It's all the little details, from the star-spangled shower curtains to the super friendly staff, that make any day at the Acapulco a sunshiny one.

This cozy, tastefully decorated two-star is the perfect place for those who don't want to travel very far from their room to be near the action.

The friendly Angela runs this 10-room show. Rooms and bathrooms ... are absolutely spotless, and the shiny white bedspreads and wooden furniture are new.

Super cheap and located directly on Puerta del Sol, the Riesco provides a nice, air-conditioned stay near the heart of Madrid.

The Hostal Cruz-Sol has it all—rock-bottom prices, comfy rooms, and a cool and convenient location. It overlooks the Plaza de Santa Cruz and is just a minute from Puerta del Sol.

A. Nebrija is a small, six-room family establishment we regard to be the best bargain in Madrid, complete with Old Spanish charm.

Hotel San Lorenzo, perched just off Gran Via, impresses to the nines with its country style and bargain rates.

Gonzalo won't disappoint for location or facilities. Its low rates never fluctuate, even during high season.

Colors Hostel is run by a vivacious Argentinean man and is comprised of 9 rooms. Four rooms have balconies that overlook Fuencarral, a trendy street strung with designer clothing shops leading all the way to Chueca.

Hostal Puerta del Sol is a gay-friendly hostal with a great attitude and an unbeatable perch just above Sol.

The attractive two-star Hostal Barrera sits long Calle Atocha, within walking distance to the Museum Triangle and Atocha station.

La Fontana undercuts its two-star bracket contemporaries with friendly service and design savvy.

The mammoth Hotel Asturias, located one block east of Puerta del Sol, offers a whopping 175 rooms, almost all with private balconies overlooking the street.

Located between Puerta de Sol and El Museo Prado, the Lisboa is certainly clean and comfortable, thanks to the friendly proprietor.

Renovated rooms have their own personal computer with Internet access. Plus, they are f-r-e-s-h, with new doors, new beds, big TVs, AC...

Providing 46 rooms along the central Calle Principe, the Villar is noteworthy for its rock-bottom prices and nifty wrought-iron elevator.

The Hostal Persal is an 80-room Madrid classic, where an appealing minimalist aesthetic sets the tone.

In our opinion, the four-star Hotel Meninas is the most tasteful non-chain establishment in Madrid—UN representatives and Gay Pride visitors agree.

The Hotel Casón del Tormes is a lovely three-star hotel, offering 63 spacious and attractive rooms.

For travelers with wide eyes and a slim budget, Hostal Residencia Helena is a good choice for its high-rise perch.