In the height of the scorching Spanish summer, Madrid can be a fairly unforgiving city for the unsuspecting tourist, with temperatures soaring well into the forties. Long walks in the heat of the sun are best avoided, which makes a well-positioned hotel a must for the prospective visitor.
Hotel Urban couldn’t score much higher in that regard, boasting a central location on Carrera de San Jerónimo, just a few minutes away from Puerta del Sol.
The shopping hub of Gran Vía is just a couple of minutes away, as is the enviable collection at the Museo del Prado. The convenience is hugely welcome, leaving guests with more time to enjoy the city’s many charms.
That said, you might find yourself idling in the hotel itself, a five-star member of the Design Hotels collection, such is the appeal of its sleek, Art-Deco stylings and avante-garde architecture. From the imposing lobby to the glass-covered exterior, it’s certainly easy on the eye.
Hotel Urban’s ground-level Glass Bar boasts transparent ‘Ghost’ chairs designed by Philippe Starck, while the Europa Decó restaurant is a 45-cover dining area, sympathetically lit and providing a surprisingly cosy atmosphere, despite its proximity to the main lobby.
The jewel in the crown however is La Terraza del Urban, a glorious roof terrace that plays host to a small pool, bar and extensive outdoor seating. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a couple of pre-dinner cocktails, while gazing out across the Madrid skyline.
As is often the case with boutique hotels in the Spanish capital, rooms are on the compact side, although beautifully outfitted, with spacious en suites across the board.
Beds are extremely comfortable, showers powerful and a welcome attention to detail is evident in the added amenities. An in-room combination safe was a welcome addition, as was the handily-positioned iPod docking station.
For a slice of luxury in the heart of Madrid’s city centre, Hotel Urban ticks all the right boxes. And that terrace is worth a visit all on its own…
If you enjoyed our review of Hotel Urban Madrid, read some of our other recent hotel reviews including Vila Vita Parc in Portugal and Hotel Marti in Istanbul.
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