Best Hotels in Spain – Spain’s hotel scene is vast and layered: world-class luxury hotels in Madrid and Barcelona, elegant palaces in Andalusia, serene island retreats in the Balearics and Canary Islands, and stylish boutique stays in the Basque Country and Galicia. Whether you want Michelin-level dining, roof-top pools, private beaches, historic castle hotels, or wellness-first resorts, Spain delivers.
Below are the best hotels across Spain, organized by region. For each hotel I list the standout facilities, a short description of why it’s special, and a typical price range (per night) to help you plan. Prices fluctuate with season and availability — use them as planning guidance.
Best Hotels in Spain
1. Madrid — Grand city palaces & contemporary luxury
Mandarin Oriental Ritz / Mandarin Oriental, Ritz, Madrid (formerly Hotel Ritz)
Why it’s famous: Recently restored to ultra-luxury Mandarin Oriental standards, situated on Paseo del Prado near Retiro Park — an emblem of Madrid’s luxury hotel scene. Facilities include a full-service spa with indoor pool, fine-dining options, elegant rooms and suites, private event spaces, and concierge services. Best Hotels in Spain
Facilities: Indoor pool, vitality pool, experience showers, full spa treatments, several restaurants (fine dining options), meeting/banquet spaces, 24-hour concierge, luxury suites.
Typical price range: $700–$1,500+ per night for standard rooms in high season; signature suites can be several thousand dollars per night depending on demand and special events.
Four Seasons Hotel Madrid
Why it’s famous: The Four Seasons flagship in Madrid blends restored historic palaces and contemporary wings, offering an upscale urban resort experience in the city center with spa, rooftop terrace, and several dining concepts.
Facilities: Spa and indoor pool, rooftop bar/terrace, multiple restaurants, ballroom and meeting rooms, family services, concierge.
Typical price range: $600–$1,400+ per night (varies by room type and timing).
The Westin Palace, Madrid
Why it’s famous: Classic Belle Époque landmark near the Prado and Thyssen museums — a great option for travelers wanting history with comfort.
Facilities: Large, elegant rooms; on-site dining; fitness center; event/banquet halls.
Typical price range: $200–$450 per night depending on season and deals.
2. Barcelona — Beach views, modern design & rooftop pools
Hotel Arts Barcelona (Ritz-Carlton operated)
Why it’s famous: Iconic seaside luxury hotel of Barcelona with a spectacular location overlooking the Mediterranean and the Olympic Port. Perfect for travelers wanting ocean views and a contemporary vibe. Facilities include Michelin-level restaurants, rooftop/sea-view pools, spa, and an art collection.
Facilities: Rooftop pools and sun terraces; full spa; Michelin and high-end dining options; event spaces; fitness center; club lounge for premium guests. Best Hotels in Spain
Typical price range: $350–$800+ per night (high season and premium suites cost more).
Hotel Casa Fuster / Majestic / W Barcelona
Why it’s famous: These hotels offer a range of styles — Casa Fuster for modernist elegance, Majestic for classic luxury on Passeig de Gràcia, and W Barcelona for a contemporary, glass-wedge beachfront icon with dramatic rooftop bars. Best Hotels in Spain
Facilities (typical): Spa, rooftop bars, pools (W & some Majestic suites), fitness centers, fine dining.
Typical price range: $200–$600 depending on hotel and room.
3. Andalusia — Palaces, patios and coastal glamour
Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville
Why it’s famous: A classical “palace” hotel built for royalty near Seville’s historic core. The property blends Andalusian architecture, luxurious rooms, a courtyard and a pool — ideal for cultural travelers exploring Seville’s cathedral, Alcázar and tapas scene.
Facilities: Outdoor pool and garden, courtyard rooms, classic restaurant options, banquet/event spaces, concierge and city-guide services. Best Hotels in Spain
Typical price range: $350–$700 per night for standard rooms; suites higher, especially during feria and Semana Santa.
Hotel Alfonso XIII — note on value & events
Because it’s a symbolic property in Seville, alfresco events or major festivals cause spikes in price. Book well in advance for April (Semana Santa) and the Feria de Abril.
Parador de Granada & Alhambra-facing hotels
Why they’re famous: For a unique experience, hotels near or inside the Alhambra complex (and the Parador de Granada housed in a historic building) combine historic atmosphere with modern comforts. They’re perfect for seeing the Alhambra at sunrise or sunset.
Facilities: Panoramic terraces, historic rooms, on-site dining focusing on Andalusian cuisine, concierge for guided tours.
Typical price range: $150–$450 per night (Paradores often offer competitive value for location).
Marbella Club Hotel, Marbella (Costa del Sol)
Why it’s famous: One of Spain’s most legendary beach resorts on the Golden Mile; famed for privacy, golf, a family-friendly ethos, luxury spa and private beach club.
Facilities: Private beach club, multiple pools, championship golf nearby, a medical spa and wellness center, children’s activities, tennis courts, several restaurants.
Typical price range: $500–$1,800+ per night depending on bungalow vs room and season; summer weeks and holiday weekends are costly.
4. The Balearic Islands — Mallorca & Ibiza refined escapes
Belmond La Residencia, Deià (Mallorca)
Why it’s famous: A storied, boutique luxury hotel in the mountain village of Deià on Mallorca’s northwest coast — a favorite for artists and writers seeking calm, elevated views and boutique luxury. The property’s gardens and terraces, Miró restaurant and spa make it a top choice.
Facilities: Two outdoor pools, full spa services, tennis courts, guided walks and hikes, fine dining (restaurant Miró), boutique shops, art programs.
Typical price range: $400–$1,200 per night depending on suite choice and season; villas and larger suites cost more.
Jumeirah Port Soller, St. Regis Mardavall, Cap Rocat (Mallorca)
Why they’re famous: From cliff-top design hotels with infinity pools to converted fortresses offering discrete luxury (Cap Rocat), Mallorca offers everything from family-friendly beachfront resorts to secluded hideaways with exceptional gastronomy.
Typical price range: $250–$1,200+ per night.
Ibiza — Six Senses, Nobu & upscale beach clubs
Why it’s famous: Beyond the parties, Ibiza has elevated luxury with holistic retreats (Six Senses Ibiza), refined beachfront properties and boutique villas. Expect premium pricing in summer.
Facilities (typical): Detox and wellness programs, private beach access, yoga classes, watersports, gourmet restaurants.
Typical price range: $350–$1,500+ per night in high season (June–September).
5. Canary Islands — volcanic luxury & year-round sun
The Ritz-Carlton, Abama (Tenerife)
Why it’s famous: A large, luxury cliffside resort offering multiple pools, Michelin-level restaurants, a 2,500 m² spa, a private stretch of beach (access via hotel) and a kids’ club. It’s one of Tenerife’s highest-end stays for families and golfers.
Facilities: Numerous outdoor pools, 2500 m² spa & fitness center, beach club with sunbeds/umbrellas included for guests, Michelin restaurants, golf nearby, extensive children’s program.
Typical price range: $300–$900+ per night depending on room and season; special packages and half-board options are common.
Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora (Tenerife), Santa Catalina (Gran Canaria)
Why they’re famous: Premium island resorts with sweeping Atlantic views, luxury spas, and family facilities. Ideal for year-round escapes.
Typical price range: $200–$600 per night.
6. Basque Country & Northern Spain — food, culture, sophistication
Hotel Maria Cristina, San Sebastián
Why it’s famous: A legendary Belle Époque hotel adjacent to the old town (Parte Vieja) and the mouth of the Urumea river — the ideal base for gastronomic exploration (San Sebastián is a food capital).
Facilities: Elegant rooms and suites, multiple dining spaces, banquet/meeting facilities, concierge focused on culinary reservations and local experiences.
Typical price range: $250–$700 per night (higher during festival and Michelin restaurant demand).
The Fontecruz, Bilbao & art-focused hotels near the Guggenheim
Why they’re famous: Bilbao’s revitalized waterfront and culinary scene has produced several boutique hotels that combine design with local cooking.
Typical price range: $120–$350 per night.
7. Valencia & Costa Blanca — modern comfort and beachfront charm
Caro Hotel, Valencia
Why it’s famous: A small luxury boutique hotel in Valencia set within a restored 19th-century palace with interiors that celebrate regional design and archaeology.
Facilities: Rooftop terrace, stylish rooms, on-site restaurant, central location near the cathedral and old town.
Typical price range: $180–$350 per night.
The Ritz in Valencia / Las Arenas Balneario
Why it’s famous: For beachfront luxury, Las Arenas is the historic Valencian seafront hotel with a classic balneario (spa) vibe.
Facilities: Beach access, luxury spa, several dining options.
Typical price range: $200–$500 per night.
8. Galicia & Northern retreats — wild coasts & serene design
Hotel A Quinta da Auga (Santiago) & Parador de Santiago
Why they’re famous: Galicia’s green landscapes and wild coastline pair beautifully with contemporary country-style hotels and historic paradors (government-run castle and monastery hotels).
Facilities (typical): Spa, river or coastal views, local-ingredient restaurants.
Typical price range: $100–$300 per night.
9. Castles, Paradores & countryside masterpieces
Paradores (nationwide)
Why they’re famous: Spain’s Parador network repurposes castles, monasteries and palaces into hotels — often excellent value for historical ambience and location. Many have on-site dining with regional cuisine.
Facilities: Historic rooms (modernized), terraces and gardens, on-site restaurants, great proximity to tourist sites.
Typical price range: $80–$300 per night depending on property prestige and season.
Schloss-style & palace hotels (e.g., Parador de Oropesa, Parador de Toledo)
Why they’re famous: Ideal for couples and history lovers; many offer guided tours, special event packages, and quiet countryside escapes.
Typical price range: $100–$400 per night.
10. Unique hotels and unforgettable experiences
Parador de Granada (near the Alhambra)
Why it’s famous: For unparalleled views of the Alhambra at sunset, some hotels and paradors close to the complex provide a unique, unforgettable stay.
Facilities: Often include terraces with views, Andalusian-style dining, elegant rooms that preserve historic character.
Typical price range: $120–$450 per night depending on location and season.
Luxury wine-country hotels (La Rioja)
Why they’re famous: Boutique hotels and converted country estates in Rioja pair wine tastings with elegant stays and gourmet dining.
Typical price range: $150–$500 per night (vineyard suites or exclusive packages are pricier).
11. How hotels in Spain price rooms — what influences rates
Several factors drive hotel pricing in Spain:
- Seasonality: Summer (June–September) and holiday periods spike coastal resort prices. City hotels peak around major fairs, conferences, festivals (e.g., Semana Santa in Seville, Oktoberfest-style events), and business calendars.
- Location: Central, historic, or beachfront properties carry a premium.
- Room type & views: Sea views, balconies and terrace suites cost more.
- Package inclusions: Breakfast, half-board or spa packages increase rate but can offer value.
- Event demand: Concerts, international summits and sports events cause sudden spikes — book early for those dates.
12. Practical booking tips & saving strategies
- Book early for high season or festivals. For iconic stays (palace hotels, island resorts) book months in advance.
- Consider shoulder seasons. May–June and September–October often yield pleasant weather and lower rates.
- Compare direct hotel rates vs OTAs. Hotels occasionally match or beat OTAs when you book direct (and may include breakfast or room upgrades).
- Look for package deals. Spa packages, half-board meals or transfers can save money when bundled.
- Use loyalty and credit card perks. Status can yield upgrades, free breakfast, or late checkouts which add value.
- Check cancellation policies. Flexible rates are handy in uncertain travel windows; non-refundable rates save money but are rigid.
13. Choosing the right hotel for your trip: short guide
- Romance & splurge: Mandarin Oriental Ritz (Madrid), Hotel Alfonso XIII (Seville), Belmond La Residencia (Mallorca).
- Beach & family resorts: Ritz-Carlton Abama (Tenerife), Marbella Club (Marbella).
- Food & city culture: Hotel Maria Cristina (San Sebastián), hotels in Barcelona near Passeig de Gràcia or El Born (Hotel Arts).
- Historic stays: Paradores (Granada, Toledo, Ronda) and converted palaces across Spain.
- Boutique & design: La Residencia (Deià), smaller urban boutique hotels in Málaga, Seville and Bilbao.
14. Short profiles — selected hotels (quick reference)
Below are concise profiles of 12 top hotels (useful if you want a shortlist):
- Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid — Classical palace restoration, luxe spa & Michelin dining. $700–$1,500+.
- Four Seasons Hotel Madrid — Urban resort, rooftop, spa. $600–$1,400+.
- Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville — Andalusian palace style, courtyard and pool. $350–$700.
- Hotel Arts Barcelona (Ritz-Carlton) — Seafront views, art & Michelin dining. $350–$800.
- Belmond La Residencia, Deià (Mallorca) — Artist village, gardens, boutique luxury. $400–$1,200.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Abama (Tenerife) — Cliffside resort with large spa and beach club. $300–$900.
- Marbella Club Hotel, Marbella — Beach club, golf, tennis, privacy. $500–$1,800+.
- Hotel Maria Cristina, San Sebastián — Gastronomic hub, historic elegance. $250–$700.
- Parador de Granada — Historic parador proximity to Alhambra. $120–$450.
- Cap Rocat, Mallorca (converted fortress) — Secluded, design-driven luxury. $500–$2,000+.
- Hotel Casa Fuster, Barcelona — Modernist palace with rooftop views. $200–$450.
- Schloss/Palace Paradores (e.g., Parador de Oropesa) — Historic stays across Spain. $80–$300.
(For several hotels above I’ve cited official hotel and OTA pages for facilities and sample pricing; links are given in the citations for the major examples.)
15. Frequently asked questions
Q: Are luxury hotels expensive year-round in Spain?
A: Luxury hotels have peak seasons (summer on the coast; spring festival seasons in cities). City hotels can be expensive during major trade fairs or fashion weeks, while islands spike in summer.
Q: Are Paradores good value?
A: Yes — Paradores offer historic locations and good value relative to privately run luxury hotels, especially for travelers who value atmosphere and location.
Q: How much should I budget per night for a splurge hotel?
A: For top-tier 5-star hotels in Madrid, Barcelona or the Balearics expect $600–$1,500+ nightly in high season. Coastal five-star resorts may start lower but premium suites raise averages.
16. Final notes & how I picked the hotels
I prioritized hotels that:
- have consistent high ratings and reputations,
- are notable for unique experiences (palaces, island hideaways, converted fortresses),
- provide standout facilities (spa, private beach, Michelin restaurants, pools, family programs),
- and offer clear pricing information across reputable booking platforms.
For the hotels where I included the most load-bearing factual claims (facilities and sample price ranges), I referenced official hotel pages and reputable OTAs/travel guides to make those facts verifiable. See citations inline near the relevant hotel entries
