CATS HOSTEL MADRID SOL, Madrid

The hostel sits on Calle Cañizares, a short walk from the Antón Martín metro stop (line 1, light blue), which connects directly to Atocha station (15 min walk) and Chamartín station (30 min by metro). From Atocha, a taxi costs €5-6 and takes 7 minutes. The location is within easy walking distance of Madrid's main tourist spots, including Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and the Museo del Prado. The surrounding area is packed with tapas bars, restaurants, and nightlife, but the immediate street is relatively quiet despite being central. For airport transfers, take metro line 8 from Nuevos Ministerios or a taxi (approx. €30 fixed price). A taxi from Sol is about 5 minutes and €5-6.

Room types range from twin/double and triple private rooms to 6-, 8-, 10-, and 12-bed shared dorms, including female-only dorms. Private bathrooms in triple rooms are located outside the bedroom but are private to the room; double/twin rooms may have an external private shower only. Dormitory rooms have shared bathroom facilities (separate male/female showers and toilets). Air conditioning is centrally controlled from reception, which can lead to temperature inconsistencies. Rooms on the upper floors tend to be quieter, while those facing the interior courtyard or near the kitchen experience more noise. Some private attic rooms have low ceilings and no windows, so booking a standard room is advised for better ventilation. Noise insulation between rooms is poor: thin walls and glass doors amplify sounds from hallways, the bar, and neighboring rooms. Beds are basic without privacy curtains, and mattresses vary in comfort (some find them firm, others too thin). Each bed includes a large electronic locker (half the size of a single bed) with an internal power outlet, a bedside light, and USB/classic plugs. Hairdryers are available on request.

The bar is the main social hub, offering Spanish sangria, Madrid beer, and special shots. It also serves bar food and snacks. Daily happy hour (additional charge) and themed dinner nights are available. Breakfast is a continental buffet (bread, pastries, hot drinks) served in a room that doubles as a coworking space after 10:15. The shared kitchen is small, equipped with a microwave, kettle, fridge, basic plates and cutlery, but has no oven or cooking hobs. Vending machines with drinks and snacks are located in the Red Room. For those wanting a full meal, many tapas bars and restaurants are within a 5-minute walk. The hostel also organizes tapas and wine experiences and port wine tours (in Porto) as paid activities.

The Cave is a unique chilled lounge by day that transforms into a club at night, hosting concerts, flamenco shows, speed dating, and pub crawls. The Red Room offers a big screen for movies, board games, a vending machine, and couches for relaxing. The courtyard is used for the famous sangria parties and other events. Free activities include karaoke, live music/performances, nightclub/DJ nights, local culture tours, and walking tours (tips-based). Paid options include happy hour, pub crawls, city tours (from €20), and themed dinner nights. The hostel is a social hub designed for meeting other travelers, with a focus on nightlife and group activities. There is no pool, spa, or gym on site.

Free high-speed WiFi is available in all areas, though connectivity can be unstable in some rooms. Laundry costs €4 to wash and €2 to dry. Luggage storage costs €2 per bag per day and can only be kept for one day maximum; it is free after checkout for private room bookings. Key card access is used for external doors, room doors, and lockers. A safety deposit box is available (free of charge). A computer for public use and free maps are provided. The kitchen is equipped with a microwave, kettle, fridge, and basic utensils but no oven or hob. Housekeeping cleans rooms daily, but guests must vacate the room during cleaning. The 24-hour reception allows for late arrivals (notify if arriving after 02:00). The hostel is wheelchair accessible with a lift (though slow) and non-smoking throughout. Cash payments are accepted. A €10 deposit is required for the key card, refunded upon return. Guests must be 18+ without a parent or guardian.