The grand exterior architecture of the Hotel De Las Letras -- built in 1917 -- is what strikes you first when walking up to this hotel. The elegant, historic style of the balconies and entrance showcase the hotel’s history, yet the interior is modern and bright with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel creates a homey feel with quotes from famous writers on the walls, historic brickwork, original staircases, and trendy light fixtures in the restaurant. Bright colors matched to mosaic art and sculptures also add an air of fun, and the library is a cozy and comfortable place to relax and escape the bustle of the city. Authentic parquet wood floors are in excellent shape and the rooftop terrace bar, Ático Las Letras, has impressive city views and a wooden deck covered in plants. There are free newspapers in the lobby and the hotel has an association with the World Wildlife Federation that highlights its eco-friendly nature. While travelers of all kinds will feel comfortable here, the hotel predominantly attracts design-conscious couples and friends, as well as some business travelers.

The Hotel De Las Letras sits on the Gran Via, one of Madrid's major avenues. Shopping, transportation stops, restaurants, and attractions such as San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Arts, San Anton Market, Plaza de Cibeles, Puerta del Sol, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum are all within walking distance. A rental car is only necessary if you plan to leave the city. The hotel can arrange airport transfers for a fee.

Each of the spacious rooms at the Hotel De Las Letras is uniquely designed with quotes from famous writers on the walls, parquet floors, and a contemporary, minimalist design. The blend of bright colors in the furniture, rugs, and wall paint with wooden features such as desks, floors, and seating lends an air of modern-meets-vintage, which is only accentuated by the original floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of natural light. Although bathrooms have modern white square sinks and tilework, the purple shower curtains and yellow walls add modernity and color. Each bathroom has double sinks, magnified makeup mirrors, heated towel racks, and H2O + Bath Aquatics toiletries, although the combination shower/tubs are a bit basic.

High ceilings, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and minibars are standard, as are robes and slippers; several rooms also have Nespresso coffee machines. Some higher-tier rooms even have large balconies and outside hot tubs, but some guests mention the loud exterior noise from the busy street below as a problem.

The Hotel De Las Letras has an on-site restaurant, Al Trapo, which serves modern Spanish cuisine and a lounge, Bocablo Lounge, with snacks and cocktails. The rooftop terrace, Ático Las Letras, also serves drinks and tapas. All are trendy and popular with guests and locals, alike. Room service is available with limited hours. The hotel also has several 24-hour services, including a fitness center, business center, and front desk. The fitness center is small but modern, with gray tile walls, plush leather chairs, towels, and bottled water in addition to different types of equipment. There’s an attached sauna and robes for guest use. Spa treatments can be arranged, although the hotel lacks a full spa. This hotel is pet-friendly, but only one dog, under 30 pounds, is allowed per room. There are meeting and event spaces, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. Breakfast is not included in most rates.