H10 Villa de la Reina Boutique Hotel

Housed in a stately building dating back to 1919, the H10 Villa de la Reina blends in well with the structures around it, most of which are elegant turn-of-the-century apartments and office buildings. Inside, however, the property is hip and sophisticated, with a sleek combination of classic elements -- such as white wainscoting, ornate ceiling moldings, and a charming wrought-iron-and-wood elevator -- and contemporary touches, including retro metal lamps, painted hydraulic tiles, and a variety of textures that range from velvet to leather. The lobby is plush and inviting, with tufted armchairs, stone pillars, polished marble floors, brushed-gold accents, and a big bar clad in eye-catching red tiles. It is a lovely spot for a drink, a bite, or a casual meeting among guests, plus weekly events such as mellow live music and Italian-style happy hour with snacks and drinks create a pleasant atmosphere.The hotel was fully renovated in 2015, and both its rooms and common spaces have an upscale, trendy feel. However, with no gym, spa, or pool, this H10 is light on amenities. In this same price range, Iberostar Las Letras Gran Via, located across the street, offers a small but lovely rooftop pool, along with pleasant rooms and a solid restaurant. For a bit more money, The Principal Madrid is more luxurious and happening, with a popular rooftop terrace and chic rooms. Just steps away from Sol, Eurostars Casa de la Lirica is a suitable alternative for those on a tighter budget.

 H10 Villa de la Reina is located on Gran Via, a historic avenue lined with elegant buildings running right through the heart of Madrid. The street marks the border between hip Chueca and popular Las Letras neighborhoods, which puts great shopping, dining, and nightlife within easy walking distance of the hotel. Gran Via metro station is right across the street, and there are many bus stops within a two-minute walk of the hotel. Most major attractions are also within walking distance, including Puerta del Sol, Cibeles, Puerta de Alcala, Retiro Park, and Plaza Mayor, each within 10 minutes of the hotel. Other major attractions, such as the Royal Palace and La Almudena Cathedral, can be reached in about 15 minutes. The hotel is an 18-minute metro ride from Atocha station, where high-speed trains from/to Barcelona, Sevilla, and Valencia stop. The airport can be reached in about 25 minutes by car. 

The hotel has 73 air-conditioned rooms that vary between small and spacious. Decor is stylish and upscale throughout, however, with a beautiful combination of classic and contemporary elements. White wainscoting and woven screens stand out against the dar- wood floors and furniture, while midcentury-style brushed-gold lamps with large bulbs add style. Teal rugs and splashes of color on classic paintings are fun touches that lend rooms a playful feel. Although all have big windows -- and some feature beautiful balconies or terraces with great Gran Via views -- those in the rear can be a tad darker. Entry-level Basic Rooms are compact, which makes them better suited for solo travelers. Rooms are equipped with an array of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, espresso machines, flat-screen TVs, minibars, robes, and slippers. Electric kettles are available on request. Though some rooms are too small for a cot, certain categories come with sofa beds. Bathrooms are modern and spotless, with stylish black and white tiles, spacious walk-in rainfall showers, and antique-style taps. Hairdryers and ample toiletries are provided in all rooms. The hotel’s only Suite (added in the summer of 2018) has a wonderful double shower in the bathroom and a whirlpool on the terrace.  

An excellent buffet is served every morning for a fee in a charming breakfast room. The spread is varied and tasty, consisting of noodles, eggs, bagels, and pastries, plus seasonal offerings such as hot chocolate and churros, panettone, and traditional Spanish ring-shaped pastries. Lunch can also be served here, but only on request and for a minimum of 10 guests. The stylish lobby bar is open until late and offers cocktails, hot and cold drinks, and a full menu with snacks, salads, sandwiches, main courses (such as pasta, fish, meatballs, and octopus), and dessert. Long shelves line the walls and are covered with dozens of books that guests can borrow to read either in their room or in the lobby, ranging from comics to biographies and travel-themed coffee table books. The hotel also has three meeting rooms with audiovisual equipment, as well as a business corner with a computer and a printer. Two of the meeting rooms feature beautiful elements form the original building, such as ceiling moldings and heavy wooden doors. Discounted rates at a nearby parking lot are offered. Unfortunately, there is no gym.