Where to Stay in Madrid in 2024 ✔️ 8 Epic Areas & Top Hotels

Vamonos amigos! Let’s discover together where to stay in Madrid! After lots of research and comparing all the options, I’ve made this wicked guide to answer your query. 

Sol-Gran Via is the best place to stay in Madrid, as it’s right near the main attractions and with fabulous hotels! But, you’ll find 7 more areas in the post, which I categorized by interest.

I compared all the accommodation options for you, and picked only the best ones. So, whatever you pick, know that you’ll have a good place to sleep on your trip to the beautiful Madrid.

Just note that this capital city gets lots of tourists, so book your hotel in advance! You might even score a cheaper price! 😉

Quick Picks for Your Stay…

Don’t have enough time to read the whole post? Then have a look at this short list of hotels, all in Sol-Gran Via in the Centro: 

• Best luxury hotel – Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid
• Best mid-range hotel – Woohoo Suites Madrid
• Best budget hotel – Sungate ONE

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

Which neighborhood should you choose?

Madrid is divided into 21 districts (that’s a lot!), each broken down into different neighborhoods called barrios. The city is complex, but don’t worry, I’ve simplified everything for you!

The 8 areas I’ll talk about in the post are all in the Centro district (it’s super big) except for Salamanca and Retiro, which are very close to it. 

If that’s a bit confusing then check out this map, which will help you visualize all the areas I’ll talk about in the post:

1. Where to stay in Madrid for the first time – Puerta del Sol & Gran Via
2. The coolest area – Malasana
3. Best place for nightlife – Chueca
4. Where to stay in Madrid on a budget – Lavapies
5. Best area for bohemians – Barrio de Las Letras (Huertas)
6. Best place for foodies – La Latina & Madrid de Los Austrias
7. Where to stay for luxury – Salamanca
8. Best neighborhood for families – Retiro

1. Sol-Gran Via (Puerta del Sol & Gran Via) – for first timers

Looking for the hottest spot in town? Then there’s no better place than the Sol-Gran Via area in Centro! 

Set around Gran Via, the main avenue in Madrid, and Puerta del Sol, the most important square in town, this area has all you need, including fabulous attractions, countless shops, and amazing transport links!

Some unmissable spots that you must see here are Casa de Correos, a gorgeous architectural wonder, the Oso y el Madroño statue, which is one of the city’s main landmarks, and Gran Via, where you can shop for souvenirs.

Once you get hungry or are in desperate need of a little “pick-me-up,” you can stop by Morfi Empanadas Argentinas, an Argentinian restaurant downtown that everyone raves about!

By the way, if you’re planning to explore other cities in the country, make sure you check our post with the best places to stay in Spain!

Luxury(€200 and up)

• Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid – this gorgeous 5-star property has a secret rooftop terrace with amazing views, rooms with custom-designed furnishings, and 3 restaurants! 
• Hotel Atlántico – book your room here, and you’ll get access to 2 terraces with panoramic city views, beautiful suites with classy decor, and a bar! Plus you’ll be very close to the Royal Palace and to Retiro Park!

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Woohoo Suites Madrid – looking for something affordable? Then check out this hotel with cozy rooms, all the necessary facilities, including coffee makers, and a great location.
• Catalonia Gran Vía Madrid – enjoy the Spanish sun in the outdoor rooftop pool of this hotel, which is housed in a 1900s building with stained-glass windows and which has incredible city views!

Budget (up to €130)

• Sungate ONE – this is one of Madrid’s best budget hotels! Staying here means you’ll be close to Retiro Park and other important landmarks in the city, plus the hostel offers laundry facilities and lockers!
• B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol – amazing value for money! This place is super modern, has a great location in one of the best neighborhoods, and features rooms with balconies and a rooftop terrace!

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2. Malasana – the coolest neighborhood in Madrid!

Do you love hopping between vintage shops, drinking specialty coffee, and dining at a different restaurant every night?

Then Malasaña is the right place for you! This area is filled with all I’ve just mentioned, plus countless cool tapas bars, wine bars, pubs, and live music venues!

For most locals, this area is still remembered as the center of the countercultural Movida movement, which began right at the end of the Franco dictatorship!

While here, you can explore the cobblestone streets like Calle Fuencarral, admire the street art, and chill in Plaza de Dos Mayo!

Madrid is packed with museums, and in Malasaña, you’ll find the Museum of Contemporary Art Conde Duque or the ABC Museum of Drawing and Illustration!

Before you start your day of exploration, make sure you stop by The Fix – Café de Especialidad, their specialty coffee is super yummy!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• 7 Islas Hotel – you’re going to love the penthouse of this incredible boutique hotel, which has such a cool design, a rooftop terrace with sun loungers, and a city view! 
• Melia Hotel Madrid Princesa – here’s another amazing, luxurious place to stay that has such a fab design! Start your mornings with a swim in the indoor pool, then hop downstairs for breakfast!

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Akeah Hotel Gran – catch a sunset by the rooftop infinity pool of this adult-only hotel with rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and a restaurant. 
• Petit Palace Triball – still didn’t find the right place for you? This one is housed in a 19th-century building, and it offers a great location and rooms with balconies.

Budget (up to €130)

• Hostal Rías Bajas – Simple, affordable, and with a great location! This accommodation is perfect as it offers comfortable rooms with a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV. 
• Hostal Adis – This one’s another great choice for budget accommodation, and it’s located within walking distance of the attractions and offers rooms with a balcony.

3. Chueca – where to stay in Madrid for nightlife

If you want to hit some clubs and practice your flamenco skills while in town, Chueca is perfect for you! 

Set right near Malasaña, this area has a vibrant nightlife and is full of amazing pubs, cafés, and countless clubs. You may not feel exactly like the party areas of Ibiza, but it surely has the vibe!

Chueca is super LGBTQ-friendly, and Madrid’s Gay Pride usually takes place here. 

During the day, you can explore attractions like Plaza de Chueca and Mercado de San Antón, where you can buy fresh produce!

But make sure you also head to Calle de Hortaleza (map), which has so many colorful shops filled with amazing things, from clothes to souvenirs.

Once the sun sets, you can hit all the clubs! I highly recommend Black & White, which is a really fun one where you can catch drag queen shows and dance!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Urso Hotel & Spa – this “small luxury hotel of the world” is a 5-star hotel housed in a restored palace! It features rooms with designed furnishings, a spa center where you can relax, and a bar. 
• The Principal Madrid – here’s another amazing 5-star accommodation that offers impeccable service. Its top perks include the on-site gym, superb rooms with comfortable beds, and a great location with easy access to Plaza Mayor!

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Woohoo Rooms Chueca – relax in these super comfy rooms that have a flat-screen TV, large windows that overlook the city, and free Wi-Fi! 
• Petit Palace Chueca – this 3-star hotel is a great choice for modernists! The rooms are simple, clean, and super bright and the location is central: you can easily walk to the main attractions, such as Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace!

Budget (up to €130)

• Bastardo Hostel – do you want to be within walking distance of plenty of bars and nightlife options? No worries, I have the perfect solution for you! This place offers private and shared rooms; fun pub crawls in the area, and a yummy breakfast! 
• B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Fuencarral 52 – affordable and super comfortable? I’m so in! This fabulous hotel has rooms with a private bathroom, and a terrace, and it’s close to the city center!

4. Lavapies – where to stay in Madrid on a budget

Perfect for those who don’t want to spend a fortune on accommodation, Lavapiés is a super diverse and vibrant neighborhood with numerous affordable hotels! 

You can have such a fun time here trying all the international cuisines! Yep! There are so many restaurants that will transport you directly to India, Pakistan, or other fun countries! I hear Pakistani Restaurante is a great one! 

Calle Argumosa (map) is packed with these cool spots plus some other cafés and tapas bars where you can mingle and have fun. 

If you’re coming in August, you may even catch the San Lorenzo festival which is celebrated here! 

This neighborhood is pretty big, and rest assured, you’ll find some museums as well! Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is a great one where you can admire all the beautiful art!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Catalonia Atocha – get a room with a terrace and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city every morning alongside your coffee! This hotel is chic, and it comes with room service.
• NH Madrid Nacional – do you want to enjoy a luxurious trip in a great location, close to countless bars and restaurants? Then check out this hotel with superb rooms with balconies and a restaurant.

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Uma House Atocha – here’s a great place to stay in Madrid as a tourist, near countless restaurant and bar options! It’s a modern and stylish guest house that offers a 2-night minimum stay and family rooms. 
• Bypillow Crosstown – sleep like a baby in this amazing hotel that has some super cozy rooms with a terrace, a private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi.

Budget (up to €130)

• Ok Hostel Madrid – solo and budget travelers, this one’s for you! It’s near hip bars, and it comes with private and shared rooms, a shared kitchen, and a communal lounge. 
• THC Tirso Molina Hostel – here’s another great option: comfortable rooms (some with a terrace), private bathrooms, and an incredible location!

5. Barrio de Las Letras (Huertas) – for bohemians

Who’s ready to get lost on the quaint streets of Barrio de Las Letras and immerse in its bohemian atmosphere that has inspired numerous Spanish writers?

Barrio de Las Letras (also known as Huertas) is a beautiful place where many important Spanish writers lived, like Quevedo, Lope de Vega, and Cervantes, just to name a few!

The streets have famous quotes inscribed on them everywhere in this neighborhood!

So make sure you keep an eye on that while exploring and once you’re done, head over to Plaza Santa Ana (the heart of the neighborhood) or to Calle Huertas (the main street of the area). 

Once you’re too tired to walk anywhere, go recharge your batteries at Casa Alberto, a cool Spanish restaurant. Another great thing about staying here (besides that it’s one of the safest areas in town) is that you’ll only be a short walk away from Gran Vía, so you won’t be missing out on anything that’s happening there!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• Gran Hotel Inglés – here’s another one of the best luxury hotels in the city! This amazing accommodation awaits with 5-star service, superb decor, an on-site restaurant and bar, an airport shuttle, and everything else you might need for the ideal stay!
• ME Madrid Reina Victoria by Meliá – this cool 4-star hotel is housed in a 19th-century building, and it has an incredible style, rooms with large windows, and 2 restaurants.

Mid-range (€130 – €250)

• Apartamentos Matute 11 – you’re going to love these apartments! They look so incredible and come with all the necessary facilities, like a kitchen and a patio, plus they’ve got so much space! 
• Blume Cruz Suites – get all the rest you need in these great studios and apartments with city views and private bathrooms!

Budget (up to €130)

• Axel Hotel Madrid – if you don’t want to pay a fortune for your hotel, check out this hotel, which has spacious rooms with colorful designs and a seating area! 
• Hostal Alexis Madrid – chill by the outdoor pool of this adults-only hotel, which has stylish rooms and an outdoor terrace with sun loungers.

6. La Latina & Madrid de Los Austrias – best for foodies

I decided to group these 2 areas together as they’re small and set next to each other, plus both share the same vibe and type of attractions. 

La Latina and Madrid de Los Austrias are just a short walk away from Gran Via and are an absolute paradise for all foodies! 

Yep, you can try traditional food here, either in the outdoor markets, restaurants, terraces, or bars! Juana La Loca is one of the best tapas bars there, so definitely check it out!

In addition, Los Austrias is one of the best neighborhoods in town for history buffs! Centered around Plaza Mayor (one of the main attractions here), this area is the kind of place where you can get lost exploring for hours!

From La Latina and Los Austrias, you can easily reach important sights like the beautiful Royal Palace and the Opera!

While you’re around, make sure to check out Mercado de la Cebada, the weekly Sunday flea market – Rastro market, Sabatini Gardens, and the Almudena Cathedral.

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Aparthotel Ardmadrid Centro – enjoy all the privacy you need in this modern apartment that features great views, a spacious and furnished balcony, and some kitchen supplies. 
• Posada del León de Oro Boutique Hotel – here’s another one of Madrid’s best luxury hotels. It has 4-star services, including a restaurant, and it’s close to many public transportation options, including the La Latina metro station.

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• L&H La Latina Selection – feel at home in this super cozy accommodation that offers apartments with a stylish design, a kitchen, and a balcony!
• Hostal Met Madrid – here’s another great place to stay in Madrid if you want to be close to Mercado de la Cebada and Plaza Mayor! This place has rooms with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi.

Budget (up to €130)

• The Hat Madrid – this budget-friendly hostel is close to the well-known Sunday flea market and the Plaza Mayor! Each morning, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast here, and they have free Wi-Fi as well!
• Ganivet – want to stay close to Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace? Then check out this hotel with an outdoor pool, where you can enjoy the sun and stay in rooms with balconies.

7. Salamanca – where to stay in Madrid for luxury

Although Salamanca is outside of the Centro area, this upscale residential area screams luxury!

If you’re looking to splurge during your holiday and can’t say no to a fancy hotel, definitely book your rooms here!

Salamanca is the place where you’ll find fine-dining restaurants, boutique shops, and fancy cafés. If you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner, definitely stop by Ramón Freixa Madrid, an amazing Michelin star restaurant!

Don’t worry if you also want to explore the best attractions in the center, as you’ll only be a 20-min subway ride away.

But definitely don’t miss exploring Calle de Goya, Calle de Velásquez, and Calle de Serrano while in the area!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Relais & Châteaux Heritage Hotel – feel like a royal in one of the nicest hotels in town set in a 20th-century building with rooms with unique wallpapers, furnished balconies, and a restaurant.
• Hotel Villa Magna – relax after a day of exploring and upscale shopping at the spa center or in modern rooms with antique-style furnishings and great views.

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• VP El Madroño – this awesome place offers great value for the money and looks great! It’s close to Chamberí and offers contemporary rooms with much space and concierge service. 
• H10 Puerta de Alcalá – book your room here if you want superb accommodation that offers an amazing view over the city from the terrace! Plus, the rooms are sparkling clean and very nicely decorated.

Budget (up to €130)

• AC Hotel Avenida de América by Marriott – simple and modern! This hotel has chic rooms with wooden floors, a restaurant, and a bar. 
• Avenida De America Tijcal – finding something affordable is possible here! Just like this hotel, which comes with spacious studios that have a terrace and a private kitchen.

8. Retiro – where to stay in Madrid for families

East of Madrid Centro, you’ll find Retiro, similar to Salamanca in style, just not as expensive but super classy and with a residential touch. 

Hollywood celebrities look for houses here! This booming area is incredible!

If you’re coming with your family, then I’d recommend this area. It is tranquil and has a huge park where you can take the kids and have a picnic!

If picnics are not your thing you can grab dinner at Bel Mondo, a famous Italian restaurant. 

El Retiro Park used to belong to the monarchy, but now it is a UNESCO World Heritage site!

If you love art and culture, you will love this area since it is home to the city’s 3 most important art museums, which together form the ‘Golden Triangle’. 

There is the world-class Museo del Prado, the private collection of Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, and The Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, where you’ll find some of the best contemporary art.

I highly recommend visiting the museums and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. You can read how to buy the best tickets for Prado in this post.

Nearby this area, you will also reach another charming and picturesque neighborhood called Paseo del Prado, which is worth visiting.

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Claridge Madrid – perfect for a family getaway, this hotel offers spacious rooms with a flat-screen TV (for fun movie nights), and a restaurant that serves breakfast and bikes to rent out!
• Petit Palace Lealtad Plaza – offering super stylish rooms for families and a daily breakfast, this hotel is set near Prado Museum, and it has a terrace!

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Madrid – Retiro, an IHG Hotel – relax with your little ones in this hotel with family rooms with a flat-screen TV, 2 on-site restaurants, and a garden!
• Catalonia El Retiro – start your morning with a delicious family breakfast at this hotel which offers a great location and rooms with all the necessary facilities for you and your little ones!

Budget (up to €130)

• Loft 4 personas Céntrico Madrid – perfect for a family, this apartment is set in one of the best neighborhoods in town and it comes with a kitchen, comfortable beds, and a flat-screen TV.
• 8Rooms Madrid – simple and so affordable! This hotel comes with air-conditioned rooms that have a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi!

Best apartments in Madrid, Spain

Staying in an apartment in a city like Madrid can help you save a lot of money, especially if you’re sharing it or thinking of dining more at home!

That’s why I made this section with some of the best apartments in Madrid, which I categorized by price so you can easily pick!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Luxurious Centro Apartment – of course, it’s possible to enjoy a luxurious experience in an apartment, just take a look at this place which has such cool decor, a lot of space and it’s in one of the best neighborhoods: the city center! 
• NQN Aparts & Suites – here’s another excellent option for an upscale experience close to Gran Via and the Royal Palace of Madrid. These apartments are well-equipped and come with a kitchen and a living room.

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Modern Condo – if you want to be close to the Royal Palace, then this is the perfect place to stay. This apartment boasts a near-perfect review rating for being comfy, cozy, and clean, and you’ll have access to the communal kitchen and living area.
• Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini – located near the Royal Palace and some hip bars, this apartment features all you need for your stay, like a kitchenette, a dining room, and a TV!

Budget (up to €130)

• Bob W Arte – looking for a place to stay in Madrid for 3 nights or more? Then check out this apartment which comes with seating areas, comfortable rooms, and a kitchen! 
• Bob W Chueca – I love the colorful designs and furnishings of this apartment, which is well-equipped with a desk, a private bathroom, and a small kitchenette.

👑 Luxury price:	€250
💵 Mid-range:	€150
🛏️ Budget:	€100
📍 Best neighborhood:	Sol-Gran Via
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid
💵 Mid-range hotel:	Woohoo Suites Madrid
👛 Best budget hotel:	Sungate ONE

BONUS 1: Best hotels near Madrid Barajas Airport

Need to crash for a night near the city’s main airport (which is around 30 min away from the city center)? Then have a look at this list of hotels which are right near it!

I’ve listed the airport hotels from most to least expensive, and the prices start from €130 to €250: 

Luxury (€200 and up):

• Clement Barajas – sleep like a baby before your flight in this hotel’s super comfy rooms with a restaurant and a bar.

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• täCH Madrid Airport – this hotel offers family rooms, breakfast at the on-site restaurant, and a terrace. 

Budget (up to €130)

• Fly Rooms Madrid Airport – stay near the airport in this hotel which offers spacious rooms with a kitchenette.

BONUS 2: Best hotels in Madrid for football matches

If you’re traveling to Madrid to see a football match, no worries, I have some great accommodation options for you near the Santiago Bernabéu stadium (this is just one of the city’s stadiums, there are others like the Atletico de Madrid stadium). 

As always, you’ll find the hotels listed from most to least expensive and the prices start from €130 to €250:

Luxury (€200 and up)

• AC Hotel Aitana – here’s a fab boutique hotel set just a short walk away from the stadium which offers room service and bikes!

Mid-range (€130 – €200)

• Ilunion Suites Madrid – this colorful hotel offers rooms with wooden floors and a living area with an on-site restaurant.
• Real Madrid Bernabeu – a great apartment to share that has room for 4 people, a kitchen, and free parking.

Budget (up to €130)

• Casa Luna IV – cheap and well-equipped! This apartment features a kitchen and laundry facilities and is so cozy!

FAQs about hotels in Madrid, Spain

Conclusion

Woohoo! You’ve made it to the end of this post on where to stay in Madrid!

Since I’ve covered so much, let’s do a quick recap: 

This post has the best neighborhoods in the Greater Madrid Metropolitan area, a section with some great apartments, and 2 bonuses with the top hotels near the airport and near the city’s stadium!

Madrid is a big city but incredibly popular! That’s why I recommend booking your favorite hotel in advance, as the good ones always sell out fast!

Talking about hotels, since there are so many, I’m guessing you need a bit of inspiration, right? If so, check out below my 2 favorite options:

• Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid – a fabulous hotel on Gran Via that has custom-made furnishings and an exclusivist restaurant.
• Woohoo Suites Madrid – this hotel is chic and modern, and it offers a great location and family rooms. 

As always, I’m still around if you’ve got any questions! So don’t shy away from dropping one right below in the comment section!

Happy travels,

Victoria

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