El Cisne

Rooms: 3/5. Service: 4/5. Location: 5/5. Value for money: 4/5. Guests: 2 women aged

We were lucky to find a room here on a day when nearly every place in the city was booked. The room was spacious and lovely, and the internet was fast and dependable. The staff were exceptionally friendly. Breakfast was only $2.50 per person, and it was delicious: a croissant even a Frenchman approved of, some of the best coffee we had on our trip, and fresh orange juice. Definitely worth having.

The walls are thin, so light sleepers may have trouble. I sleep heavily, though, so it didn't bother me. My room was small, but it had exactly what I needed: a comfortable bed and a shower. Getting around was easy. The hotel is an uncomplicated walk from the train station, even with my luggage, and close to public transport, shops, restaurants, and the places most visitors go. I was there for a concert and found it easy to walk to the Plaza de Toros. The woman who greeted me was so sweet and friendly. I can't remember her name, but she has blonde hair and a pixie cut. She checked whether early check-in was possible, and it was, which meant I could nap after an exhausting 11-hour road trip. She also let me keep my medicine in their cooler without hesitation.

We booked a double room for Friday and Saturday nights, June 20 and 21, after walking in on Wednesday. We were quoted €44, but at checkout they asked for €65 and insisted they couldn't have quoted €44. The rate shown on Booking and other sites was $68, about €44. He refused to give me a complaint form, which I believe is illegal, and told me to go to the police station. Don't stay there. I felt they were lying and trying to con us.