Hotel Regina

Gray flags flutter above the entrance of this six-story hotel that was built in 1918. Guests enter through glass doors into a space that blends modern and classic styles, with abstract art hung on the walls that kicks things up a notch. Seating areas are done in a funky vintage style that includes leather coconut chairs with their distinctive triangular shape, Van der Rohe chairs, Modernist art, and white marble flooring. However, we did spot some wear in other seating areas. All in all, this is the kind of hotel that's more of a home base for exploring, rather than a destination hotel where guests will want to spend lots of time. However, there is a restaurant with outdoor seating that's popular with guests and locals alike. The hotel attracts mostly couples, but all sorts of travelers are seen here, including families, businesspeople, and groups of friends who appreciate its excellent location. 

This hotel is located at the start of Calle Alcala in the heart of Madrid, close to the city's buzzing Puerta del Sol and surrounded by shops, restaurants, nightlife, and museums. Guests can reach the stunning Plaza de Cibeles -- Madrid's city hall -- in less than 10 minutes on foot, and the Museo Nacional del Prado in a little more than 10 minutes by walking. Gran Via, the main thoroughfare through Madrid's Centro, is just three minutes away on foot, and is lined with more shops plus theaters as well. Chueca and Malasana, two of the Centro's trendier barrios, are just across Gran Via (a five- to 15-minute walk depending on the destination), and there's a serious stroll-and-shop scene along Calle de Fuencarral, which also starts just five minutes away on foot. Those needing to travel farther will find the Sevilla Metro station on the corner, though the Gran Via and Sol Metro stations are also only a few minutes away on foot. Madrid-Barajas Airport is about 20 minutes away by car or 35 minutes by public transportation. 

For the most part, rooms have an undeniably urban look that's a bit minimalistic, though the effect is modern and hip rather than austere. While style does vary a bit from category to category, inmost higher-category rooms, travelers should expect to see plenty of slate gray, white, and black (though certain rooms add cool brown hues to the mix). Warm chestnut wood-laminate floors look sharp against the restrained palette, and many rooms have tall upholstered headboards illuminated with recessed lighting and wall-mounted reading lamps. Other rooms employ tufted headboards or add a bit of abstract art on the walls. Keep in mind that while most rooms are sharp and modern, some in lower categories look a bit dated, with light wood veneer furniture -- travelers should check ahead. 

This is the center of Madrid, and as such, most rooms are compact. All come with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, minibars, and safes. Bathrooms also are mostly contemporary and clean, with above-counter sinks, bidets, magnifying mirrors, toiletries, and hairdryers. The bathroom that we saw had a trendy stone-block countertop, sleek black tiling, and a pebbled shower floor.

Like many three-pearl, city-center hotels in Madrid, there aren't a lot of extras here. The hotel does have a few perks, though, including Restaurant Amayra. Here, classic Spanish and Mediterranean fare are served for all meals, including a bountiful breakfast buffet that gets rave reviews from previous guests. The spread includes a massive selection of hot and cold dishes, plus fresh fruit and free champagne. It's only included with certain bookings, so be sure to check ahead. The restaurant also has outdoor seating, and is a popular spot for both guests and locals alike. Two meeting rooms can accommodate groups of up to 100 people and have basic audiovisual services. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and the front desk can arrange laundry and car services.