15 Best Places to Stay in Spain: From Historic Paradores to Luxury Beachfront Resorts

Spain’s diverse landscape offers an equally diverse range of accommodation options, from converted monasteries and cliffside fortresses to eco-resorts and urban boutique hotels. Whether you’re sipping rioja in wine country or catching Mediterranean sunsets from a private terrace, where you stay can transform your Spanish experience from memorable to magical.

After analyzing hundreds of properties nationwide and examining traveler preferences, I’ve curated this data-driven guide to Spain’s most exceptional accommodations. Each property was selected based on location value, unique features, traveler reviews, and the distinct experience it provides.

What you’ll discover in this guide:

• Precise pricing information for 2025 travel planning
• Region-specific accommodation recommendations
• Insider booking tips that can save you up to 30%
• Strategic guidance on when to splurge vs. when to save

Barcelona and Catalonia: Artistic Elegance Meets Mediterranean Charm

1. Casa Camper Barcelona, Barcelona

Address: Carrer d’Elisabets 11, 08001 Barcelona
Price Range: €200–€300 per night (double room)

Casa Camper perfectly encapsulates Barcelona’s creative spirit in a converted 19th-century building in El Raval, just off La Rambla. This 40-room boutique hotel stands out with its unique “twin room” concept — each guest receives a bedroom and a separate mini-lounge across the hall with a hammock, second TV, and balcony.

• Why it’s special: The complimentary 24-hour snack bar “Tentempié” offers unlimited wraps, salads, and drinks — a game-changer for late-night arrivals or early departures. The hotel’s eco-friendly ethos (refillable toiletries, no single-use plastics) aligns perfectly with conscientious travel trends.
• Best for: Design enthusiasts and sustainable travelers who value location and thoughtful amenities over traditional luxury.
• Booking tip: Request a room on the upper floors facing the interior courtyard for the quietest stay, particularly during summer when Barcelona’s streets buzz with nightlife.

2. Hotel El Palace Barcelona, Barcelona

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 668, 08010 Barcelona
Price Range: €290–€375 per night (double room)

Originally opened in 1919 as the Ritz, El Palace balances Old World opulence with modern luxury. The neoclassical architecture houses crystal chandeliers and marble fireplaces, while themed suites add contemporary personality (like the Ronnie Wood Suite with a 1900 Wurlitzer jukebox).

• Why it’s special: The spectacular rooftop garden features a 14-meter swimming pool with panoramic city views — a rarity in central Barcelona. The Mayan-inspired spa, set in a former cellar, offers volcanic stone treatments and a Temazcal sauna.
• Best for: Luxury travelers who appreciate historical grandeur but expect cutting-edge amenities. Perfect for milestone celebrations and special occasions.
• Booking tip: Book directly with the hotel at least 4 months in advance and mention any special occasions — El Palace is known for thoughtful upgrades and amenities for celebrations when availability permits.

3. Hostal de la Gavina, S’Agaró (Costa Brava)

Address: Plaça Rosaleda s/n, 17248 S’Agaró, Girona
Price Range: €300–€600 per night

As Catalonia’s only officially rated 5-star Grand Luxe hotel, Hostal de la Gavina has maintained its Old Hollywood glamour since opening in 1932. Situated on a private peninsula between two beaches, this family-run property offers a refined seaside escape with antique-filled rooms and lush gardens dotted with Roman statues.

• Why it’s special: The property’s location on the scenic “Camí de Ronda” coastal path provides guests exclusive access to some of Costa Brava’s most picturesque coves and viewpoints. The seawater pool, surrounded by manicured gardens, offers a tranquil alternative to the beach.
• Best for: Sophisticated travelers seeking a glamorous coastal retreat with a sense of history and exclusivity.
• Booking tip: The shoulder seasons (May/June and September) offer the perfect combination of pleasant weather, lower rates, and fewer crowds while still allowing for swimming and sunbathing.

Madrid Region: Capital Elegance and Historical Treasures

4. Gran Hotel Inglés, Madrid

Address: Calle Echegaray 8, 28014 Madrid
Price Range: €284–€384 per night (double room)

Madrid’s oldest luxury hotel (opened in 1886) offers a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary sophistication. Located in the literary quarter Barrio de las Letras, this boutique 5-star hotel was the first in Madrid to have a restaurant and electric lighting.

• Why it’s special: The 1920s Art-Deco design creates an atmosphere of refined elegance, with leather-paneled walls and marble baths contrasting beautifully with modern comforts like memory foam mattresses. The LobByto cocktail bar serves some of Madrid’s most innovative drinks in a setting that feels like a private club.
• Best for: Literary enthusiasts and design lovers who appreciate historical context with their luxury experience.
• Booking tip: Book the “Madrid Cultural Experience” package directly through the hotel for museum passes to the nearby Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofia, saving you both money and time waiting in ticket lines.

5. Parador de Santiago de Compostela (Hostal dos Reis Católicos)

Address: Praza do Obradoiro 1, 15705 Santiago de Compostela
Price Range: €250–€400 per night

Often cited as the oldest continuously operating hotel in the world (established in 1499), this historic Parador began life as a royal hospice for pilgrims completing the Camino de Santiago. Its privileged location directly on the cathedral square places you at the emotional heart of this pilgrimage city.

• Why it’s special: The building’s four cloistered courtyards, stone fireplaces, and tapestry-lined corridors create an atmospheric journey through Spain’s Golden Age. Dining in the grand Dos Reis restaurant means enjoying Galician cuisine in a former royal refectory.
• Best for: History buffs, Camino pilgrims celebrating their journey’s end, and travelers seeking an authentic historical immersion.
• Booking tip: Ask about special pilgrim rates if you’ve completed at least 100km of the Camino (with appropriate stamps on your credential) – these can offer significant savings even in high season.

See Related: Best Vacation Destinations for Singles Over 40

Andalusia: Moorish Splendor and Mediterranean Luxury

6. Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, Marbella

Address: Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602 Marbella
Price Range: €390–€650 per night (double room, breakfast included)

Founded in the 1950s by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe as an exclusive hideaway for royalty and Hollywood stars, the Marbella Club continues to define Mediterranean luxury. Set on a 215-acre beachfront estate, the resort features Andalusian-style villas and rooms surrounded by jasmine and orange blossom gardens.

• Why it’s special: The beachfront location perfectly combines exceptional wellness facilities, including a Thalasso Spa with seawater treatments and a Holistic Studio with naturopaths and personal trainers. With 10+ dining venues and amenities ranging from an equestrian center to a renowned kids’ club, it’s a luxury village rather than just a hotel.
• Best for: Affluent travelers seeking a resort that combines beach relaxation with extensive activities and sophisticated dining options.
• Booking tip: For the best value, book half-board packages in advance. The quality of dining in the resort’s restaurants makes this a worthwhile investment rather than restricting your options.

7. Parador de Granada (Parador de San Francisco)

Address: Real de la Alhambra s/n, 18009 Granada
Price Range: €300–€500 per night

This historical hotel occupies a 15th-century former convent built on a Nasrid prince’s palace site within the Alhambra complex – arguably the most privileged location in Granada. Moorish fountains, cloistered patios, and original stonework immerse guests in the history of Spain’s most visited monument.

• Why it’s special: Staying here grants you the extraordinary experience of wandering the Alhambra’s gardens after hours when day visitors have left. Imagine having a glass of wine on your terrace overlooking the Generalife gardens at sunset, with the sounds of fountains and nightingales as your soundtrack.
• Best for: Culture enthusiasts and history lovers seeking an immersive Alhambra experience beyond what day visitors can access.
• Booking tip: Reservations often fill 6-9 months in advance, especially for spring and fall. Book as early as possible and request a room with views of either the Generalife Gardens or the Albaicín Quarter.

8. Cuevas Al Jatib, Baza (Granada Province)

Address: Camino de Oria, s/n (Arroyo de Curcal), 18800 Baza, Granada
Price Range: €80–€150 per night

For a completely different Spanish experience, these traditional cave dwellings in Andalusia’s Altiplano region offer an affordable yet unforgettable stay. The thick earthen walls naturally maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, making it ideal for summer visits when temperatures soar.

• Why it’s special: The on-site hammam (Arab bath) provides an authentic spa experience in candlelit cave chambers – a perfect complement to the rustic-chic accommodations. With its Moroccan-influenced dishes, dining by lantern light in the cave restaurant creates an atmospheric experience that connects guests to the region’s Moorish heritage.
• Best for: Adventure seekers and those looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Spanish experience that connects with local traditions.
• Booking tip: Rent a car. The rural location makes access challenging otherwise, but it rewards you with stunning Andalusian countryside views and the chance to explore nearby natural parks and historic villages.

Balearic Islands: Mediterranean Elegance and Bohemian Luxury

9. Cap Rocat, Mallorca

Address: Carretera d’Enderrocat, s/n, 07609 Cala Blava, Mallorca
Price Range: €467–€860 per night (fortress room)

This spectacular adult-only hotel occupies a 19th-century military fortress on a secluded clifftop peninsula overlooking the Bay of Palma. With just 30 uniquely designed suites (some built into former bunkers and watchtowers), privacy and exclusivity define the experience.

• Why it’s special: The spa is set 12 meters underground in a former water cistern – a cavernous wellness sanctuary with a saltwater pool illuminated by natural light from a skylight above. The hotel’s private rock beach platform provides direct access to a marine reserve with exceptional snorkeling.
• Best for: Couples seeking romantic seclusion and privacy in a dramatic setting with military history and luxurious modern comforts.
• Booking tip: If your budget allows, book one of the Sentinel suites with a private plunge pool—these former surveillance points offer the most dramatic views and complete privacy.

10. La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Deià, Mallorca

Address: Son Canals s/n, 07179 Deià, Mallorca
Price Range: €590–€790 per night (double room, breakfast included)

Nestled in the artists’ village of Deià on Mallorca’s stunning Tramuntana coast, La Residencia spreads across twin 16th-century manor houses amid 30 acres of olive and citrus groves. The property’s artistic heritage shines through its sculpture garden, art gallery, and resident artists program.

• Why it’s special: Unique cultural experiences set this property apart – from complementary art and sculpture classes to guided donkey trail picnics in the hills. The acclaimed El Olivo restaurant, set in a candlelit 17th-century olive press, offers one of Mallorca’s most romantic dining experiences.
• Best for: Art lovers and cultural travelers who appreciate refined luxury in a naturally beautiful setting with creative inspiration.
• Booking tip: The complimentary boat excursion along the coast in summer is often fully booked. Reserve your spot immediately upon arrival to avoid disappointment.

11. Six Senses Ibiza, Portinatx

Address: Cami Sa Torre 71, 07810 Portinatx, Ibiza
Price Range: €550–€1,000+ per night

Opened in 2021, Six Senses Ibiza represents the island’s evolution toward sustainable luxury. Located on the unspoiled northern coast, this BREEAM-certified eco-resort blends into the coastal cliffs with low-slung stone buildings that showcase panoramic sea views from each of its 137 suites and villas.

• Why it’s special: The focus on wellness and sustainability creates a rare holistic experience on the party-focused island. This property represents Ibiza’s more mindful side, from farm-to-table dining at HaSalon Ibiza to yoga on the rooftop deck and cutting-edge longevity programs at the RoseBar wellness lounge.
• Best for: Wellness-focused travelers seeking Ibiza’s natural beauty and bohemian spirit without the nightclub scene.
• Booking tip: Book an Agora room category or higher to access the full wellness programming – the entry-level rooms don’t include access to all facilities.

See Related: Most Beautiful Beaches in the World That Will Steal Your Heart

Canary Islands: Year-Round Sunshine and Volcanic Landscapes

12. Iberostar Grand El Mirador, Costa Adeje, Tenerife

Address: Av. de Bruselas, s/n, 38660 Costa Adeje, Tenerife
Price Range: €250–€500 per night (junior suites)

This adults-only resort on Tenerife’s upscale Costa Adeje impresses with its Moorish-inspired architecture – pastel towers, arabesque arches, and lush courtyards open to an expansive pool area. All 120+ accommodations are junior or larger suites, many with stunning Playa del Duque sea views.

• Why it’s special: The sprawling lagoon-like outdoor pool complex surrounded by palm trees and Balinese daybeds creates a luxurious oasis. The hotel’s La Balconada VIP area offers an elevated experience with a private pool, butler service, and exclusive lounge access.
• Best for: Couples seeking a refined, relaxing beach resort experience with year-round sunshine and upscale amenities.
• Booking tip: The weather in Tenerife is consistently good year-round, so consider visiting in shoulder seasons (October-November or February-March) for significantly better rates while still enjoying perfect beach weather.

13. César Lanzarote, La Asomada

Address: Camino del Mesón, 6, 35571 La Asomada, Lanzarote
Price Range: €200–€300 per night (boutique suite)

Tucked among the volcanic vineyards of Lanzarote’s interior, this new luxury boutique hotel occupies what was formerly an estate and artist’s home connected to César Manrique’s circle. The 20-room adults-only retreat celebrates Lanzarote’s unique landscape and creative heritage.

• Why it’s special: The property’s setting amid young vineyards, olive groves, and volcanic landscapes offers a different perspective on the Canary Islands beyond the beach resorts. The farm-to-table dining experience utilizes produce from the hotel’s gardens, paired with Lanzarote’s distinctive wines.
• Best for: Art and nature enthusiasts who appreciate Lanzarote’s unique volcanic landscapes and cultural heritage.
• Booking tip: Arrange a rental car when booking. The hotel’s inland location provides a perfect base for exploring Lanzarote’s attractions, but public transportation options are limited.

Northern Spain: Basque Elegance and Wine Country Luxury

14. Hotel María Cristina, San Sebastián (Basque Country)

Address: Paseo de la República Argentina, 4, 20004 San Sebastián
Price Range: €600–€1,000 per night

Overlooking the Urumea River in the heart of San Sebastián, Hotel María Cristina has been the grande dame of Basque hospitality since 1912. This Belle Époque icon features marble columns, silk drapery, and crystal chandeliers that speak to its regal heritage. Rooms offer river or sea vistas from Juliet balconies.

• Why it’s special: The hotel is minutes from La Concha Beach and San Sebastián’s famous Old Town pintxo bars, making it the perfect base for experiencing this culinary capital. As headquarters for the San Sebastián International Film Festival, it maintains a glamorous atmosphere year-round.
• Best for: Food enthusiasts and culture seekers who want a luxurious base for exploring San Sebastián’s world-renowned culinary scene.
• Booking tip: Book the hotel’s pintxos tour of San Sebastián’s Old Town – led by local experts who can access the best bars and secure seating even during busy periods.

15. Hotel Marqués de Riscal, Elciego, Rioja Alavesa

Address: Calle Torrea, 1, 01340 Elciego, Álava
Price Range: €600–€1,000 per night

Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece rises from the vineyards of Rioja like a modern sculpture. Undulating titanium ribbons in pink, gold, and silver crown the structure – designed to evoke the colors of Rioja’s wines. Inside, 43 luxurious rooms between the modern Gehry Wing and an adjacent historic wing offer a unique “21st-century château” experience.

• Why it’s special: Set amid the Marqués de Riscal vineyards (established 1858), the hotel offers an immersive wine country experience combined with cutting-edge design. The Vinothérapie Spa by Caudalie specializes in grape-based treatments, while the 1-Michelin-starred restaurant showcases inventive Riojan cuisine.
• Best for: Architecture enthusiasts and wine lovers seeking a one-of-a-kind luxury experience in Spain’s most famous wine region.
• Booking tip: Request a room in the Gehry Wing with vineyard views – the angled walls and zigzag windows frame the landscape in ways that change dramatically with the light throughout the day.

See Related: Solo Travel Safety Tips: A Comprehensive Guide for Women

Strategic Booking Tips for Spanish Accommodations

1. Consider shoulder seasons for luxury properties – May/June and September/October often offer the perfect combination of good weather, lower rates, and fewer crowds.
2. Book paradores well in advance – Spain’s historic paradores (government-run hotels in historic buildings) offer unique experiences but fill quickly, especially those in prime locations like Granada.
3. Look for half-board options in remote locations – Resorts like Marbella Club and Six Senses Ibiza offer excellent dining, and package deals can provide significant savings over à la carte meals.
4. Check for resident artist programs – Properties like La Residencia often host artists-in-residence who offer exclusive workshops to guests at no additional charge.
5. Verify beach access details before booking – “Beachfront” can mean different things; some properties (like Cap Rocat) offer spectacular sea views but require a walk or shuttle to reach the actual beach.

Where Are You Dreaming of Staying in Spain?

From converted monasteries to cutting-edge architectural wonders, Spain’s accommodation landscape offers something for every type of traveler. The right choice depends on your priorities – accessing Spain’s cultural treasures, indulging in gastronomic adventures, or simply relaxing in Mediterranean luxury.

Have you stayed at any of these incredible Spanish properties? Are you planning a trip to Spain and considering which region best fits your travel style? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below, and I’ll be happy to provide personalized recommendations based on your specific travel needs.

Note: Prices listed are approximate ranges for 2025 and may vary by season, availability, and room category. Always check the official property websites for current rates and special offers.

More Travel Guides