HOSTAL JOSEFINA-GRAN VIA, Madrid

Hostal Josefina-Gran Vía sits in the heart of Madrid's historic centre on the iconic Gran Vía, directly facing Plaza de Callao. Puerta del Sol is 400 metres away, Plaza Mayor is 600 metres, and the Royal Palace, Mercado San Miguel, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum are all within easy walking distance. The nearest airport is Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas, 13 km away; a taxi costs approximately 30 EUR. Atocha train station is 4 km, Chamartín is 6 km, and Méndez Álvaro bus station is 6 km. The free bus line 001 stops practically at the door, connecting to Atocha and other key points.

The accommodation includes twin, double, triple, and family rooms (with up to four single beds). All rooms have a private bathroom with shower, a flat-screen TV, wardrobe, safe deposit box, and tea and coffee making facilities. Room size is generally small, and the bathrooms are often described as very compact. Soundproofing between rooms is minimal, so noise from neighbours and the corridor can be an issue. Rooms with city views overlook Gran Vía or the square, but some have reported that building work scaffolding has obstructed the view. Air conditioning is present but may be centrally controlled, leading to variable temperatures. A kettle is provided upon request. Daily housekeeping is standard, though some stays have reported inconsistent cleaning.

Breakfast is served from 8:00 to 10:00 at the rooftop restaurant/bar (Sky44 or Bar 44) on the 10th floor, offering a fantastic view over Madrid. The menu offers a selection of set options, including toast, sandwiches, scrambled eggs, salads, or avocado toast, each served with coffee/tea and orange juice. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are available. Some stays report that the elevator only serves the 7th floor, requiring use of stairs to reach the 10th floor breakfast venue. The building also houses a sky bar, Ella Sky Bar Madrid, open to the public.

The hostel offers a 24-hour reception on the 7th floor, room service, a vending machine for snacks and drinks, and a safety deposit box (usage may charge). Daily housekeeping is provided. Luggage storage is available for an additional fee both before check-in and after check-out. Private check-in/check-out is offered. The property is accessed via a single, old elevator that serves multiple hotels in the building, leading to queues and long waits; climbing the stairs up to the 7th floor is common. The lift was reported non-functional for periods. A working elevator is present. All rooms require a keycard for electricity. CCTV operates in common areas. The entrance to the hostel is above the Five Guys restaurant and is described as hard to find.