I Live in Madrid: These Are the Best Hostels I Recommend

When I first arrived in Madrid, I knew that finding safe and affordable housing was at the top of my to-do list. Although CIEE provided everyone with housing for the first four days, I still needed temporary housing after that so that I had enough time to find an apartment. Many CIEE Teach in Spain participants actually either stay at an Airbnb after orientation for two weeks or a hostel, but hostels are usually the cheaper and smarter option if you're on a budget. This is because you can often share a dorm with 6 other people in the program while staying right in the center of Madrid. This makes apartment hunting much easier for everyone and exploring, too.

So, if you're looking for the best hostel to stay at in Madrid after CIEE's orientation, keep reading! This post has recommendations that you can check out if you're looking for a hostel that has privacy features such as bed curtains, personal reading lights, and lockers. Also, while this post is helpful for CIEE Teach in Spain program participants, it can also help solo travelers, language assistants, students, budget travelers, or people relocating to Madrid who need a great hostel to stay at as they figure out their next steps.

Best Hostels in Madrid I Recommend

1. 2060 The Newton Hostel (Best Overall Budget Hostel)

The 2060 Newton Hostel is a great place to stay after orientation if you're looking for a hostel that offers a great balance between affordability, comfort, and location. Located in the Lavapies neighborhood, the hostel is within walking distance of Puerta del Sol and several other metro stations, making it convenient for apartment hunting and exploring.

In fact, one of the biggest advantages of this hostel is its modern design and comfort-focused features. For example, many of the beds in each dorm include:

• Privacy curtains for better sleep
• Individual reading lights
• Charging outlets
• Personal lockers for security
• Clean and modern shared spaces
• A rooftop terrace where you can relax after a long day

The only downside to this hostel that's important to note is that it's very popular, so you'll need to make your reservation early if you want a bed. September and October are especially busy months since so many students and language assistants arrive in Madrid at this time.

2. The Central House Madrid Lavapiés (Best Modern Hostel)

The Central House Madrid Lavapies is another great place to stay after orientation if you're looking for a hostel that's modern and stylish with a comfortable atmosphere. Located in the Lavapies neighborhood, the hostel puts you in one of Madrid's most diverse and lively neighborhoods, giving you access to so many restaurants, cafes, museums, and metro stations. Its central location is even convenient for apartment hunting and exploring.

In fact, one thing that makes this hostel stand out from all the rest is its design and social atmosphere. The common areas are spacious and well-designed, making it easy to relax, work remotely, or meet other people. Some other highlights include:

• Clean and well-maintained facilities
• Comfortable dorm rooms

The only downside to this hostel that's important to note is that it is in a very active neighborhood, meaning it will feel busy all the time, especially at night. So, if you do plan on staying here, I highly recommend packing earplugs just in case.

3. The Hat Madrid (Best Central Location)

The Hat Madrid is another great place to stay after orientation if you're looking for a hostel that's right in the center of the city. Located in the Centro district, The Hat Madrid is a few minutes from Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, which is the heart of Madrid. 

In fact, its even known for its clean facilities and its popular rooftop bar, giving guests a place to relax and socialize while enjoying views of the city. Some other features of this hostel include:

• Comfortable rooms
• Easy access to metro stations

The only downside to this hostel that's important to note is that it tends to be slightly more expensive than other hostels due to its location and amenities. However, many guests say it's worth the price.

4. LATROUPE Prado Hostel Madrid (Best Capsule Style Hostel)

The LATROUPE Prado Hostel Madrid is another great place to stay after orientation if you're looking for a hostel that offers extra privacy without breaking the bank. Located near the city's famous museum district, this hostel is great for culture lovers who want to be near Madrid's art and history. The neighborhood is also well-connected by metro, making it convenient for apartment hunting and exploring.

In fact, one thing that makes this hostel stand out from all the rest is its pod-style beds. Each pod provides a small private space with a curtain, reading light, and power outlet, allowing you to sleep, work, or relax in comfort in a shared dorm. The hostel also has common areas where you can meet other people, making it a balanced choice for people who prefer privacy and occasional social interaction.

The only downside to this hostel that's important to note is that their dorm spaces are smaller than traditional hostels, so it may feel tight if you have a lot of luggage you're bringing with you. Therefore, if you do end up staying here, it might be best to put some of your luggage in a storage locker.

5. Bluesock Hostels Madrid (Best for Female Travelers)

The Bluesock Hostels Madrid is another great place to stay after orientation if you're looking for a hostel that's solo female traveler-friendly with extra privacy and security. Located near Gran Via, this hostel has a central location, making it convenient for apartment hunting and exploring.

In fact, one thing that makes this hostel stand out from all the rest is its female dorm options that come with privacy-focused features such as bed curtains, personal reading lights, and lockers. The common areas are also clean and modern, giving guests a comfortable space to relax and meet other people.

The only downside to this hostel that's important to note is that because of its popularity, it can be hard to reserve a bed during its peak months. So, if you're really interested in this hostel, I highly recommend booking a bed ahead of time.

6. Generator Madrid (Best Social Hostel)

The Generator Madrid is another great place to stay after orientation if you're looking for a hostel that's known for its stylish design and lively atmosphere. Located near Gran Via, this hostel puts you close to Madrid's nightlife, shopping and transportation, making it convenient for apartment hunting and exploring.

In fact, one thing that makes this hostel stand out from all the rest is its social environment. The Generator often hosts multiple activites and events for guests to meet people. Its modern facilities, trendy decor and welcoming vibe also make it easy to meet other travelers.

The only downside that's important to note about this hostel is the fact that it can feel busy and noisy in the common areas since so many people are socializing. So, if you do end up staying at this hostel, I highly recommend bringing earplugs as well.

My Personal Ranking 

Overall, if I had to rank the hostels I just recommended, this is how I would do it:

1. Best overall → 2060 Newton
2. Best location → The Hat
3. Best modern hostel → Central House
4. Best privacy beds → Latroupe Prado
5. Best social → Generator
6. Best for women → Bluesock

As for which hostel I would personally choose to stay at, I would have to say that it would be the 2060 Newton Hostel, mostly because I'm a sucker for a nice rooftop, and it's cheaper than The Hat. Ultimately, my biggest tip for booking a hostel in Madrid is to reserve your bed as soon as possible, especially if you're arriving in September or October. Hostels in Madrid get very busy during those months, and I would hate for you to miss out on any of the hostels I recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions: Hostels in Madrid

How much do hostels cost in Madrid?
Hostels in Madrid usually cost around 25-60 euros a night, depending on the season and location.

Are hostels in Madrid safe?
Yes, hostels in Madrid are typically safe, especially high-rated hostels in central locations.

Should I stay in a hostel when moving to Madrid?
Yes, it's quite normal for language assistants to stay in a hostel while they're looking for housing.