Mercer Madrid

Prices are reasonable, and the triple and quad rooms have plenty of space. The staff are always cheerful and helpful, and the hotel offers a few amenities despite being quite affordable. It’s in a great spot, within walking distance of El Prado, but in a quieter part of the city away from the noise and crowds of La Gran Via. This has become my usual place to stay when I visit Madrid.

We enjoyed our four nights at Petit Palace. Fatima welcomed us at check-in, gave us a map, and took time to explain nearby sights, which was very helpful. The hotel sits on a quiet street, so it’s peaceful, while still close to major attractions and nightlife. Our family of four adults had lots of room. The bathroom was clean and spacious, with a lovely rain shower, and we especially liked having a balcony to relax on during the day before heading out. The mattresses could use an upgrade, though, as we didn’t find them very comfortable. Overall, we had a good stay.

The reception team were excellent, warm, and attentive, but the breakfast staff were rude and unwelcoming. Even asking for a fried or scrambled egg felt awkward, as if we were bothering them. The contrast between the two teams was striking and disappointing. The hotel is very well placed at the foot of Independence Square in Madrid, and check-in was quick. We arrived about an hour before the official time, but our clean room was ready and the staff let us in early. There’s also a comfortable waiting area by reception where my wife could sit while I checked in. For a hotel presenting itself as 4-star, breakfast was below average. The food itself was good, but the breakfast area is small for the size of the hotel, so items ran out quickly. The room was an adequate size for a couple, but there was only one power outlet on one side of the bed and none on the other, leaving nowhere convenient to charge devices. Soundproofing was very poor too, and corridor noise clearly carried into the room, affecting rest and sleep. The location and reception service are standouts, but poor soundproofing, the room layout, and especially breakfast service cost the hotel a lot.

The staff were excellent and helpful, and the price felt like good value. Rooms are standard, like those at any mid-tier chain, without anything fancy or luxurious. Near Retiro park and Atocha train station, it works well as a Madrid crash pad: you’ll probably be out all day and just need somewhere quiet to sleep.