Riu Plaza España Hotel

The rooftop view of the city is spectacular, and getting in is easy through the entrance at the back of the hotel. The staff were kind and helpful. I went up for the view but couldn’t get a drink because there weren’t any tables free. There was also a line for selfies. I’d hoped to watch a nice sunset, but in May a nearby building blocked the view of the setting sun, which completely defeated the point of going.

The location and views are impressive, but service is far below what I’d expect from a five-star hotel. At the rooftop bar, Ático, the view is fantastic, yet getting in can take close to an hour. Service there is painfully slow and poorly organized, whether you’re a hotel guest or just visiting. I had the same problem at the hotel’s restaurants. Service was consistently slow, inattentive, and inefficient, with too much of the visit spent waiting to be seated, served, or helped. The facilities and location are major strengths, but the staff’s lack of urgency, professionalism, and focus on guests overshadows them. Management needs to improve staffing, organization, and speed. The hotel falls well short of the experience its reputation promises.

Breakfast was outstanding, with a wide selection of fresh, high-quality food, and the rooftop has an incredible city view. Staff were consistently friendly, attentive, and professional. My room was spacious, quiet, comfortable, spotless, and had a great bed. The hotel itself is modern, beautiful, and very well maintained. Riu Plaza España is right on Plaza de España, with easy public transport and many of Madrid’s main sights within walking distance. It was an excellent stay, and I’d definitely come back. I’d highly recommend it to anyone wanting comfort and convenience in Madrid.

The 360 Rooftop was breathtaking, and even though non-hotel visitors are allowed in after certain hours, staff gave hotel guests priority at the entrance. That made me feel extra bougie. Service at the RIU was 5/5: check-in was smooth, room service was on point, the breakfast team were attentive and accommodating, and the breakfast bar had lots of options, a mimosa bar, and great espresso machines. The lobby was beautiful, the rooms were clean, and the AC was one of my best experiences in Europe, 10/10. The hotel is right in the heart of Madrid, with La Gran Via giving access to major attractions, restaurants, shops, and the airport. Most must-see sights are walkable, including The Royal Palace, Temple of Debod, and The Royal Collections Art Gallery. It’s worth every penny, and I’ll definitely be back.