Where to Stay

As you would expect from a dynamic city like Madrid, you can find all kinds of accommodation here, from quirky hostels to luxurious hotels. The city is considered relatively cheap compared to other European capitals like London or Paris, so your euros should stretch a little further than expected. And whether you choose ritzy Barrio Salamanca or the more central neighborhood Sol, you’ll have easy access to some of the main sites around the city in each of these listings. Here are some of the best places to stay in Madrid, regardless of your budget.

 

Hotels

 

7 Islas Hotel — This fun hotel in Madrid’s gay neighborhood Chueca is a good choice if you’re into a more contemporary style. There are only 16 rooms, and each has been designed by Kike Keller, an interior designer who has overseen interesting projects like an art store turned bar in Madrid’s Malasaña neighborhood. Staying at 7 Islas also means you’re just off the Gran Via, the main road filled with shops, restaurants, and theaters.

Only You Boutique Hotel — This reformed 19th-century mansion is also in Chueca. Located on a small side street, this hotel stands out because of its chic decor, Mediterranean-blue palette, and outdoor patio. Some of the rooms have Juliet-style balconies, which overlook the narrow European streets. Breakfast comes with the perk of an à la carte menu and their brunch draws a crowd, especially on weekends.

NH Casa Suecia — Close to the busy Calle Alcala, this hotel is classy and comfortable. Its crowning glory is its terrace, which offers lovely views of Madrid, and a full bar where you can enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets. If you stay here, you’ll be able to walk to El Retiro, Madrid’s main park and the colorful Chueca neighborhood is just a short walk away too.

Hotel Sardinero Madrid — Set in a neoclassical building, this hotel strikes a nice balance between historical and modern. All of the facilities are top-notch, and its location in the trendy Alonso Martinez neighborhood allows you to get to bars, nightclubs, shopping, and dining within a few minutes walk. The Sardinero also houses the Library Cocktail Lounge, an upscale bar that has an elaborate cocktail list.

 

Luxury Hotels

 

Villa Magna — The decor of this elegant hotel was handpicked by Madrid-based designer Thomas Urquijo. His blend of vintage furniture and contemporary statues and paintings makes for a hotel ambiance that is really unforgettable. Villa Magna also houses the restaurant Tse Yang, one of the best high-end Chinese eateries in Madrid.

Hotel Urban</strong<> — Located very near Retiro Park, Hotel Urban stands out because of its avant-garde architecture. Its facade is constructed entirely of reflective glass, and it’s known locally for being one of the most modern buildings in Madrid. Currently, the lobby is decorated with art hailing from Papua New Guinea, and it also has other permanent art collections throughout the hotel. If you stay here, be sure to have lunch at the rooftop restaurant, where you can experience some fantastic views.

URSO Hotel and Spa — The URSO can be summed up as regal on the outside but homey on the inside. This boutique hotel is set in a restored palace and located at the intersection of three bustling neighborhoods: Malasaña, Chueca, and Chamberi. The spa is very popular with guests and has a hydromassage pool. After a stay here, you might walk out of the hotel feeling like you’re Spanish royalty yourself.

 

Hostels

 

Ok Hostel Madrid — This hostel is right in the middle of La Latina, with the metro entrance just outside the door. Clean and spacious, it is a comfortable stay if you’re looking to spend some time in Madrid without splurging too much. It’s part of the Ok chain, which is reputable in all European cities where it operates.

The Hat Madrid — Budget meets design at The Hat. The hanging lights and exposed bricks give this hostel an industrial feel. All decor has been carefully chosen to make sure you have a welcoming stay. There’s also a rooftop terrace equipped with a full bar, where you’ll hopefully meet some cool fellow travelers. And to top it off, the hostel is located right in the center of Madrid.

Hostel One — One of this hostel’s perks is its free dinner, which guest reviews rave about. The breakfast churros are also a nice local touch. Located in the Malasaña area, you’ll be staying in a very hip area close to bars and trendy restaurants. From there, you can easily walk or take the metro to the center of Madrid or to the main sites and attractions.

 

Airbnbs

Cozy apartment near El Retiro — This lovely apartment is perfect for two and has an ideal location near the Atocha station and the Retiro Park. You’ll be close to the Paseo del Arte, or Art Walk in English, a half-mile made up of world-class museums such as the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. The apartment itself is tastefully decorated, and if you’re in Madrid during the summer months, you can relax by the pool after you’re done sightseeing.

Bright Chueca-Justicia Apartment — This apartment is a great choice if you’re looking for some extra space while being in a happening area of Madrid. Some of the apartment’s perks are the floor-to-ceiling windows and charming Juliet balconies. If you take a walk behind the apartment, you’ll find narrow tree-lined streets that make a perfect afternoon walk. This is definitely a great spot if you’re in a group of four or less.

Luxury Apartment near Sol — This is an ideal choice if you’re traveling with a group of five or six. Elegant and spacious, you’ll be right by Puerta del Sol in the center of the city. If you prefer to explore the city on foot, this could be the perfect choice for you since all of Madrid’s main sites are within walking distance from this location. Some of the apartment’s amenities include a dishwasher as well as a washer and dryer, which is a rare find in Spain.