Best Places to Stay in Madrid: Neighborhoods & Area Insights

The capital and the largest city in Spain, Madrid, is as captivating as European cities can get. A preferred vacation destination for travelers across the continent, Madrid is best defined by its remarkable cultural and artistic heritage, in addition to its vibrant nightlife—considered among the finest in the world. Famous for its numerous notable plazas and historic landmarks, Madrid is situated along the banks of the River Manzanares.

Madrid is also home to one of the most renowned football clubs globally—Real Madrid. Furthermore, it is known for having distinguished celebrities residing in the city, including Enrique Iglesias, Fernando Torres, and Penelope Cruz.

Without further ado, let us now explore some of the most significant neighborhoods in the city to help you determine where to stay while visiting Madrid.

Centro

As the official downtown neighborhood of Madrid, Centro is characterized by its expansive plazas, street performers, local and international visitors, and numerous restaurant signs proclaiming to serve the best paella in the city. The wide pedestrian-friendly shopping streets in this district allow for a diverse range of retail exploration. Notably, Puerta del Sol stands as a pivotal attraction in the neighborhood and the city, serving as a vibrant crossroads that merits a visit at any time of the day. Conversely, Plaza Mayor provides an ideal setting to enjoy a quick lunch amid the historic red buildings that dominate the vicinity.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: San Francisco el Grande, San Pedro el Real, Puerta de Toledo, St. Michael’s Basilica, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Walt Madrid – Located just steps away from the renowned Gran Via, The Walt Madrid features luxurious accommodations equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TV with satellite channels, complimentary Wi-Fi, minibar, and private ensuite bathrooms. Guests can indulge in a range of wines, fresh juices, teas, and famous tapas at the on-site bar, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Los Amigos Vip Rooms – This establishment offers well-furnished guestrooms and suites with flat-screen TVs, soundproofing, minibars, and laptop safes, situated a short distance from Plaza Mayor. A 24-hour front desk is available to assist guests with any inquiries. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property, making it ideal for a wide range of travelers.
• Hostal Central Palace Madrid – This charming guesthouse provides stunning views of the iconic Royal Palace, offering spacious rooms equipped with modern conveniences, a 24-hour reception area, free Wi-Fi, and nearby parking facilities. A complimentary breakfast is included with select room rates, making it suitable for solo travelers and couples.

Arguelles

Positioned south of the esteemed and vibrant Complutense University of Madrid, Arguelles is a dynamic community rich with a collegiate spirit. Calle Princesa serves as the main thoroughfare lined with college students and recent graduates who frequent the area for its affordable tapas bars, economical nightclubs, and green spaces. The neighborhood also boasts several significant attractions and is known for its Spanish clothing stores and department chains. Notably, Plaza de España is a local green space that often hosts craft fairs.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Memory Arch, Parque del Oeste, Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, Temple of Debod, and Príncipe Pío.

Hotel Recommendations:

• T3 Tirol – Nestled in the fashionable Moncloa-Argüelles area, T3 Tirol features well-appointed rooms with comfortable bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, a well-equipped fitness center, and an on-site restaurant and bar. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily, rendering the hotel suitable for various types of travelers.
• Exe Moncloa – Positioned adjacent to Intercambiador de Moncloa Station, this stylish hotel includes a small outdoor pool, a multi-cuisine bar and restaurant, a fitness center, a meeting room, and a delightful sun terrace with stunning views of the city. A complimentary breakfast is also provided daily, appealing to various types of travelers.
• Aparto-Hotel Rosales – This establishment features well-appointed guestrooms and self-catering apartment units, along with a 24-hour reception, an on-site restaurant, and a select wine collection. Each room comes with a lounge area and private bathroom. The attentive tour desk assists guests in planning local activities and attractions, suiting numerous types of travelers.

Chamberi

Characterized by neighborhood taverns, multi-story residential buildings adorned with charming balconies, and modest storefronts, a visit to Chamberi offers a traditional experience. The area is not congested by city standards and is abundant with quaint bakeries, inviting cafés and bars, hardware stores, and tobacco shops. The lively Plaza Olavide serves as a green focal point in the neighborhood, providing an excellent spot for leisurely newspaper reading alongside morning coffee while enjoying the soothing street music resonating in the air.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Andén 0, Museum Sorolla, Museo Geominero, Parque Enrique Herreros, Palacio del Marques de Fontalba Fiscalía General Del Estado, and Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Gran Versalles – Nestled in a tranquil setting in central Madrid, Gran Versalles is a classic-styled property featuring fully-furnished, carpeted rooms equipped with satellite TV, minibar, and private bathrooms. The hotel café offers drinks and tapas throughout the day, making it suitable for various types of travelers.
• Hostal Trevinca – Located within the peaceful ambiance of Chamberi, Hostal Trevinca provides complimentary Wi-Fi along with a helpful 24-hour reception to assist guests in planning activities and sightseeing tours. Rooms are equipped with TV, refrigerator, and private bathrooms, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Agora Juan de Austria – Located within walking distance of Bilbao Metro Station, Agora Juan de Austria is an elegant establishment featuring spacious, well-appointed accommodations, meeting space, an on-site restaurant and bar, as well as optional private parking. A delightful continental breakfast is served daily, catering to various travelers.

La Latina

Recognized for its dual and contrasting characteristics, La Latina serves as the “tapas center” of Madrid. One segment of the neighborhood is highlighted by historic stone buildings, narrow lanes, and an old-world charm, while another showcases a bohemian ambiance filled with youthful energy and bustling activity in stores, restaurants, bars, and coworking spaces. If visiting on a Sunday or public holiday, be sure to explore the streets south of the main metro station, which transform into a massive open-air flea market featuring stalls offering antiques, clothing, and art.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: San Francisco el Grande, Plaza de Los Carros, Campo de la Cebada, Museo de San Isidro, and Jardín de las Vistillas.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Saga Rental La Latina – Situated a few hundred meters from Puerta de Toledo, Saga Rental La Latina provides beautifully decorated, self-catering apartment units with amenities including cable TV, dining areas, washing machines, and private bathrooms. Numerous restaurants, shops, and bars can be found within a 5-minute walking distance, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to 5 individuals.
• LA LATINA/ SOL **Vintage & Deluxe – This property offers deluxe apartments featuring vintage décor complemented with several facilities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and washing machines; it is a pleasant walk from Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, presenting stunning city views from guest accommodations. Ideal for families and large groups of up to 6 individuals.
• L&H La Latina – A short distance from Puerta de Toledo Metro Station, L&H La Latina presents well-furnished studios and apartment units conveniently located near the historic Royal Palace. In-room features comprise TV, kitchen, wardrobe/closet, and private bathroom, making it suitable for various types of travelers.

Chueca

The trendy and LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood of Chueca is characterized by narrow streets and eclectic storefronts. With a distinctive urban atmosphere, Chueca provides insights into an alternate facet of Madrid’s culture. It boasts a variety of rainbow-flagged bars and restaurants, creating a welcoming environment for all. Regardless of orientation, an evening spent with friends at Plaza Chueca is sure to become one of your most cherished memories in Madrid.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Museo del Romanticismo, Museum of History of Madrid, and Gran Vía.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hostal MH Fuencarral – Located in close proximity to the vibrant streets of Gran Vía, this contemporary hotel features modern amenities such as LCD TVs, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, with numerous renowned tapas bars and cafés located within walking distance, suitable for various types of travelers.
• Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid – Offering uniquely designed rooms featuring Colonial-style interiors, a lounge area with cocktails and gourmet cuisine, 24-hour room service, and a world-class spa and wellness center, this 4-star boutique hotel is housed within a historic 19th-century building and is conveniently located near Barajas Airport. Ideal for luxury solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Vincci The Mint – Featuring a distinctive rooftop with panoramic views of some of Madrid’s most iconic structures, Vincci The Mint invites guests to enjoy a unique experience from check-in to checkout. Situated along the renowned Gran Vía, the exquisitely designed guestrooms and suites provide exceptional comfort for all types of travelers.

Malasana

A vibrant blend of trendy bars and upscale art galleries, Malasana serves as a gathering place for individuals of all ages, including artists and their pets. This neighborhood is lively throughout the day and transforms into a bustling nightlife hub after dark. Plaza Dos de Mayo acts as a communal square where locals frequently congregate. The notable cultural and performing arts center, Conde Duque, is located on the western side of Malasana and is named after the impressive pink fort that once occupied the same site. Interestingly, this area is also home to a significant portion of Madrid’s young international community.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Museo ABC, Centro Conde Duque, and Church of San Antonio de Los Alemanes.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Woohoo Suites Madrid – The guestrooms at WooHoo Suites Madrid come equipped with king-size beds, soundproofing, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Guests can unwind in the shared lounge with a cup of tea or coffee, or seek advice from the 24-hour front desk regarding local sightseeing options. Ideal for various types of travelers.
• Hotel Atlántico – Located along the famous shopping avenues of Gran Vía, Hotel Atlántico offers soundproofed accommodations adorned with classic décor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city from one of the two terraces and savor exquisite dishes at the on-site café-bar, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Petit Palace Triball – Featuring complimentary bicycle rentals and Wi-Fi throughout the property, Petit Palace Triball is housed within a stylish 19th-century building, offering well-appointed rooms and exceptional amenities. This pet-friendly hotel also provides complimentary breakfast daily, making it suitable for a diverse range of travelers, including larger groups of up to 6 individuals.

Paseo del Prado

No visit to Madrid is complete without experiencing the neighborhood of Paseo del Prado. More importantly, if you have yet to explore the Golden Triangle of Art and Culture that traverses this captivating district, you will undoubtedly wish to return to do so. Frequently visited by countless locals and tourists, the neighborhood also hosts numerous esteemed art centers. As evening falls, consider spending your time at one of the many rooftop bars in the vicinity to enjoy a refreshing cocktail while taking in the city’s skyline.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Neptuno Fountain, Monumento a Velázquez, Museo Nacional del Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and Monument to Fallen Heroes.

Hotel Recommendations:

• NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado – Offering breathtaking views of the Neptune Fountains, NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado features an international restaurant, a fully-equipped gym, and elegant accommodations within a 19th-century, Neo-Baroque palatial building that retains many original features. Suitable for various types of travelers.
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado – Situated in the heart of Madrid’s renowned Art Triangle, Radisson Blu Madrid boasts a full-service spa and wellness center, a Turkish bath, an indoor relaxation pool, and a cardio gym. All rooms at this luxurious hotel have been designed by celebrity interior decorators Sandra Tarruella and Isabel López, making it suitable for various types of travelers.
• Mercure Madrid Centro – Positioned across from the Prado Museum, Mercure Madrid Centro features sophisticated, air-conditioned guestrooms equipped with cozy beds, minibars, and private bathrooms. Each room is themed according to Spanish history and includes flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. An optional hot breakfast is available daily, appealing to a diverse range of travelers.

Salamanca

Broad, tree-lined streets adorned with charming lampposts characterize Salamanca’s picturesque quality. Relatively quieter than other districts, this neighborhood is known for its attractive upscale buildings and intriguing architecture. For those in the city for retail therapy, stroll along Calle Jose Ortega y Gasset or Calle Serrano to discover numerous boutiques and high-end fashion stores. To unwind or enjoy a leisurely morning run, visitors can head out to the well-maintained Retiro Park.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: El Corte Inglés, Salamanca Cathedral, Cueva de Salamanca, Casa de las Conchas, Casa Lis, and Museo Taurino de Salamanca.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Catalonia Plaza Mayor Salamanca – Located adjacent to Plaza Mayor, this stylish hotel is one of the most sought-after accommodations in the city. The contemporary décor contrasts beautifully with classical features set in Villamayor stone throughout the property. Amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, well-furnished meeting space, and a delightful restaurant. Suitable for a wide range of travelers.
• Hospes Palacio de San Esteban – Set amongst numerous historic monuments in Salamanca, this exquisite hotel is situated within a former convent, exuding timeless charm. Guests can utilize the state-of-the-art fitness center and relax in the sauna or Turkish bath. The on-site restaurant is celebrated for its international cuisine and exceptional complimentary breakfast. Perfect for a broad spectrum of travelers.
• Vincci Ciudad de Salamanca – Located a short stroll from Salamanca Cathedral, Vincci Ciudad de Salamanca offers impeccably designed accommodations featuring wooden floors, modern conveniences, and practical layouts. A fabulous complimentary breakfast is served each day, appealing to all types of travelers.

Huertas

Once the residence of many prominent literary figures, Huertas, also known as Barrio de las Letras, represents Madrid’s historic literary quarter. A unique off-the-beaten-path experience, the cobbled streets of the neighborhood are adorned with quotes from esteemed authors and writers nationwide. This area features a high concentration of bookstores, both new and second-hand. While immersing yourself in the pages of a captivating novel is the perfect daytime activity, the evenings offer opportunities to join locals and other visitors for cocktails and live music.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Exhibition-The Amer Gangster, New York City Marble Cemetery, Merchant’s House Museum, The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, and New Museum.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Vincci Soho – Situated a couple of hundred meters from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Gallery, Vincci Soho provides spacious accommodations equipped with minibars, satellite TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Guests can relish authentic Madrid tapas at one of the two on-site restaurants, and a complimentary breakfast is served daily, suitable for a wide array of travelers.
• Hostal Sol Square Madrid – Located within a few minutes’ walking distance from Puerta del Sol, this property boasts beautifully decorated rooms featuring satellite TVs, wardrobes, safety deposit boxes, minibars, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The establishment also offers a 24-hour front desk and private parking, making it suitable for diverse travelers.
• Hotel Villa Real – Renowned for showcasing an impressive art collection dating back to the 3rd century BC, Hotel Villa Real is regarded as one of the most elegant hotels in the city. The hotel’s restaurant is famous for its innovative Mediterranean dishes, tapas, and refreshing cocktails, perfect for various types of travelers.

Lavapies

This neighborhood stands out as one of the most culturally diverse areas in Madrid. It is not uncommon to notice an array of international influences as you stroll past numerous Indian restaurants on one side of the street, while individuals in traditional African attire engage outside their businesses on the other. Lavapies is also home to major art and culture centers like the charming Casa Encendida and the renowned former tobacco factory. Calle Argumosa serves as a gathering spot for the eclectic young crowd, who convene for drinks and thought-provoking discussions about art.

Suitable for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Museo Reina Sofía, Plaza Nelson Mandela, and Tabacalera.

Hotel Recommendations:

• 60 Balconies Urban Stay – This property features chic apartment units equipped with free Wi-Fi, soundproofing, and spectacular views of the city or nearby landmarks from the balcony. Conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from the Golden Triangle of Art, Madrid-Barajas Airport is a short 15-minute drive away, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to 6 individuals.
• Hotel Paseo Del Arte – Featuring a fully-equipped fitness center, 24-hour front desk, well-appointed business center, and an on-site restaurant, Hotel Paseo Del Arte offers luxurious accommodations just a short walk from Thyssen-Bornemisza and Prado Museums. A complimentary breakfast is available with select room packages, appealing to diverse travelers.
• Catalonia Atocha – Renowned as one of the most exclusive hotels in the area, Catalonia Atocha features a beautifully furnished rooftop terrace lounge with a fully-stocked bar and a seasonal hot tub. The hotel’s restaurant specializes in authentic Spanish cuisine and pet-friendly accommodations are available. Conveniently located just 500 meters from Atocha Train Station, making it suitable for all types of travelers.