AC Hotel Carlton Madrid by Marriott

Five stars for the price. Not a luxury hotel by any means but perfectly comfortable. I have stayed in both a regular room and an upgraded room (robes/slippers/coffee maker/bath tub) and both are fine. I appreciated being able to adjust the AC in the middle of summer! The rooms are comfortable and efficient. Plenty of storage. Fridge/safe/iron/work table. Modern amenities. Bathroom is small but functional. Check in was easy. Location is good for Atocha and Reina Sofia. Breakfast was decent and plentiful. Didn’t use the gym but ran around El Retiro as it is close. My only issue is the full bar that does not make cocktails. Great selection of liquor but no mixed drinks offered (only gin and tonic), odd. One of the better options in the area.

Nice small rooms, clean. You can hear the people next door and the elevator fits only one person with a bag or two smaller folks. Price is fine and location is close to the train station. The staff was polite when they asked my friend to not nap while waiting in the lobby but the lady screaming into her phone on while it was on speaker was accepted. They have an area they could have directed her to conduct business but making a scene in the lobby while conducting business is a allowed. So feel free to raise hell in the lobby!!

I recently stayed at Madrid AC Carlton and was surprised that it felt more like a three-star hotel rather than a four-star one. The rooms are quite small, and while the décor is fine, it’s nothing special—not boutique, not particularly stylish or upscale. One major downside is the lack of a true common area where guests can relax, chat, or work. The only space available is the restaurant area, but you’re required to purchase food or alcohol if you want to sit there eating/drinking, which feels restrictive compared to other hotels that offer more guest-friendly lounges. Lastly, I was able to hear the people above me checking in late and their shoe noises for a good amount of time before bedtime. Overall, it’s an okay stay if you just need a place to sleep, but if you’re expecting four-star amenities and atmosphere, you might be disappointed.