Cheap hotels don’t necessarily mean that they’re roach motels or that they offer sub-par standards. In fact, a number of Madrid hotels in Spain charge you extra for things like receiving a newspaper in the morning, sleeping in a king size versus a queen size bed, an extra 100 square foot of space, living room/kitchenettes, flat-screen television sets with cable and marble bathroom fixtures. In all reality, these are all amenities that many people don’t absolutely need while on vacation. They’re nice, indisputably, but they’re not essential. Imagine how much more you could see and do if you paid 75% less on your accommodations.
One of Madrid’s cheap hotels, Hostal Armesto, goes for around $73/night and offers six rooms in a classic 19th-century building of the Huertas neighborhood. You’ll enjoy three museums, restaurants and bars all within walking distance. Though Madrid isn’t known for its quiet nights, the early-to-bed/early-to-rise crowd will appreciate this hostel’s location down a strangely quiet residential street. The bedrooms have tiled floors, wrought-iron beds and vintage style bathrooms. The rear rooms also overlook a beautiful Spanish garden. You can book your room at www.hostalarmesto.com.
Another one of Madrid’s cheap hotels is the Hostal Oriente, which runs for $53 – $79/night. While it’s less homey than Hostal Armesto, the 34 rooms are clean and in good condition with nice traditional Spanish paintings. The recently renovated bathrooms are a relief and the chandeliers add a nice elegant touch. The location is what draws most people to this Madrid hotel. Just steps from the city centre, you can walk to the opera house, the metro, Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. You can learn more at www.hostaloriente.es.
If you’re looking for cheap hotels in Barcelona, then you’ll find a number of lodges for under $100 at www.venere.com. Hotel Atenea, for example, enjoys high guest ratings for its delicious breakfast buffet, its simple modern decor and its business travel facilities. The location is also convenient for business professionals because it’s located right in the business district, although it is also not far from football stadiums, beaches and shopping districts. If you’re looking for someplace close to the airport, you might like Hotel Porta Barcelona, a three-star hotel that is just 10 minutes from your flights, but also close to tourist destinations like Gaud