Where to Stay in Madrid: from Chueca to Chic

Where to Stay in Madrid: from Chueca to Chic

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From boutique charm to skyline suites, here’s your curated guide to Madrid’s most fabulous stays.


Welcome to Madrid: A City That Knows How to Live

Madrid has this effortless charm that’s impossible to ignore. There’s a rhythm to it, a vibe that pulls you in, whether you’re roaming its wide boulevards or sipping wine at a cozy outdoor terrace. Gran Vía is the heart of it all: vibrant, fast-paced, and full of life. It’s where Madrid’s old-world elegance meets modern energy, with theaters, shops, and an endless stream of people going about their day.

But beyond Gran Vía, Madrid is a city of neighborhoods—each with its own character and flavor. To the north: Chueca—the city’s proudly queer epicenter. Stylish, social, and a little spicy. To the west: Malasaña—cool, vintage, punk at heart. To the east: Salamanca—designer everything, polished to perfection. And to the south: Lavapiés—gritty, global, gorgeously textured. No matter where you stay, there’s something unique about each corner of Madrid.

If you’re looking for where to stay, the options can be overwhelming. Whether you’re craving a luxury getaway or prefer a more laid-back boutique experience, Madrid has it all. And if you want to stay in the heart of the action, Chueca is the place to be. It’s the beating heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, and the perfect spot for anyone who wants to be in the thick of it.

Here are 10 of the best hotels in Madrid to fit any budget or vibe, all within reach of the city’s best districts.


10 Fabulous Hotels to Stay in Madrid


1. The Madrid EDITION

Sol / Literary Quarter
$$$$

Vibe: Sexy sophistication. The Madrid EDITION feels like an ultra-cool, exclusive space where sleek minimalism meets laid-back luxury. It’s got that effortless vibe where everything just works.

What You’ll Find: Spacious rooms filled with natural light, a rooftop pool with stunning city views, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. The EDITION combines luxury with a fresh, relaxed atmosphere that feels far from stuffy.

Why We Love It: The blend of modern design and classic luxury is spot-on, and the rooftop bar is a scene you won’t want to miss. The location puts you right in the heart of Madrid, making it easy to dive into the city’s culture and nightlife.

Personal Take: Every time I stay at The EDITION, I’m blown away by how they manage to create that “wow” factor without feeling pretentious. The room comfort, the views from the rooftop, and the service—all top-notch.


2. Axel Hotel Madrid

Barrio de las Letras / Near Chueca

$$–$$$

Vibe: Queer, casual, and fun. Axel is unapologetically LGBTQ+ friendly, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to stay in Chueca while soaking up its vibrant energy.

What You’ll Find: A sleek rooftop pool, stylish rooms, and an open-minded atmosphere where you can feel at ease being exactly who you are. The vibe here is fun, relaxed, and totally welcoming.

Why We Love It: The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Chueca, close to all the bars, shops, and clubs. The rooftop is a great spot to unwind after a night out, and the hotel’s openness to the queer community makes it a standout.

Personal Take: I’ve stayed at Axel a couple of times, and it’s always a fun experience. It’s a hotel that feels lively, inclusive, and like a true reflection of the queer spirit of Chueca. Plus, the pool on the rooftop makes for a great escape from the city heat.


3. Only YOU Boutique Hotel

Chueca
$$$

Vibe: A mix of boho-chic and luxurious comfort. Only YOU brings together artful design and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere—ideal for travelers who appreciate style without feeling pretentious.

What You’ll Find: Artistic rooms, a cozy bar, and an intimate atmosphere. It’s an art lover’s dream, with stylish decor that makes the hotel feel like more of a curated experience than just a place to crash.

Why We Love It: The central location in Chueca means you’re surrounded by the energy of Madrid, but the hotel still manages to offer a quiet retreat. It’s a great balance of chic and cozy.


4. 7 Islas Hotel

Just off Gran Vía / Near Malasaña
$$–$$$

Vibe: Minimalist with an artistic twist. The vibe at 7 Islas is cool, calm, and understated, but with quirky elements that make it feel inviting and fresh.

What You’ll Find: Spacious rooms that use natural light to create a serene, peaceful space. You’ll also find a small, chic restaurant and a laid-back atmosphere where you can relax after a busy day.

Why We Love It: It’s the perfect mix of a boutique hotel and modern luxury—stylish without being over-the-top. It’s also close to both Gran Vía and the artsy vibe of Malasaña, making it easy to explore different parts of the city.

Personal Take: This is my go-to when I want to stay somewhere that’s a little less noisy but still centrally located.


5. URSO Hotel & Spa

Chamberí / Just north of Chueca
$$$$

Vibe: Elegant, timeless, and indulgent. URSO has a classic, old-world charm with modern touches that create a luxury experience without being over-the-top.

What You’ll Find: A stunning spa, plush rooms with rich decor, and a restaurant that serves up high-quality meals in a sophisticated setting. The hotel feels like a private escape within the city.

Why We Love It: The spa is a huge draw, offering a perfect place to unwind after a long day. The service is impeccable, and the hotel’s atmosphere offers an elegant, quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of Madrid.


6. Bless Hotel Madrid

Salamanca
$$$$

Vibe: Bold, stylish, and unapologetically glamorous. Bless Hotel is for those who like their luxury with a twist—modern, edgy design combined with top-tier service.

What You’ll Find: A rooftop with amazing views, designer rooms that feel like works of art, and a buzzing atmosphere that’s as much about style as it is about comfort.

Why We Love It: It’s got everything—chic design, top-notch service, and a central location near the high-end Salamanca district, which is perfect for those who want to be close to designer shops and polished streets.


7. The Principal Madrid

Gran Vía
$$$$

Vibe: Chic, contemporary, and effortlessly elegant. The Principal blends modern luxury with a historical building, making it feel both grand and welcoming at the same time.

What You’ll Find: Gorgeous rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a stylish rooftop with panoramic views of Madrid, and a restaurant that serves up incredible Mediterranean dishes.

Why We Love It: The rooftop is a showstopper, and the location right on Gran Vía puts you in the heart of the action. The decor feels both timeless and modern, which is perfect if you want to experience both the history and the vibrancy of Madrid.


8. Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques

Opera / Royal Palace
$$$$

Vibe: Historical grandeur meets modern luxury. This former palace turned five-star hotel is the epitome of elegance, with intricate design details and luxurious service.

What You’ll Find: Opulent rooms, a beautiful inner courtyard, and an exceptional restaurant. The location, just steps from the Royal Palace, makes it ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in Madrid’s regal side.

Why We Love It: The mix of historical charm and modern comforts is perfect. The hotel feels like stepping into a different era, but with all the conveniences of today.


9. Hotel Urban

Puerta del Sol
$$$$

Vibe: Contemporary, edgy, and a little avant-garde. Hotel Urban is for those who appreciate modern art and sleek, minimalist design. It’s trendy and cool without feeling cold.

What You’ll Find: An art-filled space with a rooftop pool, modern rooms, and a location that’s ideal for exploring the city. It’s the perfect spot if you’re into art and design.

Why We Love It: The art collection here is impressive, and the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish, sophisticated stay.


10. Room Mate Oscar

Chueca

 $$

Vibe: Colorful, fun, and a little quirky. Room Mate Oscar is one of the most playful hotels in Madrid, offering a unique atmosphere that’s both friendly and cool.

What You’ll Find: A laid-back vibe with colorful design, a stylish rooftop bar, and a central location in Chueca. The hotel’s personality is all about fun, style, and being a little daring.Why We Love It: The location is fantastic, and the rooftop bar has great views over Chueca. It’s a perfect place for anyone who wants to feel part of the city’s energy without breaking the bank.

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Kevin Avatar

Hi, I’m Steven, a Florida native, who left my career in corporate wealth management six years ago to embark on a summer of soul searching that would change the course of my life forever.

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