We will be in Spain for just under three weeks in October; we are planning around 4 days in Madrid and 5 in Barcelona with the rest of the time in the Andalucia area (Sevilla, Granada, coast, etc.) The advice and information here, on the web, and in the guidebooks is wonderful, if not overwhelming! We are looking for specific suggestions of "best neighborhoods" to stay in for Madrid and Barcelona in particular. We like to be able to walk to interesting areas and near least some of the 'major' sites. Our needs are basic and simple and so is our budget!
Posted by
san rafael, cA, usa
72 posts
We rented an apartment for a week in Madrid near the Puerta del sol. We walked everywhere. It is probably best to look for a hotel which is not directly on the square but at least a few blocks away as it is quite crowded and noisy late in to the night.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
4555 posts
In Madrid, I usually stay at one of two Hostals (2 star hotels) in Plaza Santa Cruz, which is just off Plaza Mayor and a long block from Sol....but off the main route between the two, so they are quiet. Hostal Cruz Sol and Hostal Santa Cruz each occupy a floor of a building on the north side of the square. They are modern, clean, and comfortable, and the rates are low. Their rates are 58 Euro/night for a double. Rooms have a shower or tub, and sink, but toilets are just down the hall. Go to this Google map and you'll see the building at the top of the plaza. Use "Street View" to take a look around.
Posted by
Des Moines, IA
2193 posts
Here's another option to consider. In Madrid, I can recommend Hostal Acapulco in Plaza del Carmen, located right in the city center between the Gran Via and Puerta del Sol. You can easily walk from here to every major site. The hotel is basic but quite nice. It's also very clean and inexpensive (quad was 85€ per night, so doubles are lower yet), and each room has private facilities and balconies (ask for one overlooking the plaza). They’re rated number 2 on tripadvisor...go there to check out reviews and photos.
Posted by
baton rouge, la, US
269 posts
During the spring/summer of 2007, we stayed directly across from the Prado in a little place called Pension Retiro, run by Senora Antonio. It's located on a side street that runs directly into two outdoor cafes that have great views of the Prado and it's surrounding areas. It's removed from the Puerto del Sol area, but not so far that public transportation can't help. We really loved the area, plus the price is right (around 30 euros a night for a double room). Depends on your needs; it's basic and Senora Antonio doesn't speak much English, but we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and plan to return next time we're in Madrid.
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
check out Princessa Apartmento, Calle Princessa, near plaza espana in Madrid....I have stayed there for less than the price of a hotel room --- living room, full kitchen, dining area, full bath (with walk in shower!) and full bedroom...very nice and good location. Think you can find the web site if you check it on google,etc. If any problem, let me know and I will find and send to you.