Al L.
Yelp
Our first day's stay in Mexico City before continuing on to Cuernavaca was at the Gran Hotel. We read about the historical aspects of this building and wanted to stay here. It's a former 19th century department store with an art nouveau décor, beautiful stained-glass ceiling and a huge Louis XV-style chandelier in the foyer. On each end of the hotel atrium/lobby, there's a wrought iron vintage elevator that a staff member will operate and accompany you up to your floor. There is a modern elevator for regular use. So elegant.
Upon check-in, you are welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine. Our second floor interior room had a view of little courtyard. The room was large with high ceilings. There's a flat-screen LCD TVs, modern spacious granite and marble bathrooms and comfy beds, air conditioning and Wi-Fi access. A nice mini touch was a little three item dessert plate on the desk as a welcoming treat. Aside from the bottles in your room, there are free bottled water and apples on a table by the elevator on each floor.
Our doorman/porter, Victor, was so friendly. The hotel offers a guided tour of hotel, which Victor provided. He told us the history of the hotel, took us up the vintage elevator, talked about the stained glass ceiling and pointed out where the artist signature was located and walked us outside to point out the exterior features. The hotel was the setting of the filming of the opening scenes of 007's Spectre and Victor described the filming of the movie. Also, later I determined that I did not pack the pants to my black suit and Victor gave me suggestions as to where I could get a pair of dress slacks, which I was able to purchase. Saved my day, as I had a wedding to attend in two days. Great service Victor!
The hotel borders the Zocalo, the large square where the National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral and other government buildings are located. The shopping district is next to the hotel and the Templo Mayor museum is located nearby.
A café is in the lobby that serves a buffet breakfast for $160pesos or $100pesos if you include it in your booking. The Terraza open-air restaurant is on the rooftop and offering a great view of the Zocalo.
It was a great way to start our visit to Mexico City. A beautiful hotel with great service and amenities in a convenient location. Since it was our first time here, it really made us feel comfortable and enjoy this beauty city.