Mexico › Mexico City › Best Hotels
Published: December 6, 2024
My Favorite Mexico City Hotels
• 5-star: Las Alcobas
• 4-star: H21
• 3-star: NaNa Vida
• For families: H21
• For couples: Casa Polanco
• B&B: El Patio 77
Mexico City has a slew of high-end boutique hotels with unique features. Some suites at La Valise, have king-sized beds on tracks that can roll out onto a furnished terrace to sleep under the sky.
Mexico City Hotels – My Advice
- Hotels in Mexico City (often shortened to CDMX) are as incredible and surprising as the city itself. We love its sheer variety, from glamorous skyscrapers with penthouse suites to bespoke boutique hotels in colonial-era buildings to luxury B&Bs in quieter side streets.
- All of our favorite hotels are centrally located in wonderfully walkable colonias (neighborhoods) near historic sites, museums, restaurants, and even a little nightlife. CDMX has an excellent metro system for farther-flung destinations, with 12 rapid transit lines serving 195 stations- the second largest metro system in North America, coming only after New York City’s. For only 5 pesos (25 cents US) per trip, trains run at regular intervals from 5 a.m. to midnight (Mon – Fri), 6:00 a.m. to midnight (Sat), and from 7:00 to midnight (Sun). The metro is by far the cheapest way to get around. Taxis and Ubers are also plentiful and affordable, and they are great for returning to your room after a night out visiting the mezcalerias, lucha libre, or romantic dinner.
- Booking.com – the best website (and best prices) for booking Mexico City hotels.
- Our Favorite Luxury Hotels in Mexico City: Las Alcobas • St. Regis • Four Seasons
- Our Favorite Boutique Hotels in Mexico City: H21 Hospedaje Boutique • Casa Polanco • La Valise
- Our Favorite Hotels for Families in Mexico City: H21 Hospedaje Boutique • St. Regis • Hyatt Regency
- Our Favorite Hotels for Couples/Honeymoons in Mexico City: Casa Polanco • Las Alcobas • La Valise
- Our Favorite Midrange Hotels in Mexico City: Histórico Central • El Patio 77 • Zócalo Central
Mexico City Hotel Map
Hotels on Map: Las Alcobas • Casa Polanco • W Mexico City • JW Marriott • InterContinental Presidente • Hyatt Regency • El Patio 77 • Hilton Reforma • Histórico Central • Umbral • Gran • Zócalo Central • Catedral • The Ritz-Carlton • The St. Regis • Four Seasons • La Valise • Brick • NaNa Vida • Casa 9 Condesa • Octavia Casa • Casa Mali • Andaz • Mondrian • Hyatt Regency • H21 Hospedaje • Mansión Papilio
The Best Hotels in Mexico City
1. H21 Hospedaje Boutique – Coyoacán
Elegant, family-friendly boutique hotel in Frida Kahlo’s neighborhood of Coyoacàn, just steps from the twin main squares (Jardín Centenario and Plaza Hidalgo), artisan’s market, and Casa Azul. Built in 1928 by the owner’s grandfather, each spacious suite (named for a value like “wisdom” or “loyalty” rather than a number) offers a unique layout and bespoke decor. Suites have one king or two queen beds; some add kitchenettes, separate living rooms, private terraces, and sofabeds or Murphy beds. The largest sleeps up to four guests.
2. Casa Polanco – Polanco
Romantic boutique hotel set in a Spanish Revival building furnished with contemporary Mexican art and meticulously curated antiques. All suites have high ceilings, marble bathrooms, and fine art paintings. Most have one king-sized bed (one has two queens), some have private terraces, and one is wheelchair accessible. Luxe facilities include a small spa, a 24-hour gym, a comfort food restaurant (breakfast and afternoon tea included), and a library lounge with an honesty bar. Beautiful location on leafy Parque Lincoln, a short walk to the city’s best restaurants, fashion houses, art galleries, and nightlife, especially along the renowned shopping street.
3. Las Alcobas – Polanco
Five-star boutique hotel with a holistic spa and a farm-to-table, gourmet restaurant. The Clef d’Or concierge team excels at tailoring excursions and experiences according to guests’ needs and interests. Refined rooms and suites feature one king or two queen beds dressed in Italian linens, spa-inspired bathrooms with jetted rain showers and bidets, and twice-daily housekeeping. Suites add separate living rooms; many have private terraces. Breakfast is always included with each stay. Located on Avenida Presidente Masaryk, surrounded by high-end dining, shopping, and cultural sites. Adults-only (open to guests ages thirteen and older).
4. La Valise – Roma
All-suite boutique hotel in the heart of bohemian Roma, teeming with cutting-edge restaurants, trendy nightlife, hipster cafés, and contemporary art galleries. Set in a 1920s building, each suite is different in size and layout, but all are designed with couples in mind and offer one king-sized bed, separate showers and tubs, and dual vanities in the bathrooms. Some suites add projector TVs, kitchenettes, or private balconies. Top-tier suites have whimsical features like outdoor clawfoot bathtubs or beds that roll out onto spacious terraces. The ground floor café offers all-day breakfast, lunch, and French pastries; breakfast is included in the room rates.
5. The St. Regis – Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Family-friendly luxury hotel with an indoor pool, indulgent spa, indoor swimming pool, and, of course, the brand’s renowned butler service in every room category. Each of its five upscale restaurants serves a different cuisine, including Mexican, French, and Asian. There’s also a posh coffee house and swanky bar on site. Families can enjoy thoughtful amenities and services, including a kids’ club for ages 5 to 11, board games, story times, a roaming candy cart, and in-suite “glamping.” Located in the business district, Colonia Cuauhtémoc, the hotel is mere steps from hot restaurants serving a range of international fare, the landmark Angel of Independence, and the sprawling Bosque de Chapultepec park and its impressive castle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Pet friendly.
6. Four Seasons – Juárez
A five-star urban oasis, the hacienda-style Four Seasons wraps around a serene courtyard garden in the tree-lined colonia Juarez. The hotel’s gastronomy program features coastal Mexican cuisine, an immersive omakase restaurant, a creative craft cocktail lounge, and a high-end Italian restaurant with the largest selection of Italian wines in the nation. Facilities include an outdoor heated pool and a full-service spa. Rooms and suites are incredibly spacious, beginning at 50 square meters, all with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble bathrooms with soaking tubs and separate showers, many with private terraces, separate living rooms, dining rooms, walk-in closets, or dressing rooms.
7. Histórico Central – Centro Histórico
Amazing boutique hotel in a 300-year-old building in the city’s historic heart. Rooms tend toward the smaller side, but all have pillow menus and coffee makers, and some have a king-sized bed and a private balcony or terrace. The best perk is its Café Central, a 24-hour restaurant offering free beer (yes, you read that right), non-alcoholic drinks, and food – not just snacks but real meals: sandwiches, wraps, salads, specialty coffees, and bottled water – all made fresh to order. A buffet breakfast is always included in the room rate, along with free walking tours, free bicycles, and free parking. Incredible value for money in a wonderfully walkable location near the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
8. Gran Hotel Ciudad de México – Centro Histórico
Five-star hotel inside the historic Mercantile Center, part of the Old Portal de Mercaderes (the buildings forming one side of the Zócalo and overlooking the square). The hotel has an appealing Neoclassical exterior and a lavish Art Nouveau interior, including its Tiffany ceiling, the largest stained glass work in the Americas (fourth largest worldwide). Rooms embody a classic, luxury style with one king or two queen beds, tufted headboards, and vibrant pops of color; suites add canopy beds and separate living rooms with sofabeds. The fifth-floor terrace restaurant offers panoramic views over the main square and seasonal Mexican fare, while the casual bistro serves light bites and snacks all day. Excellent location in the historic center on the Zócalo, mere steps from the Templo Mayor (ancient Aztec temple) and Metropolitan Cathedral.
9. Hyatt Regency Mexico City – Polanco
Luxury high-rise hotel with rooftop pickleball and tennis courts, a sun terrace, an indoor heated pool, and a wellness center. Reflecting its cosmopolitan Polanco location, dining here includes two Japanese restaurants (one traditional with sushi and one teppanyaki/fusion); a Latin grill house that melds Mexican, Argentinian, and Peruvian flavors; and a Mexican-European bakery with macarons, rustic breads, and delicate pastries. Rooms are all 28 square meters, most with king-sized beds, walk-in showers, and views of the city or Bosque de Chapultepec. Suites are more than double the size of the rooms and add living rooms, bathtubs with separate showers, and a few with dining rooms.
10. Octavia Casa – La Condesa
Polished boutique hotel owned by a Mexican fashion house. All six of its rooms and junior suites exude style with contemporary minimalist decor, clean lines, plush bedding, and plenty of natural light. All have one king-sized bed, walk-in showers, and coffee makers; some have Juliet balconies. The honesty bar in the lobby offers up beer, wine, and Mexican distillates in the evenings; breakfast is available on request. Incredible home base in La Condesa, an upscale residential neighborhood with a host of global, gourmet restaurants, cantinas, and street food near its leafy Parque Mexico. Easy access to Bosque de Chapultepec. Adults only (ages 12 and older).
11. El Patio 77 – San Rafael
Eco-chic B&B built in a lovingly restored 1890s mansion in the artsy, untouristy coloniaSan Rafael neighborhood. Old-fashioned elegance abounds with its checkerboard floors, dramatically curvy wooden staircase, and stained-glass skylight, while upcycled furniture, a retro kitchen, and cozy courtyards help keep the space homey. Rooms vary in style, layout, and size. They can have king or queen-sized beds, some with shared baths, and a few with Juliet balconies. Set a little off the beaten path from the city’s best-known attractions, El Patio 77 offers a more local experience in a residential neighborhood filled with contemporary art galleries, small theaters, and street food.
12. Hilton Reforma – Centro Histórico
Five-star high-rise hotel with a paddle court and lap pool on the roof; a second pool, sauna, and steam room in the spa; and a helipad, where yoga and cycling classes are also held. The hotel’s three restaurants each highlight a different aspect of Mexican food, while the lobby bar serves light bites and refreshments all day. Rooms have one king or two double beds, a neutral color palette, walk-in showers, and large windows overlooking the city and park. Suites have two sinks in the bathrooms; some add bathtubs. Delightful location in Centro Histórico, right across from Alameda Central (the city’s oldest public park), less than a 10-minute walk to the Palacio de Bellas Artes and Casa de los Azulejos, and less than a 20-minute walk to the Zócalo.
13. JW Marriott – Polanco
Refined luxury hotel in upscale Polanco right on Jardín Winston Churchill, across from the National Auditorium, and only a 10-minute walk to Bosque de Chapultepec. Dining is crowd-pleasing yet sophisticated, with Latin, American, and Italian cuisines represented. Facilities include an outdoor pool, organic spa, and 24-hour gym. Spacious rooms offer clean, modern design and decor with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble bathrooms. Suites add a separate living room and access to the executive lounge. Some add sofabeds, private terraces, and expansive city views.
14. Casa Mali – La Condesa
Boutique luxury hotel in an Art Deco building with a rooftop terrace and snug cocktail lounge. Ideal for longer stays, studios, and suites here all have kitchenettes, washers, and dryers. Larger suites have separate living rooms with sofabeds and sleep up to three guests. Tranquil location in residential La Condesa, right on Parque Mexico, and steps from excellent local and global dining.
15. The Ritz-Carlton – Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Five-star hotel in a contemporary glass skyscraper with a helipad, a fine dining restaurant, and a sky bar with sweeping views over the city and Bosque de Chapultepec. Spacious rooms and suites have large windows, sitting areas, and bathrooms with separate showers and soaking tubs; many have private terraces. Most room types are available with wheelchair access. Posh Colonia Cuauhtémoc address near hot dining and the city’s best museums: National Museum of Anthropology, Museum of Modern Art, Tamayo Museum (contemporary art), Chapultepec Castle, and much more.
16. InterContinental Presidente – Polanco
Luxury high-rise with a host of gourmet international restaurants (Italian, French, Japanese, and more) accompanied by the largest wine cellar in all of Latin America. Rooms and suites offer Polanco or Chapultepec park views with one king or two queen beds, large windows, pillow menus, and sitting areas. Suites have separate living spaces and two sinks in the bathroom, some on higher floors, many with jetted baths, workout equipment, and access to an exclusive VIP lounge. Wonderful location near trendy dining and just steps from the National Auditorium.
17. Umbral – Centro Histórico
Art Deco-era luxury boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and jacuzzi, two art galleries, and a mini cinema. Incredibly stylish rooms play with light and dark in their design and decor. Guests will find record players in each room (there is a lending library of vinyl available at reception). Suites have two sinks in their bathrooms; some have Juliet balconies or indoor balconies opening toward the hotel’s hanging garden. Five restaurants and bars serve fine and casual fare, Mexican and American favorites, craft cocktails, and regional wines, along with two chocolate shops: one making experimental candies and the other focusing on fun churros and porras. Spectacular venue in Centro Histórico, two blocks from the Zócalo and one kilometer from the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
18. Zócalo Central – Centro Histórico
Smartly dressed boutique hotel with an enviable location right on the Zócalo and a romantic rooftop restaurant with views of the Metropolitan Cathedral. Like their sister hotel, Histórico Central, Zócalo Central offers a 24-hour cafe with free food, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks, free walking tours, free loaner bicycles, and free parking. Standard Rooms tend toward the small side; opt for a Deluxe, Family, or Superior Room (Superior is the largest) for a little more space.
19. Hyatt Regency Insurgentes WTC – Colonia Nápoles
Five-star hotel right across from the World Trade Center and Poliforum Siqueiros, a cultural venue and home to the world’s largest mural. Spacious king and queen-bedded rooms and suites feature walk-in showers (or roll-in showers in wheelchair-accessible rooms), coffee makers, and 24-hour room service. Junior suites have kitchenettes; some rooms have private terraces or access to the hotel’s Regency Club with complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks. The hotel’s signature Muralis restaurant serves contemporary Mexican dishes, while the 7.24 Skybar & Terrace specializes in champagne cocktails, wine, and light bites.
20. Casa 9 Condesa – La Condesa
Luxury bed and breakfast with just four rooms set in a restored casona from 1910. The common room has tall bookshelves, mid-century modern furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a glass door opening out to a secret garden courtyard. Rooms feature simple, elegant decor, much of it handmade or locally sourced; one has a clawfoot bathtub. One ground-floor room has a patio, while upper-floor rooms have balconies with hammocks. Breakfast is included in all stays, and an honor bar is available from the afternoon into the evening. Excellent locale in vibrant La Condesa, steps from dining and shopping, and a short walk to the vast Bosque de Chapultepec and its castle.
21. Brick Hotel – Roma
Intimate boutique hotel in vibrant Roma, near fantastic bars and restaurants (including the beloved Panadería Rosetta bakery, only one block away). Originally built from imported English bricks for the manager of the Bank of London, this repurposed 1928 mansion stands out in the neighborhood. Guests will find a wonderful Mexican-Mediterranean fusion restaurant, a swanky speakeasy, and a small spa here. Activities on site include yoga, pilates, flower workshops, and more. Spacious, light-filled rooms and suites vary in size and layout, but all feature polished decor in neutral tones. Many have private balconies. Both Rooftop and Signature Suites have clawfoot bathtubs. Rooftop Suites are the largest, spread over two floors with an al fresco dining area and sun loungers.
22. Hotel Catedral – Centro Histórico
Upscale hotel just a block from the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Templo Mayor and two blocks from the Zocalo. Rooms are spread over two towers: the Catedral Tower, with views of the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Pyramid Tower, named for the Ehecatl-Quetzalcoatl Temple, which is inside the lobby (the hotel is built on top of the ancient ruins). Most rooms and suites have marble bathrooms with walk-in showers; some add soaking tubs or private balconies. Family Rooms have two separate sleeping areas for up to six guests. Top-tier suites add large private terraces with outdoor jacuzzis and panoramic views. The rooftop terrace offers sweeping views over Centro Histórico.
23. Mansión Papilio – Coyoacán
Adults-only boutique hotel in a 1923 mansion that has been the set for several films, series, and magazine spreads. Ideal for couples, the mansion offers a curated selection of romantic experiences onsite, including private dinners, luxury picnics in the gardens, outdoor movies under the stars, and wine tastings in their cellar with Mexican, Spanish, and Italian wines. Each room and suite is unique, though all are decorated with antiques, and all have large windows that allow plenty of light. Some have marble bathrooms, jetted tubs, fireplaces, and balconies. Master Suite Colette has a private, heated pool. Complimentary breakfast is served daily in the garden, often accompanied by live music. Peaceful setting in a gated estate in Coyoacán, though Jardín Centenario, Plaza Hidalgo, dining, and the artisan market are less than 500 meters away.
24. NaNa Vida – Roma
Art-centric boutique hotel with a rooftop sun terrace in eclectic Roma with galleries, museums, trendy restaurants, and nightlife in all directions. All rooms feature original artworks, handmade textiles, and bespoke furniture from local and Oaxacan artists. Rooms in this 100-year-old building vary, but most have two sinks in their bathrooms, and some have soaking tubs or private patios. Guests are given a hand-cut artisanal soap of their choice at check-in. Complimentary coffee, pan dulce, and even mezcal are available all day long.
25. Andaz – La Condesa
Pet-friendly, luxury hotel in a sleek, mid-century, mid-rise building with a rooftop infinity pool, an art gallery, and a holistic wellness center. The unique asset here is its Wooftop Beer Garden and Canine Club, a dog park on the roof with a full bar and food truck (serving both human food and dog food). Guests will also find a fantastic Yucatecan restaurant and craft cocktail bar by the pool, a matcha café with amazing pastries, and a breakfast buffet (brunch on Sundays). Dreamy rooms and suites feature coffee makers, walk-in showers, and record players. Suites have separate living areas, some with sofabeds. The Executive Suite is the largest at 86 square meters, while the Terrace Suite adds an outdoor, private terrace. Well situated on the east end of well-heeled La Condesa, near its border with artsy Roma.
26. Mondrian – La Condesa
Cosmopolitan five-star hotel La Condesa, just a short walk to the urban oasis of Parque Mexico and the hip colonia Roma. Rooms and suites feature one king-sized or two queen-sized beds, minibars, espresso machines, and bold murals. Open-plan and one-bedroom suites add more space, some with living rooms, dining rooms, soaking tubs, or oversized terraces. Food and drink outlets offer international fare in eye-catching settings, from Japanese-Mexican fusion plates at La Terraza to rooftop cocktails with a view at Skybar Condesa to the whimsical Flower Shop, a combination florist, café, market, and wine bar with Parisian vibes. Guests of Mondrian here can access the spa and gym at Andaz, which is in the same building.
27. W Mexico City – Polanco
High-end hotel with a celebratory vibe in Polanco, Mexico City’s wealthiest neighborhood. Facilities include a full-service spa with an indoor whirlpool and a temazcal (traditional sweat lodge). Two fashionable restaurants serve modern Mexican dishes, while the cocktail lounge offers signature drinks and live DJ sets. Rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows in their bathrooms, vibrant pops of primary colors, and sleek design. Suites have separate bedrooms in one or two-floor layouts, some with sofabeds, and a couple with private balconies. Convenient location across from the National Auditorium, about a 10-minute walk to Bosque de Chapultepec and a 20-minute walk to the National Museum of Anthropology.
Staying in Centro Histórico
The oldest colonia of Mexico City, Centro Histórico was built atop the ruins of the Tenochtitlan, the ancient Aztec capital. Visitors can see the ruins of the great temple, Templo Mayor, right next to the impressive Mexican Baroque landmark of the Metropolitan Cathedral and just a block from the main square, the Zócalo (officially Plaza de la Constitución), lively with souvenir stalls, street food, and buskers. Spreading out from around the Zócalo, the neighborhood lanes are lined with gorgeous 16th-century colonial, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco architecture. Must-see attractions include the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Nacional de Arte, and Casa de los Azulejos. Upscale, regional restaurants and grill houses offer visitors a way to taste their way through the country, with Oaxacan and Yucatecan spots tucked away, along with a few crowd-pleasing international restaurants. The metro stations Allende and Zócalo connect the colonia to the wider city. Centro Histórico is our favorite place for first-time visitors to Mexico City.
The Best Hotels in Centro Histórico
Staying in Polanco
Another place we recommend for first-timers in CDMX is Polanco. The most affluent colonia, Polanco has the lion’s share of luxury hotels, whether in glitzy high-rises, low-slung mid-century charmers, or upscale boutique stays. Designer fashion houses and fine dining restaurants dominate the streets here, most notably Avenida Presidente Masaryk. The National Museum of Anthropology (where you’ll find the Aztec sun stone) is here, and the Bosque de Chapultepec, Chapultepec Castle, the zoo, and more museums are a short, pleasant walk to the southeast. Immediately north of Polanco (across Avenida Ejército Nacional), travelers will find Nuevo Polanco, the fastest-growing neighborhood in the city and home to the incredible Museo Soumaya. New condos, restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife options pop up regularly. One metro stop, called Polanco, serves both Polanco and Nuevo Polanco.
The Best Hotels in Polanco
Staying in La Condesa
This upscale, residential colonia is compact and walkable, with a wonderful selection of high-end international and Mexican restaurants nestled along its tree-lined streets. Popular with local families, La Condesa boasts two garden parks of its own (Parque España and Parque Mexico) and also abuts the verdant Bosque de Chapultepec. There are few tourist attractions here, but its laid-back atmosphere and central location make for an excellent home base to return to after a day spent exploring. There are a few metro stops serving the neighborhood, but Chapultepec and Juanacatlán are the most conveniently situated.
The Best Hotels in La Condesa
Staying in Roma
One of our very favorite neighborhoods in CDMX, Roma is sometimes called the “Williamsburg of Mexico City” and is known for its trendy hipster vibe. Like many nearby neighborhoods, Roma slid into decline in the mid-1900s but is now rapidly gentrifying. Nowadays, visitors will find a plethora of art galleries, creative restaurants, lively cocktail bars, and café culture. Established as a wealthy enclave in the early 20th century, the architecture here is an eclectic mix of Neocolonial, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco, but mostly Porfirian – a distinctly Mexican fusion of Gothic, Moorish, French, and Roman styles. There are numerous garden plazas, street food stands, and excellent markets spread throughout this immensely walkable colonia. Roma is divided into two main sections: Roma Norte (north) and Roma Sur (south). Norte has the most hotels and commercial activity, while Sur remains mostly residential. Though there are few attractions here, the neighborhood is popular with travelers for its central location and great metro service. Chapultepec, Sevilla, and Colonia Cuauhtémoc serve Roma Norte, while Chilpacingo and Centro Médico are the main stops in Roma Sur.
The Best Hotels in Roma
Staying in Juárez and Zona Rosa
Incredibly posh as its conception, Juárez lost some of its shine in the mid to late-twentieth century after WWII, was revitalized by artists and intellectuals who opened galleries and bookstores in the post-war years, then was damaged by a major earthquake in 1985. A concerted effort has brought new construction to the area, mostly offices and luxury apartments, and with them, new hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars. Nowadays, visitors will find a collection of tree-shaded streets lined with Porfirian and Art Deco mansions mixed in with contemporary glass-and-steel high-rises. About a quarter of the colonia is part of Zona Rosa, CDMX’s most famous LGBTQIA+ enclaves and a popular nightlife destination. Within Zona Rosa, visitors will also find Little Seoul, home of much of the city’s Korean population – worth a visit near the end of your trip if you crave something besides Mexican fare – there are several incredible, authentic Korean restaurants here. From Juarez, it’s easy to walk to Roma, Bosque de Chapultepec, and La Condesa. Sevilla and Cuauhtémoc are the main metro stops connecting this neighborhood to the rest of the city.
The Best Hotels in Juárez and Zona Rosa
Staying in Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Distinct from the municipality Chauhtémoc (which is comprised of Centro Histórico, Rosa, La Condsea, and more), Colonia Cuauhtémoc is the wedge-shaped business district just north of Juárez/Zona Rosa (across Avenida Paseo de la Reforma), south of San Rafael, and east of Bosque de la Chapultepec. This skyscraper-studded neighborhood is filled with offices, multinational business headquarters, and embassies (US, UK, Japan, and more), though there are plenty of residential streets here, too. Restaurants here offer eclectic, international options, while nightlife is lively near where this neighborhood meets Zona Rosa. Even if you don’t stay at The Ritz-Carlton, it’s worth it to pop up to its rooftop bar for a bite or drink with sweeping views over the city.
The Best Hotels in Colonia Cuauhtémoc
Staying in Coyoacán
Once a separate, colonial town (the first capital of New Spain), Coyoacán is now part of Mexico City proper, though it retains its small-town charm and feels worlds apart from the more centrally located colonias. About ten kilometers south of the Zócalo, traditional Coyoacán has no skyscrapers or large luxury hotels. Instead, you’ll find boutique hotels and guesthouses in converted mansions and haciendas tucked away inside gated gardens off cobblestone streets. The neighborhood is centered on its twin plazas, Jardín Centenario and Plaza Hidalgo, ringed with restaurants, cantinas, and markets; anchored by the 16th-century Mexican Baroque church, Parroquia San Juan Bautista; and alive with street food stalls, dancers, musicians, and performers. A pleasant 10-minute stroll north from the squares leads to the birthplace of Frida Kahlo; her childhood home is now a museum and one of the most popular destinations in the city. It’s just a few more minutes on foot to reach Leon Trotsky’s House, where the Soviet revolutionary lived in exile until his assassination by one of Stalin’s hitmen. Coyoacán is most popular for day trips but deserves a deep dive; longer stays are incredibly rewarding. The closest metro station is Coyoacán, about 1.5 km (20 to 25-minute walk) from the main squares and Frida Kahlo Museum.
The Best Hotels in Coyoacán
Staying in San Rafael
Untouristy San Rafael is our favorite place to stay for living like a local within a stone’s throw of the city’s most important sights. This mostly residential neighborhood has excellent, affordable dining at small restaurants, coffee shops, street food stalls, and at Mercado de San Cosme, a delightful market for getting a look at day-to-day life in the city. In addition to tacos, cakes, spices, and produce, shoppers will find school uniforms, flowers, new and used clothing, records, and more. There is not much in the way of nightlife, but there are a few performing arts theaters, art galleries, a contemporary art museum (Museo Experimental el Eco), and a youthful atmosphere thanks to the university campus here. The main metro stop is San Cosme.
