Fodor's Expert Review Room Mate Mario

In the city center, steps from the Royal Palace and Teatro Real, Mario is small and limited in services but features bold, quirky style at a good price. A welcome alternative to Madrid's traditional hotel options, original silk-print headboards highlight the color-scheme combinations of white, gray, and black tones. There's no restaurant or bar, but the breakfast buffet is ample and well-prepared.

room

Rather cramped, even by city standards, the rooms at Room Mate Mario make up for their small size with ultra-comfortable mattresses and attention-grabbing designer headboards. If you can pony up the cash for an upgrade, the "Executive" rooms and suites are spacious and inviting.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Pack your earplugs, just in case: The hotel's central location and relatively thin walls are an unfortunate combination.

bathroom

In-room bathrooms, concealed only by frosted glass panels, may be visually appealing but offer little privacy. Complimentary conditioner and fluffy towels help make up for the awkward design.

Certain rooms have larger, more secluded bathrooms; if privacy is an important criterion, call ahead to ensure you're booked accordingly.

lobby

Though the lobby could pass as an early-aughties discoteca entrance, with its pleather poufs and red back-lighting, the front-desk staff are consummate professionals, always eager to provide recommendations.

dining

Breakfast, served until a civilized 12 p.m., has your bases covered with warm rolls, croissants, and fresh fruit.