Gran Hotel Inglés, Madrid

Pros

• An address in the Literary Quarter places you within easy walking distance of sites like Plaza Mayor, El Retiro Park, and Puerta del Sol.
• You'll sleep among the city's history, as this was the first luxury hotel in Madrid, opened on one of the city's first streets with electricity.
• Newly renovated rooms range from plush Doubles to two-bedroom Suites, all with slick marble bathrooms and some with balconies and standalone rolltop baths.
• The Art Deco lobby bar serves creative cocktails and iconic La Venencia sherry, plus a breakfast buffet, an afternoon English tea, and a small-bites menu designed by a Michelin-starred chef. 
• Enjoy elevated Spanish cuisine in the hotel's restaurant, Casa Lobo, which puts a sophisticated twist on the classics.

Cons

• As the oldest hotel in Madrid, it doesn't feel quite as polished as some of the other luxury options in the city.

Authenticity

Gran Hotel Inglés' glittering ballrooms and lounges once hosted famous artists, writers, and bullfighters before falling into disrepair during the Spanish Civil War. After years of neglect, an extensive 2018 renovation brought this Madrid landmark up to modern 5-star standards without sacrificing its legacy. New interiors by New York's Rockwell Group draw inspiration from the Roaring Twenties, with Art Deco touches like parquet floors, brass fixtures, decorative molding, velvet armchairs, and Chesterfield sofas. You can chart the hotel's storied history through framed photos and ephemera on display or peruse the library's leatherbound treasures, including a first-edition Cervantes.

Location

The hotel describes itself as being "hidden in Madrid," and we agree. Tucked away on Calle de Echageray, a quiet side street of the romantic Literary Quarter, you get a central location without all the noise. This neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and ideal for a tapeo (tapas walk). You can also stroll to many of the city's sites, including El Retiro Park and the Prado Museum, plus Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace. The hotel offers paid private parking nearby or a valet parking service.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 48 air-conditioned rooms and suites are spread across four floors, and all continue the Art Deco theme but with an airy, modern feel from white walls and lots of natural light. Wood floors, antique brass fixtures, and colorful art offer a sense of playful sophistication. Deluxe rooms face the quiet inner courtyard; upgrade to a Premium for a freestanding rolltop bath and iron balconies overlooking the street. Grab a suite if you'd like to add a seating area or a private terrace with an outdoor plunge pool. If you're looking for extra space, the hotel's two-bedroom Royal Suite is the largest room available within Madrid's historic city center. Accessible rooms are available, and all floors are accessed by elevator.

Amenities

Gran Hotel Inglés' grand lobby is where the action is. In this elegant space, you can enjoy daily breakfast, Sunday brunch, afternoon English tea, creative cocktails, a sherry menu from Spain's iconic La Venencia brand, and bar food designed by a Michelin chef. For dinner, Casa Lobo puts an elevated twist on classic regional dishes. You'll find a wellness spa downstairs for massages and facials with Sisley products (healthy snacks and fruit or herb-infused water are complimentary with each spa visit). There's also a small fitness center with free weights and cardio machines, plus yoga and Pilates sessions upon request. 

Family-Friendliness

Children of all ages are welcome, and you'll find several amenities available for families, like babysitting services, children's play equipment, and strollers. The larger suites are great for families.