Picking a place to stay in Mexico City can seem like a daunting task. After all, Mexico City is one of the largest urban areas in the whole world. Fortunately, the best lodging options are scattered in a handful of central neighborhoods that are easily accessible. Centro Histórico, Roma, Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Polanco, Juárez, and Coyoacán are the areas where you should start your search for accommodation if you’re planning to tackle many of the city’s attractions. Every neighborhood has a wide array of options for all budgets, so here’s a short list of our favorite places to stay in Mexico City.
Hotels
Photo: Nima
Nima Local House Hotel — Nima is a charming boutique hotel situated in an old restored house in Roma. It only has four rooms, which guarantees personal attention and excellent service. The hotel has several guest experience packages available that range from taking a tour in Roma to personalized cooking classes and massage sessions in its little spa. You can even book the whole hotel if you contact them in advance.
Condesa DF — Set in a neoclassical building, this hotel is a charming place to stay in Condesa, Mexico City’s hippest neighborhood. By staying here, you’re within walking distance of renowned parks, restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s also a popular hangout due to its great rooftop bar, where you can enjoy the view over Condesa and the neighboring Chapultepec Forest.
Photo: Downtown Mexico
Downtown Mexico — The Palace of the Counts of Miravalle is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings and it’s also the location of this boutique hotel. Its colonial architecture with modern detail makes it a particularly original lodging option in the city. Downtown Mexico — as the name implies — is just a couple blocks away from Zócalo and within walking distance of museums, restaurants, and nightclubs. In the same building, you’ll also find shopping and eating options by boutique pop-ups.
Luxury Hotels
Photo: Las Alcobas
Las Alcobas — Las Alcobas is a design masterpiece and its focus on luxury and attention to detail will surely top your expectations. The hotel is in the middle of upscale Polanco, just a couple blocks away from Chapultepec Forest, the National Museum of Anthropology, and some of CDMX’s best shopping and dining options. Las Alcobas is also home to two of the best restaurants in the area, Dulce Patria and Anatol.
St. Regis Mexico City — The St. Regis is located in Paseo de la Reforma, one of the city’s most attractive avenues. The views of the city from the hotel’s terrace are unbeatable and if you’re there at the right time of year, you can enjoy front row seats to events such as the Pride parade and the Day of the Dead celebrations. The St. Regis is within walking distance of Polanco, Chapultepec, Zona Rosa, and a just a short bus ride from Centro Histórico.
Photo: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico/Facebook
Gran Hotel Ciudad de México — Located in front of Mexico City’s main square, this hotel is the most iconic lodging option in the city. Gran Hotel is situated in a historical building, the origins of which can be traced back to the 16th century. The impressive lobby — with a Tiffany crystal dome and vintage elevators — is a highlight of Mexico City, and its terrace offers an amazing view.
Hostels
Photo: Hostel Home México/Facebook
Home — This backpacker hostel is set in a turn of the century house in the middle of Roma, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. Home is a small, cozy space, famous for its friendly staff and guests, which makes it a great option for the solo traveler. It’s in a highly walkable and bike-friendly area of the city, full of restaurants, art galleries, museums, and nightlife options. It’s also close to major CDMX attractions like Chapultepec Forest, the National Museum of Anthropology, and Paseo de la Reforma.
Photo: Casa San Ildefonso
Casa San Ildefonso — Casa San Ildefonso is located in the middle of Centro Histórico and close to some of Mexico City’s biggest attractions, like the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and Templo Mayor. Casa San Ildefonso has a charming, traditional vibe, with two sunny patios and diverse room options available for affordable rates. It’s simple, elegant, and very Mexican.
Cuija Coyoacán — If you’ve been to Mexico City a few times, then you’ve probably stayed in the neighborhood of Coyoacán. This area has kept itself away from the modernity of the city and it’s the perfect spot if you need some peace in the middle of a big metropolis. Cuija has a similar vibe with quiet rooms, green areas, and a great terrace where you can easily spend every single evening of your stay. The hostel is near the Frida Kahlo Museum and just a few minutes away from Coyoacán’s main square and garden. And despite the neighborhood’s tranquility, restaurants and nightlife options are plentiful.
Airbnbs
Photo: Airbnb
Lovely and sunny apartment in Roma Norte — If you’re traveling solo and looking to boost your Mexico City experience through the knowledge of a local host, Martha’s apartment could be a great option for you. You’ll basically be Martha’s roommate, sharing her spacious, brightly-colored apartment, which happens to be in Roma, a perfect base for exploring Mexico City’s highlights.
Historic Edificio Condesa — Edificio Condesa is a charming turn of the century building near Chapultepec and within walking distance from Roma and Polanco. This second-floor apartment isn’t just a great place to sleep; it also offers complimentary services like airport transportation and breakfast at the local Café Fiona.
Photo: Airbnb
Gallery Loft in Centro Histórico — This spacious loft is perfect for families or small groups. It’s located on Madero, the main walkable street that connects all the major sights in Centro Histórico. The loft is surrounded by some of Mexico City’s most impressive architecture, with great entertainment, nightlife, and dining options just steps away from the front door. Guests also have access to the building’s beautiful roof terrace.