4 Best Rooftop Hotels in Madrid

The Principal Madrid
LUXURY

Stay in Gran Vía's very first five-star hotel, The Principal, which upholds the property's exclusivity and elegance. The entrance is surprisingly small, and that's because the lobby is accessible for guests only, keeping the spaces private and exclusive. 

The rooftop is one of the best in the city, offering views of Gran Vía and the Madrid skyline, plus sun loungers, a fountain, and a bar with occasional live music. Head down one floor to the Ático Restaurant, known for its gourmet menu and heated terrace directly across from one of the city's iconic sites: the ​​Metrópolis dome. Other highlights include a spa, rooftop yoga classes, and cocktail-making workshops.

When not enjoying the hotel, you'll be within walking distance of sites like El Retiro Park, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza Mayor, plus some of the hippest neighborhoods, like the historic Literary Quarter, chic Chueca, and trendy Malasaña. And as for the rooms, you'll find bright, modern quarters with timeless charm. Some face an inner courtyard, while others have Juliette balconies opening up to Gran Vía. Bathrooms are large and stylish, with black tiling and organic toiletries from Mallorca. Learn more

Wellington Hotel & Spa
LUXURY

Enjoy your stay in Salamanca, one of the poshest neighborhoods in Madrid and within walking distance of sites like El Retiro Park, Prado Museum, and Gran Vía. It's a district filled with high-end shopping, luxury hotels, and fine dining—some of the most elegant eateries in the city. And though Wellington Hotel & Spa opened in 1952, it sits in an older protected building, showcasing the city's architectural heritage. You can't help but notice its uniquely layered top-floor structure and iconic vintage signage. 

You'll find the hotel's premier rooftop terrace on that impressive top floor. It's part of what the property calls the "Wellington Club," a set of luxurious suites with exclusive amenities, including a private lounge, bar, breakfast service, cigar cellar, and library. 

The rooftop terrace is only open to guests of the Wellington Club, but if you decide to book a classic room, there are still plenty of other perks to enjoy. The Wellington Hotel & Spa is one of the few accommodations in Madrid with an outdoor pool. Relax with a swim, nap on a sun lounger, or sip a cocktail. Of course, the hotel also features a beautiful spa, complete with a treatment menu, fitness center, Finnish sauna, hydrotherapy soaking pool, and Hammam. 

There are also three themed restaurants, two bars, and a bakery on-site, plus options for Sunday brunch, a gourmet picnic basket, and English tea. Essentially, you never have to leave! Learn more

Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid
MID-RANGE

Yes, you can stay directly on Plaza Mayor—it's an option, thanks to this Pestana hotel, which makes up part of the famous square's perimeter. Unsurprisingly, the views of the city's most famous square are incredible, but you'll also get skyline vistas from the rooftop. You can also enjoy these scenes from your room (if you request one with plaza views), the large library lounge, and the outdoor terrace on the square.

There's a lot to keep you busy at Pestana Plaza Mayor, but you might want to spend your time on the rooftop terrace. You'll find sun loungers, a sparkling pool, couches, and a bar menu, all surrounded by the city's historic rooftops. The hotel has two other terraces, one right on Plaza Mayor and the other in the inner courtyard garden, where you can enjoy breakfast. There's also a spa with an indoor pool that stretches under preserved arches and buttresses. When hungry, grab a meal at the on-site restaurant or lobby bar.

As for the rooms, even the standard options feel bright, colorful, and plush, though the bathrooms are small, with a sink inside the bedroom. We recommend a slight upgrade to a superior room or higher category for a bit more space. Suites add nice perks like soaking tubs, sofas, and exposed brick walls. Learn more

Hotel Vincci The Mint
MID-RANGE

Bright, bold, and vintage, this hotel is a great mid-range choice directly on Gran Vía. Channeling the famous avenue's glamorous past, Hotel Vincci The Mint feels like a glitzy step back in time while offering a fun aesthetic. The rooftop terrace is a definite perk and an excellent place just to hang out. It's colorful, with tons of cushy seating, wooden furniture, striped umbrellas, and a quirky mint-green food truck serving drinks and snacks. Plus, the rooftop views are pretty great, too. 

For other amenities, you can enjoy the lobby bar (serving drinks even at check-in), a cozy lounge, and, if you're a soccer fan, the bar, which promises to play all the big games. But another huge perk is the property's location on Gran Vía, typically reserved for luxury hotels. You'll be just a few blocks from the Círculo de Bellas Artes and Neptune Fountain, plus within walking distance of other major sites, including Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace.

As for the rooms, we're a fan of them all, including the standard category, which offers a comfortable, bright, and stylish atmosphere. The bathrooms are large with elegant gold fixtures and showers, though the suites have options for tubs. If you truly want to take in the property's glam, choose a suite offering private terraces and cozy sofas. Learn more