I have booked a tour of Southern Spain that leaves from the Bus Terminal at the Parking Oriente Square at 9am. Anyone know what and where that is? I am looking for a nice hotel nearby to stay in the night before. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

I believe it's across from the royal palace. Madrid is rather compact, so almost anywhere in the heart of Madrid would be a fairly quick taxi ride.

yes, it is right across from the Palace, a popular location -- it's right next to the opera, also, on the other side. So if you want to look for a hotel around the opera, that would do it. I stayed at the Palacio San Martin which is a very nice hotel, one of my favorites in Europe, and it's not too far but you might want something right next to the opera. In fact, I was considering one next to the opera but chose elsewhere.

This is one that is near the opera, a 3* hotel
http://www.hotelopera.com/

That is about the closest hotel to Plaza de Oriente, although the 4* Tryp Ambassador is just about as close and a good possibility as Tryp hotels are usually pretty good. Both are within one block of Plaza de Oriente. The Palacio de San Martin, a 4*, is about three blocks farther from the opera.

hi, pa56,

we stayed at the hotel opera in february. for a 3* it was fine. very close to the plaza oriente.

to check up on exactly where the meeting point is, get the tour co to send you a map!

regards, ann

Hotel Mario, on Campomanes, is just around the corner from the Opera House and an easy stroll to Oriente. I stayed there two years ago and liked its hip vibe and helpful staff. 3-star, reasonably priced ($120 for a double in April 2005), very good location, some rooms very tight.