The Spanish capital and largest city in Spain, Madrid is a vibrant and energetic metropolis full of art and stunning architecture, cultural and artistic heritage, exciting restaurants, and some of the liveliest nightlife in Europe.
Grand tree-lined boulevards with flowers. Green parks scattered with elaborate fountains and tiny coffee shops. Museums packed with world-famous masterpieces.
Bustling outdoor markets and an infinite amount of bars serving cervezas and tinto veranos.
Madrid has enough to keep anyone busy for years! Plus with 128 distinct neighborhoods, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay in Madrid due to its massive size.
Fear not, for this neighborhood guide on where to stay in Madrid I will break up my 5 favorite neighborhoods by interest, and include the top things to do in each area.
Read on to discover what is the best place to stay in Madrid for you and your travels!
- Best Places to Stay in Madrid
- Madrid Neighborhood Guide
- Madrid’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- 1. Centro Neighborhood – Best Place in Madrid for First Timers
- 2. Lavapiés Neighborhood – For those Visiting Madrid on a Budget
- 3. Chueca Neighborhood – Best places to stay in Madrid for Nightlife
- 4. Malasaña Neighborhood – Coolest Place to Stay in Madrid
- 5. Paseo del Prado – Best Area to stay in Madrid for Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Madrid
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Madrid
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my top recommendations for places to stay in Madrid!
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Best Airbnb in Madrid: Central Madrid Apartment with 3 beds
This spectacular apartment is in a great location on the fifth floor of a historical building has an amazing patio view that opens up to Plaza Mayor. The apartment can accommodate up to six guests and comes with amenities like wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning.
Best Hostel in Madrid: Ok Hostel Madrid
Ok Hostel Madrid is a fun and social hostel located at the heart of Lavapies, and located in one of the best areas to stay in Madrid.
A short walk from Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, this is my favorite hostel in Madrid. It has an outdoor terrace, a book exchange, a small kitchen and a common room. If you ask us, it’s one of the best hostels in Madrid!
Best Hotel in Madrid: Europa Hotel Madrid
Charming, modern and centrally located are just a few of the reasons Europa Hotel is one of my top recommendations for visiting Madrid.
A short walk from the city center, this boutique hotel is close to shops, restaurants and bars. It has an outdoor terrace, a stylish bar and comfortable and spacious air conditioned rooms.
Centro
Centro Madrid is the heart of the city making it the best area to stay in Madrid for first-timers. This downtown neighbourhood is where you’ll find grand avenues, stunning architecture, delicious restaurants, and a constant buzz of excitement and activity.
Lavapiés
Lavapies is one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in the city. An enclave for artists and creatives, this central neighbourhood is home to a myriad of international cuisines, hip street art, trendy bars and rustic cafes.
Chueca
For the hottest party in the city, look no further than the Chueca neighbourhood. Located east of the city centre, Chueca is home to trendy bars, lively clubs, charming pubs and funky cafes, making it one of the best places to stay in Madrid for nightlife.
Malasaña
Malasana is a neighbourhood with a rich and diverse history. In the mid-20th-century, it was the centre of the counterculture democracy movement that Movida Madrilena helped usher in following the death of dictator Franco
Paseo del Prado
Paseo del Prado is an elegant and picturesque neighbourhood in the centre of Madrid and our recommendation of where to stay in Madrid for families. Located east of Centro, this neighbourhood is well connected via public transit and is a great base for exploring the city.
One of the biggest and most cosmopolitan cities in Europe, Madrid is divided into 21 districts, which are further divided into 128 distinct neighbourhoods or barrios. I recommend that with each visit you try and see three or four different neighbourhoods, depending on the nature of your trip.
That means with so many neighborhoods to choose from – and plenty to see and do in Madrid – in Madrid, you want to base yourself in the perfect place!
From sampling traditional Spanish foods to dancing the night away on Madrid’s busy streets to exploring its history and heritage at one of its many brilliant museums, I’ll help you plan your trip to Madrid with this guide that breaks down the “must-sees” by area.
Centro is the neighbourhood at the heart of Madrid. My top pick for where to stay in Madrid for the first time, Centro is where you’ll find a myriad of historic and cultural attractions, including Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.
North of the city center is the lively and exciting neighbourhoods of Malasana and Chueca. Both are the best areas to stay in Madrid for vibrant nightlife. Famous for their exciting bars and wild clubs, these two districts are where you’ll find a good deal of fun after the sun goes down.
Continuing north you’ll pass through the charming and residential neighbourhoods of Chamberi and Salamanca. Filled with tree-lined streets and expansive boulevards, these neighbourhoods are perfect for shopping, relaxing and enjoying a slower pace of life.
South of the city center is the Huertas, La Latina, Lavapies, and Paseo del Padro neighbourhoods. Some of the oldest areas of the city, these central neighbourhoods are packed with cultural activities, exquisite museums, lush parks, and bustling bars. All four are among the best places to stay in Madrid.
Still not sure where to stay in Madrid? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Madrid’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Madrid is a sprawling city that boasts a robust public transportation network – one of the best in Europe. Comprised of efficient and inexpensive buses and subways, it’s relatively easy to move throughout the city.
However, if you’re travelling to Madrid for a specific purpose, some areas might be better suited to you. Do you want to dance the night away at the city’s hottest clubs?
Maybe you want to enjoy the historic and cultural sights. Or, perhaps you want to be within walking distance of the trendiest district. All of these things are possible if you stay in the right area.
Here are the best places to stay in Madrid, broken down by interest.
Centro Madrid is the heart of the city. This downtown neighbourhood is where you’ll find grand avenues, stunning architecture, delicious restaurants, and a constant buzz of excitement and activity.
Thanks to its great location, Centro is the perfect jumping off point for exploring the city and beyond.
This colourful and vibrant neighbourhood is my top choice for where to stay in Madrid for the first time. Experience everything from expansive squares and detailed buildings to charming street performers and upscale shopping in this downtown Madrid barrio. There are a lot of Madrid airbnbs in and around centro if you fancy an apartment.
Best Airbnb in Centro: Centrally located with 3 beds
This spectacular apartment located on the fifth floor of a historical building, has an amazing patio view that opens up to Plaza Mayor. The apartment can accommodate up to six guests and comes with amenities like wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning.
Best Hostel in Centro: Sungate One
Bright and airy, this hostel is my top choice for the Centro neighbourhood. Easily accessible by public transit, this hostel is close to all Madrid’s top attractions, best shopping, and trendiest nightlife spots.
It has a full kitchen, spacious common room, a book exchange for travellers, and best of all, no bunk beds!
Best Hotel in Centro: Europa Hotel Madrid
Charming, modern and centrally located are just a few of the reasons Europa Hotel is my top recommendation for where to stay in Madrid Centro.
This boutique hotel is close to shops, restaurants and bars. It has an outdoor terrace, a stylish bar and comfortable and spacious rooms.
Best Hotel in Centro: Mayerling Hotel
The Mayerling Hotel is a great base for first-time visitors to Madrid. It is close to restaurants, bars and Madrid’s top tourist attractions.
This quaint two-star hotel has a rooftop terrace, a coffee bar, and good-sized rooms. Enjoy modern amenities and authentic Spanish charm in the heart of the city.
Top Things to See and Do in Centro
- Walk over to the Literary district, Barrio de Las Letras, and check out Lope de Vega house (now a museum) to learn about Spanish literature.
- Take in stunning views of the city from the terrace of the El Corte Ingles Gourmet Experience in Callao.
- Savour delicious Spanish fare at Sobrino de Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world.
- Take a tour of the Palacio Real and the Spanish Royal Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, and the nearby Plaza de España.
- Explore the maze of bushes, flowers and trees at the Jardines de Sabatini.
- Snack on delectable and delicious churros and chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés.
- Visit the Cathedral de la Almudena and stare up at the stunning and detailed square cupola.
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Learn More Now!Lavapies is one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in the city. An enclave for artists and creatives, this central neighbourhood is home to a myriad of international cuisines, hip street art, trendy bars and rustic cafes.
In addition to great sights and cultural attractions, Lavapies has a high concentration of good value accommodations. From cosy hostels to quaint boutique hotels and budget hotels, this neighbourhood is overflowing with comfortable and modern accommodation options at affordable prices.
It should be noted that some of Lavapies smaller side streets can be a little seedy at night. When picking accommodations, stick to the main streets and squares to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.
Best Hostel in Lavapiés: Ok Hostel Madrid
Ok Hostel Madrid is a fun and social hostel located at the heart of the city. A short walk from Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, this hostel is my top pick for where to stay in Lavapies. It has an outdoor terrace, a book exchange, a small kitchen and common room.
Best Hotel in Lavapiés: Artrip Hotel
Airtrip Hotel is a modern and luxurious boutique hotel – and one of my top picks for Lavapies. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring Madrid.
It has spacious modern rooms and minimalist décor. Guests will love relaxing in the library or grabbing a drink at the stylish bar.
Best Hotel in Lavapiés: Hostal Rivera Atocha
Enjoy all the charm of a hotel without the high cost at Hostal Rivera Atocha. Within walking distance of Puerta del Sol and the centre of Madrid, this is one of the best luxury hostels in Madrid for its location. It’s close to restaurants, bars and Lavapies top attractions.
Each room comes with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and comfortable and clean beds.
Best Airbnb in Lavapiés: Stylish and Spacious 2 bedroom home
This spacious two-floor apartment is stylishly furnished and has a beautiful garden to hang out with friends and enjoy the sunset. The apartment has every amenity you could need for your stay, including cable TV, WIFI, air conditioning as well as a modern kitchen.
Stylish and Spacious 2 bedroom home is one of our favourites in Madrid but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to See and Do in Lavapiés
- Visit La Tabacalera de Lavapies for an off-the-beaten-path afternoon of art, culture, music and undergrounds style.
- Hunt for treasures at El Rastro, a weekly open-air flea market that’s one of the most popular markets in Spain.
- Admire the architecture and exquisite décor at Palacio de Fernan Nunez.
- Experience an authentic Spanish market at Mercado de San Antón.
- Wander throughout the bustling Plaza Lavapies, the city’s largest flea market.
- Try typical tapas at Bar La Mina, where the food is good and the prices are even better!
- Take a tour of the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, Madrid’s iconic bull ring.
For the hottest party in the city, look no further than the Chueca neighbourhood. Located east of the city centre, Chueca is home to trendy bars, lively clubs, charming pubs and funky cafes, making it one of the best places to stay in Madrid for nightlife.
It is the epicentre of Madrid’s LGBTQ community and a magnet for Madrileños of all ages. Chueca is colourful and exciting and known for its fun atmosphere both day and night.
Cheuca is also a great destination for those who like to shop. Lining the small and narrow streets are everything from independent shops to upscale boutiques and big brand name stores.
Best Hostel in Chueca: Room007 Chueca Hostel
This hostel is my top choice for where to stay in Chueca. Located at the heart of this fabulous and fashionable neighbourhood, this hostel is within walking distance of the hottest bars and trendiest nightclubs. It has an attic lounge, open terrace, and large self-service kitchen.
Best Hotel in Chueca: Hotel Sardinero Madrid
This modern hotel seamlessly blends historic charm and modern cool – which is why it’s one of my top choices for where to stay in Chueca.
It’s a four-star hotel with spacious rooms, modern décor, and a fitness centre for guests. Madrid’s best shopping and hottest bars are just steps from its doorstep.
Best Hotel in Chueca: B&B Hotel Fuencarral 52
This charmingly cool hotel is within a central location, which is why I love this hotel. It has a great rooftop terrace, comfortable beds, and guests can enjoy breakfast every day. A short walk to the city centre, B&B Hotel Fuencarral 52 is located right in the heart of Madrid’s entertainment district.
Best Airbnb in Chueca: 17th century studio
This antique apartment is located on the third floor and has two large balconies with stunning views. It is within walking distance to bars, restaurants, and attractions like Sol, Plaza Mayor, Grand Palace, Museo Thyssen, Prado Museum, Museo Reina Sofia and Atocha train station. The apartment has 3 beds and 1 bathroom and modern amenities are provided.
17th century studio is one of our favourites in Madrid but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to See and Do in Chueca
- Sip sophisticated cocktails and enjoy the view from the rooftop bar at Mercado San Anton.
- Sample sweet treats at Mama Framboise.
- Dance the night away at Delirium.
- Dance, drink, and laugh the night away at Black and White, a large and lively club known for it’s fun and raucous drag show.
- Explore the bustling Calle de Hortaleza, a hotbed of upscale shopping, dining and nightlife options.
- Be thoroughly entertained and listen to great music at Toni 2 Piano Bar.
- Dance until dawn (and even beyond) at the Thundercat Club.
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Buy an eSIM!Malasana is a neighbourhood with a rich and diverse history. In the mid-20th-century, it was the centre of the counterculture democracy movement that Movida Madrilena helped usher in following the death of dictator Franco. It was a little rough around the edges then, but it’s now best known for its bar hopping and bad boy reputation.
Today, Malasana is by far the coolest neighbourhood in Madrid. Revamped and rejuvenated in recent decades, it is now packed with cool boutiques, rustic bars, vintage shops, and hipster hideaways. It is the place to hang out both day and night.
Best Airbnb in Malasaña: Cozy Studio for 2
This bright and cozy Spanish Airbnb is located in the historic and central part of the city. This studio is close to the Atocha Train Station – the largest railway station in Madrid and faces Reina Sofia Museum – Spain’s national museum of 20th-century art. The neighborhood is filled with cafes, theatres, and museums. The studio is also fully equipped with modern amenities like complimentary wifi, a smart tv, and central heating.
Best Hotel in Malasaña: Espahotel Gran Via
Espahotel Gran Via is perfectly situated for exploring the city. It’s close to Malasana, Centro, and well connected to the rest of the city.
Charming and comfortable, this three-star hotel has a coffee bar, a lounge bar, and an on-site tour and ticket desk. Surrounded by bars and restaurants, this hotel is situated at the centre of the action.
Best Hotel in Malasaña: Ibis Madrid Centro
This great two-star hotel has a range of modern amenities. From massage services to free wifi, it has everything you need for a great stay.
It is conveniently located in Malasana and it’s close to hip bars, trendy restaurants, and cultural and historic tourist attractions. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on site restaurant or relax in the lounge bar at this delightful Madrid hotel.
Best Hostel in Malasaña: Mad4Your Hostel
Mad4You Hostel is my best recommendation for where to stay in Malasana. Built in a typical 15th-century Madrileño house, this hostel has a shared kitchen, cosy bar, and an on-site laundry service.
It is a short walk from the city and is close to all of Malasana’s best bars and attractions.
Mad4Your Hostel is one of our favourites in Madrid but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to See and Do in Malasaña
- Delight your senses by dining at La Musa, a great restaurant that serves up awesome Spanish fusion fare.
- Explore the historic Plaza del Dos de Mayo.
- Sip on an afternoon vermouth at Bodega la Ardosa, one of the best and oldest bars in the city.
- See great works of art at the ABC Museum of Drawing and Illustration.
- Enjoy good beer and a great atmosphere at La Via Láctea, a rock’n’roll bar with pool tables and great people watching.
- Take the Urban Safari tour with the Madrid Street Art Project and see amazing murals and works of art by Spanish street artists.
- Visit the best tapas bars in the city such as El Puerto de Cabreira.
Paseo del Prado is an elegant and picturesque neighbourhood in the centre of Madrid. Located east of Centro, this neighbourhood is well connected via public transit and is a great base for exploring the city.
Paseo del Prado is one of the best places to stay in Madrid for families. Here, you’ll find a great number of attractions, from the city’s important art museums to the lush and expansive El Retiro Park. This downtown neighbourhood is packed with activities that the whole family will love.
Best Hotel in Paseo del Prado: Hostal Bruna Madrid
A short walk from Madrid’s Museum Triangle, Hostal Bruna Madrid is my number one recommendation for where to stay in Paseo del Prado.
Well connected throughout the city, this hostel is close to restaurants, parks, and top tourist attractions. It has modern rooms, comfortable beds, and rooms specially designed for families.
Best Hotel in Paseo del Prado: Hostal Residencia Fernandez
Comfortable and homey, this is one of my top accommodation recommendations for Paseo del Prado. Just a two-minute walk from Reina Sofia, this hostel is close to shops, museums, restaurants, and parks.
Each room has a flat-screen TV and comfortable beds, and guests can enjoy relaxing on the delightful terrace.
Best Airbnb in Paseo del Prado: Bright and Spacious home for 4
Located next to Glorieta de Bilbao, the apartment is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and other popular attractions. The flexible check-in and check-out schedule is one of the best things about this apartment. With one king-size and a sofa bed, the apartment is perfect for 3 – 4 guests. The living room has a large balcony that looks across to old Madrid. The apartment has an open plan kitchen that is fully stocked and a good place to prepare meals and engaged with friends or family. The kitchen has a dishwasher, washing machine, and a fridge.
Bright and Spacious home for 4 is one of our favourites in Madrid but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Paseo del Prado: Le Pepa Chic Bed & Breakfast
This charming downtown hostel is a great choice for families visiting Madrid. It is close to museums, galleries, El Retiro Park, and a great number of family-friendly restaurants. Each room has a private bathroom, free wifi, and a flat-screen TV.
Le Pepa Chic Bed & Breakfast is one of our favourites in Madrid but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to See and Do in Paseo del Prado
- See works of art by Velasquez, Goya, El Greco and more at the Prado National Museum. Visit after work when admission is free.
- Climb to the top of Palacio de Cibeles and enjoy an amazing view over Madrid.
- Browse an extensive collection of 20th-century modern art at the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia.
- See nearly 1,000 pieces of art from the 13th- through 20th-century at the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza.
- Explore Spain’s naval history at the Naval Museum.
- Visit the Palacio de Cristal, located deep in the heart of El Retiro Park.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Madrid
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Madrid and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Madrid
Madrid is a sprawling metropolis teeming with a buzzing atmosphere. There is so much to do in Madrid surrounding its art, architecture, cultural events, cozy cafés, and awesome restaurants and nightlife.
I created this neighborhood guide to help you choose the best places to stay in Madrid based on your travel interests, whether you’re visiting Madrid with family, friends, or on a solo trip!
If you’re still unsure about where to stay in Madrid, I recommend Ok Hostel Madrid for my top hostel pick, and my top hotel pick is Europa Hotel Madrid!
Did I miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.
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