Madrid is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With over 3.5 million visitors a year, you can guarantee a good range of accommodation options to suit all requirements. So when it comes to looking for a good hostel, there’s an abundance of choice available, from party hostels in the heart of Malasaña to more relaxed spots in central locations.
We decided to narrow down that choice for you here to our favourite seven hostels in Madrid. We factored in many things, including the price, location, cleanliness and breakfast quality of each place. Read each description for a sense of the individuality of each hostel and feel free to click through to read an even more in depth description of what each place can offer to make your stay a special one.
Dorms from €22/ night. Privates from €92 night
You would be hard-pressed to find a better located hostel in Madrid than Sungate One. Within just minutes of both Sol and Gran Via metro stations, this is a great choice for anybody who is coming to Madrid for the first time. The dorm rooms have single beds instead of bunks, which is ideal for those who hate having to climb up to a top bunk, or indeed down in the morning. There is a shared kitchen and communal lounge on-site; perfect for meeting other travellers.
Dorms from €18/ night
Open Hostel is another great central option in Madrid. Right in the midst of a wealth of restaurants, bars and some of the Spanish capital’s most important sights, this hostel has proved especially popular with solo travellers over the years. That may be down to the library and games room, or simply the fact that bunk beds at this hostel have a plug socket and a curtain to offer a little extra privacy during the night. Whatever the case may be, Open Hostel’s enduring popularity is no secret.
Dorms from €18/ night. Privates from €68/ night
OK Hostel seems like a bit of an understatement. Good solid, clean bunks feel new and fresh here. There is storage under the bottom bunks for two people, so take the top bunk if you don’t wish to be disturbed as you sleep. This hostel has the added bonus of having its own bar; evening entertainment is often provided. Other facilities at OK Hostel include free wifi, a library, a shared kitchen, and for those who have been on the road for a while, laundry services for an additional fee.
Dorms from €20/ night
Proof that style does not necessarily have to be chosen over substance, The Hat is a super hip hostel with a wonderfully fresh, clean vibe. Whitewashed rooms have crisp linen provided on each bed. There are mixed or female only dormitories hosting between four and eight people here, many of which have a small balcony. Toiletries are provided along with an iron, hairdryer and even a trouser press. The hostel has its own bar and a great sun terrace.
Dorms from €19/ night. Privates from €44/ night
Contrary to the name, this hostel is not all that close to Atocha train station. In fact it is actually central, only five minutes from Plaza Mayor on foot. That clarification aside however, Far Home Atocha does promise clean, fresh rooms and a good sized lounge area for guests to kick back and mingle. Wifi is provided throughout the premises and laundry is available for an additional fee. Breakfast is available, although not included in the price and can be bought on the day for a small fee.
Dorms from €24/ night. Privates from €105/ night
Toc is an excellent modern hostel with refurbished rooms and contemporary interior architecture within an older building. The property is centrally located and there is a 24 hour reception allowing guests to fully experience Madrid at all hours. On-site there is a games room, where you can play pool for free, and the hostel’s very own bar, where themed party nights are occasionally hosted. Some of the larger dorms have their own bathroom, and there is a good selection of private rooms available as well.
Dorms from €17/ night. Privates from €74/ night
Far better than a dead cat for sure, Living Cat’s Hostel is housed in an 18th century building that surrounds a Moorish style fountain in the central courtyard. Some of the original features, such as a cavern-like ceiling have been kept and incorporated into the hostel’s design. Dorm rooms and their beds are basic but have lockers for safe storage; most of the dorms are much larger than other hostels, with 19 beds in the largest, so bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.