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Hostal el Catalán is to hostals what Levi's is to jeans. It's an established brand that has so passed the test of time that there's no longer question as to its consistency or value. It's just that El Catalán is a family name, and neither a franchise nor a snazzy redesign is in the cards.

The two-story hostal, sitting above the main drag leading from Gran Via to Chueca, is three generations old. In stark contrast are the hip stores (including Levi's) lining the street below, and Mercado Fuencarral, the shopping mall for young designers and people with pink hair. It's the West Village of Madrid.

Forget about a computerized reception or Internet reservations. Book the old-fashioned way and call one of the three siblings who staff the phones.

Of the hostal's 20 rooms, five have balconies. Room sizes are larger than the Madrid standard and are reminiscent of a boys' guestroom, with checkered quilts, a wood desk and chair. Everything matches. There's even a table for playing cards or eating. All rooms are outfitted with a small refrigerator for budget meals; alas, there is no communal kitchen. For their sheer size, quadruple rooms are the real bargains.

Bathrooms are kept clean and stocked with towels. There's no laundry service, but one of Madrid's few coin-operated Laundromats is downstairs.

» Elizabeth Gorman

Note: This hotel was visited by a EuroCheapo editor and is recommended based on cleanliness, location, price and overall quality. EuroCheapo did not charge this hotel to be listed.

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Hotel Address

Calle de Horteleza 17
Chueca, Madrid, Spain

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