Hostería del Laurel

Romantics have been dreaming at the Hosteria del Laurel since the 19th century. Situated near the magnificent baroque Hospital de los Venerables, the two-star hotel is as enchanting today as it was in 1844 with Don José Zorilla penned “Don Juan Tenorio” here.

Each of the Laurel’s 21 guestrooms is named after a historic figure or a character from Zorilla’s play. Décor is simple: standard wooden nightstands, floral or solid orange bedspreads and (of course!) writing desks. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, safe and telephone. Some rooms have balconies facing the hospital or a side street (ask ahead). All bathrooms are private and offer hydromassage showers.

Hallway sitting areas are furnished with wicker furniture and glass tables. The hotel’s famous restaurant serves local cuisine, including a delicious assortment of tapas. And the outdoor caf&eactue; on Plaza de Los Venerables is the ideal place to craft your own romantic tale over a glass (or several) of cool sangria.

Students from "La Tuna" university also often stay here. Cloaked in black capes, they serenade the streets until dawn to raise funds for school, just as they've done for centuries. It doesn't get any more Spanish than that.

Breakfast is sometimes included in the room rate (check when booking). The entire hotel is non-smoking and Wi-Fi is available for free in the reception area.