It’s been reported that Virginia Woolf was among the first luminaries to discover this hotel in the middle of the old city’s bar and restaurant district. Since then, the Inglés has attracted more than its share of less well-known artists and writers…but nevermind! Travelers on a tight budget will have much to appreciate here.

Half of the 58 rooms were tiled and painted in 2005, and new bathrooms were installed, but the decor still remains outmoded, shabby ornate with its outdated lobby as well. That being said, the place is perfect for frugal travelers looking to spend much more time outside their accommodations than inside.

To note: the suites, which are double rooms with a salon, are a bargain. You’re offered twice the space for what you’d pay for a standard double elsewhere. Also, if your room faces Calle Echegaray, you can get an unique aerial view of the medieval quarter, which is all red tiles and ramshackle gables. Rates from €75 to €130.

Hotel Inglés
Echegaray 8, Santa Ana, 28014
Madrid, Spain
Neighborhood: Barrio de las Letras
Metro: Sevilla
Telephone: 91-429-6551

Nearby attractions: Prado Museum, Thyssen Museum, Botanical Garden, Reina Sofía Modern Art Museum, Cathedral of the Almudena, San Fernando Fine Arts Museum, Royal Palace