Astoria Hostal

Located on the fifth floor in a building with four other hostals, this clean, friendly place is an excellent value. Just three short blocks from the Puerta del Sol, the location is fantastic, surrounded by little streets of shops and restaurants, as well as a few blocks from the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza.

Unique Quality: Friendly staff, very clean, and more amenities than expected. Color satellite TV, radio, full bathroom and closet, cosy salon, and internet access in lobby.

I booked this place through WWW.Venere.com, and was very pleased with my stay. I'd certainly stay here again.

Remember that Hostals in Spain are usually a 2* establishment, not like Hostels, which are usually more basic, but usually an authentic accommodation experience.

From Sol metro it is about a 3 -5 minute walk to this property.

A lift takes you to the 5th floor, and into a pleasant lounge and reception area. The staff speak very little English, but are friendly and efficient.

The building itself dates back to the 1890's, and opened as a hostal in 1993

My room was at the back of the property, with a view of the building opposite. This wasn't a problem as I wasn't in my room for too long, and it was probably quieter than a street view.

I'd paid 96.30 euros ($153 / £76 ) for 2 nights single room with en-suite. Breakfast not included, but there are plenty of places to eat nearby.

Free internet access. 24 hour reception

My room (519) was spotlessly clean and more spacious than I'd expected.

Pleasantly furnished. Key card for door and electrics. I think all rooms are non- smoking.
2 single beds, wardrobe (with security box - 1 euro coin, non-returnable, which was a bit of a nuisance as each time I wanted to get something out I had to put in another coin to lock it)

Writing desk, chairs, case stand, TV (had CNN for first day, but not able to receive later). Telephone, radio, Air Con
Bathroom with small bath/ shower, WC, basin, hairdryer. Towels

Freebies- bath gel/shampoo- which smelt very nice, soap, comb, shower cap, shoe shine pad.

Eco friendly notices advising re-using towels, and to use shower in preference of bath.

There was some building work going on, but this didn't bother me too much, they didn't start until late in the morning. I'm not sure if they are expanding the Hostal or renovating rooms. I saw lots of floor tiles being taken up in the lift.

Coffee Vending machine - 50 cents for various coffees, hot chocolate or tea.

Also cans of soft drinks 1.50 euros, water 1 euro, beer 1.50 euros.

Unique Quality: Ideally located for the sights of Madrid.

Between Sol and Paseo del Prado.

The Madrid Vision tour bus stops nearby (Line 2 Stop 15 Las Cortes - opposite the Congreso de los Diputados, and near the Palace Hotel.

Metro Sol
(Sevilla is 150 metres from the Hostal Astoria, but the station was closed at the time of my visit, presumably as part of the instillation of the new train line into Sol)

Directions: From Sol, C/Jeronimo is to the right of the Tio Pepe sign. Continue along here.

After a flamenco theatre you come to a jewellers shop, turn right into the passageway.
Lift to the 5th floor.

Metro- Sol

(Seville was closed at my visit)

very clean, modern, great beds, not too hot, quiet..I real jewel. I would definately recommend this hotel...
We were traveling with an infant and a 3yo, they did not have any cribs, we had booked
double room which had two full size beds that we pushed together and made a family bed which worked fine. this hotel would be great if we were traveling without the kids.
we paid 65-75 euros a night

Unique Quality: about 5 blocks from the Prado, the botanical gardens, the Museum Reina Sofia...a great hotel if you are going to Madrid to look at art.

Directions: near the Prado Museum

I didn't stay in this hotel, it was recommended by James - one of my classmates.

Its in a good spot - near Sol, and is rare in that it is a hotel and not a hostal. All the rooms have air-con.

Prices can also be negotiated