A rose is a rose, right? Well, an
hostal is not a 'hostel'. There are lots of what are termed 'false friends' in English and Spanish: those words that resemble a word in the other language but actually mean something quite different.
Hostal is one of those words. In Madrid, an
hostal is a small reasonably-priced hotel; it's not a 'hostel'. A '(youth) hostel' with shared accommodation is actually called an
albergue (juvenil) instead. Like any other hotel, an
hostal rents private accommodations, so don't let the word put you off from finding a great private budget stay in Madrid.
Located in the center of town, Santo Domingo is like a small boutique hotel without the fussiness and high prices. Rooms are modern and comfortable.
Still speaking of almost-boutique hotels, Gala is a gorgeous little budget hotel that fits the bill. The decoration here is bold but inviting.
With clean, simple rooms, daily breakfast in bed, and a location in a lively neighborhood, Duermo is a good cheap option for accommodation in Madrid.
In the location, location, location department, Abril is ideal for city lovers who like to be in the center of activity: located on the hip, vibrant, and noisy shopping street Fuencarral. Abril has nice, simple rooms with contemporary décor.
Hostal Gay Pizarro has pleasant, modern, and minimalist rooms in an historic Art Deco building in Madrid's trendy 'gay' neighborhood, Chueca. You don't need to be gay to enjoy a great budget option in the Spanish capital though.
Calle San Bernardo 29-31
Centrally Located...
Calle del Arenal 26
Comfortable & Friendly...
Plaza Puerta del Sol, 14 - 4
Gay paradise...
Gran Via 72
Central choice offering reasonable prices...
Antonio Lopez 65 - Atocha
Next to the River Manzanares...
Plaza Conde de Casal 6
Quiet hotel south of the Retiro...
Sevilla 2
Traditionally Madrid...
Clean, comfortable, and cheap...
Luis De La Mata 18
Traditionally decorated...
C/ Santa Engracia 41 5 Izq
Calle de las Fuentes, 10, 3-Izq
Calle San Bernardo 55 Piso 2 Derecha
La Calle Zorrilla N 9 2 Piso
Calle San Bernardo 55
Cheap accomodation in the Malasaña neighborhood...