terrace with sun loungers, a small pool and a jacuzzi. Downstairs is a fitness room and a Thai wellness room offering Ayurveda treatments. Parking is available nearby for a daily fee.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Library
• Gardens
• Spa
• Swimming pool
• Airport shuttle
• Free Wi-Fi

Although there are 11 different room categories among the 80 rooms, the styling and amenities are similar throughout, with just the size changing to accommodate the quirks of the historic buildings. Velazquez prints on the headboards, bronze velvet bedspreads and large tubs complete your stay.

Room types: Classic, Premium, Supreme, Family Supreme, Deluxe RedLevel, RedLevel Suites

Key amenities: ensuite with Clarins toiletries, underfloor heating, TV, iPhone docking station, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

With three different restaurants to choose from, you won't get bored. In the old stable block, the Torres twins run Dos Cielos, (the same name as their Michelin-starred restaurant in Barcelona); this is fine Catalan cuisine. Elsewhere you'll find all-day dining in Coroa and a modern Spanish menu in Montmartre.

Resturant Dos Cielos: formal fine dining, modern techniques, classic Spanish flavours.

Coroa Royal Gallery & Garden: buzzing, stylish, small plates and cocktails.