Six Of The Best Gran Via Hotels
James Ansell chooses “Six of the Best” Hotels on Madrid´s world famous Gran Via
(As lockdowns begin to ease across Europe, many people are now looking to escape to some well-needed sun. Spain began accepting tourists in late June, and now many hotels are beginning to open.)
If you are planning on coming to Madrid for a holiday (//post lockdown getaway), there is no better place to stay than Gran Via. The ‘Broadway’ of Spain, Gran Via is replete with beautiful theatres, shopping malls and restaurants (the central point of any holiday to Spain!!). Its name brings to mind the English word ‘grand’, and that actually describes it perfectly. Filled with beautiful 20th century architecture, you will find each building as aesthetic as the one beside it.
Alongside the street itself is its location – as central as central can be. It is within walking distance to areas such as Malasaña, Puerta del Sol, Plaza España and many more. We at the Madrid Metropolitan have compiled a “Six of the best” hotels in Gran Via (that have reopened their doors) to help you decide where to stay. Buckle up, and plan your trip to Madrid’s city centre!
Catalonia Gran Vía 4*
With Catalonia Gran Via, think modern-design mixed with classy-vibes. It is sleek, with lots of stained-glass windows, bright lights, and indoor plants throughout. They decorate their rooms with more classy furnishings, giving it an extra comfortable, ‘homely’ feel. The in-house restaurant has the best that Mediteranean Cuisine has to offer. Our favourite part of Catalonia Gran Via is their pool, and the breathtaking views that go along with it!. Chill in the pool in the afternoon summer heat while admiring the Spanish architecture that is just a stone’s-throw away. They have rooms to suit all budgets, from twin rooms to suites with a terrace and jacuzzi!
Vincci The Mint 4*
Vincci the Mint has a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ about it. From the moment you check-in at the bar (and talk to their friendly bar staff!) you will be blown away by the feel of the hotel. The staff are always more than happy to help give you recommendations on how to fill your time in Madrid. Their rooftop terrace serves food out of a remodeled old van, giving it a chill, unmistakable holiday feel. Whatever it is, this hotel has it. If you’re looking for an affordable room while taking advantage of all Gran Via has to offer, Vincci the Mint is for you!
Aloft Madrid Gran Via 4*
Aloft Madrid screams cool hotel. This so-called ‘future-proof’ hotel boasts Chromecasts in every room, room locks that can be opened via your smartphone, walk in showers, and multiple USB ports. You can also enjoy great views of the city on the Loft terrace, workout in their gym, and refresh in the swimming pool. Their bar offers a great array of local wines, which isn’t to be missed! The friendly staff are happy to help find the perfect local wine for you to try. The hotel has a fun, playful atmosphere with the public spaces rimming with chat about day-trips, and the best place to go out for a fiesta! It is perfect for a group of friends who want to meet people, while staying bang in the center of Madrid.
Hotel Riu Plaza de Espana 4*
No list about Gran Via is complete with Hotel Riu. It is located in the emblematic Edificio España on Madrid’s Gran Vía (check out the picture below!). It is one of the biggest hotels in Madrid, and has a classy, glamorous feel, coupled with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and amazing panoramic views. When you enter the lobby, you will feel as if you are in Ancient Greece, with the high ceilings and columns. Take advantage of their slow cooking stations which ensures there’s always a meal ready, whenever you need it! Perfect for a wide variety of travellers, but in particular business travelers should note the great facilities for meetings and business centers where you can open up the laptop and get some work done in a professional environment.
Room Mate Oscar 3*
Room Mate Oscar gives you the best bang for your buck. Reap all the benefits of this great central location in a great, affordable room. We found that they did all the important things really, really well. The rooms were supplied with everything you need, the beds were super comfy, and the Wifi worked flawlessly. They do breakfast until 12pm, and also accommodates specific diets such as gluten-free (request in advance). When you finish your day out, come back to the hotel and relax on the rooftop terrace, or go for a quick dip in their pool! They have a bit of everything for everyone, but in particular for those travelling with reduced mobility, they have won an award for the accessibility standards which is a great addition.
Hotel Santo Domingo
This 4-star hotel lies just 150 metres off Gran Via. They accommodate you before you even step foot in the door, with their airport shuttle service. For those in cars, well, the car park itself offers an experience – it is painted out like a jungle with a picture of a lion the main focal point!. This hotel loves Spanish food, and their restaurant offers the best local cuisine that you could find anywhere in Madrid. They also have a pool. And yes, they also have great views. But, if this isn’t enough to convince you, they have a Guinness Record for the largest ‘vertical garden’ in the world – consisting of over 2500 plants on the wall! They have rooms to suit all price ranges, from standard twin rooms, to a double room with panoramic views, to a suite! If you want to have a unique hotel experience, Hotel Santo Domingo is for you.
Front Cover Photo Credit: Alev Takil