8/10 Good
Victor, Berkeley
23 Feb 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Have to say up front that one of the two elevators was out of order and the electricity went out twice during my stay -- and no-one on staff ever mentioned anything like 'oopsy' or even shrugging their shoulders.
Even so, the hotel was, overall, a pleasure. It's a historic property, and it is cool to walk out in the morning and see people taking pics of the place you're staying in.
The location is fantastic for tourists doing the tourist sites, and there are many other hotels immediately surrounding, but the Gran Ancira has a luxe lobby and revived upscale art deco bar that makes it stand out. Peaceful plaza right outside the front door, and the Macroplaza is one street over, including the Legorretta-designed contemporary art museum. Ten-minute walk gets you to the hip parts of the barrio antiguo (Morelos) and 15 minutes north gets you to the real family restaurants that the vecinos patronize. Or you can just go to the theme restaurants for tourists and the many many chain stores in the local shopping center. Your choice. Room on 5th floor had a lot of marble countertops, otherwise basic. Minifridge and coffeepot but no microwave. Beware that your room might have a step up to get into the bathroom, which will necessitate some tenering of cuidado or you will stub a toe or slip. Combine that step with wet marble and the lights going out unexpectedly and you're taking a bit of a chance. Bed was very comfortable. Window had a perfect view of skyscraper construction noise.
Victor
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026