Madrid, SpainAlmagro
InterContinental Madrid by IHG
Midcentury diplomatic institution
Almagro Madrid, Spain
Renovated
2003
Price
$$$
Rated for
Classic Heritage SocialOutside the door
The house
IHGMidcentury diplomatic institution
This Castellana landmark opened during the 1950s diplomatic thaw, and it remains a formal gathering place for visiting dignitaries and local society.
What it’s good at
Notable
A 1953 Castellana institution where Madrileño families still gather for Sunday brunch.
Listed
Built in 1953 incorporating original marble columns from the historic Aliaga Palace.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
Classic elegance is the theme here with a focus on perfected, but not overly doting, service.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Paseo de la Castellana runs outside, and the boutiques of Calle Serrano are a five-minute walk across the avenue.
The rooms
Bedrooms keep to traditional styling. Outward-facing rooms look straight onto the tree-lined boulevard of Paseo de la Castellana.
The spa
Two private treatment rooms host body massage rituals and anti-aging facials using Maria Galland skincare.
The sauna and gym
An original spiral staircase leads down to the Technogym studio, and the changing rooms hold a Swedish wood sauna.
At the table
El Jardín serves Spanish dishes beneath a glass conservatory roof, and the garden terrace hosts weekly charcoal grill nights.
How it began
The hotel opened in 1953 as continental Europe's first Hilton, quickly drawing Hollywood stars like Ava Gardner alongside foreign diplomats.
Madrid
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The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.