We will be in Toledo for 2 nights in early May. We know the Parador is one of the best, but understand that it's outside the city. We won't have a car. Any suggestions on hotels inside the city that are worth a 2 night visit? Thank you in advance for your help!

The Parador is an excellent place for a spectacular view of Toledo and not a bad place to spend the night after you've toured the city.

Since you won't have a car and will have to stay in Toledo, then you'll want to check out the Hotel Carlos V (http://www.carlosv.com/) and the Hotel Pintor del Greco, Toledo in the Jewish quarter. Both are 3-star and I think you'll be happy with either one. The del Greco is air-conditioned, and somewhat better then the Parador (the Parador has a pool) and the Carlos V has the views (depending on the room).

Hostal de Cardenal is not unlike a parador. A small and charming antique filled hotel in what was once a cloister. It is right at the edge of town and you can take the escalators up to the top from very near there.
They also have a great restaurant there, run by the famous Botin's of Madrid.

The cab fare from the city to the Parador is very reasonable, and the view from the Parador is one of the best in Europe IMO.

I would second staying at the Cardenal as Patrick mentioned. The entry is actually built right into the city wall, with a charming courtyard and good restaurant attached (ate our first suckling pig here, a speciality). Breakfast served in the hotel was ample, and our room was nicely decorated. The escalator up to the old city is very handy as well.

Happy travels!

Thanks, everyone, for your replies! They were all very helpful. Carlos V is full, but we're checking the other hotels for availability.

A third for Hotel Cardenal--it's fantastic!

I just received our confirmation from Hotel Cardenal for two nights. Thanks so much, we can't wait to go!

Hi globehopper - I know you'll love your time at the Cardenal, and especially in Toledo. Just remember that the door is actually in the city wall, so it might be hard to find at first. As I recall, there's a large sidewalk area, a small parking lot, and then the door.

For going into the old town during the day, as you exit your hotel, turn left and you'll find the escalator up to the top. Otherwise, it's a long walk. Save your energy for exploring this wonderful city.

Do try to enjoy a suckling pig while you're there. Sounds morbid, but quite delicious. I remember seeing a dozen or so on the grill at any one time (of course very late--you are in Spain). We especially liked how the waitstaff went to great effort to show us how to find the "good" part - (the cheeks) - quite tender and yummy!!

Happy travels!

The Cardenal is great, but don't miss the view from the parador.