Eurostars Palacio Buenavista

This hotel is located on the former site of Buenavista Palace, which once hosted art-world luminaries (according to the hotel), and is situated in the quiet Castilla-La Mancha neighborhood. It's arranged over four floors and still has a bit of regal appeal, with views across the Tagus River and formal interiors that make it a peaceful escape from the city center. The impressive lobby, with its plush seating and huge glass ceiling, helps to set a relaxed, romantic tone. The overall style might be a little much for some, with handmade rugs and a variety of different patterns, but we spotted plenty of guests relaxing and enjoying drinks and snacks in the various seating areas and nooks. The outdoor terrace is spacious and overlooks the Tagus, providing another space for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. We also like the open-air deck that surrounds the pool. Given the romantic setting, it's no surprise that couples are the most frequent guests here, while business travelers and events are frequent as well due to the hotel's conference facilities.

Located in the historic Castilla-La Mancha neighborhood, the Palacio Buenavista has a quiet riverside setting, but is unfortunately too far from the historic city center to walk to Toledo's major sights. Guests should budget 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or hotel shuttle to reach that part of town, which includes major sights like the Museo del Greco and the stunning Toledo Cathedral. It's an atmospheric place to spend a day or two strolling and exploring, and is packed with cafes and restaurants. The Alcazar, perched on the cliffs overlooking the plains on the east side of the historic district, is also about a 10-minute taxi ride away. If you have your own wheels, don't bother trying to park in the city center, as spots are restricted and limited. Expect an hour's drive to Madrid-Barajas airport, while Toledo's main train station can be reached in 12 minutes by car or cab. The hotel provides a free shuttle service, running once an hour throughout the day. It can be booked through reception. 

The hotel has 117 rooms that all share a similar handsome style rendered in deep brown tones with cream accents and attractive gray fabric details. Dark wood furniture with modern lines contrasts historically inspired wall art, while high ceilings make the rooms seem larger than they already are. Standard features include desks, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibars, electric kettles, and safes. Larger units also have separate living rooms with comfortable seating that match the hues seen elsewhere in the rooms. Bedrooms stay quiet, given their location in a calm neighborhood outside the city center, so there's little disruption here. The best, of course, have Tagus River views. Bathrooms are likewise spacious and modern. There are separate showers cubicles and tubs, and counter space is ample. Hairdryers, robes, and toiletries are provided. Fully accessible rooms are available, and the hotel has an elevator. 

The hotel packs in some great features and gives visitors a range of options for eating, drinking, and relaxing. There are three dining areas in total. The Toledana is in the elegant lobby and offers light meals, snacks, and drinks. It also has a bar. The Quixote offers lunches and evening meals and is more formal, serving a range of local Manchego fare (reservations are required). An extensive breakfast buffet is served each morning, including breads, meats, cheeses, pastries, tea, coffee, and fresh juices. The meal is served in a separate dining area, but isn't included in standard rates. An outdoor pool is surrounded by loungers and padded seating, and an additional patio with tables and chairs can be used to dining or drinking in warmer weather. The full-service spa offers a range of services and treatments and there's a large fitness center, though previous guests have found it underwhelming. Palacio Buenavista also offers extensive business and event facilities, with 20 meeting rooms and a small business center. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Staff is on hand to assist with tours and tickets, as well as booking spaces on the hotel's free city shuttle. Keep in mind that the shuttle doesn't run at night and starts late in the morning, so breakfasts at the city center's charming cafes won't be possible unless you take a taxi. Airport transfers can be arranged for a fee.