Mexico City: Gran Hotel Ciudad de México (Hotel)

Address: Av 16 de septiembre 82, Centro histórico , Mexico city 06000, Mexico
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Lonely Planet Review

Erected in the pre-revolutionary era to house a shopping mall for wealthy Mexicans, the Gran Hotel flaunts the French art nouveau style of the period. Observing the huge Mexican flag flapping in the wind from your Zócalo-view junior suite, you may be moved to shout '¡Viva México!'

Crowned high overhead by an amazing stained-glass canopy crafted by Tiffany in 1908, the vast atrium is a fin-de-siècle fantasy of curved balconies, original wrought-iron elevators and chirping birds in zoo-sized cages. Rooms, for a change, do not disappoint in comparison to the public areas. Fringed curtains, plush armchairs and canopied king-size beds suggest a belle époque opulence. Though only the suites face the Zócalo, exterior standards are almost as good, with picture windows overlooking stately Calle 16 de Septiembre. An elegant top-floor restaurant serves Mexican haute cuisine while the broad rooftop terrace makes an unbeatable setting for brunch (served weekends).