Best Hotels in Madrid
Right, I’m from Barcelona, and it took me a bit of time, but I finally made it to my nemesis—Madrid!
So welcome to Madrid, a vibrant and captivating city that combines history, art, and great food (especially if you’re not vegetarian…).
When planning a visit to the Spanish capital, it’s important to choose the right place to rest after a busy day because there’s truly so much to see. That’s exactly why I’ve prepared this review of the best hotels to stay in Madrid.
There are endless options here, but I’ve compiled my list after endless digging and recommendations from local friends :)
Check out the photos; the design scene there is thriving!
Wait, what to do in Madrid? Dozens of unique things to do in Madrid can be found here.
Content
Where to stay in Madrid?
If you’re looking for accommodation in Madrid, location is key to a great experience.
Gran Vía, the vibrant heart of the city, offers a wide selection of hotels in all price ranges, as well as theaters, shops, and restaurants. It’s within walking distance of major attractions like Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, and the Royal Palace – making it the ideal spot for travelers who want to be in the center of it all.
For those who prefer a more local vibe, neighborhoods like Chueca and Malasaña offer a young and creative atmosphere, with bars, boutiques, and a touch of edgy design. Families or travelers looking for a quieter, upscale stay will feel at home in Salamanca – a safe and elegant district with parks and luxury shopping.
Either way, Madrid’s excellent public transport ensures you’ll always stay connected to everything the city has to offer.
Best Hotels in Madrid City Centre - close to Gran Via
Catalonia Plaza Mayor****
We stayed at this hotel in one room with two kids, who really enjoyed the bunk bed. A generic hotel, but clean and good, very well located near Sol station, within walking distance of almost everything in the city. It provided excellent value for money.
7 Islas Hotel****
Located just 200 meters from Gran Vía, this hotel offers elegant rooms with marble bathrooms equipped with toiletries and air conditioning. Some rooms also feature a terrace.
Vincci The Mint****
A boutique hotel with a unique and original design by Jaime Beriestain. The location is excellent—500 meters from Puerta del Sol, right on Gran Vía.
I just returned from three magical nights there. The service exceeded all expectations, the location was perfect, and the room was beautifully designed, exactly to my taste.
Breakfast is à la carte, which significantly reduces food waste.
In short, I highly recommend it!
Best hotels in Madrid with swimming pool
As you probably know, Madrid can be hot, even scorching, and there’s nothing like a refreshing pool to cool down.
Vicky and Christina’s recommendations for hotels with a pool:
**Social Hub Madrid****
The Social Hub is like Selina but at a four-star level. Private rooms, a coworking space, a restaurant—everything you need, all with a cool design. There’s also table tennis, bike rental options, and a gym.
Location: Right across from the Campo del Moro gardens.**
Riu Plaza España****
One of the most iconic hotels in Madrid, if not the most iconic. It has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, mainly thanks to its unique rooftop—Sky Bar. Even if you’re not a hotel guest, you can still visit (for a fee). But if you are a guest, you get free access :)
Emperador****
A large and impressive hotel located on Gran Vía. The pool is situated on the rooftop. It has become very popular recently.
Best Hotels close to Atocha train staion
Only YOU Hotel Atocha****
A beautiful boutique hotel with modern design. Perfectly located near Atocha train station (ideal for anyone arriving from Barcelona…).
Hotels in Chueca: Staying at the Heart of the Action
**Who is it for?**
For those who love urban vibes.
Chueca is a dynamic neighborhood, primarily known as the LGBTQ+ district of the city. It features unique shops, cool cafés, and trendy bars, with quick and easy access to popular sites like Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor.
**Room Mate Óscar***
A trendy hotel in the heart of Malasaña, featuring stylish design, a rooftop pool, and stunning views of Madrid’s skyline.
Hotels in La Latina: Historic and Authentic
Between the Royal Palace and the vibrant Lavapiés neighborhood, La Latina exudes old-world charm. Narrow streets, traditional taverns, and spacious plazas will make you feel like you’ve stepped into authentic Spain.
**Posada del León de Oro****
A boutique hotel that beautifully blends historical elements with modern amenities. Located in the heart of La Latina, it offers comfortable rooms, a cozy atmosphere, and easy access to iconic landmarks.
**L&H La Latina Selection**
A boutique hotel located 350 meters from Puerta de Toledo metro station, offering studios and apartments in the La Latina neighborhood. It features a 24-hour reception desk.
All apartments are air-conditioned and include a fully equipped kitchen.
Best hotels in Madrid - Salamanca: Elegant and Luxurious
**Salamanca**, located right in the heart of Madrid, is renowned for its unique ambiance, luxury boutiques, and fashionable atmosphere.
**Who is it for?**
For those who appreciate elegance and refinement.
**BLESS Hotel*****
Designed by Lázaro Rosa Violán, this hotel features state-of-the-art technology. It boasts a rooftop pool, 3 bars, 2 restaurants, a bowling alley, a spa, a gym, and meeting areas. A breakfast buffet is served daily at the property.
In one word: Wow.
**Petit Palace Plaza del Carmen****
A boutique hotel located just 350 meters from Puerta del Sol in central Madrid, offering complimentary use of bicycles.**
Madrid is a major hub connecting Europe and the Americas, with thousands of travelers passing through daily between continents. If you have a long layover and need to recharge or freshen up, here are some options close to the airport that don’t require a trip into the city—each offering shuttle service to the airport:
**Sercotel Madrid Aeropuerto****
**Melia Barajas****
**NH Barajas Airport***
What’s your favorite hotel in Madrid? Let me know so I can expand the list.
Booked a hotel? Now all that’s left is to decide what to do. And where to eat.


