Hostalin Madrid Atocha

We’re waiting for the carta de reclamación, the formal complaint form used in Spain, so we can file an official complaint and hopefully keep others from running into this. Our reservation, made well in advance, was canceled today with “renovations” or “room issues” given as the reason. It seems clear to us that they canceled so they could raise the price. When we tried to sort it out, the hotel representative ended the call and told us to contact Booking.com. Booking.com has been as helpful as they can, and said we’re not the first guests to report this kind of unfair cancellation. This behavior is unacceptable. Think twice before booking if you want to avoid the same hassle. I’d give this hotel -5.

The street was noisy, though it did give you a feel for the busy city. The location is right by the metro, central, and surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shops. Staff were quiet but friendly and helpful, and they let us leave our luggage for a few extra hours after checkout at no charge. The room was clean and the bed was comfortable. The bathroom was tiny, with the smallest sink I’ve ever seen, but the shower had great pressure and was a lovely way to end a hot summer day. It might be awkward to move around in for someone bigger, but it’s an experience.

For 45€ on special, this felt like decent value, though I wouldn’t pay more. Getting in and checking in was super easy, and the lift makes the place wheelchair accessible. The rooms and the rest of the property were clean, with no smoke smell. Our shower had good heat and pressure, and there was shampoo and soap. Reception staff were punctual, pleasant, and helpful. From the airport, get off at Plaça Cibeles; on the way back, go to Antocho station and take the blue bus 203. It was easy to find. Noise was the main problem. Street sound came through even with both the window and the ventana closed, and opening the window for air in the compact room made it louder. It was mostly quiet between 5-7 am, but not at other times. You could also hear loud conversations from other rooms, and the bed made noise during nighttime activities with a partner, so keeping things quiet for others was hard. The bed itself was too soft for me, though it might suit you.

The reception desk seemed to be unattended much of the time, so checking in meant calling a mobile number. I had a balcony with a nice street view, and the hotel looked spotless, all white, and recently renovated. It’s in a very central spot on a lively street, but this particular stretch was quiet, so it wasn’t too noisy.