Literally across the street from the country’s most famous museum (and perhaps one of Europe’s top art venues), the Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is convenient to everything. Its entrance is not hard to miss thanks to the beautiful flowers ringing the entryway and capturing the attention of passersby. There are lots of reasons why this small boutique hotel punches above its weight. Here’s why you should consider a stay.
The location
It is within the city’s so-called “Golden Triangle of Art” with not only the Prado, but the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums just a short stroll away. Also close by is the Atocha train station for convenient day trips plus Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor in the other direction.
Just across from the front door is a small square with trickling fountain and café that draws plenty of action. In the warmer months, the hotel has its own outdoor terrace seating where guests can order from the menu or select a glass from the lengthy wine list, including many local and organic options. From this address, you can walk in either direction to jog along the tree and fountain-lined street or head for the museums and Royal Palace all within walking distance.
The amenities
This hotel has thought of everything when it comes to the little conveniences that can make a good stay great. It starts in the lobby where sit-down check in is the first welcome. A bountiful display in the lobby is stocked with complimentary bottles of water, apples, cough drops, candy and cookies at all hours. These are small gestures that can go a long way when you spend the day exploring or are headed out for a busy work day.
Each floor also has ice and water stations with still and sparkling options to refill your own bottle, which is another thoughtful gesture that few hotels offer. In the lobby lounge, there is a small library of books that guests can borrow and enjoy during their stay.
A day spa offers massage and beauty treatments. Eclectic and colorful decor lines the walls of the indoor plunge pool and relaxation area. The sound of Tibetan flutes and Thai harps contributes to the soothing atmosphere one level below the lobby.
The rooms
Radisson Blu continues to evolve with a sophisticated design palette in full force here. Tall mirrors leaning up against darkly painted walls, plush beds with easy-access power outlets and reading lights, large closets and wide desks are all in place. Extra kudos goes to each room having both an espresso machine and a hot water kettle.
Bathrooms are equally impressive with bright mirrors over the large vanities with both wall-mounted toiletry products as well as a stash of small bottles, too. Above-counter sinks add panache to an already sleek design aesthetic. Showers have drenching rainfall showerheads with easy to use controls and ideally placed towel hooks (a detail that many hotels seem to forget).
Premium rooms come with Juliet balconies overlooking the charming square in front of the hotel and the Prado Museum behind it. There are several junior suites and larger suites with views of the square and adding more living space inside. Unique suites on the top floor have high ceilings and doors to separate the sitting room from the bedroom.
The art and photography
In public areas as well as on each floor and in the stairway, historic photographs of Madrid give guests a glimpse into different neighborhoods of the city. There is also an entertaining collection of art that alludes to some of the famous paintings you will find in the neighboring museums. It’s a clever way that the hotel gives a nod to its central location. Behind the beds in each room is a distinctive piece of modern art that adds to the overall theme here.
This is the Barrio de las Letras district, once the home of celebrated authors and artists. As you walk along the sidewalks of this neighborhood, you will notice famous quotes and excerpts from authors that lived here imprinted on the ground. Designers took inspiration from the Prado in selecting the artwork for the hotel, which continues in the restaurant. Its menu focuses on Spanish tapas and regional dishes using East Asian flavors and spices.
The points
Radisson Rewards is the loyalty program for Radisson Blu among other brands, and ever since it linked up with Choice Privileges, there are more options than ever to earn and redeem points. The tie-up of these two hospitality brands means that travelers can earn points around the world to redeem for vacation and business travel. Radisson Rewards deserves attention for its wide portfolio of hotels. Even better, when you accrue elite status with the program, you can take advantage of extra perks like room upgrades and late checkout.
