Hostal América

We were five and all very happy with our stay. The rooms are small but clean, the bathroom was clean and big enough, and the beds were comfortable. They provided towels and changed them daily, and the room was cleaned every day too. Staff were really nice, and someone was always at reception. There’s a shared terrace with a few tables and chairs, and they let us leave our bags there after checkout while we went into town. We only got one key, but they did let us use their fridge to keep our beers cold. The price felt quite high for the location. It’s close to pubs, restaurants, and shops.

It was a terrible experience. We checked in late and discovered the toilet wouldn’t flush. The receptionist couldn’t understand English and wasn’t able to help; they also refused a refund or another room. The problem was fixed the next morning, but came back that night. The room was far too small for two people, and finding the place at night was difficult since it’s on the fifth floor and there was no suitable signposting.

Natalia at the front desk was lovely and very helpful, and the AC worked really well, which matters a lot in Madrid’s hot summers. We were comfortable enough in the room for what we paid, and there’s a nice terrace where we ate breakfast we’d bought ourselves, since the hotel doesn’t serve breakfast. The location is excellent, just off Gran Via and walkable to Plaza de España, the historic city center, the Prado museum, and Retiro park. The rooms are very sparsely equipped. There wasn’t an electric kettle for coffee or tea, though they brought us hot water in a cup whenever we asked. At the price, I think they could put a small kettle in each room. The bathroom door also didn’t quite shut all the way.

The location mattered most to me, so I didn’t mind too much that the mattress was uncomfortable. For the spot, it’s worth staying here, but the rooms are tiny and basic. It’s also extremely noisy, so light sleepers should be prepared.