One night stay in Madrid

Hotel Europa is very central and very nice. It has more US-style/size rooms and would be good for a family. Not too pricey. Though breakfast is not included, their restaurant is right next door and provides a quick, inexpensive meal.

Also, use Trip Advisor.

II Castillas, just spent a week there. Don't know your price range but we thought it was great. Nice sized rooms and bathrooms with a great breakfast buffet included. You can all dig into the cereal, toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, etc. and get ready for the day! Great staff too!

I’ll recommend Hostal Acapulco right in the center on Plaza del Carmen…highly rated on trip advisor. Hotel Europa also gets good reviews from many here.

Hotel Europa is still my choice in Madrid. (It's recently renovated.) The Metro stop (Sol) is at the end of the block, you can take the Metro from Barajas to Sol for one euro each. (requires two transfers but convenient). Puerta del Sol is in the heart of Madrid, walking distance to Museum del Prado, a metro ride away from the Royal Palace, 10 minutes walk from Plaza Mayor and Chocolateria San Gines (you should try their specialty of churros and chocolate drink. (Churro is dipped into the thick chocolate drink , it's a simple yet unforgettable experience). If you're a food fanatic, try the 'calamari boccadillo' (calamari sandwich) at Casa Rua over at Plaza Mayor. Plenty of restaurants in the area of Sol. El Corte Ingles (department store) is just next door if you want to do some shopping, souvenirs and food items as well.

Buen Viaje.