Which area to choose
| Area | Dorm / night | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sol and the old centre | €28 to 42 | First visit, everything on foot | Very central, noisy at weekends, book a week ahead |
| Malasaña and Chueca | €22 to 36 | Nights out, bars, young travellers | Night noise: bring earplugs |
| La Latina and Lavapiés | €20 to 32 | Tapas, neighbourhood feel | Sloping streets, fewer metro stations |
| Near Atocha | €20 to 30 | Arriving or leaving by train | Handy for the station, quieter at night |
Dorm or private room
A 4 to 6 bed dorm (€22 to 30 in low season, €32 to 42 in high season) is calmer than a dorm of 10 or more. For two people, a private room in a hostel (€55 to 70 low season, €75 to 95 high season) often costs the same as a hostal. Read recent reviews on cleanliness and management before booking a cheap address.
Safety and luggage
Choose a bed with a locker and bring a padlock, and keep your papers on you. For late nights, see safety at night in Madrid.
Our pick
For a first visit, a hostel in Sol or Malasaña with high recent reviews and breakfast included. Compare offers and the cancellation policy, then book with free cancellation.
Going further
See also where to stay in Madrid on a budget, hotels near Puerta del Sol and hotels in Malasaña.
