Backpacking in Madrid and Surrounding Villages

Grand and vibrant Madrid ranks as one of the very best European city destinations. Aside form the wealth of tourist sights on offer, there's an appealing air to Madrid - one of justified grandness and pleasing sociability - that ensures travelers keep visiting and returning by the droves.

Consequently, backpacking in Madrid is not a terribly taxing challenge. There are plenty of tourist provisions here, and with a kicking nightlife at hand to complement the daytime things to do, Madrid promises to keep you in its clutches all round the clock.

The only issue for budget travelers can be cost, but this need not sound a death knell for potential visitors. Below you'll find a rundown of Madrid youth hostels that offer affordable and pleasant accommodation, and some suggestions on major sightseeing points of interest that won't break the bank.

Hostels

The range of hostels in Madrid truly reflects the city's reputation as a Mecca of European city travel. You can just about find anything here, from large-scale party hostels to more intimate and cozy Bed and Breakfast type places.

The ever-popular Alberge Juvenil Madrid is a great example of a Madrid hostel where affordable fun comes high on the list of priorities. Stylish and well-equipped (there's even a gym!), beds here come at an extremely reasonable rate. Located in the city center, this is a party-happy place, and you'll find plenty of fellow backpackers looking for a memorable night out.

For something a little more chilled, Hostal Marlasca, in Madrid's alluring Old Town, is a great option. Small and eminently comfortable, it's the type of place where the staff get to know guests personally, and are always at hand to provide valuable information on what to do while in the city.

Other excellent and cheap hostels in Madrid include the Hostel One Centro, the Hostel Puerta Del Sol and the Stadmadrid.

Sightseeing

As with sightseeing in most major European cities, things can get a little expensive in Madrid. However, there are some major tourist sights that you can enjoy for little (if no) money, with the Golden Art Triangle in particular proving an abiding hit among budget travelers to the city.

While access to the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza art museums normally comes at a price, each open their doors free to the public on one specified day of the week. These museums offer some of the very best art collections to be seen anywhere in the world, and the opportunity to get in without paying is not to be sniffed at.

If the bustle and toil of Madrid starts to get too much, a trip to the Parque del Retiro is an excellent calming option. This massive urban park is full of green space and strolling couples; what's more, entry is totally free to all.

Day Trips

For travelers looking to leave Madrid for a day's sightseeing, there are many small and welcoming villages just a short bus or train ride away. These are great places in which to experience Spanish life as it goes about its daily business (best viewed from an outdoor restaurant while savoring a three-course Menu del Dia lunch, of course!).
Towns such as Colmenar (set among breathtaking scenery), Mejorada (check out the home-made Cathedral) and Avila (where you'll find a visually stunning fortress) also offer great day trips from the city of Madrid.

Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for Hostelbookers, Jonny Cooper did a backpacking tour of Spain, he checked out a variety of the country's budget accommodation, including a number of Madrid hostel