I will be heading to Spain in January for a dance event which will be held in Malaga. I am flying into Madrid a day early to see some sites. I'll then be taking the train to Malaga. It seems most efficient to me to stay at a hotel near the airport, since the train will depart from near there (at least that's my understanding at this point). So- 2 questions- first, does anyone have recommendations for a reasonably priced hotel near the airport? I looked on this forum and the posts were mostly pre-pandemic, and I'm guessing things may have changed. Secondly, given the fact that I really will need to sleep at some point- what are the top 2-3 things you would suggest. I'm likely only to do 1 or 2 of them, in addition to trying to find delicious food, but I'd like options. I'm a solo, female traveler, if that makes a difference. Thanks!
Posted by
Surrey, UK
530 posts
The train to Malaga normally goes from Atocha station, not near the airport but in central Madrid.
Atocha station is very near the major art galleries (Reina Sofia is the nearest).
I'd stay in central Madrid and take a hop on hop off bus tour to see the sights, then, if it interests you, one of the art museums.
Posted by
Chicago
1797 posts
Solo female as well. Follow great advice above.
Atocha Station is very convenient to historic city center and art museums. Last time in Madrid, 2024, I also had a one day, two night stop in Madrid before catching a train. Many fine hotels walkable to station and tourist sites . I stayed at the Radisson Red.
Consider the Palace, major art museums, walking the historic center as obvious sightseeing. What do you enjoy?
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7939 posts
Stay near Atocha station since that’s where the train departs from. As already stated above, Atocha isn’t by the airport. It can take 30-45 minutes to reach Atocha from the airport depending on which mode of transportation you take.
Not sure what constitutes a reasonably priced hotel, but a basic no frills hotel across the street from Atocha station and about 100 yards from the Reina Sofía museum is SLEEP'N Atocha. There are plenty of hotels near the train station, so look a few up on a booking website or look at thes in the area using Google maps.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thanks, everyone for clarifying where the train station is. I'll start looking around Atocha. I'm definitely interested in the palace, and will try to take in an art museum if I have the energy. What I really enjoy doing is eating, so if anyone has any recommendations in that department, it would be appreciated! I think I'll also just enjoy walking around the city, taking in the sites.
** update- I booked at the Sleep'N Atocha. Great price, and it looks perfect for my needs. Thanks for the suggestion!
Posted by
Chicago
1797 posts
I'm glad you found something that will work for you. I love Madrid - I hope you enjoy your day!!!
If you decide on the Royal Palace, you might want to check to see if it should be pre-booked for your date and preferred time. I know it is quite popular and some say pre-booking is needed these days. I haven't visited there since pre-Covid when things weren't quite as crowded as current days.