We visited Madrid and Sevilla in November 2005. In Madrid, we stayed at two hotels: Hotel Plaza Mayor and Hotel Europa. We really liked Hotel Plaza Mayor, it was affordable (75 Euros per night before tax and breakfast), charming, and had a good location near Plaza Mayor. Rooms were a little on the small side. The hotel staff was very friendly and helpful. We did have some street noise on a Saturday night. I think they might have rooms that do not overlook the street (ours overlooked a small street), but I would ask them to be sure.

My advice would be to avoid Hotel Europa, which is right on Plaza del Sol. It is much larger, and didn't have the charm that Hotel Plaza Mayor had, and was undergoing major renovations at the time of our stay. We were glad we only stayed one night there.

In Sevilla, if you decide to stay in a hotel, I would very highly recommend Hotel Amadeus, which is in the heart of the Barrio de Santa Cruz. We stayed at La Musica de Sevilla, which is essentially part of Hotel Amadeus. We payed 90 Euros for a double. Our room was large, very comfortable, and quiet. Staff were very helpful and friendly.

Enjoy your trip! Mark in Philadelphia