Overview
Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid stands as a landmark of refined hospitality in the Spanish capital. Located at Plaza de la Lealtad 5, within Madrid’s Art Triangle district, the hotel is a short walk from the Prado Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and El Retiro Park. Since its opening in 1910, the property has been synonymous with elegance and tradition, recently undergoing a significant restoration to blend its historic grandeur with contemporary luxury. The hotel features 100 rooms and suites, a celebrated art collection, and a suite of dining venues including the two-MICHELIN-starred Deessa. Guests enjoy access to The Beauty Concept Spa, a 14-metre marble indoor pool, and a Technogym-equipped fitness centre. Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is recognised by Forbes Travel Guide, the MICHELIN Guide, and The World’s 50 Best Hotels, reflecting its status among the world’s most distinguished hotels.
Why this grade
Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is one of The Seven — the seven highest-graded hotels on Earth; seat 6 of 7. The designation is supported by an EMPTYJET Consensus of 95/100 and the hotel’s standing in guest measures (N° 639 of 777 in The Guests' 777) alongside its national distinction as the N°1 house in Spain. Institutional recognition reinforces the case: Forbes Travel Guide — Five-Star, MICHELIN recognition of 3 Keys, and placement on The World's 50 Best Hotels list (ranked 71). Culinary strength includes Deessa with 2 MICHELIN star(s).
History
Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid opened its doors on 2 October 1910, constructed on the site of the former Tivoli Theatre in the city centre. The hotel was the first steel-framed building in Spain, marking a significant architectural innovation of its era. Throughout its history, the property has played a notable role in Madrid’s social and cultural life, remaining open during the Spanish Civil War and serving as a hospital of war. The hotel has welcomed royalty, including King Felipe and Queen Letizia. In recent years, the property underwent the largest renovation in its history, culminating in its reopening as Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid in 2021. The restoration included the revival of the iconic glass dome, which had not been seen in its original form for 80 years.
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Architecture & interiors
The architectural and interior transformation of Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is the result of a collaboration between Spanish architect Rafael de La-Hoz and Parisian designers Gilles & Boissier. The hotel’s restoration preserved its Belle Époque grandeur while introducing a classic contemporary residential style to its rooms and public spaces. The property’s celebrated glass dome, a centrepiece of the original design, was meticulously restored by Mandarin Oriental after 80 years. The interiors are further distinguished by an art collection curated to reflect Madrid’s artistic legacy and its proximity to the Prado Museum. The hotel’s innovative steel-framed construction, the first of its kind in Spain, remains a defining feature of its structure.
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Rooms & suites
Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid offers 100 rooms, including accessible, twin, and connecting options. The accommodation is designed in an elegant classic contemporary residential style by Gilles & Boissier, blending comfort with refined aesthetics. Among the signature accommodations are the Royal Suite and Presidential Suite, both offering views over the Prado Museum. Two Mandarin Suites feature private balconies with vistas of the Prado Museum and Lealtad Square. The hotel’s rigorous Ritz Etiquette ensures an atmosphere of intimacy, comfort, and tranquillity throughout the guest experience.
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Dining
Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is a destination for gastronomic excellence, offering a diverse array of restaurants and bars under the direction of executive chef Quique Dacosta.
- Deessa: The hotel’s flagship restaurant, helmed by Quique Dacosta, presents a gastronomic Mediterranean menu and holds two MICHELIN stars. Deessa is recognised for its innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine and is a focal point of the hotel’s culinary reputation.
- Palm Court: Serving Spanish and international dishes, Palm Court is also renowned for its traditional afternoon tea and contemporary classic Ritz cuisine. The restaurant’s setting beneath the restored glass dome provides a distinctive atmosphere for both casual and formal dining.
- Ritz Garden (El Jardín del Ritz): This al fresco venue offers Mediterranean and cosmopolitan cuisine in a relaxed garden setting, ideal for outdoor dining during Madrid’s temperate months.
- Pictura Bar: A sophisticated cocktail bar, Pictura is known for its classic cocktails and elegant ambiance, making it a popular gathering spot for both guests and locals.
- Champagne Bar: Specialising in champagne and signature tapas, the Champagne Bar provides an intimate setting for pre-dinner drinks or celebratory toasts.
The hotel’s culinary programme is further enhanced by its recognition in the MICHELIN Guide and the presence of a two-MICHELIN-starred restaurant on property.
Service & reputation
The hotel’s service ethos is further recognised by the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award and its inclusion in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. The property’s rigorous Ritz Etiquette ensures a consistently high standard of hospitality, preserving intimacy, comfort, and tranquillity for every guest.
Location & setting
Situated at Plaza de la Lealtad 5, Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid occupies a prime position in the Art Triangle district, between the Prado Museum and El Retiro Park. The hotel is within a 2–5 minute walk of the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums, and a 15-minute walk from the Reina Sofía Museum. El Retiro Park is also just a few minutes away, offering guests immediate access to Madrid’s most celebrated cultural and green spaces. The property is approximately 15 kilometres from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, with chauffeured airport transfers available through the concierge. The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Madrid’s artistic and historic landmarks.
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The EMPTYJET verdict
Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is a destination for travellers seeking the highest standards of luxury, service, and cultural immersion in Madrid. Its combination of historic significance, architectural grandeur, and contemporary refinement appeals to those who value both tradition and innovation. The hotel’s accolades—including Forbes Five-Star, Three MICHELIN Keys, and a two-MICHELIN-starred restaurant—make it a compelling choice for connoisseurs of fine hospitality. Its location in the Art Triangle district, steps from world-renowned museums and parks, further enhances its appeal for guests with an appreciation for art, history, and urban sophistication. Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid is suited to those who expect excellence in every aspect of their stay, from dining and wellness to service and setting.






