Hotel Liabeny

Occupying a large brick building with an off-white marble entrance and the hotel name spelled out in golden letters, the Liabeny is as classic inside as it looks from the outside. Elegant wood paneling with moldings cover every inch of the lobby, which also features beige marble floors and a long, L-shaped front desk topped with golden panels. The vibe, however, is more casual than it might appear at first sight -- guests wearing shorts and T-shirts are as common as business travelers in suits and ties. During our visit in fall 2018, the hotel was in the process of updating its rooms (the ground, first, and second of eight floors had already been fully renovated), giving the property a more modern feel, with a softer gray-and-white palette and cleaner lines. This fresher look had not extended to any of the common areas, though, which still kept their elegant, more classic style of wood and marble finishes. The combination of an excellent location within easy walking distance of all major attractions and competitive rates make the Liabeny a great pick for travelers shopping around for a hotel in the heart of the action. However, those seeking something more contemporary in this price range have many options to choose from, including Hotel Regina, which features stylish rooms and a popular restaurant. Petit Palace Savoy Alfonso XII is a solid alternative for travelers wanting to stay within walking distance of some of Madrid’s top sights but not in the busy Sol-Gran Via area -- it is located across the street from Retiro Park and just a few blocks from El Prado Museum. Travelers wanting something more upscale may prefer the NH Collection Palacio de Tepa. 

Hotel Liabeny's location is as central as it gets, being less than a five-minute walk to both Puerta del Sol and Gran Via, two of the most tourist-friendly areas in central Madrid. This is a great base to explore the city center on foot, as all major attractions can be found within easy walking distance of the hotel, including Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and El Prado Museum -- each less than a 15-minute walk away. This location is also convenient for travelers wanting to explore other areas, as there are several bus stops and metro stations within a three-block radius, including Gran Via, Sol (one of Madrid’s main public transport hubs), and Callao. The airport is a 25-minute drive (or 40-minute train ride) away. The hotel can arrange private airport transfer services for a fee. 

Rooms at Hotel Liabeny come in two different styles: renovated units (Deluxe) have simple, contemporary decor in a soft gray-and-white color scheme with laminate floors, large padded headboards, and off-white textured walls. Non-renovated units, however, are done up in an old-fashioned style that feels more dated than classic due to heavy wooden furniture, brown carpets, and older striped curtains. Although almost opposites in terms of design, all rooms are equipped with the same amenities, including minibars, safes, and air-conditioning. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Rooms get good marks for cleanliness and size -- some can even fit a double sofa bed, and many have a separate living area.  Bathrooms also vary depending on when they were last renovated. The original bathrooms feature older brown counters that match the floor tiles, as well as big shower/tub combos with glass screens that can be fully closed. Renovated bathrooms are sleek and more appealing, with large walk-in rainfall showers, big white sinks, and lighter tiles. 

Located off the lobby, the cafe draws locals and guests alike with a casual vibe and big windows overlooking a square. Next door is the more formal dining room, an elegant space with wall moldings, pink tablecloths, small chandeliers, and a quieter, intimate vibe. A tasty buffet-style breakfast is served here for a fee every morning, complete with fresh fruit, cereal, meats, cheeses, pastries, and hot options. Lunch and dinner are a la carte, and offer local and international dishes, including fish, lamb, and shellfish. The bar is also located off the lobby and features a long bar, elegant wood paneling throughout, and lots of black leather seating. It is generally quiet during the day, but its good drink menu and speakeasy-style atmosphere make it more popular in the evening. The fitness center is compact but offers a good array of modern machines, including ellipticals, stationary bikes, and weight-training equipment. Guests can use the sauna free of charge but have to request the key at reception. On the downside, there's no full spa. There are also four meeting rooms, all featuring audiovisual equipment, and catering services can be arranged with the events team. The hotel also offers ample on-site underground parking for a fee.