NH Embajada

This three-star hotel makes a great base for visiting Madrid, as it's easy to get from here to all the major sights in the old and new parts of the city. Its bedrooms are decorated in a bright, brash, modern style with lots of blue and lots of wood. You'll get good service and you'll find lots of lively bars and restaurants nearby, especially around Plaza de Santa Barbara. Try the Cervecer Santa Barbara, for example.