Where to stay in Madrid
 

A friend & I will be traveling to Spain in early September. This is our first time in Europe. Any suggestions on where to stay in Madrid for 3 nights? Looking for a good centrally located hotel. <BR>

Hi, Veronica. When my husband and I stayed in Madrid about 1 1/2 years ago, we stayed at the Villa Real. It is listed as a luxury hotel alongside the Palace and Ritz, but is smaller and lists at a lower rate -- around $230 per night, although I think we got one lower than that. It is in an ideal location on the Plaza Cortes, close to the art museums and other attractions and within walking distance of the Plaza del Sol and Plaza Mayor and great tapas bars. Our double room was split level, with hardwood floors, a stylish marble bathroom, and a balcony facing the plaza. Service was excellent.

I lived in Spain for almost 4 years a long time ago. We went back almost 2 years ago. I knew that i wanted to stay in, or close to the Plaza del Sol, the geographic center of Spain, Madrid, and the place acknowledged by all Madrilenos as the center of life in Madrid. <BR> <BR>We stayed at a fabulous hotel just behind the Plaza. It was a Best Western called the Carlos V. <BR> <BR>It was delightful and very well located as i said before.

I was in Madrid in November and stayed at the Santo Domingo. It was a nicely decorated hotel and I got a great rate at around $125 for a single. The location is good and within walking distance from everything central . There is a subway station right across the street. They are a Best Western so it is easy to reserve from here. This is the websight- <BR> <BR>http://www.hotelsantodomingo.com/ <BR> <BR>I also have heard a lot about the Carlos V. It is supppose to be good and is central. The location is smack in the middle of the pedestrian shopping zone so it is always busy around there. <BR> <BR>Hope that helps. I had a great time in Madrid, its an interesting city. Parts reminded me of New York and some reminded me of Paris. <BR> <BR>If you want more advice please Email me! I think I also found a few really great restaurants too!

Veronica,in May we stayed for 3 nights at the Tryp Ambassador.Great location & very nice room.The Tryp chain has a web-site.Enjoy.

The Reine Victoria is wonderful. We stayed at the Carlo V MANY years ago and it was nice. It's good to hear that it's still a good place to stay.

I also recommend the Hotel Carlos V. We stayed there for 3 nights two years ago, and were very happy with it. The location can't be beat - within walking distance of virtually everything and just a couple of blocks from the metro. <BR>

We also stayed at the Santo Domingo last summer. Very central and very, very quiet. Also great central air-conditioning and it is kept very clean. They served a good breakfast although the cost is extra. We found the staff to be very friendly and helpful.

Veronica, my wife and I spent five days in Madrid in June. We stayed at the Hotel Mora, a medium size hotel, located across the street from the Prado. Their rate was very reasonable; many good restaurants nearby, even a McDonalds! <BR>Fodors gives it a red star. <BR> George <BR>

The Palace was great. We really enjoyed staying there. Watch out for pickpockets-nice looking young people who try to disctract you by waving hands in your face or pretending they are polishing your shoes.