Madrid is a city that lends itself to any budget, providing plenty of genuinely incredible hotels in the standard category. One thing will love about these hotels is that they preserve the city’s amazing history. In fact, one of the best historical standard hotels in Madrid is over 400 years old. Plus, you’ll find our picks throughout the city center, so you’ll be within walking distance of nearly all the sites.
## Exploring Madrid’s Historical Hotels: A Journey Through Time
Madrid, a city brimming with vibrant culture and rich history, offers a unique experience to travelers seeking a glimpse into its past. Beyond the bustling streets and iconic landmarks, lies a collection of historical hotels, each with its own captivating story to tell. These establishments offer more than just a place to rest; they provide an immersive journey through time, allowing guests to experience the charm and elegance of bygone eras while enjoying modern comforts. Let’s delve into some of Madrid’s most captivating historical hotels.
### Petit Palace Posada del Peine: A Legacy of Hospitality
The **Petit Palace Posada del Peine** stands as a testament to Madrid’s enduring hospitality. This hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a living museum, a tangible link to the city’s rich heritage. Offering an affordable option while located conveniently near **Plaza Mayor**, this hotel allows guests to take in the historic views just outside its doors. Imagine stepping out of the hotel and immediately being greeted by one of the square’s grand, arched entrances.
Dating back to 1610, this remarkable inn holds the distinction of being Madrid’s oldest boutique hotel, a title it proudly carries. The **Petit Palace Posada del Peine** gracefully occupies three distinct buildings, each with facades meticulously preserved to retain their original character. The architectural evolution of the hotel is evident in the upgrades received by two facades in the late 18th century, followed by the addition of a third floor in 1863. A significant milestone occurred in 1892 when the property was adorned with its iconic clock, a year that witnessed the embellishment of numerous historical buildings throughout the city.
During your stay, immerse yourself in the hotel’s exterior. Take your time to admire its bright colors and historical details. Discover the remnants of old signage and original decor, each element whispering tales of the past. The hotel’s prime location places you amidst a lively tapestry of cafes, tapas bars, and shops, all contributing to the energetic ambiance of Madrid.
The location of the **Petit Palace Posada del Peine** also makes it a perfect starting point for exploring Madrid on foot. The iconic **Puerta del Sol**, the majestic Royal Palace, and the bustling Gran Vía are all within easy reach. Embrace the opportunity to wander through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere and discovering the hidden gems that Madrid has to offer.
As part of the Petit Palace family, the hotel maintains a consistent aesthetic, with small, clean, and comfortable rooms. The Double and family rooms are thoughtfully equipped with desks, and certain rooms feature split-level layouts or balconies that offer a glimpse into the bustling street life below. The family rooms, complete with bunk beds, can comfortably accommodate up to six people, presenting a budget-friendly option for families or small groups.
Start your day with the hotel’s generous breakfast buffet, served in a charming dining area adorned with exposed brick walls, adding to the hotel’s historical ambiance. Beyond the standard array of cold cuts, cheeses, fruits, and pastries, the buffet also features a “create-your-own” granola or salad bowl station. For those eager to explore Madrid on two wheels, the hotel provides bike rentals, encouraging guests to discover the city at their own pace.
### Room Mate Alba: Stepping Back in Time in the Literary Quarter
Nestled in Madrid’s Literary Quarter, a district steeped in history and literary significance, lies **Room Mate Alba**, a hotel that encapsulates the essence of the neighborhood’s charm. What better location for lodging than **Calle de las Huertas**, arguably Madrid’s most beloved pedestrian street? **Room Mate Alba** occupies one of the most historic buildings in the district and invites guests to experience the magic of this literary haven.
The hotel proudly showcases original details of the 17th-century building, including its authentic facade, staircase, and hallway adorned with intricate crown molding and captivating floor tiling. While the rooms offer a modern and chic boutique hotel atmosphere, the bathrooms transport you back in time with their unique tiling and antique mirrors.
The location of **Room Mate Alba** is not only historically significant but also perfectly situated for exploring the vibrant city of Madrid. Step outside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a lively scene of traditional tapas bars and artisan shops, all within easy reach of iconic landmarks like El Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor, and **Puerta del Sol**.
Despite being a standard hotel option, the rooms at **Room Mate Alba** exude an air of luxury, with comfortable beds, unique decor, bold colors, classy tiling, and spacious bathrooms. Each element harmonizes to create an ambiance that evokes the glamour of Madrid’s turn-of-the-century past. For those seeking even more space and comfort, the hotel’s suites provide a truly indulgent experience.
Guests can savor a large and varied breakfast buffet in the morning, available until noon for those who prefer a leisurely start to their day. The hotel also features a cozy lounge with comfortable sofas and captivating artwork, as well as a beautiful wooden lobby bar and a spacious inner courtyard patio, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere.
### Francisco I Boutique Hotel: Where History Meets Modernity
Located on **Calle del Arenal**, a popular pedestrian street, and a stone’s throw from the renowned **Chocolatería San Ginés**, the **Francisco I Boutique Hotel** offers a stylish and comfortable retreat. The rooms are bright and colorful, with decorative touches that pay homage to the building’s historical past, including exposed brick, wood-beamed ceilings, arched windows, and iron balconies. For those seeking extra space and seating, suites or family rooms are available, while the deluxe top-floor rooms boast private terraces for enjoying panoramic views.
Guests can indulge in a daily breakfast buffet served in the hotel’s beautiful inner courtyard, or opt for the convenience of “breakfast in bed” with a morning delivery to their room. The hotel also features a spacious bar/lounge on the ground floor, as well as smaller lounges tucked away on each floor. For guests who prefer to sleep in, late check-out options are available until 2:00 pm, subject to availability.
The **Francisco I Boutique Hotel** benefits from a prime location between the Royal Palace and **Puerta del Sol**, placing it at the heart of Madrid’s historical center. The area was once home to counts, dukes, and the bourgeois, who established their homes and entertainment venues in this prestigious neighborhood. The hotel’s original building played a significant role in the city’s cultural landscape, transforming into the **Eslava Theatre** in the 19th century and later reopening as a club in 1981 before becoming the hotel it is today.
### Artrip Hotel: Experiencing Madrid Like a Local
The **Artrip Hotel** provides a unique perspective on Madrid’s historical charm. Housed in a renovated building dating back to 1900, the hotel exudes a sense of history with its historic brick facade, charming inner courtyard, and iron balconies. While the main staircase showcases exposed brick, hardwood, and iron balusters, the rest of the hotel reveals a different facet of history. The rooms reflect the modern style of typical Madrid housing from the mid-century onward, allowing guests to experience the city like a local.
The accommodations at **Artrip Hotel** are simple yet bright, airy, clean, and comfortable, offering exceptional value for the price. The hotel’s location in the up-and-coming Lavapies neighborhood places guests slightly outside the main tourist center, allowing them to experience a more authentic part of the city. Lavapies’ main street is lined with tapas bars, international restaurants, and local shops, offering a diverse culinary and shopping experience.
Despite its location in a more residential area, **Artrip Hotel** is still within walking distance of many iconic sites, including **Atocha** train station, **El Rastro** flea market (held on Sundays), and El Retiro Park. Some rooms offer bunk beds, ideal for families, while others feature wood-beamed ceilings and iron balconies with captivating street views. The bathrooms are spacious and equipped with rainfall showerheads and wooden shower floors.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a relatively extensive breakfast buffet. But it is the staff at **Artrip Hotel** that garners the most praise. Guests consistently commend the exceptional service and hospitality they receive, a sentiment echoed by many five-star reviews.
B-2428