Have gone on Venere.com but not quite sure what area in central Madrid to look for. Looking for very central i.e. most landmarks within walking distance 10-15mins walk approx. Can anyone help me narrow down my search a bit. Basically if I were to go to Barcelona the main thoroughfare would be Las Rambles, Dublin would be O'Connell street. What is the equivalent in Madrid.
Hi, the equivalent main street in Madrid is Gran Via, which has all the shops (Mango, Zara, Massimo Dutti, H&M etc). I wouldnt recommend staying on Gran Via, because it would be very noisy at night.
Also, dont stay on the one the streets slightly north of Gran Via, since thats where the 'ladies of the night' congregate.
If you want to be very central (i.e. 5 mins from Gran Via, 10 mins from Prado/Retiro Park etc) stay near Plaza de Sol. This is the main square in the middle of Madrid, just south of Gran Via. This is a touristy and going-out area, so there would be some noise at night, but ask for a room on a high floor, or facing the back of the hotel, and you would be fine.
Near Sol, you have the areas of La Latina, Huertas, Plaza Santa Ana which are full of bars and restaurants and night life.
I live in Madrid, but cant advise on hotels, since I never use them, but if you want more info on places to go etc, let me know!
Ragazza.