Life in Madrid is joyously manic, and while we love being in the centre of the action, forget the actual centre. Instead, trot over to the areas of Malasaña, Chueca and Tribunal, where all the smart people are, and the best shops, bars, restaurants and galleries. Happily, this little number, claiming to be Madrid’s first five-star boutique hotel, is just a few minutes’ stroll from all three. The century-old building has held on to a lot of original features: handpainted tiles, stained-glass windows and a magnificent mahogany lift. Kick off the day with a very late, very carb-loaded breakfast while gazing up at the blue sky through the glass roof. A citrusy treatment in the Natura Bissé spa will set you up nicely to hit the boutiques. Flats essential.