This apartment is in a great location, right next to the Royal Palace of Madrid, amidst its surrounding gardens. Lots of people stroll by the palace during the day and in the evening, giving the area a warm and lively feeling. There are lots of restaurants and cafes nearby, and the Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel are within a short and pleasant 10-minute walk.
The apartment has been renovated throughout and has a nice shower and kitchen. It's half a flight of stairs below street level, but its windows open up to a small inner courtyard which is has the same lower ground level as the apartment, so you can get some airflow and sunlight through those windows. You might hear the neighbors a bit at times, but overall it was a comfortable place to stay.
The host helped me bring my stuff in and showed me the building's rooftop terrace, which has a beautiful view. She was quick to respond to all of my inquiries and made me feel welcome.