Cloud-nine sleepovers: the best hotels for architectural highs

When bedding down in the birthplace of the skyscraper, you’ll need a suitably lofty stay. Step forward RIU Plaza Chicago, the city’s latest sky-scraping arrival. Its cloud-poking façade embodies local architectural styles such as the Chicago School. As you’d expect from its sky’s-the-limit setting, the hotel has plenty of star-turn features. We’re talking 390 rooms set across 28 view-toting floors, a 24-hour gym and, last but not least, a rooftop bar on the 27th floor that’s designed for cocktails, conversations and catching eagle-worthy city views. Enjoy eggs your favourite way, vegetarian options and fresh produce galore at the buffet breakfast or pick up treats and supplies from Grab & Go, the hotel’s snack bar/deli. Local lures include the Magnificent Mile for irresistible shopping, Willis Tower for knee-weakening views and waterfront thrills along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Room with a view: For a truly special stay, opt for one of the swish suites, which maximise Chicago’s jagged panoramas.

Madrid isn’t exactly short on sights and scenery, so soak them all up in style at RIU Plaza España. This city-slicker showstopper is the most famous rooftop in central Madrid, with a 360º Rooftop Bar on the 26th and 27th floors flaunting cinematic skyline views. The hotel’s setting is equally impressive: the iconic Edificio España skyscraper on central Gran Vía Avenue. This prime location makes exploring easy, with many of the main draws just a short stroll away. For adventures further afield, the Plaza España metro station is 20m from the hotel, connecting you to every corner of the city. Back at base camp, water babies of all ages will adore the hotel’s view-graced outdoor pool, located on the 21st floor, while fitness fanatics can work up a sweat in the well-equipped gym. Don’t miss the live cooking stations at the buffet breakfast. Other gourmet rewards come in the form of El Edén, which serves brunch, tapas and drinks in a chic setting in the heart of the grand avenue.

Room with a view: For maximum smugness, book a Deluxe Superior King Bed with Terrace and spend as much time as possible outside on your private viewing area admiring the city below.

Immerse yourself in the 'city that never sleeps' at RIU Plaza New York Times Square, a 29-floor urban retreat boasting an impeccable Manhattan location. Positioned in the heartbeat of the city, some of New York’s biggest landmarks count among your neighbours, including the bright lights of Times Square, the Rockefeller Center and the high-end boutiques of Fifth Avenue.

Exploring further is effortless with the New York subway within easy reach: hop on the A or C train to discover Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, or the 3 train for a quick trip toward the Staten Island ferry. The hotel matches the city's energy with its own on-site draws: enjoy a buffet breakfast at the Theatre Buffet restaurant (the American pancakes are a must), or grab a quick bite at Capital Grab & Go before heading out. After a day of exploring, you’re perfectly placed to swap the sidewalk for the stage, with Broadway’s world-famous theatres just steps from the lobby.

Room with a view: Opt for a Deluxe Superior King Bed room. Perched on the hotel's higher floors, these spacious sleeping quarters offer a peaceful sanctuary high above the buzz of the Midtown streets.