• 1. Where to Stay
• 2. Where to Eat
• 3. What to Do
• 4. Insider’s Tip
• 5. An Oddball Day

The Gran Luxe junior suite at Hotel Abalu.   (Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Abalu)

Book one of sixteen rooms at the eclectic boutique hotel Abalu (from $280), located in the heart of Malasaña, Madrid’s most happening nightlife area. Get a Shiatsu massage and in-room chocolate fondue with a package deal, or use the Mac Mini in your Gran Luxe suite to select a movie from the hotel’s DVD library.

Gaze at the panoramic view of Europe’s highest capital from the ME Madrid’s 360-degree rooftop terrace (from $197). The Tower Suite has a private outdoor whirlpool.

Sleep among great works of literature at the Hotel de Las Letras (from $139), where lines from renowned poets and authors like Catalan favorite Joan Maragall are stenciled on the walls of this Belle Époque building. Modern amenities like free spa services and a pillow menu contrast with the coffered ceilings and hand-carved woodwork.

Published on Jun 11, 2009 as a web exclusive.