Fodor's Expert Review Palacio Rioja

This grand palace, now a national monument, was built by Spanish banker Francisco Rioja immediately after the earthquake that leveled much of the city in 1906. It contains a decorative-arts museum showcasing a large portion of Rioja's belongings and a conservatory, so there's often music in the air. Performances are held in the main ballroom. You'll find a nice café in the back with seating under the trees in beautifully landscaped grounds.