Melia Madrid Princesa

The Melia Madrid Princesa caters to those who want something with all the bells and whistles of a high-end property sans the antiques and stuffy atmosphere. Common spaces were fully renovated in 2017 to celebrate the hotel’s 50th anniversary, and the concept is fresh, stylish, and contemporary. The only elements that remain from the original decor are pendant-like lamps above the front desk and a few vases and original pieces of art bought by the original owner decades ago. Walls made of wood slats, thick pillars, and black shelves with minimalist lines give the lobby a modern feel, while a gas fireplace and comfortable seating make the space welcoming and cozy. On the left-hand side, the bar has been fully integrated into the lobby and is a popular spot for an after-work drink and a bite, and during the day The Level lounge is busy with guests sampling the free snacks and drinks, or requesting concierge services. Only about a third of the guests here are business travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere less corporate than in other purely business hotels in town. However, this Melia often hosts congresses and meetings, and the age range (except for families) skews older, so those seeking something with a trendier vibe in this price range may prefer The Principal Madrid or Hotel Hospes Puerta de Alcala. Hotel Wellington is a good alternative for those wanting something more classic, while the Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is a cheaper option closer to major attractions such as Prado Museum and Sol.  

The hotel is located on the corner of two busy streets in Arguelles neighborhood, an area just north of Plaza de España and the heart of the city center. There are dozens of restaurants, shops, and cafes in the immediate vicinity, and Gran Via, a shopper’s paradise, can be found just a 10-minute walk away. Although this location is a tad removed from the more touristy areas in the center, the hotel is within a 20-minute walking distance of a number of major attractions, including the Royal Palace, the Royal Theater, La Almudena Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol. Other attractions such as El Retiro Park, Prado Museum, and Puerta de Alcala can be reached by public transport. Ventura Rodriguez Metro stop is right across the street from the Melia Madrid Princesa, and there are several bus stops within a couple of blocks. The airport is a half-hour drive away.

Rooms at the Melia Madrid Princesa are plush, with elegant contemporary decor in neutral hues and pops of red and black. Standard units -- which include Melia, Premium, Supreme and two types of Family Rooms -- were last fully renovated in 2008, but constant maintenance keeps them looking fresh and in good shape. The Level rooms, which include Standard The Level, Grand Premium, and several types of suites, were renovated in 2017 and have additional luxe touches, such as bigger beds with top-quality linens. Standard in-room amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, well-stocked minibars, electric kettles, and pillow menus, while The Level units add a number of great perks, including Nespresso machines, extra pillows, and sound systems. Marble bathrooms are large and upmarket, and feature either shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads or separate showers and jetted tubs in The Level rooms, plus heated towel racks, Rituals toiletries, hairdryers, and TV speakers. All rooms face the street, and some have wonderful panoramic city views that in some cases include the Royal Palace. Unfortunately, several past guests have complained of street noise reaching rooms. Only two suites have terraces.  

A wonderful breakfast buffet (not included in the standard rate) is served every morning at Mosaico, the hotel’s all-day restaurant. The spread is varied and tasty, and includes local items such as churros, continental options such as freshly baked pastries, cheeses, and meats, and hot items like eggs, bacon, and sausages. The rest of the day, an international menu with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine is served in the same space. The Level guests can choose to have breakfast in The Level Lounge, a private space off the lobby offering a slightly smaller but just as varied spread, plus free all-day snacks and drinks. The spa is small but pleasant, with a compact indoor heated pool equipped with a counter-current swimming system, two whirlpools, and three massage cabins. Access to the spa is only free for The Level guests a few hours per day. Also note that the pool is for adults only. The fitness center is small but features modern cardio and strength-training equipment. There are 23 meeting rooms on-site, ranging in size from ballrooms to cozy boardrooms. All are equipped with high-tech audiovisual equipment, including touch screens (in some), videoconference capabilities, and projectors.