View of people wandering at the Plaza Mayor, one of the top choices for where to stay in Madrid

Where to Stay in Madrid in 2023 (Best Areas & Places)

👉 Jump to: Best Places to Stay in Madrid | Neighborhoods & Areas | Tips | FAQ

Deciding where to stay in Madrid is a deceivingly difficult task. As Spain’s biggest city and capital, it’s expected that there would be a lot of cool places to stay in Madrid, but there are actually 131 unique neighborhoods. That’s a lot. 

Figuring out the best places to stay in Madrid comes down to what type of experience you’re craving. The party experience of a lifetime? All the tapas your stomach can possibly hold? A discovery of Spanish history? It’s available all in Madrid – one of the best places to visit in Spain

After spending weeks exploring the city’s best neighborhoods and all the best things to do in Madrid, I figured out the best places to stay in Madrid right now. Let’s break this down. 

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Best Places to Stay in Madrid

View of architectures in Madrid, Spain

Just looking for a quick answer on the best places to stay in Madrid? Here are my top picks: 

Ok, let’s do a deep dive of the best areas and neighborhoods in Madrid: 

9 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Madrid

Even though Madrid is the largest city in Spain, it’s surprisingly easy to get around without a vehicle. This is true whether you’re staying in Madrid’s city center or a neighborhood on the outskirts of the city. With the help of public transportation, Uber, and some comfortable walking shoes, it’s effortless to reach all of Madrid’s top districts. 

Retiro

The Palacio de Cristal from the outside under the clear blue sky
The Massive Palacio de Cristal in El Retiro Park

👉 Best Area For Chill Ambiance & Inviting Green Spaces | ✨ Best Retiro Hotels: Petit Palace Lealtad PlazaAyre Gran Hotel ColonClaridge Madrid

Most people think that a capital city like Madrid would be all hustle and bustle without any relief. However, many of the city’s neighborhoods are actually relatively calm, such as Retiro. Located next to Madrid’s largest greenspace, the Retiro district is a popular place to stay in Madrid for families. The park alone is an endless source of fun and cheap outdoor activities. 

There are lots of different accommodation options in Retiro that can house solo couples or families of 5+. The main drawback of staying in Retiro is that it’s a little bit of a hike from the central neighborhoods of Madrid and all of the attractions there. Additionally, hotels tend to be a little more luxurious and pricey in this neighborhood. 

Pros of Staying in Retiro Neighborhood:

  • Very family friendly neighborhood
  • Calmer atmosphere than the busier areas of Madrid
  • Lots of green spaces
  • Many hotels

Cons of Staying in Retiro Neighborhood:

  • Hotels can be expensive
  • Few attractions besides the park

📚 Retiro Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Chill Ambiance & Inviting Green Spaces
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsPetit Palace Lealtad PlazaAyre Gran Hotel ColonClaridge Madrid 

🏠 Apartments Browse Top Rentals in Retiro 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Acqua In Bocca Trattoria ($$), Casa Hernandez ($), Fog Bar Birras & Burgers ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – JazzVille, My Hookah Room, Bodega Estebaranz

🎟️ Top Attractions – El Retiro Park, Palacio de Cristal, Great Pond of El Retiro, Monument to Alfonso XII, Real Jardín Botánico

Centro

Overlooking view of the Gran Vía street in Madrid
Gran Vía shopping street is located in the city center of Madrid and takes you all the way to Plaza de España

👉 Best Area For History, Culture, & Affordable Hostels | ✨ Best Centro Hotels: Hostal AresolOk Hostel MadridPlaza Mayor Suites & Apartments

Located in Central Madrid is the obviously named Centro neighborhood of Madrid. This district is in one of the most favorable locations in the city because it is surrounded on all sides by Madrid’s other best neighborhoods. 

Sol, Lavapiés, and Salamanca are all conveniently right next door. If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Madrid for easy access to the rest of the city, it’s going to be Centro. 

Inside this neighborhood, you’ll find tons of affordable hostels and high-quality tapas bars to choose from. The only problem with Centro is that there are actually more hostels than traditional hotels or Airbnbs. If you’re looking for a more private experience in Madrid, Centro might not be the best option for you. 

Pros of Staying in Centro Neighborhood:

  • Within walking distance of other neighborhoods
  • Many excellent tapas bars 
  • Great for first-time visitors 
  • Lots of affordable hostels are available
  • Several historical attractions nearby

Cons of Staying in Centro Neighborhood:

📚 Centro Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for History, Culture & Central Location
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsHostal AresolOk Hostel MadridPlaza Mayor Suites & Apartments 

🏠 Apartments Browse Top Rentals in Centro 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Juana La Loca ($$), Taberna El Sur ($), Pampa Beef ($), Ástor gastro-place ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Taberna La Concha, La Osita

🎟️ Top Attractions – Saint Isidore Museum, Teatro La Latina, Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a lower-cost alternative to Centro that’s still centrally located, check out Barrio de La Latina. La Latina is only a three-minute walk away and has tons of interesting things to do.

Ibiza

Spanish Tapas displayed on a restaurant in Ibiza
The Ibiza neighborhood is known as Madrid’s  “gastronomic golden mile”

👉 Best Area For Foodies | ✨ Best Ibiza Hotels: Novotel Madrid CenterLa Llave De MadridICON Wipton 

That’s right, Ibiza isn’t just a Spanish party island in the Mediterranean sea, it’s also one of Madrid’s major neighborhoods. Located just north of the Retiro district and right next to the city’s giant El Retiro Park, you’ll find Ibiza. 

The neighborhood for all things high-end food and drink, it’s where to stay in Madrid if you want to get acquainted with Madrid’s best culinary offerings. 

Restaurants like KultO, Sazón-arte, or Restaurante Castelados will dazzle you with their creative food and variety of wines.  Just keep in mind that these places tend to be on the more expensive side. 

The other thing to consider is that Ibiza is located pretty far from the city center on the opposite side of Retiro Park. You’ll either need to take a 45-minute long walk to get to central Madrid and its attractions or hop on public transportation. 

Pros of Staying in Ibiza Neighborhood:

  • Lots of interesting restaurants to choose from
  • A variety of bars around
  • Removed from the touristy areas of the city

Cons of Staying in Ibiza Neighborhood:

  • Few hotel options
  • Must take public transportation to attractions and other neighborhoods

📚 Ibiza Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Foodies
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsNovotel Madrid CenterLa Llave De MadridICON Wipton 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Ibiza 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Chico Calla Madrid ($$), La Catapa ($$), Sazón-arte ($$), KultO ($$$), Restaurante Castelados ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Farándula Madrid, Whisky Club Madrid, Bar Ibiza, Ficus Bar, YOU&ME

🎟️ Top Attractions – El Retiro Park, Cines Renoir Retiro, Cecilio Rodríguez Garden

Malasaña

People walking at the street of Malasaña
The quaint streets of the Malasaña district (photo: JJFarq / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For Incredible Restaurants & Lively Nightlife | ✨ Best Malasaña Hotels: Vincci Via Dear Hotel MadridRiu Plaza EspanaArizonica Suites

Malasaña is where to stay in Madrid if you’re not quite sure what you want yet. In general, it’s your best bet for having a good time no matter what type of visitor you are. There are a lot of things that make Malasaña a great place to stay in Madrid. 

The neighborhood has some of the best Madrid restaurants, with a variety of cuisine like sushi at Okashi Sanda and Ethiopian food at Etíope Nuria. If you’re a digital nomad, there are a bunch of adorable cafes and little bakeries to work the day away in. Malasaña also has one of the most high-spirited nightlife scenes in the entire city. 

While places like Plaza de España Square are located right near Malasaña, most of the city’s big tourist attractions aren’t in this neighborhood. Additionally, accommodations tend to be a little more pricey around this area. 

Pros of Staying in Malasaña Neighborhood:

  • Plenty of hotels to choose from
  • Lots of great restaurants with a variety of different cuisine
  • Lots of cute cafes and sweets shops around
  • A vibrant nightlife scene

Cons of Staying in Malasaña Neighborhood:

  • Few attractions nearby
  • Accommodations can be expensive

📚 Malasaña Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Incredible Restaurants & Lively Nightlife
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsVincci Via Dear Hotel MadridRiu Plaza EspanaArizonica Suites 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Malasana 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Ochenta Grados Malasaña ($$), La Musa Malasaña ($$), Restaurante Etíope Nuria ($$), Casa Macareno ($$), Okashi Sanda ($$) 

🍸 Where to Drink – Espit Chupitos, Madklyn, Diplodocus, 1862 Dry Bar, Gorila Malasaña

🎟️ Top Attractions – Plaza del Dos de Mayo, Liria Palace, Plaza de España

Sol

View of people at the Plaza Mayor in Madrid
The Famous Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol are located in the Sol neighborhood

👉 Best Area For Central Location Near Attractions | ✨ Best Sol Hotels: Hotel Moderno Puerta del SolHostal Patria Madrid Hotel LiabenyB&B Hotel Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol

Sol is a favorite neighborhood among newbies to Madrid and it’s easy to understand why so many people love this area. Sol is considered downtown Madrid, which reaches from Puerta del Sol to the Royal Palace. It’s one of the more centrally located neighborhoods in Madrid, with Centro on one side and Malasana on the other. El Retiro Park is also only a few blocks away and well within walking distance. 

Within the boundaries of the Sol neighborhood, you’ll find a bunch of different top tourist attractions such as Plaza Santa Ana, Puerta del Sol, and the Royal Palace. Most of the city’s tourist attractions that aren’t located in this neighborhood are still very close by. 

Sol is famous for its array of simultaneously affordable and mouth-wateringly delicious restaurants. Some of my top recommendations for low-cost eateries in Sol include Restaurante D’Corazon and Restaurante Rosi La Loca.  

Pros of Staying in Sol Neighborhood:

  • Lots of major attractions nearby like Puerta del Sol and the Royal Palace
  • Centrally located 
  • It’s possible to find a cute boutique hotel, hostel, or more modern hotel 
  • Walking distance to other neighborhoods
  • Lots of affordable, delicious restaurants nearby

Cons of Staying in Sol Neighborhood:

  • Popular area with lots of tourists
  • Accommodations sell out fast in the high season

📚 Sol Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Central Location Near Attractions
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsHotel Moderno Puerta del SolHostal Patria Madrid Hotel LiabenyB&B Hotel Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Sol 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Restaurante Rosi La Loca ($), Restaurante D’Corazon ($), Metro Bistro ($$), Lambuzo ($$) 

🍸 Where to Drink – Espit Chupitos Madrid Sol, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, La Coquette, Malaspina

🎟️ Top Attractions – Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor, Real Casa de Correos, El Oso y el Madroño, Puerta del Sol, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales

👉 Pro Tip: The major downside of Sol is that it’s one of the busiest places to stay in Madrid. During the summer months, the area is overrun with tourists and most of the top accommodations sell out fast. Make sure you book in advance if you’re hoping to stay in this popular Madrid neighborhood. 

Lavapiés

View of view of the colorful street in Lavapiés
The colorful streets of the Lavapiés neighborhood

👉 Best Area For Budget Travelers | ✨ Best Lavapiés Hotels: Artrip HotelIbis Budget Madrid Centro LavapiesReina Sofia Acogedor 

If you’re traveling to Europe on a budget, Lavapiés might be a terrific option for where to stay in Madrid. While most of Madrid’s neighborhood will cost you a pretty penny, the accommodations and restaurants in Lavapiés are surprisingly affordable. This makes it a popular neighborhood with young people who are trying to save a buck and want to meet other travelers along the way. 

Many solo travelers flock to this Madrid neighborhood for its premium nightlife scene. There is a long list of different bars to try around this area. Including unique lounges like the La Noche Boca Arriba piano bar and laidback watering holes like La Huelga de Lavapiés pub. 

The other convenient thing about Lavapiés is that it’s sandwiched right between Centro and El Retiro. Making it simple to get basically anywhere else in the city on foot or with a trip to the metro station. 

The only borderline annoying part about staying in this neighborhood is that it gets very busy. It might not be the best choice for people who are seeking peace and quiet in Madrid. 

Pros of Staying in Lavapiés Neighborhood:

  • Lots of low-cost budget hotels 
  • Many delicious, affordable places to eat
  • An endless list of excellent bars
  • A great option for solo travelers 
  • Centrally located between other cool neighborhoods

Cons of Staying in Lavapiés Neighborhood:

  • Few attractions
  • Busy

📚  Lavapiés Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Budget Travelers
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsArtrip HotelIbis Budget Madrid Centro LavapiesReina Sofía Acogedor 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Lavapies 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Los Porfiados ($), Los Cuchis ($), La Musa de Espronceda ($$), Más Al Sur ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – Bar Melo’s, La Noche Boca Arriba, Savas Bar, La Chilostra

🎟️ Top Attractions – Teatro del Barrio, La Casa Encendida, Reina Sofia Museum 

Salamanca

View of a water fountain with lights at the Plaza de Cibeles
Plaza de Cibeles in the upscale Salamanca neighborhood

👉 Best Area For Fashion & Shopping | ✨ Best Salamanca Hotels: Velazquez 45 by PillowICON EmbassyTÓTEM Madrid, a Small Luxury Hotel of the WorldThe Pavilions Madrid Hotel  

That old saying “you get what you pay for” definitely rings true in the Salamanca neighborhood of Madrid. Even though it’s one of the pricier places to stay in Madrid, it’s also one of the best. If you want to stay in the lap of luxury on a trip to Madrid, you’ll probably want to book a hotel in the Salamanca district. 

There are practically endless high-end hotels to choose from such as TÓTEM Madrid and ICON Embassy. The opulence doesn’t stop there, though. There are 5-star restaurants, a range of nightlife options, and tons of upscale shopping around Salamanca. There are also top tourist attractions including the National Archaeological Museum and Las Ventas, Madrid’s iconic bull ring. 

Visitors who want to stay in Salamanca should keep in mind that it is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Madrid. Set a budget and stick to it when you’re staying in this district or you could end up with an empty wallet. 

Pros of Staying in Salamanca Neighborhood:

  • Lots of nice, luxury hotels
  • 5-star dining establishments
  • A range of different nightlife options from pubs to cocktail bars

Cons of Staying in Salamanca Neighborhood:

  • Pricey

📚 Salamanca Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Fashion & Shopping
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsVelazquez 45 by PillowICON EmbassyTÓTEM Madrid, a Small Luxury Hotel of the WorldThe Pavilions Madrid Hotel 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Salamanca 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Ramón Freixa Madrid ($$$$), La Bistroteca ($$), Cazorla ($$), Jurucha ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – The Shaker, James Joyce Irish Pub, Dry Martini Bar, Marusha The Patio, La Casa de La Cerveza

🎟️ Top Attractions – Mercado de la Paz, Descubrimiento Garden, National Archaeological Museum, Puerta de Alcalá

Barrio de las Letras

People walking at the street of Barrio de las Letras
The busy streets of Barrio de las Letras (photo: Page Light Studios / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For Museums & Bars | ✨ Best Las Letras Hotels: Soho Boutique CongresoOne Shot Prado 23Catalonia Plaza Mayor

One of the best things to do when visiting a new city is to take a gander at all of its museums. It’s the ideal way to take in a city’s story. Luckily, Madrid has a lot to offer in this department. Especially in the neighborhood of Barrio de las Letras. 

This Madrid neighborhood is located in a very optimal location of the city center. Right between Centro and Sol, you’ll find some of Spain’s most famous museums like the Prado Museum, the Museum of Illusions, and Lope de Vega’s House Museum.  

Once you’re done getting to know Madrid’s history and cultural influences at the museums, Las Letras has plenty of places to eat and recharge. Some of my favorites are Casa Alberto and El Barril de las Letras. 

Then, the party can continue after the sun goes down. There are tons of local bars to choose from. Salmon Guru and Lovo are to send your night in the right direction. The neighborhood’s combo of activities, restaurants, and nightlife makes it one of the most popular places to stay in Madrid.

Pros of Staying in Las Letras Neighborhood:

  • A variety of places to eat
  • Lots of different bars and clubs
  • Cool museums and historic sites
  • Easy to find a cute boutique hotel 

Cons of Staying in Las Letras Neighborhood:

  • Crowded, especially from June to August

📚 Las Letras Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Museums & Bars
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsSoho Boutique CongresoOne Shot Prado 23Catalonia Plaza Mayor 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Barrio de las Letras 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Vi Cool ($$), Restaurante La Puebla ($), Casa Alberto ($$), El Barril de las Letras ($$$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Blackbird Rock Bar, El Imperfecto, Salmon Guru, La Venencia, Restaurante-Coctelería Inclán Brutal, Lovo Cocktail Bar

🎟️ Top Attractions – Prado Museum, Lope de Vega’s House-Museum, Neptune Fountain, Teatro Español, Museum of Illusions Madrid, ICO Museum 

Atocha

View of people inside the Atocha Train Station
Even if you’re not staying in Atocha, you should check out the tropical greenhouse at the Atocha Train Station (photo: Yulia Grigoryeva / Shutterstock)

👉 Best Area For Artsy Vibe & Families | ✨ Best Atocha Hotels: Only YOU Hotel AtochaRafaelhoteles AtochaAC Hotel Atocha by Marriott 

If you’re looking for a neighborhood in Madrid that will offer a chill atmosphere, you’ll find it in Atocha. It’s one of the more laidback, residential areas of the city. That’s why it’s one of the best places to stay in Madrid if you’re visiting with young children or just prefer a less crowded atmosphere.

This neighborhood has a cute vibe and is the type of place where you’ll want to spend all day aimlessly wandering. There aren’t that many sites to see in Atocha, yet it still feels like there are enough idle activities around to fill your day. 

One of the coolest things I saw in Madrid happened to be located in this neighborhood – the Madrid Atocha Train Station. I know what you’re thinking; why would you ever want to visit a train station? Well, this one happens to have a thriving, lush greenhouse inside that looks almost otherworldly. Even if you’re not staying in this neighborhood, you should make a trip out to catch a glimpse of this one-of-a-kind attraction.

Pros of Staying in Atocha Neighborhood:

  • A quieter, residential option
  • Great for families
  • A cute, trendy overall vibe 
  • Lots of inexpensive, yet top-quality, restaurants

Cons of Staying in Atocha Neighborhood:

  • Fewer hotels to choose from 
  • Not that much of a nightlife scene

📚 Atocha Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Artsy Vibes & Families
Google Map 

✨ Best HotelsOnly YOU Hotel AtochaRafaelhoteles AtochaAC Hotel Atocha by Marriott 

🏠 ApartmentsBrowse Top Rentals in Atocha 

🍽️ Where to Eat – Restaurante Asturias ($), Bodegas Rosell ($$), Sukaldea Atotxa($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Taberna Las Sobrinas, Al son de Cuba

🎟️ Top Attractions – Greenhouse Atocha, Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Atocha, Pantheon of Illustrious Men

Tips for Staying in Madrid

Check The Weather

View of the reflection of the statue in Plaza Mayor
A rainy day in Plaza Mayor

Weather in Madrid can range from scolding heat to pouring rain. You’ll want to know what you’re getting yourself into beforehand, so make sure you look into the best season to visit Spain for your preferences. 

Avoid Eating In Plaza Mayor

View of a building in Madrid, Spain
You should definitely visit this Madrid attraction, but don’t eat at the overpriced restaurants around here

Everyone who spends time in Madrid has to spend a little time in Plaza Mayor, however, you should avoid eating around here. Since it’s a major tourist attraction, the restaurants around Plaza Mayor are more expensive. Plus, the food isn’t as good as most of the other spots in Madrid. 

You can find way better restaurant options right outside of Plaza Mayor, like Restaurante Rosi La Loca and Alhambra.

Walk Everywhere Or Take Public Transportation

Overlooking view of a street in Madrid, Spain
The hectic traffic in Madrid is difficult to navigate

Driving in Madrid can be a nightmare, especially if you’re not experienced with the skinny Spanish streets. 

You should stick with walking whenever you can or take the local public transportation. It runs to almost all areas of the city. When all else fails, rideshare apps like Cabify, Lyft, and Uber are readily available. 

👉 Read Next: 17 Best Day Trips from Madrid

Research Travel Insurance for Spain

Madrid has a low crime rate, but bad things can happen no matter where you’re going. Imagine how stressful it would be to miss your flight, get injured abroad, or even get stuck in a natural disaster. 

Since the world is unpredictable, consider whether you need good travel insurance for Spain before you stay in Madrid.  

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Dress To Impress When Going Out For The Night

The locals and visitors alike in Madrid share this general consensus of dressing to the nines on a night out. Even if it’s just going to grab dinner! This isn’t the destination to go casually. Even in a dressier outfit, you’ll fit in at most restaurants in Madrid. 

👉 Read Next: 23 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

Try The Local Specialty Of Tinto de Verano 

Glasses of Tinto de Verano cocktail served in Madrid
The delicious Tinto de Verano cocktail

When most people think about what cocktail they want to sip on with their meal in Spain, their mind immediately jumps to sangria. However, if you’re in Madrid, its distant relative called ‘Tinto de Verano’ is far more common. It’s kind of like an alcoholic Arnold Palmer made with 50% lemonade and 50% wine. 

👉 Read Next: Where to Stay in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

FAQs About Where to Stay in Madrid

What is the coolest neighborhood in Madrid?

Malasaña is the coolest neighborhood in Madrid. The nightlife is top-notch and the restaurants follow suit. This neighborhood gives visitors that flare of fun and Spanish culture that they’re looking for when deciding where to stay in Madrid. 

What is the main part of Madrid?

Centro is the main neighborhood in Madrid. It covers most of the central area of the city from the Royal Palace of Madrid to the edge of El Retiro Park. 

How many days do I need in Madrid?

Visitors should plan to spend at least three days in Madrid. With three days to stay in Madrid, you’ll have enough time to visit a few of the city’s different neighborhoods, attractions, and restaurants. Three days is enough time to get a general feel for the Spanish capital.

👉 Read Next: Best Places to Stay in Barcelona

***

That’s it for my guide on where to stay in Madrid. What Madrid neighborhood are you leaning towards? Before you start packing up your bag for Madrid just yet, make sure you check out our complete Spain packing list. Have fun in the Spanish capital!

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