SmartRental Collection Gran Via Capital

Housed in one of the few contemporary buildings on historic Gran Via, this property was originally planned as an upmarket residential building before opening in December of 2015 as a hotel. The concept is simple but well-designed, with a focus on style and comfort, and a couple of perks that include a plunge pool and a gym, which aren’t typically available at urban apartment properties. The lobby is small but appealing, with wood paneling, high ceilings adorned with wiry metal lamps, art exhibitions that change every few weeks, and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors opening to a small patio with plants. The only other common spaces are the rooftop area -- complete with 360-degree views, a plunge pool, and lounge area with lots of comfortable seating -- and a small gym on the 12th floor. Interiors throughout have been designed with the outdoors in mind, featuring huge windows or glass doors that open onto terraces with stunning city views.

Apartments can be rented by days or weeks, but most guests here are either families or groups on short city trips. Though rare, longer stays are also available on request. Rates at the Gran Via Capital are surprisingly reasonable for location, amenities, and overall quality, but those who’d rather stay in a full-serviced hotel than an apartment property may prefer the ME Madrid Reina Victoria, which is in the same price range and features a spa, restaurant, hopping rooftop bar, and contemporary rooms. Jardin de Recoletos is a good alternative for those wanting to stay a bit away from the hustle and bustle of the Gran Via area. Its apartments are contemporary and comfortable, and feature kitchenettes. A rad removed from the heart of the city center (but well-connected via public transport to all attractions) is El Madrono, a more modest apartment property catering to business travelers. 

As its name suggests, Gran Via Capital is located directly on Gran Via, a historic avenue running right through the heart of Madrid. This location is great for those wanting to explore the main sights on foot, as Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace are all within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. Other major attractions, such as Cibeles, El Prado Museum, and Retiro Park, can be reached in about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. There are five metro lines within a five-minute walk of the hotel, and a number of buses stop right outside the main entrance. Directly to the north and east of the property are Malasana and Chueca, two of Madrid’s most vibrant and hip neighborhoods, full of restaurants, boutiques, and bars. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Atocha, served by high-speed trains to Barcelona, Sevilla, and Valencia, while the airport can be reached in about 20 to 25 minutes by car. 

The hotel has 84 apartments ranging between spacious one-bedrooms and huge duplex units with four bedrooms and large terraces. All units are done in a contemporary, streamlined style that combines wooden floors, gray-suede seating, pops of teal and yellow, and clean lines. Wiry metal lamps in black and brushed gold hues, small modular coffee tables, and light-wood finishes are hints of trendy Scandinavian design. The decor style, along with huge windows that in most cases offer great city views, make apartments feel upscale but homey. Quality beds are topped with thick duvets, soft sheets, and several pillows, and most guests have found sofa beds (available in all units) comfortable. 

Apartments are outfitted with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, electronic safes, dining tables, and large flat-screen TVs. Kitchens feature cooktops, ovens, microwaves, espresso machines, dishwashers, and washers (which are also dryers in most units), and they are either incorporated into the living area or in a separate room. Spotless bathrooms have large walk-in rainfall showers, big vanities with drawers, and toiletries in small bottles. 

Despite being on one of the busiest streets in the city center (with extensive construction work during our visit), apartments are quiet. All but Comfort Apartments have great city views, especially units on top floors overlooking Gran Via. Note that not all units have outdoor terraces.

The rooftop area is the hotel’s crown jewel. It sits 13 stories above street level and peeks over the neighboring structures, allowing for 360-degree views of the city and its surrounding areas, from the southern flatlands to the mountains in the north. There is a lounge with several plush couches and armchairs overlooking Gran Via that is popular in the late afternoon, while the small pool -- complete with jets and a number of loungers -- is busy during the day. 

The gym is located a floor below the rooftop, and it offers a handful of cardio and strength-training machines, free weights, a sauna, and locker rooms. Huge floor-to-ceiling windows also offer expansive views. Housekeeping services are available for a fee, though free trash collection is done daily in the evening. The hotel is located above a large parking lot where guests can park their car for a daily fee.