Where to stay

For the nighttime party scene, stay in Malasaña for its central location and all manner of pubs and clubs. Start the evening with a quiet dinner in one of the many up-and-coming restaurants, then dance until dawn at the disco. Another option of where to stay for great nightlife is Chueca, the heart of Madrid's gay scene and universally appealing for its cafés and clubs, day or night. Consider staying in Princesa, where students mingle with world travelers and music of all varieties - from EDM to pop and Latino - is played in laid-back lounges. For entertainment all week long, look for accommodations in the Literary Quarter, where everyone's tastes are met, thanks to the area's diverse musical offerings, theaters, dance clubs and cocktail bars.

Cultures collide in Lavapiés, a welcoming, gentrified neighborhood to stay in with a global feel and several vibrant festivals throughout the year, including an international tapas-centered one called Tapapiés. Book a hotel in nearby Huertas, once home to many of Spain's most famous authors and today where you'll find independent art galleries and shops among bohemian cafés and bars. To be close to Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art, stay in Barrio de las Letras, where Cervantes and Quevado once resided and where you'll find the Prado, Reina-Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums.

Traditional, well-loved restaurants are found alongside tiny tapas joints and locally owned eateries in Chamberí, the place to stay for an authentic local experience. Mingle with the madrileños as they enjoy an afternoon beer or shop for one-of-a-kind treasures along Calle de Fuencarral. For the best tapas and mojitos in the city, reserve a hotel in La Latina; the most choices for accommodations are along Calle Cava Baja, where you'll find restaurants for all budgets. Chueca may be best known as the heart of Madrid's gay scene, but it's also a great spot to stay for foodies. Numerous multicultural restaurants and the fresh produce of the Mercado de San Antóne bring locals of all persuasions to this lively neighborhood.

For first-time visitors to Madrid, Sol-Gran Via is the best place to book a hotel. This area, between Puerto del Sol and Gran Via, is the heart of tourist life in the city. These two main avenues are bustling day and night and within walking distance of top sightseeing museums and landmarks. Stay in the oldest barrio in the city, Austrias, for its stunning architecture, the grand Plaza Mayor, historic restaurants, Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral. Find a hotel in Argüelles if you're seeking a youthful, student vibe. From here, it's easy to visit the Temple of Debod and Plaza de España, and eat in any number of budget-friendly, delicious tapas restaurants.

Combing an old-world atmosphere with upscale boutiques, Salamanca is a favorite place to stay for shopping. Search for the latest fashions, then savor a leisurely lunch at one of the posh restaurants. Book accommodations along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, with its pedestrian lanes, luxury shops and al fresco dining. Consider a hotel in Puerta del Sol in the center of the city for big-name brands like H&M and Zara and department stores.