Tourists come here in droves. They all want to take just one photo.
If you think you've seen it all, you absolutely must visit Mexico City. In the city center, there's a hotel that combines history, a love of art, and one of the most beautiful glass ceilings in the world. The Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México, as we're writing about it, boasts one of the most magnificent lobbies in the world. The hotel has also starred in several famous films.
In the heart of Mexico City, across the massive Zócalo square, stands a building that could easily serve as a set for a fairy tale —if it weren't already a set for a movie. The Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México is no ordinary hotel. It's a time capsule, an architectural masterpiece, and one of the most beautiful lobbies in the world—with a ceiling so spectacular it's hard to tear your eyes away.
Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México / Andrea Izzotti / ShutterstockThe hotel is housed in a building dating back to 1899. Previously, it housed an upscale shopping mall, the Centro Mercantil, modeled after Galleries Lafayette and Au Bon Marché.
Built at the end of the 19th century, inspired by French department stores, it quickly became a symbol of the capital's modernity and aspirations.
The façade, a neoclassical work by Daniel Garza and Gonzalo Garitza, commanded respect – but it was the interior that was a true manifestation of artistic grandeur.
In 1968, just before the Olympic Games, the building underwent a transformation: from a shopping mall, it transformed into a luxury hotel. The space lost none of its majesty—on the contrary, it gained a new function that attracted travelers, dreamers, and even filmmakers.
Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México / Octavio Hoyos / ShutterstockEntering the lobby of the Gran Hotel de la Ciudad is like entering a temple of light. The stained-glass Tiffany ceiling, designed by Jacques Grüber in 1908, creates a spectacle composed of over 20,000 pieces of glass. It shimmers with color, arranges in floral patterns, and its focal point is three medallions symbolizing the newly opened railway lines – a tribute to the era of steam and progress.
This glass masterpiece is the largest stained glass window in the Americas and one of the largest in the world. The play of light it creates resembles a kaleidoscope.
Mexican version of Art NouveauBut the Gran Hotel isn't just about stained glass. It also boasts some of the oldest working elevators in Mexico – stylish, glass-encased, with decorative ironwork, reminiscent of a time when elegance wasn't so much a style as a necessity. It also boasts Louis XIV-style chandeliers, wrought-iron balcony galleries, and carpets with botanical motifs that look lifelike.
Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México / marketa1982 / ShutterstockThe Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México has also had its share of screen presence. Its interiors have appeared in films such as "Frida," "Coco," and the James Bond film "Spectre. " In one scene, the hotel imitates a Parisian café; in another, it's a luxurious palace. Because it can. Because it can. Because its aesthetic is universal and timeless.
It's no coincidence that rooms are booked months in advance, and the lobby itself attracts dozens of tourists daily —even those not staying at the hotel. Just walk in, look up, and… lose track of time.
Luxury with a view of the ZócaloToday, the hotel belongs to the Howard Johnson chain, but despite changes in management, it has retained its spirit. The number of rooms was deliberately limited to around 60 to maintain its intimate atmosphere and the quality of service. Guests can enjoy the "La Terraza" restaurant, which serves Mexican cuisine with panoramic views of the Plaza de la Constitución. Breakfast with a view of the Zócalo is an experience that could easily rival the Eiffel Tower.
Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México - interesting facts and tips for visitors- Visiting the lobby is free, but it's best to come early in the morning when there are no crowds – that's when the light through the stained glass looks most spectacular.
- The elevators can be viewed from the gallery on the first floor, accessible without booking a room.
- The rooftop terrace is a hidden gem, perfect for brunch with a glass of mezcal.
- The best rooms? Those with balconies overlooking the Zócalo —the night view is absolutely magical.
- Want to explore this place in Bond's footsteps? Ask at reception – you can often visit the movie rooms if they're not occupied.
