Madrid is loud. If you’ve ever stayed right on the Gran Vía, you know exactly what I mean—the constant hum of mopeds, the late-night revelry that sounds like it’s happening right in your bathroom, and the relentless pulse of a city that truly refuses to sleep. But then there’s Chamberí. Specifically, there’s the Hotel Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid, a spot that manages to feel central without the chaos.
Honestly, a lot of people still call it the NH Alonso Martínez. It makes sense. It was a staple of the NH portfolio for years. But after a massive 2023 renovation and a rebrand under the Avani flag, the vibe has shifted from "reliable corporate base" to something way more interesting.
The hotel sits inside a gorgeous 1919 building. You’ve got the classic wrought-iron balconies that make every Instagram photo look like a postcard, but once you step inside, the "old-world" feeling gets a punchy, modern makeover.
The "Yellow Cat" and Why Details Matter
When you walk into the lobby, the first thing you’ll notice is a giant yellow cat. In Madrid, locals are nicknamed gatos (cats). It’s a nod to the soldiers who climbed the city walls with cat-like agility during the 11th-century conquest, and the hotel leans into this hard. You’ll see cat motifs on the headboards and local expressions printed on the walls.
It’s stylish. Very.
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The renovation didn't just swap out the curtains. They completely reimagined the 111 rooms. If you’re a fan of high ceilings and natural light, the Deluxe rooms are where you want to be. They kept the original stained-glass windows in some of them, which, combined with the grey and dark blue color palette, feels incredibly sophisticated.
I’ve seen some reviews mentioning that the walls can be a bit thin. That’s the reality of a building from 1919. It’s the trade-off for staying in an architectural gem. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room facing the inner courtyard rather than the street.
Beyond the Bed: The Pantry and AvaniFit
One of the biggest changes from the old NH days is "The Pantry." It’s basically a high-end deli in the lobby where you can grab a salad, a sandwich, or a decent coffee at 2:00 AM. It fits the "Avani" brand perfectly—targeting people who might be working remotely or just don't want a formal sit-down meal every time they’re hungry.
What about the gym?
The AvaniFit space isn't huge, but it's functional. They’ve focused on cardio and functional training. If you’re the type who needs a squat rack and 100lb dumbbells, you might be disappointed, but for a quick morning sweat before hitting the Prado, it does the trick.
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Let’s Talk Location (The Real Secret)
The Hotel Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid is literally steps from the Alonso Martínez metro station. This is a big deal because three different lines (L4, L5, and L10) intersect there. You can get to the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, the shopping district of Salamanca, or the Royal Palace in about ten minutes.
But you should really just walk.
- Chueca: 5 minutes away. This is the heart of Madrid’s LGBTQ+ scene and home to some of the best nightlife in Europe.
- Salesas: Right next door. It’s the "it" neighborhood for boutiques and concept stores.
- Paseo de la Castellana: A short stroll if you’re in town for business.
Most tourists flock to Sol or Plaza Mayor. That’s a mistake. Staying at the Hotel Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid puts you in a neighborhood where Madrileños actually live. You’ll find better coffee, cheaper tapas, and fewer people trying to sell you plastic flamenco dancers.
The Breakfast Factor
Is it worth the extra 20 Euros? Usually, I say skip hotel breakfasts and hit a local bakery. Here, it’s a tougher call. They do a massive spread that includes traditional churros and hot chocolate. The omelets are made to order, and the loose-leaf tea selection is surprisingly good.
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If you’re a "breakfast is the most important meal" person, you’ll be happy. If you just want a quick croissant, walk three minutes to any pastelería in Chamberí and save your money for dinner.
Things to Keep in Mind
No hotel is perfect, and the Hotel Avani Alonso Martínez Madrid—formerly NH Alonso Martínez—is no exception.
- Parking is tricky. It’s central Madrid. They have some limited spots, but they’ll run you about €30 a day. If you’re driving, be prepared for narrow streets and stress.
- Room Size. Some of the single rooms are, well, cozy. If you’re traveling with two big suitcases, you might feel a bit cramped in the entry-level categories.
- Pet Policy. They are very pet-friendly (up to 25kg), but it costs €30 per night.
The hotel strikes a balance that's hard to find in Madrid. It’s upscale but not stuffy. It’s historic but works perfectly for someone who needs fast Wi-Fi and a USB-C port by the bed. Whether you knew it as the NH or are discovering the Avani for the first time, it remains one of the smartest places to stay in the city if you want to feel like a local rather than a tourist.
Making the Most of Your Stay
If you decide to book, skip the standard tourist maps. Ask the front desk about "Wine Gogh"—it's a neon-paint-and-wine workshop nearby that the hotel often recommends. It’s weird, fun, and very Madrid. Also, take advantage of the 12:00 PM checkout. In a city where the "afternoon" doesn't start until 4:00 PM, that extra hour of sleep is a godsend.
For dinner, don't just eat at the hotel. Wander into the Salesas district. Look for a place with a crowded bar and paper napkins on the floor—that’s where the good stuff is.
Next Steps for Your Madrid Trip
- Check the current rates for the Avani Room vs. the Deluxe Room; the price gap is often small but the space difference is huge.
- Map out the walking route from the hotel to the Sorolla Museum—it's one of Madrid’s best-kept secrets and only 10 minutes away.
- Download the Metro de Madrid app to navigate the three lines at your doorstep.