We loved Hotel Europa!! It’s a few steps from Puerta del Sol with cafe across the street, very nice restaurant inside, pharmacy and Apple Store around the corner. The front desk staff was wonderful. They helped us interpret the map directions on our phones and never steered us wrong. We were able to walk almost everywhere we went, but the subway station is also very close by. There was a little noise because of proximity to Sol, but it didn’t keep us up. Taxis/cars can’t come right to the hotel. There are only pedestrian streets. Taxis can come within about 2 blocks, though, so as long as you’re prepared, it’s fine. Plaza Mayor is very nearby and it’s about a 5 minute walk to Gran Via. Tons of great restaurants, cafes, bakeries, & ice cream stores very nearby. It was an ideal place for our Madrid stay and we’ll definitely stay there again!