Photos by Yandrak. Full of attractions and things to do, Madrid is a lively city and very interesting to visit. Being a large metropolis, one may find oneself a little disoriented as to where to stay. It is true that Madrid enjoys a very good public transport network, so any area can potentially be good for finding hotels and accommodation. One thing is for sure, being a very popular destination, wherever you choose to stay, book well in advance to make sure you find a place!
To make your selection easier, we have compiled this guide on where to sleep in Madrid, collecting and highlighting the characteristics of each neighbourhood, with a selection of different types of accommodation. Enjoy your choice and have a good trip!
Useful tips: the best neighbourhoods to stay in
Madrid has no less than 21 neighbourhoods. Obviously, the most popular ones from a tourist point of view are in the centre or adjacent to it: the central area including Puerta del Sol, Gran Via and Opera, in particular, is a favourite with tourists.
La Latina and Lavapiés are two very characteristic districts and slightly cheaper than those in the central areas. However, the centre is easily accessible by public transport. Malasaña is the alternative area, somewhat reminiscent of London's Camden Town. Full of life and cheap, it is recommended for younger people, who can also opt for districts such as Argüelles, the university area, and Chuca, Madrid's trendiest neighbourhood!
Salamanca is one of the most expensive residential areas in Madrid, as well as the luxury shopping area; it goes without saying that high-end hotels can be found here. Finally, Retiro and Cortes are two quiet areas, ideal for families, art lovers and anyone who prefers a more relaxed setting.
Recommended areas tosave money: La Latina, Lavapiés
Recommended areas forfamilies with children: Centro, Retiro, Salamanca, Cortes, Madrid de las Austrias
Recommended areas foryoung people: Centro, Malasaña, Chueca, Argüelles
Best accommodation: We have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Madrid. Discover our recommendations and book on Booking.
Madrid zone guide
Madrid is divided into 21 neighbourhoods, practically all different from each other in terms of culture, sights to see and atmosphere.
The centre of the city is the Puerta del Sol area where you will find the best neighbourhoods to stay, because it is close to the main sights to see and for public transport connections.
Staying in the centre, or close to it, will allow you to move very easily between the various neighbourhoods, thanks to public transport, which includes buses and metro, the latter of which is certainly ideal for getting around, with a station in each neighbourhood.
If, on the other hand, you are travelling to Madrid exclusively to attend a football match at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, the home of Real Madrid, you might consider staying in the surrounding area. However, this option is not recommended if your trip focuses on sightseeing, as the stadium is far from the city centre.
Areas to avoid: Madrid is a fairly safe city, there are no really risky areas to stay. The areas not recommended for sleeping are mainly in the south: San Diego, Palomeras Bajas, Orcasitas, Entrevías, Orcasur and some areas of Carabanchel and Villaverde. In the upper part of the city some Tetúan streets are not recommended.
Centre: Puerta del Sol, Gran Via and Opera
Photo by Jorge Franganillo. The centre par excellence! Puerta del Sol is the heart of the city with a bustle of typical Spanish bars, numerous tourist attractions and squares, including Plaza Mayor and the Plaza de Santa Ana. In the northern part of Puerta del Sol we can find the Gran Via, Madrid's main avenue, where one can find many restaurants, shopping centres, boutiques and some historical buildings. In the side streets there is no shortage of flats and hostels. Within walking distance are the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace!
This district is suitable for everyone and indeed one of the best choices if you are visiting Madrid for the first time! You can find all kinds of accommodation, from large hotels to quaint B&Bs, from room rentals to entire flats.
You can discover the historical centre on foot, but the area is also served by no less than three metro lines, which connect the district to other parts of the city and the airport. The reference stops are Ópera, Gran Via and Estación de Sol.
Average prices in the district range from around €24.00 for low-cost accommodation to over €500.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the accommodation selection on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Modern and stylish flats with one or two bedrooms, full kitchen and balcony with city view. Free WiFi and access with magnetic keys | |
Guest house offering modern air-conditioned rooms with private bathroom, free WiFi, safe and satellite TV. Ideal for couples | |
250 metres from Puerta del Sol, modern hostel with rooms with private bathroom, buffet breakfast and free WiFi in public areas. Ideal for young people | |
5 minutes from Puerta del Sol, hostel with design rooms and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for couples and families |
Retiro
To the east of the centre of Madrid, bordered by Calle de Alcala, lies this quiet neighbourhood, which is nevertheless home to some of Madrid's main attractions, most notably Retiro Park, the city's largest and most famous green area with beautiful gardens and ponds. Within the district, in its westernmost part towards the centre, is the Paseo del Arte, also known as the 'art triangle', which houses Madrid's most important galleries: the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.
This is an area to relax, for those who want some peace and quiet: ideal for families and art lovers. Although a little outside the centre, accommodation is cheaper, especially in the innermost part of the city, despite being conveniently located for sightseeing. In the Paseo del Arte area, prices can still be high.
To reach the centre, the area is served by the metro, as well as numerous buses, but you can also reach it by walking through the main streets. The reference stops are Alcalá and Retiro.
Average prices in the district range from around €37.00 for low-cost accommodation to €280.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Directly opposite the Prado Museum, 24-hour reception, rooms with private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for couples | |
Just 250 metres from Madrid's Prado Museum and Reina Sofia Museum, it offers on-site parking and rooms with free Wi-Fi and a TV with satellite channels. Ideal for couples | |
Opposite Atocha Station, bright soundproofed rooms with air conditioning, a 40-inch TV, safe, minibar and bathroom with toiletries. Free newspapers and laundry service. Ideal for couples and families | |
Flat for up to 6 people, with TV and fully equipped kitchen. Free WiFi. Ideal for families and friends |
Chueca
Photos by tedeytan. Anightlife hotspot, it is Madrid's trendiest neighbourhood, much loved by the capital's gay community. Rather than visiting specific attractions, you can breathe and experience a very special atmosphere here. However, there is no shortage of historical buildings such as the Real Hospicio General de Pobres, now home to the Museo de Historia de la Ciudad, Palacio de Longoria, one of the few modernist buildings in Madrid, and the palace of the Marquis of Matallana, which houses the Museum of Romanticism.
Thedistrict is basically divided into 2 zones: the central part, at Calle Hortaleza and Plaza Vazquez de Mella, offers more comfortable accommodation such as hostels, ideal especially for young people and groups of friends, while moving towards Calle Barquillo one finds more medium/high-end hotels.
The area is served by buses and two metro lines, but within the perimeter of the historical centre you can easily get around on foot. Reference stops are Tribunal, Pedro Zerolo and Chueca.
Average prices in the district range from around €27.00 for low-cost accommodation to €490.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
5-star hotel in a renovated building, 5 minutes' walk from Alonso Martínez Metro Station. Elegant rooms, free WiFi, spa and gym. Private parking. Ideal for families and couples | |
Next to Gran Via Metro Station, it offers elegant rooms, all equipped with a seating area, TV, towels, bed linen and a private bathroom with bathtub. Luggage storage and tour desk. Ideal for young people | |
Fun and original hotel offering rooms and suites. Wide range of services, including a 24-hour reception and an on-site gastrobar serving special breakfasts. Spectacular terrace with views of the Madridgourmet skyline. Ideal for couples | |
A 3-minute walk from Gran Vía metro station, and surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants, this hostel offers rooms with free Wi-Fi. Ideal for couples and young people |
Cortes / Barrio de Las Letras
Madrid's literary quarter, whose name refers to the fact that some of Spain's most important literary figures lived here, such as Cervantes, Lope de Vega and Tirso de Molina. It is located in the very centre of the city, between the Sol-Gran Vía and the Paseo del Arte areas, but has the typical picturesque features and a timeless atmosphere, with its cafés and restaurants where intellectuals meet, flea markets and theatres.
It is the ideal area for those who want accommodation within walking distance of the most interesting attractions, without sacrificing a retro touch. It is especially recommended for families and those who want to stay in the centre but without being in the hot spots of the nightlife. Here you will find a wide range of flats, hostels and hotels.
The central location makes it easy to getaround the city, even reaching the centre on foot. The area is also served by buses and two metro lines. The reference stops are Banco de España and Las Cortes.
Average prices in the district range from around €22.00 for low-cost accommodation to over €500.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Flat with 3 bedrooms, equipped kitchen and washing machine. Ideal for groups, maximum capacity 7 places | |
Modern and stylish hostel with dormitories or private rooms. Private bathroom in rooms, restaurant and bar. Ideal for young people and groups | |
4-star hostel in a beautiful 18th-century building, accommodation with classical-style furnishings, superior rooms and suites with period furniture and ceilings with original frescos. Ideal for couples and families | |
Located in a restored 19th-century palace, 24-hour gym, free WiFi and restaurant. Elegant and spacious rooms. Ideal for families and couples |
Salamanca
Photo by Enrique Dans from. North of Retiro Park is one of Madrid's most exclusive neighbourhoods. Salamanca is dominated in the centre by the Plaza de Colón and the main avenue Calle Serrano, where the elegant boutiques of the most famous international and local designers are located. Filled with beautiful buildings, Salamanca is also a residential area where prominent personalities from the worlds of politics and entertainment live.
Starred restaurants and some of the most expensive luxury hotels are located in this area. It is the ideal district for tourists looking for glamour and luxury, or for those travelling on a high budget.
Not too far from the centre, it will still be necessary to use the metro to reach certain attractions. The district is served by an efficient public transport service and the reference stations are Nuñez De Balboa and Alonso Martinez for the metro and Marqués De Salamanca for the bus.
Average prices in the district range from around €60.00 for low-cost accommodation to over €500.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Flat with 2 bedrooms, TV, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, a washing machine and 2 bathrooms with shower. Ideal for families | |
Design hotel offering comfortable rooms with modern furnishings, satellite TV, WiFi, en suite bathroom and high-quality toiletries. Lounge terrace on the 7th floor. Ideal for couples | |
Modern rooms, 24-hour reception, free fitness centre. Car rental and babysitting service upon request. Ideal for families | |
Modern rooms with parquet floors, satellite TV and private bathroom with hairdryer and toiletries. Ideal for couples and families |
Malasaña
Alternative area of Madrid that closely resembles London's Camden Town. Malasaña is very much related to Movida, the cultural and social revolution that developed in Madrid during the 1980s and had its epicentre in this neighbourhood. The district's name comes from Manuela Malasaña, the Madrilenian heroine of the 2 May 1808 revolt against French troops.
It forms an irregular square flanked by Gran Vía to the south, Calle Fuencarral to the east, Calle Carranza to the north and Calle San Bernardo to the west. Cultural attractions include the Palacio de Liria, an 18th-century building that belonged to the Alba family, and the Museo Municipal, now the History Museum. Given its characteristics, the district is ideal for young people in search of fun and movida, even better if they are fans of punk and rock music.
Thedistrict is fairly central, but is nevertheless well connected to the centre by public transport; the Ventura Rodriguez station is a reference point for both buses and the metro.
Average prices in the neighbourhood range from around €24.00 for low-cost accommodation to €450.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Flat with 1 bedroom, TV, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, washing machine and 1 bathroom with bidet. Bed linen and towels included. Ideal for couples | |
1-bedroom flat with access to a patio. Free WiFi, air conditioning, garden and terrace | |
Hostel with double, triple and quadruple rooms, all bright and heated. They include a desk, a free locker for each guest and access to a shared bathroom with shower. Some rooms have balconies and windows with views of Gran Vía | |
Flat for up to 4 people, equipped kitchen and all facilities, in a great location. Ideal for families and young people |
La Latina and Lavapiés
Photos of Lalupa. Two small, neighbouringpopular neighbourhoods, very picturesque and lively. The former is considered the more traditional area, while the latter is famous as a multi-ethnic area. Interesting to see, near the present-day Caramuel Park, is the small station named after Grancesco Goya, which once connected Madrid with the town of Almorox and was mostly used to transport agricultural produce.
These districts are suitable for those who want to immerse themselves in the most authentic Madrid, perhaps if it is not their first visit to the city, and for those who want to save a little on accommodation. Accommodation in this area is in fact cheaper than in the more touristy areas.
However, from here it is easy to get around by public transport and reach all the main tourist attractions in no time. Reference stations for the metro are La Latina and Lavapies, for the bus Embajadores-Ronda De Toledo.
Average prices in the district range from around €30.00 for low-cost accommodation to over €500.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, TV, 3 shared bathrooms with toiletries and hairdryer, and in some cases a balcony or patio. Ideal for young people | |
Boutique Hotel offering elegant rooms with free WiFi and satellite TV. Ticket booking services for guided tours, live shows and other events. Car and bicycle rental service. Ideal for families and couples | |
1-bedroom flat. Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, fridge and a kettle. Luggage storage available. Ideal for couples | |
Flats with a seating area, washing machine, private bathroom and free WiFi. Airport shuttle service for a fee |
Argüelles / Moncloa
Photos of Triplecaña. The university area of Madrid, located northwest of Plaza España. Full of cafés and typical little bars, it is a very large district and some areas are a little far from the city centre, but still within easy reach thanks to excellent public transport. It borders the wonderful Parque del Oeste, inside which is an unusual attraction that will take you straight to Egypt, the Temple of Debod. One of the main attractions is the Moncloa lighthouse, from which you have one of the most fascinating panoramic views in all of Madrid.
Being a university district, due to the presence of the Universidad Complutense de Madrid to the north of the district, it is ideal for younger people who can find many peers here. But the area towards the historical centre is also ideal for families, who will be within walking distance of the main attractions and with the big park nearby!
The district is very well served by public transport to other parts of the city. Argüelles is the name of the station for both the metro and the bus.
Average prices in the district range from around €27.00 for low-cost accommodation to over €500.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Stylish rooms with free WiFi, an indoor pool and an on-site restaurant. Ideal for couples | |
All rooms have a TV, Nespresso coffee machine and private bathroom with shower, toiletries and hairdryer. Ideal for families and couples | |
Flats with lounge area, kitchen and private bathroom. 24-hour reception and free WiFi connection | |
Modern and with a simple, clean design, the accommodations include a TV and private bathroom with hydromassage shower. Ideal for couples |
Madrid de las Austrias
Photo by Yandrak. Southwest of Puerta del Sol, this is one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods, made up of small lanes and alleyways, with centuries-old churches, lively squares and elegant residences taking you back to the atmosphere of yesteryear, when Madrid was ruled by the Habsburgs. In the side streets you will find many small restaurants and tapas bars. If you love opera and classical music, the Teatro Real, Madrid's opera house, is also located here. North of the theatre is Plaza de Espana, surrounded by cathedrals and the city's main attractions.
As for accommodation, you can find many flats, B&Bs and hotels located in historical buildings. Due to its old-world atmosphere, it is an ideal district especially for couples visiting Madrid for the first time.
The nearby historical centre can be visited on foot. To reach the airport or other parts of the city, one has to refer to the three central metro lines (Ópera, Gran Via and Estación de Sol).
Average prices in the district range from around €30.00 for low-cost accommodation to €495.00 for high-budget solutions - compare the selection of the best accommodation on booking
Recommended accommodations
Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
Modern 4-star hotel with spacious and bright rooms. Parking service, restaurant and bar. Ideal for couples and families | |
Modern guesthouse with family rooms and terrace. Private parking, bar, common room and tour desk. Ideal for couples and families | |
5-star hotel with parking, wellness centre and a seasonal swimming pool. Ideal for couples and families |
Countries near Madrid where to stay
A whole week would not be enough to visit Madrid itself. It is indeed a city of enormous dimensions and numerous attractions. To visit them properly and avoid wasting time in travelling, given its proportions, the best choice is definitely to sleep in the city. In addition, Madrid is also the perfect starting point for various excursions in the surroundings, thanks to the railway network and the many buses. Staying in a small town in the surroundings would lengthen the time spent travelling even more.
If you are in Madrid on business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on Booking.com
