A superb stay in the heart of Spain's capital
There's absolutely no escaping the alluring spectre of Edificio Metropolis (and why would you want to). In fact, immediately out of the window of my spacious, smartly decorated and equipped deluxe city view room is the building's most dramatic feature, the golden statue of Victoria Alada, meaning 'winged victory', otherwise known as Nike. It was the symbol of the insurance company La Union y el Fenix, which initially occupied the art nouveau pile.
Food + drink
Madrid, at last count, has 28 Michelin-starred restaurants, only two shy of the more showy Barcelona's tally, but you needn't necessarily leave the hotel for a memorable meal. The Principal's inhouse Atico dishes up impressive modern Spanish lunches and dinners with city panoramas. For a more casual repast close to the hotel in the vibrant Chueca neighbourhood is Mercado di San Anton with upscale food court-like eateries. The surrounding lively grand avenues also offer convivial al fresco restaurants set on generously spaced, tree-lined pavements overlooking central Madrid's magnificent architecture. The city is also home to historical cafes such as El Corte Ingles and Cafe Comercial, both close to the hotel, where you can commune over a cortado with everyday Madrilenos.
Out + about
Museo Nacional del Prado, or simply The Prado, tops the 'must-see' list in Madrid but also allow time for Museo Reina Sofía. Its collection features Pablo Picasso's monochrome masterpiece Guernica, depicting the devastating aerial assault of the eponymous Basque city during the Spanish Civil War by Nazi Germany and fascist Italy. Madrid has much to occupy the visitor but if you're staying more than a few days consider a day-trip to one of Spain's most beautiful smaller cities such as Toledo or Segovia.
The verdict
For those desirous of being well-schooled in the magnificence of Madrid while situated in a superb central city location, please report directly to The Principal.
Along with Edificio Metropolis, The Principal is surrounded by monumental architecture such as the imposing Cibeles Palace, Madrid's City Hall, and the handsome high-rise flanking Gran Via.
Lowlight
The reviewer visited Madrid in the quieter, early winter season – the hotel's Gran Via location is likely to be considerably more crowded in summer months.
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