where to stay in madrid?
 

first time in madrid. which of these areas would be safe (travelling with 2 young children), walking distance to most sights and non-dodgy at night?

1. plaza de espana
2. plaza de la cortes
3. monumento a emilio castelar

thanks!!

Stay by Plaza de Las Cortes.

All are safe areas and Madrid is a safe city. Plaza de España is fairly central, but sort of on the periphery of tourist areas, Emilio Castelar is quite far from the main tourist area (but quite convenient for many businesses). Cortes area is very central and a good area to explore from.

Had a nice stay at ayres gran hotel colon.

Not too far from El retiro park....

Central Madrid is extremely safe at all hours. I recommend Plaza de España, as it is within walking distance to many of the most important landmarks and it has a great number of new hotels. Enjoy!

thanks for all the suggestions! keep them coming!

While I doubt you will be out that late (past midnight) Puerto del Sol and Calle de la Montera can be a bit sketchy late. Ladies of the evening and their handlers. Enough of a crowd of people that I wouldn't consider it unsafe, just a bit dodgy.

I happen to live near Plaza de España and it's a plus location!

I've stayed at the Hotel Sterling Gran Via near the Plaza Espana. Close to metro stops, It didn't require a transfer of lines from the airport, there was a bakery down the street, a chinese restaurant across the street, and close to eateries and stores by a few blocks.

I stayed last time in Radisson blu https://www.radissonblu.com/es/prado..._Search_c_DLBi
Using my Carlson points, great location and incredible rooms.

That would definitely require a change of lines to get to the airport.

Line 8 to Line 10 from what I remember. Pretty easy if you don't have lots of luggage, though.

no more than 30 minutes in total

With 2 young children and luggage I would take the flat fee taxi over the subway.