Hotel Villa Real

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?The compact and hushed lobby brims with Old World elegance, but the glass jars of candy and snacks add a playful touch of real-world charm. What's the backstory?Part of Derby Hotels Collection, this luxe operation owes much of its museum atmosphere to the well-traveled owner. Throughout the public areas, guests will find an impressive collection of art and antiquities. Ancient Roman sculptures and mosaics in one corner, Apulian vases in another. You won’t be faulted for spending an hour perusing the hallways of this “museum” hotel. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?My Superior room featured a split-level living area with plush leather sofa and small balcony overlooking the Congreso de los Diputados (similar to Congress) and the Prado in the distance. Body-sized pillows and a cushy duvet atop the bed were basically dream machines. Requesting a room facing the front of the hotel assures plenty of entertainment from the window. Soundproofing, still, was excellent. Toiletries from The White Company complemented the massive terry cloth towels well. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-fi is both fast and free. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?The bar is popular with local business people, especially in summer when the outdoor patio is open. Andy Warhol and other prints line the wall. Light bites satisfy those wanting a snack, but those looking for gourmet fare are better off at sibling Hotel Urban around the corner where both CEBO and Glass Mar serve Michelin-quality meals. Call ahead as both are favorites of locals. Don’t miss breakfast here where Spanish cheeses, cured meats, and an a la carte menu prepare guests well for a day of hoofing it between museums. And the service?Service never misses a beat here thanks to a multilingual staff that takes cues from guest interactions as to how involved they should be. Rushed business travelers are attended to swiftly while curious tourists have the staff’s full attention for as long as they need. What type of travelers will you find here?Well-traveled Europeans were in the majority here, but Americans will find this location to be ideal for visiting the Golden Triangle of Art museums. With few public areas, those staying here seem to prefer to get out and explore rather than linger over cocktails in the lobby. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene?In one direction, you’ll find more art than you could ever imagine; in the other, you can shop ‘til you drop along Gran Via and in Chueca. You’re only a short walk from tourist hot spots like the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol. If you want to explore, you’re better off here than one of the Paseo de la Castellana hotels. Is there anything you'd change?Millennials might find the restrained look of guest rooms unexciting, but the price list of this elegant lodging is not geared toward their budget anyway. Any other hotel features worth noting?Recreation is not an in-house strength, but guests need only walk one minute to sibling Hotel Urban where a rooftop plunge and fitness center await. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?If you prefer boutique-style hotels with refined decor over larger grande dames with flashy public areas, you’ve hit the jackpot here." - Ramsey Qubein