Take no notice of some of the press that Casa de Madrid gets, which bills it as a ‘Spanish version of the British Bed & Breakfast’, because this is really one of Madrid’s boutique hotels and as such experience here is so much more than that. Located on the third floor of an 18th-century building just next to the Teatro Real and the Palacio de Oriente, this unique hotel, protected as a Spanish heritage building, has just seven rooms – with names such as ‘The Indian Room’, ‘The Greek Room’ and ‘The Damascus Suite’ – all designed and decorated by the aristocratic Spanish owner. In fact, if you’re looking for a place to stay, the Casa de Madrid may well feel more like you’re in an apartment with maid service than in a hotel.

Breakfast is served to you on silver platters, and is included in the price – ask for any extras, however, and you may end up paying through the nose. While its location and decoration make it one of a kind, it can feel a touch gloomy at times, but still remains a fantastic base to explore the city from. A word of advice: opt for the airport transfer service they offer – you’re unlikely to be able to find it easily otherwise.