Hostal La Selecta

Stay away from this hotel. They canceled our reservation the day before we were due to arrive, claiming they couldn’t collect the accommodation fee. We gave them four different bank accounts, but they kept saying the charges wouldn’t go through. We sent several emails in English and Spanish and got no reply. When I called, a staff member said she didn’t speak English. My friend, who speaks fluent Spanish, then spoke with the owner, who showed no professionalism, didn’t help us, and told us not to come to Spain. We had to book another hotel at the last minute, which cost an extra 130 euros. They need to learn basic hospitality and respect before opening a hotel.

Mariela and Carlos were sweet, attentive, and helpful throughout our stay. They made us feel at home and gave us plenty of tips for places to see and getting around. The place is simple, but very clean and comfortable. It’s ideal if you spend the day walking around and only come back to shower and sleep. The location couldn’t be better: right on the city’s main street, close to the metro, with the main sights, monuments, and shops within walking distance. The walls are paper thin, so a good night depends on having considerate neighbors who keep their voices down at certain times and don’t bang the door when coming and going. The shower has great pressure, but there’s only a curtain, no glass or acrylic, so it can end up getting the whole bathroom wet.

Everything felt pretty weird and creepy. I can probably recommend other hostels around Madrid, but if your priority is Gran Via, then go. The location is great.

I stayed just one night while transferring in Madrid. The room was basic and small, with a compact but functional bathroom. The facilities were nice, and everything was very clean. I’d stay here again.