AimeeLaRue

My husband and I would like to spend 12 days (including travel) in Spain. We would like to spend time in Madrid and Barcelona. Any suggestions on affordable places to stay? We have heard that "guest houses" are a good way to save money and still stay nice. Any thoughts?

ribeirasacra

try www.booking.com

Egbert

Hostals and Pensiones.

kimhe

In Barcelona, I have been perfectly happy with staying at basic Hostal Orleans. Ideally located at the outskirts of the central El Born area. Great atmosphere, bars, restaurants, tapas, shopping and sights on your doorstep and 10 mins walking from the Barceloneta beach. http://www.hostalorleans.com/

More upscale, but still great value, in the same area: Hotel Banys Orientals: http://www.hotelbanysorientals.com/

About El Born: http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.c...s/el-born.html

In Madrid, I can recommend good value Hostal Persal in Plaza del Ángel, just off vibrant Plaza de Santa Ana.
http://www.booking.com/hotel/es/madr...madrid.en.html
http://www.gomadrid.com/sights/plaza-santa-ana.html

The great jazz venue Café Central is twenty mtrs from your doorstep, and two of Madrid's best flamenco "tablaos", Cardamomo and Casa Patas, are both three mins away. As is one of Madrid's best tapas districts in and around Calle Cava Baja. And perhaps check out the terrace in 6th floor Casa Granada close by for lunch or some tapas: http://www.tripfilms.com/Travel_Vide...ada-Video.html

And at your one year anniversary trip, I think you shouldn't miss out on the sunset views from El Ventorillo in Las Vistillas park (15 mins walk): http://11870.com/pro/restaurante-ven...ideos/d9dafee0

CathyM

You may also consider renting an apartment. It will be larger than most hotels and perhaps even not more expensive. You'll have the convenience of a small kitchen and probably a washer/dryer.