Madrid is a beautiful city with a lot of history and culture. Whether you’re a soccer fan, art lover or foodie, there’s something for everyone in Spain’s capital.
However, it can be difficult to find your way around the many different districts and areas of the city when it comes to finding accommodation.
Where to stay in Madrid? Here is my guide to the 4 best places to stay in Madrid.
All neighborhoods are located in the center of Madrid, so no matter which one you choose, you’ll be close to the city’s best attractions.
Best areas in Madrid
For those of you who are busy or want the cold, hard facts, here they are – but I’ll cover the different areas in more detail as you scroll down the guide.
Here’s where to stay in Madrid, the capital of Spain:
- 👉 Centro – best area for most tourists
- 👉 Malasaña – Best area for trendy culture and nightlife
- 👉 Salamanca – the best area for high-end shopping and chic hotels
- 👉 Lavapiés – a multicultural and historic district
1. Centro – best area for first-time visitors
If we have to pick a sure winner and the neighborhood in Madrid where you can confidently book a hotel and stay close to everything, it’s Centro.
Here you will find the best hotels in Centro. 👈
Centro is, as the name suggests, one of the most central and popular areas of Madrid and an excellent choice for those who want to live in the heart of the city.
The neighborhood is known for being one of Madrid’s liveliest districts and is home to many of the city’s biggest attractions and sights.
Here you will find many of Madrid’s most important sights, including the famous Puerta del Sol, the city’s central transportation hub, and the Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s most impressive squares.
The Centro is also known for its many stores, bars and restaurants; there is something for every taste and every budget.
If you are interested in shopping, you should know that Centro is home to some of the largest stores in the city. Here you will find both small local stores and large international chains.
Another reason to live in Centro is the good connection to Madrid’s transport network. From here, you can quickly explore the city by metro, bus or cab – Centro is also easy to reach from Madrid airport.
![CENTRO DE MADRID/[4K] WALKING TOUR 🇪🇸SPAIN 2022.](https://www.reisenweg.com/wp-content/cache/flying-press/SHMbcJ5BOa8-hqdefault.jpg)
Centro is also an excellent starting point for exploring other parts of Madrid, as you can easily reach some of the city’s biggest parks and attractions from here.
The Centro is therefore the best area to stay in for most tourists and for those visiting Madrid for the first time.
Places to stay in Centro
Below I have found three great hotels in the center of Madrid – in three different price ranges. Click on the name of the hotel for more photos and free online booking.
👉 Luxury Hotel: Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá (Hotel with pool in Madrid)
This beautiful five-star hotel is located in the heart of Madrid and is a perfect combination of modern luxury and classic elegance.
The hotel has a fantastic terrace overlooking the city, a spa and a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant.
And it’s one of Madrid’s hotels with a rooftop pool overlooking the city.
👉 Mid Category Hotel: Vincci The Mint.
Vincci The Mint is a modern and trendy hotel in the heart of Madrid, just a few minutes’ walk from Puerta del Sol.
The hotel has a fantastic rooftop terrace with a bar where you can enjoy a cocktail or tapas, and the rooms are stylishly furnished and equipped with all the necessary amenities.
👉Mid-Class Hotel (another very popular option): Hotel Atlántico.
The Hotel Atlántico, centrally located on Madrid’s Gran Via, receives high marks for its impeccable cleanliness and attentive service. Guests enjoy the comfort of the air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and appreciate the peace and quiet provided by the effective soundproofing.
The proximity to important sights such as the Puerta del Sol and the Plaza Mayor as well as the good public transport connections are a highlight for visitors.
View more photos and book here. 👈
👉 Value for money hotel: Hostal Persal.
This charming hotel is located in the heart of historic Madrid and is an ideal base for anyone wishing to explore the city on foot. The rooms are small but clean and comfortable, and the staff are friendly and helpful.
The hotel also has a restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes at reasonable prices.
2. Malasaña – Best area for trendy vibes and nightlife
Malasaña is a lively district in the center of Madrid, known for its bohemian and youthful atmosphere.
The area is perfect for travelers who want to experience the city’s culture and nightlife up close. And you’re only a stone’s throw away from Centro!
Here you will find the best hotels in Malasaña. 👈
Malasaña has a wide selection of bars, restaurants and stores, and the neighborhood is known for attracting a hipster and alternative crowd.
Here you will find everything from local designers and art galleries to cocktail bars and trendy cafés.
Malasaña also has an excellent nightlife, and there are numerous bars and clubs in the area where you can enjoy music and drinks.
Malasaña is therefore an ideal place to stay for anyone who wants to experience the best of Madrid’s culture and nightlife up close.
The neighborhood is perfect for those who want to explore the alternative Madrid and reach the trendiest places in the city.
Places to stay in Malasaña
Let’s take a closer look at some great hotels in Malasaña.
👉 Luxury Hotel: Only You Hotel.
The Only You Hotel is a five-star boutique hotel in the heart of Malasaña.
The hotel is decorated in an elegant, modern style and offers luxurious amenities such as a rooftop terrace with impressive views of the city, a spa and a gourmet restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere.
👉 Middle class hotel: Room Mate Mario.
Room Mate Mario is a trendy four-star hotel in the heart of Malasaña.
The hotel is modern and stylish with a colorful theme and offers a range of facilities including a rooftop terrace, bar and breakfast restaurant.
👉 Value for money hotel: Vitium Urban Suites.
The Vitium Urban Suites is a popular choice in Malasaña. It is a mid-range hotel with modern and stylish furnishings and a fantastic location in the heart of the Malasaña district.
The rooms are spacious and well-equipped with amenities such as a flat-screen TV, minibar and air conditioning.
There is also a rooftop terrace with a bar where you can enjoy a drink and a fantastic view of the city.
3. Salamanca – the best area for high-end shopping and chic hotels
Salamanca is an exclusive and elegant district in the center of Madrid, known for its wide boulevards, beautiful buildings and luxury stores.
The district is popular with the affluent population and travelers looking for an exclusive experience in Madrid.
Salamanca is home to many of the city’s most exclusive stores and restaurants, making it a popular place for shopping and dining.
Here you will find the best hotels in Salamanca. 👈
Of course, there are also some very luxurious hotels in Salamanca, so it’s worth checking prices before you travel, as you can save a lot of money here.
The district is also known for its beautiful neoclassical buildings, such as the Puerta de Alcalá and the Cibeles Fountain.
Another great advantage of staying in Salamanca is its central location. From here, the city’s many sights and transport networks are within easy reach.
Salamanca is also close to the Retiro Park, a large green oasis in the middle of the city, and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Salamanca is therefore an ideal place to stay for tourists who want to get to know Madrid’s more exclusive and sophisticated side.
Places to stay in Salamanca
I don’t have any cheap hotels in Salamanca on the list as it doesn’t make sense to stay in this area if you are looking for cheap accommodation in Madrid
👉 Luxury hotel: Rosewood Villa Magna.
Rosewood Villa Magna is a five-star luxury hotel in the heart of the Salamanca district.
The hotel is elegantly and stylishly furnished and offers numerous facilities, including a gourmet restaurant, a wellness area and a fitness center.
The rooms are spacious, comfortable and equipped with modern amenities.
This hotel is perfect for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Madrid.
👉 Midrange hotel: H10 Puerta de Alcalá (hotel with rooftop pool in Madrid)
The H10 Puerta de Alcalá is a four-star mid-range hotel located in a beautiful building in the heart of Salamanca.
The hotel is modern and elegantly furnished and offers a range of facilities including a rooftop terrace with fantastic views over the city, a bar and a breakfast restaurant.
The rooms are comfortable, modern and equipped with all the necessary amenities.
👉 Midscale hotel number 2: NH Madrid Lagasca.
The NH Madrid Lagasca is a three-star budget hotel in the Salamanca district. The hotel is modernly furnished and offers good basic comfort and facilities.
The rooms are simple and clean and have everything you need for a pleasant stay.
It is a good choice for those who want to stay in the Salamanca district at an affordable price.
4. Lavapiés – Stay in a multicultural and historic neighborhood
Lavapiés is an exciting and multicultural district in the center of Madrid.
The neighborhood has a rich history and is known for its eclectic mix of architecture, food, music and art.
Lavapiés is also known for being one of the most diverse and unconventional neighborhoods in the city, making it a perfect destination for adventurous travelers.
Lavapiés is a mixture of traditional Spanish streets and narrow alleyways filled with life and color.
See here the best hotels in Lavapiés. 👈
There are also many stores, cafés and restaurants in the district.
There are also numerous cultural attractions and events in Lavapiés, such as the famous Teatro Valle-Inclán and the Reina Sofía Museum, where modern and contemporary art is exhibited.
Lavapiés is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs where you can enjoy live music, dance to different rhythms and meet local and international travelers.
Places to stay in Lavapiés
Here you will find three different hotels in Lavapiés that are suitable for different budgets:
👉 Luxury: Hotel Catalonia Atocha
Just a 10-minute walk from Lavapiés, this 4-star hotel offers stylish and elegant rooms with modern amenities.
The hotel also has a rooftop terrace with pool and bar, from which you can enjoy fantastic views of the city.
👉 Middle class: Radisson RED Madrid
The Radisson RED Madrid is a modern and stylish hotel in the Lavapiés area.
It is a luxury hotel with a youthful and relaxed atmosphere that suits the area well.
The rooms are spacious and well-equipped with modern décor and amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV and minibar.
The hotel also has a rooftop bar where you can enjoy a drink and a fantastic view of the city.
👉 Household: SLEEP’N Atocha
The SLEEP’N Atocha is an affordable hotel in the Lavapiés district of Madrid.
The hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning and flat-screen TVs.
There is also a communal lounge where guests can relax and socialize.
The SLEEP’N Atocha is a good choice for travelers on a budget who still want a great location and comfortable facilities.
Still not sure where to stay in Madrid? Let me summarize
Madrid is an exciting city and there are many different areas to choose from when looking for accommodation.
Centro is the perfect choice for tourists who want to stay close to all the city’s main attractions, while Malasaña is ideal for travelers who want to experience Madrid’s bohemian and art scene.
Salamanca is known for its high-end stores and luxury restaurants and is a great choice for travelers looking to stay in an elegant and sophisticated part of the city.
Lavapiés, finally, is a lively, multicultural neighborhood that attracts a young and artistic crowd.
No matter which area you choose, there are many great places to stay.
With this guide you can choose the area and hotel that best suits your preferences and needs and enjoy everything Madrid has to offer.
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions:
Where is the best place to stay in Madrid?
It all depends on individual preferences and needs. Centro is a popular choice for tourists who want to stay close to the city’s main attractions and sights, while Malasaña is a good choice for travellers who want to experience Madrid’s bohemian and art scene. Salamanca is famous for its top shops and luxury restaurants, and is ideal for those who want to live in an upmarket area. Lavapiés is a vibrant, multicultural neighbourhood that attracts a young and artistic crowd.
Where is the main area in Madrid?
Centro, for sure. This bustling and vibrant district is the beating heart of the city, where history, culture and entertainment come together in a fantastic mix.
In Centro you will find some of Madrid’s most famous landmarks and attractions, such as the Royal Palace, the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol.
Not to mention that the area is full of delicious tapas bars, cozy cafés and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
So if you are planning a trip to the enchanting city of Madrid, Centro is definitely the place for you.
How many days are sufficient for Madrid?
For travelers who want to experience the highlights of Madrid, a three-day program is often sufficient. This Spanish capital full of art, culture and history offers a wealth of attractions that can be easily explored in this time frame.
During your stay, you can dedicate one day to visiting Madrid’s world-famous art museums, such as the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. On another day, you can explore the city’s historical sites, including the Royal Palace, the Almudena Cathedral and the Plaza Mayor.
Finally, on the third day, you can stroll through the extensive Retiro Park, shop in the lively Gran Vía and perhaps attend a traditional flamenco show.
While a three-day visit allows you to experience the main attractions of Madrid, a longer stay gives you the opportunity to discover lesser-known treasures and immerse yourself even deeper in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. However, a well-planned three-day stay offers a satisfying introduction to the enchanting city of Madrid.
In which areas of Madrid are there good restaurants and places to go out?
Malasaña and Lavapiés are known for their vibrant nightlife and exciting restaurants and bars. Centro also has many good restaurants and bars, while Salamanca is known for its upscale restaurants and cocktail bars.
How expensive are hotels in Madrid?
Prices for hotels in Madrid vary depending on factors such as location, facilities and season. In general, however, you can expect to pay between 50 and 100 euros per night for a budget or mid-range hotel, while the price of a luxury hotel can range from 150 to 500 euros per night.
In the tourist season, prices can be higher, so it is advisable to plan and book well in advance if you want to visit Madrid on a budget. In this guide you will find links to good hotels in different price categories.
Is Madrid a walkable city?
Madrid is undoubtedly a city to be explored on foot. Its well-planned layout, charming cobbled streets and impressive architecture make traversing the city on foot a pleasant and efficient way to explore its many sights. The compact nature of Madrid’s city center makes it easy to navigate between the main attractions and makes walking a preferred mode of transportation for many visitors.
Are there any dangerous areas in Madrid that should be avoided?
Although Madrid is generally considered a safe city for travelers, it is always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas less frequented by tourists. As in any urban environment, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so it is advisable to be vigilant and secure your belongings.
Some neighborhoods, such as San Blas and Carabanchel, can be perceived as seedy, especially at night. However, there is no significant reason for tourists to visit or stay in these areas, as they do not offer many attractions or unique experiences for travelers.
It’s best to stick to the more popular and tourist-friendly areas of the city to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Madrid.
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