Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Mexico › Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca
Updated: April 7, 2026

My Favorite Hotels
• Centro/Zócalo: Casa Antonieta
• Santo Domingo: El Callejón
• Jalatlaco: Los Pilares
• 5-Star: Quinta Real
• 4-Star: Casa de Sierra Azul
• Budget: Santa Cecilia
• For families: El Callejón
• For couples: Casa Antonieta

The landmark Mexican Baroque church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán with it's two domed towers, ornate façade, and stone walls in the Santo Domingo neighborhood of Oaxaca.

The landmark Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque architecture. The church is also home to the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca and the Ethnobotanical Garden.

Best Areas to Stay in Oaxaca

We love Oaxaca. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its historical center is among the most beautiful in Mexico, characterized by striking “cantera verde” (green volcanic stone) architecture. The city’s fiestas are exuberant – particularly during the Guelaguetza in July and Day of the Dead in November – and its art and dining scenes are second to none. Most of its attractions are concentrated in central, very walkable neighborhoods. Outlying sights, like the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, can be reached in about 20 minutes by cheap and ubiquitous taxis or affordable shared “colectivos.”

Me and my wife in central Oaxaca.

My wife and I in Oaxaca.

Centro, Oaxaca’s historical heart, is where you’ll find the majority of Oaxaca’s best hotels in all budget ranges. The upscale ones mostly fall into the boutique category, often housed in beautifully restored 16th-century colonial mansions. While only a few properties offer traditional high-end “luxury” amenities like large pools or sprawling gyms, they provide unmatched character and proximity to the Zócalo (the main square, AKA Plaza de la Constitución) and the Santo Domingo cathedral. Good midrange and budget options can also be found in the outlying barrios (neighborhoods) of Xochimilco, Jalatlaco, and La Noria, which offer a more local perspective while remaining a short distance from the center.

You’re likely to spend most of your time in Oaxaca’s historical center – a logical and easy-to-navigate grid of streets lined with centuries-old architecture. Centro can roughly be divided into two halves. The southern blocks around the Zócalo are the city’s pulse, home to the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. Here, the atmosphere is bustling with craft stalls, street performers, and the famous Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre, where you can sample local mole and grilled meats. The northern half, Santo Domingo, is centered on the stunning Santo Domingo de Guzmán church and the adjacent Ethnobotanical Garden. The pedestrianized Macedonio Alcalá street (the Andador Turístico) connects the two halves, offering a route rich in museums, contemporary art galleries, and Oaxaca’s premier dining and nightlife.

The ostentatious Art Nouveau facade of Teatro Macedonio Alcala with arches, Corinthian columns, busts, and a dome in the Centro neighborhood of Oaxaca.

The Teatro Macedonio Alcalá in Centro hosts tons of events, including concerts by the Oaxaca Symphony Orchestra, traditional dance, and live broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera from New York City.

North of Santo Domingo and across the main thoroughfare of Hwy 190 is the compact neighborhood of Barrio de Xochimilco, Oaxaca’s oldest. It retains a sedate, village-like feel and is famous for its 18th-century stone aqueduct, “Los Arquitos.” This area is a hub for traditional textile workshops and tin craftsmen, offering a handful of charming boutique stays and quiet eateries. Bordering Xochimilco to the east is Reforma, a large, affluent district that serves as the city’s modern commercial hub. While it lacks colonial sights, it is excellent for long-term travelers seeking modern apartments, high-end gyms, international dining, and large supermarkets.

South of Reforma and separated from the historical center by Calzada de la República, Barrio de Jalatlaco is a small, hip, and incredibly photogenic neighborhood. Recently recognized as one of the “coolest neighborhoods in the world,” its cobblestone streets are adorned with vibrant murals and papel picado. It offers a sophisticated mix of specialty coffee shops, artisanal bakeries, and offbeat restaurants. Though it is quieter and more laid-back than the busy Santo Domingo area, it remains a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the main attractions.

The compact grid of streets that makes up Barrio de la Noria borders Centro to the southeast. It is arguably the quietest neighborhood in central Oaxaca, maintaining a residential atmosphere with colorful, single-story houses and a slower pace of life. It is an ideal spot for budget-conscious travelers, featuring several inexpensive guesthouses and family-run “comedores” serving authentic Oaxacan home cooking. From here, a 10-15 minute walk north will bring you directly to the vibrant energy of the Zócalo.

The Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca

An imposing Baroque cathedral as seen from the Zócalo in Oaxaca.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (AKA Oaxaca Cathedral) as seen from the Zócalo in the Centro neighborhood.

A night market under rainbow papel picado in the Santo Domingo neighborhood of Oaxaca.

A night market at Labastida Park in the Santo Domingo neighborhood of Oaxaca. PAN:AM Bed & Breakfast is in the pink building across the street.

Best Places in Oaxaca for…

Massive ancient ruins of temples, pyramids, and stairs in Monte Albán outside of Oaxaca.

Monte Albán, a complex of ancient Zapotec ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most important archaeological zone near Oaxaca.

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca to Stay for First Timers: Centro, Santo Domingo
For a first visit, basing yourself in the historical center (Centro) is essential. Choosing between the Zócalo area and the Santo Domingo area depends on your preferred vibe. The Zócalo is the city’s living room – busy, vibrant, and filled with local families and street performers. Santo Domingo, just a few blocks north, is more polished and “boutique,” home to the city’s most famous restaurants and upscale shops. Both are connected by the pedestrianized Macedonio Alcalá street, making it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds on foot.

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Sightseeing: Centro, Santo Domingo
Oaxaca’s historic core has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, and most major sights are packed into this area. Must-visit attractions include the stunning Santo Domingo church and the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca (located in a former monastery), which houses the famous gold treasures from Monte Albán’s Tomb 7. Don’t miss the Ethnobotanical Garden (book tours in advance) and the MACO (Museum of Contemporary Art). For the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, taxis are the most efficient option (about a 20-minute drive), while shuttles leaving from Calle Mina offer a budget-friendly alternative.

Best Neighborhood in Oaxaca for Nightlife: Santo Domingo
While the Zócalo has its share of lively plazas, Santo Domingo is the epicenter of Oaxaca’s sophisticated nightlife. The scene is dominated by “terrazas” (rooftop bars) offering views of the illuminated church domes, and specialized mezcalerías. For a deep dive into agave spirits, visit Mezcalería In Situ or La Mezcalerita. If you prefer cocktails or craft beer, the blocks surrounding the Santo Domingo church feature high-end lounges like Selva and several microbreweries. Most spots are lively until at least midnight, especially on weekends.

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Food and Restaurants: Santo Domingo, Centro, Barrio de Xochimilco, Barrio de Jalatlaco
Oaxaca is Mexico’s culinary capital. For world-class fine dining, Santo Domingo is home to heavyweights like Casa Oaxaca Reforma, Pitiona, and Los Danzantes – reservations are highly recommended. In the Zócalo area, you’ll find the iconic Mercado 20 de Noviembre; head straight for the “Pasillo de Humo” (Hall of Smoke) to eat freshly grilled tasajo and cecina. For those seeking the best coffee, the streets of Centro are dotted with specialty cafes like Marito & Moglie. Jalatlaco offers trendy brunch spots and Italian-Mexican fusion, while Xochimilco is the place for traditional “comedores” serving authentic mole negro and tetelas. Don’t leave without trying “chapulines” (crispy grasshoppers) or a tlayuda from a street stall at night.

The ornate stone façade of San Matias Church in Oaxaca with colorful buildings in the background in the Jalatlaco neighborhood of Oaxaca.

Stunning little San Matías Church in the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood.

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Families: Centro, Barrio de Xochimilco, Barrio de la Noria
Centro is the most convenient for families who want to minimize walking, and the Zócalo provides endless entertainment for kids with its balloon vendors and musicians. For a break from the city bustle, head to El Llano Park, a large green space where local families gather. The Museo Infantil de Oaxaca (MIO), located in a former train station just west of the center, is a fantastic interactive stop for children. Xochimilco and La Noria are quieter, residential alternatives that offer a calmer atmosphere after a day of exploring, though you may prefer a taxi for getting back uphill at the end of the day.

Most Romantic Neighborhood in Oaxaca: Santo Domingo
With its lantern-lit cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards, Santo Domingo is incredibly romantic. Enjoy a sunset drink on a rooftop terrace overlooking the valley before heading to a candlelit dinner in a restored colonial mansion. If you visit on a Friday or Saturday afternoon, you’re likely to witness a “calenda” – a vibrant wedding parade featuring giant puppets (monos), brass bands, and dancers – which adds a magical, festive energy to the streets.

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for a Local Vibe: Barrio de Xochimilco, Barrio de Jalatlaco
To escape the tourist crowds, head to Xochimilco or Jalatlaco. Xochimilco feels like a quiet village within the city; look for the “Los Arquitos” section of the 18th-century aqueduct. Jalatlaco is arguably the most photogenic neighborhood, famous for its intense street murals and colorful papel picado. It has evolved into a creative hub where you can find local artists at work, small-batch bakeries, and neighbors chatting on their doorsteps. Both areas provide a slower, more authentic glimpse into Oaxacan daily life.

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Shopping: Barrio de Xochimilco, Reforma, Centro
Oaxaca is a shopper’s paradise for folk art. In Centro, Mercado Benito Juárez is the best place for edible souvenirs like mole paste, chocolate, and Oaxacan cheese (quesillo). For high-quality textiles, the shops in Xochimilco still practice traditional weaving. If you’re looking for “alebrijes” (intricate wooden carvings) or “barro negro” (black pottery), specialized boutiques in Santo Domingo like Colectivo 1050° offer curated pieces from local artisans. Reforma is better suited for modern needs, featuring international brands and large supermarkets for long-term supplies.

Safest Areas of Oaxaca
Oaxaca is generally very safe for travelers. The main tourist zones – Centro, Santo Domingo, Jalatlaco, and Xochimilco – are well-patrolled and busy day and night. However, petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets or the Zócalo, so keep an eye on your belongings. At night, it is best to stick to well-lit streets; while walking between Santo Domingo and Jalatlaco is common, use a registered taxi or ride-share if traveling to outlying areas or the northern suburbs late at night.

Unsafe Areas of Oaxaca
Visitors should exercise caution around the Central de Abasto (the city’s largest wholesale market) especially after dark, as it can be prone to robberies. While the market is fascinating by day, it is massive and chaotic; it’s best to visit with a guide or without carrying valuables. Generally, avoid wandering into unfamiliar residential suburbs on the city’s periphery or hiking solo on the hills surrounding the city (like Cerro del Fortín) outside of peak daylight hours.

Staying in Centro/Zócalo

A view of a street lined with colorful buildings and flowering trees in the Centro neighborhood of Oaxaca.

The heart of Oaxaca, a.k.a. Zócalo, is where all the action is. Downtown Oaxaca is centered on the large historic square, the Zócalo (officially, Plaza de la Constitución) overlooked by the massive Oaxaca Cathedral. If it happens in Oaxaca, it happens here: fiestas, peaceful protests, craft markets, and more. The square is lined with souvenir stalls, though if you’re serious about shopping, it’s worth checking out the three markets a few blocks south of the Zócalo. Centro is a regular grid of narrow streets (some pedestrianized), lined with typical, brightly-painted, one- and two-story houses. In between the Zócalo plaza and Santo Domingo, you’ll find several excellent museums (Museum of Regional Textiles, Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art, Contemporary Art Museum), a handful of small art galleries with local art for purchase, and many places to eat, from traditional to distinctly international. Some of Oaxaca’s best hotels are here, and visitors are likely to spend much of their time exploring Centro.

Best Hotels in Centro

Staying in Santo Domingo

A bride in white and women in vibrant, traditional skirts hold baskets on their heads while dancing in the Santo Domingo neighborhood of Oaxaca.

The northern half of Centro, Santo Domingo is arguably the most beautiful part of Oaxaca, with its cobbled streets and gorgeous architecture. This neighborhood has the best of everything: Oaxaca’s top sights (Santo Domingo Church, Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca in the cloisters attached to the church, the ethnobotanical garden filled with regional plants, etc), the city’s best bars, the most celebrated restaurants, and the best luxury and boutique hotels. Zócalo is just a few blocks south.

Best Hotels in Santo Domingo

Staying in Barrio de Jalatlaco

Colorful papel picado streamers hanging in over a street with floral murals on the sides of buildings in the Jalatlaco neighborhood of Oaxaca.

A compact, tranquil neighborhood that grew around the 18th-century church of San Matías Jalatlaco. Just east of Centro, across the dry river bed, Barrio de Jalatlaco is filled with charming, cobbled streets, colorful single-story houses, family-run restaurants serving traditional Oaxacan dishes, and popular taco stands. Several hip coffee shops are a nod to the neighborhood’s recent gentrification. It’s a bit of art enclave as well with tons of of colorful street murals. Apart from that, Jalatlaco is light on attractions but is a mere 10-15 minute walk from sights in Centro and Santo Domingo.

Best Hotels in Barrio de Jalatlaco

Staying in Barrio de Xochimilco

A mural showing a young girl in a floral dress with birds in a row of colorful buildings on a split-level street in the Xochimilco neighborhood of Oaxaca.

North across the highway from Santo Domingo, Xochimilco was the original pre-Hispanic settlement that eventually grew into present-day Oaxaca. Traditional crafts still thrive here, and walking around the hilly, colorful streets, you’re likely to see family-run textile workshops and artisans at work. It’s a quiet and low-key neighborhood, with small, wallet-friendly eateries serving traditional fare. You can also buy fried grasshoppers and tamales at the Mercado de Pochote. There’s one notable sight here: an 18th-century aqueduct that rises high above the dry river bed that separates Xochimilco from Reforma to the east. Santo Domingo and its attractions are a 15-20 minute walk. Consider taking a taxi, especially in the hotter months.

Best Hotels in Barrio de Xochimilco

Staying in Barrio de la Noria

A woman in a cobbler apron walks on the sidewalk past a vibrant mural in Barrio de la Noria in Oaxaca

There isn’t much to Barrio de la Noria, a compact, residential neighborhood just south of Centro, though if you’re looking for peace and quiet at night while being within an easy walk of Oaxaca’s main attractions, it makes a good base. There are a few low-key restaurants here, while the Zócalo is just a 10-15 minute walk away.

Best Hotel in Barrio de la Noria

Staying in Reforma

A typical, neutral-color, tree-lined street in the low-key Reforma neighborhood of Oaxaca.

If much of Oaxaca has a very distinctive vibe and look, Reforma could almost be anywhere. Younger than historic Oaxaca, this large, spread-out neighborhood north of the highway from Santo Domingo lacks Centro’s handsome architecture, though it does have the lion’s share of international restaurants and boutiques, wine stores, and other trappings of an affluent place to live. Some visitors prefer staying here, as it minimizes culture shock, while others feel it’s not ‘real Oaxaca’. Good dining, but no sights to speak of. Sights in Santo Domingo and Centro are a short taxi ride or 15-25 minute walk away.

Best Hotels in Reforma

19 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

1. El Callejón – Santo Domingo

The art-filled living room with a mix of antique and contemporary furniture in a room at El Callejon Boutique Hotel in Oaxaca.

Stunning boutique hotel with generous accommodations, an open-air Oaxacan restaurant in a courtyard garden, and thoughtfully curated art and handicrafts from local and regional artists and artisans. Rooms, suites, and the casa fuse contemporary design with pre-Hispanic techniques and materials, including cactus mucilage and natural pigment from the soil. All have king-sized beds, many with private balconies or rooftop terraces, some with kitchens; the largest spreads over two floors and sleeps up to five guests. A Oaxacan-American breakfast is always included. Delightful location on border of Santo Domingo and Barrio de Xochimilco, an equal walking distance from the Aqueduct in the heart of Xochimilco and the Santo Domingo Church and sights in Centro.

2. Casa Antonieta – Centro

My room in Oaxaca.

Our room at the Casa Antonieta.

Romantic boutique hotel set in one of the oldest buildings in the city, a grand convent from the 16th century. Accommodations are arranged around a leafy, central courtyard with a café on the ground floor and a rooftop terrace serving light fare and drinks. Each room and suite is unique, but all offer king or queen-sized beds and locally-made textiles; two have private patios. Adults only. Pet friendly. Excellent location in Centro, just steps from the Zócalo, markets, and dining.

3. Pug Seal – Santo Domingo

In the atrium of Pug Seal boutique hotel with abstract murals on all walls of both floors, a fountain in the center, ceramic art, and wood beam ceilings in Oaxaca.

Art-forward boutique hotel set in a colonial heritage building from the early 1800s. The hotel is filled with colorful murals depicting legends and scenes from Zapotec culture, plus fun touches like a pair of swings in the open-air courtyard. Rooms and suites vary in size and layout, but all have king-sized beds and free minibars, some with dual vanities, and three with private balconies. Two rooms here are wheelchair accessible with roll-in showers. The complimentary, a la carte breakfast is a highlight with Oaxacan, Mexican, and international recipes and a host of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Beautifully situated in Santo Domingo, about a 5-minute walk north to Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church and or south to the Zócalo.

4. Hotel La Casona de Tita – Santo Domingo

Deep red exterior of the hotel Casona de Tita, built on an elevated stone walkway with wooded double doors in Oaxaca.

Intimate, upscale boutique hotel in a 19th-century hacienda with just six rooms, each decorated individually with antique and modern furniture, Oaxacan textiles, and original artwork. Rooms have one king or two double beds and sleep up to four guests. The Mezcal Room is wheelchair accessible. The hotel also has a two-bedroom apartment a short walk from the main building with a full kitchen, two patios, and a private parking garage. Service is friendly and attentive with staff waiting to organize tailor-made excursions and experiences. Complimentary breakfast is made fresh daily and is served in a sunny courtyard. Located in Santo Domingo, just a short walk from the church, gourmet restaurants, and delicious food stalls at La Cosecha Organic Market.

5. Quinta Real – Santo Domingo

The pale pink with red trim exterior of Quinta Real hotel, set in a 16th-century colonial building with a clock tower as a corner in Oaxaca.

Impeccable luxury hotel set in a 16th-century convent with carefully restored frescoes, well-tended gardens, and a pool. One restaurant and two bars serve a range of Mexican and international dishes, craft cocktails, and an extensive selection of mezcals. Rooms and suites have king or queen-size beds and colonial-style furniture fitting with the architecture. Rooms tend toward the cozy size; book a Gran Clase or Suite Gobernador for more space. With 91 rooms and suites, this is one of the largest hotels in the city center and a popular spot for weddings and events. Steps from Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church, photography exhibits at the Centro Fotografico, and Oaxaca’s best restaurants.

6. Hotel Hacienda Los Laureles – San Felipe del Agua

A formal dining room inside a greenhouse at Hacienda Los Laureles hotel in Oaxaca.

Polished boutique hotel nestled in the hills above Oaxaca, just five km from the city center. The early 1800s hacienda has a lush garden, pool, and a small spa with a temazcal. Its signature restaurant, Los Cipreses, serves a menu of Oaxacan, Mexican, and international favorites in a romantic setting. Rooms and suites have one king or two double beds and either a shared or private balcony or patio. The hotel operates as an adults-only property during high season (Day of the Dead through New Year’s and during the Guelaguetza Festival) and welcomes families the rest of the year. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood with a handful of restaurants within walking distance. Guests will need to rent a car or rely on taxis for stays here.

7. Grana B&B – Santo Domingo

A homey kitchen with a green tile backsplash, stenciled archway, comal, and long wooden breakfast table at Grana B & B in Oaxaca.

Stylish bed and breakfast. This 18th-century building still has its original tiles and windows, while all decor was sourced from within Oaxaca state. A buffet breakfast is always included, along with twice-weekly yoga on the rooftop. An all-day bar offers wine, mezcal, local beer, and non-alcoholic refreshments. Sunny rooms and suites all have ceiling fans (in addition to air conditioning). The Loft adds a kitchenette; one King Suite has a private balcony. Wonderful, walkable location in Santo Domingo at leafy Labastida Park, where you’ll find a weekend art market, and less than a five-minute walk to the church and Ethnobotanical Garden.

8. Boulenc Bed & Bread – Santo Domingo

A softly lit room with eclectic, romantic decor at Boulenc Bed and Bread in Oaxaca.

Cosmopolitan B&B that’s also one of Oaxaca’s culinary hotspots with an incredible artisanal bakery, a hip bar and restaurant, and a provisions shop. The complimentary breakfast is incredible, plus a tapas bar is included every evening on the rooftop. Curated gastronomy experiences include private mezcal tastings and jam-making workshops. Its seven adults-only rooms are on the smaller side, most with queen-sized beds, some with king beds, and some with balconies. Junior Suites are the largest (28 square meters) and have balconies. Ideal location in Centro, equidistant from Santo Domingo Church and the Zócalo.

9. NaNa Vida – Santo Domingo

The leafy, shaded courtyard of Nana Vida hotel with a stone patio, dining tables, and umbrellas in Oaxaca.

Cheerful boutique hotel filled with vibrant murals, handwoven and hand-dyed textiles, and original paintings in each room – all made by Oaxacan artists and artisans. Rooms have one king or two double beds, all centered around a green garden courtyard. A continental breakfast is included; a main course can be added for an additional price. Excellent central location surrounded by fantastic restaurants, near the food stalls of Mercado de la Merced and Santo Domingo Church.

10. Casa de Sierra Azul – Centro

A row of bicycles in the shaded arcade of a hacienda courtyard at hotel Casa de Sierra Azul in Oaxaca.

Sweet boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Set in a lovingly restored, colonial-era home, this hotel offers pet-friendly rooms for up to four guests with one king or two double beds, each with a private or shared terrace. Double-pane, soundproof windows are fitted in each room, a necessary step for a hotel this close to the Zócalo (just two blocks away, less than a 5-minute walk). Excellent, walkable location, but the hotel also offers free bicycles that make exploring the farther corners of the city a breeze.

11. Casa Carmen Morelos – Santo Domingo

Deep golden exterior of the single-story Casa Carmen Morelos hotel on a gentle hill in a row of colorful buildings in Oaxaca.

Romantic, cozy hotel with just four suites set around a courtyard. The minimalistic design and toned-down furniture help to spotlight the fine art collection scattered throughout the property. Suites all have king-sized beds; Deluxe and Superior Suites add sofabeds and sleep up to three guests. Breakfast is included and features wonderful versions of Oaxacan favorites like chilaquiles and memelitas. Wonderful location in a quieter part of the historic center, just steps from the ornate, Baroque-style Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude and about a 10-minute walk to either Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church or the Zócalo and Oaxaca Cathedral.

12. Ébano by PB – Santo Domingo

A rooftop terrace with a white gazebo and a direct view of Santo Domingo de Guzmán church at the hotel Ébano by PB in Oaxaca.

Refined, adults-only boutique hotel in a hacienda, home to an opulent courtyard and a rooftop sun terrace with spectacular city views. Spacious rooms and suites all have king-sized beds, jetted baths, and brocade tapestries; some add sofabeds. Thoughtful perks include free daily aguas frescas, welcome fruits, and complimentary wine on your last evening there. Continental breakfast is included with each booking, served to the courtyard, rooftop, or directly to the guest rooms. Amazing spot just a block from Santo Domingo Church, surrounded by restaurants and fresh food markets.

13. AYOOK – Centro

A deep gold building with a rooftop terrace under a canopy at Ayook hotel in Oaxaca.

Chic, adults-only boutique hotel with a cafe tucked away in a residential area at the west end of Centro. The stunning, contemporary property was rebuilt from an 18th-century house that was abandoned for over a hundred years. Most rooms are small (about 17 square meters) with queen or double beds. Rooms 6 and 12 are the largest at 37 square meters, both with minibars; Room 6 also has a private interior courtyard with a hammock. An a la carte breakfast is included with different choices each day.

14. Hotel Parador de Alcalá – Santo Domingo

Stree view of Hotel Parador de Alcalá, an 18th-century mansion with a golden exterior, across from a red building with jaguar heads on the front and papel picado strung above the road in Oaxaca.

Gorgeous boutique hotel with a rooftop pool, sun terrace, and a fab Oaxacan restaurant and bar in a grand courtyard (breakfast always included). Rooms and suites have high ceilings, marble bathrooms, and either one king or two double beds. About as centrally located as possible, right in between Santo Domingo Church and the Zócalo, on Calle Macedonio Alcalá, a pedestrianized street lined with shops and dining, a popular spot for calendas (traditional wedding parades).

15. Casa Los Cántaros – Reforma

Exterior of Casa los Cantaros hotel, a low-slung, modern building in eggshell and brown, shaded by trees, with pedestrians passing by in Oaxaca.

Modern boutique hotel set in the understated Reforma neighborhood, near myriad restaurants and a handful of shopping malls. Facilities include a jewelry store and Oaxacan restaurant set in a leafy garden. Rooms and suites feature traditional terracotta floors and wrought iron and wood beds. Deluxe suites have two beds and more space.

16. Los Pilares – Barrio de Jalatlaco

View from the street of the colonial-style Los Pilares hotel with a shade tree in Oaxaca.

The best hotel in Jalatlaco, Los Pilares boasts a vibrant rooftop hangout spot with a pool, jacuzzi, and dining. Cuisine is phenomenal at the restaurant, Intercambio Terraza, with a fusion of local, Italian, and international fare, paired with natural wines and craft cocktails. Rooms are all decorated individually with one king, one double, or two double beds, but all are about the same size and sleep two guests maximum. Fantastic location in colorful Barrio de Jalatlaco, surrounded by murals, cafés, and boutiques, and just a short walk to San Matías Church.

17. Hotel Azul – Santo Domingo

Outside of a one-story blue building with bougainvilleas in different colors growing in all of its windows at Hotel Azul in Oaxaca.

Cosmopolitan boutique hotel with an art gallery, an all-day cafe, rooftop craft cocktail bar, and a courtyard Oaxacan restaurant. Each room and suite was styled by a different artist along with an interior designer. All are unique but feature light woods, mid-century-inspired furnishings, and colorful tiles. Some suites have soaking tubs. Wonderful location in Santo Domingo near the church, Ethnobotanical Gardens, and Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca.

18. Santa Cecilia – Barrio de Xochimilco

Bright red, two-story Hotel Santa Cecilia, set on a slight hill with a scooter zooming by in Oaxaca.

Affordable hotel in historic Xochimilco, just steps away from the aqueduct. Most rooms have king or queen-sized beds for two; Quadruple Rooms have two double beds for four guests. Suites and some Double Rooms have balconies. A simple breakfast (fruit, bread, coffee, and tea) is available each morning on the rooftop terrace, and there is a small bar open throughout the day. Quiet location in a residential neighborhood with a handful of restaurants and cafés nearby. The main attractions of Centro are about a 20-minute walk or 10-minute taxi ride away.

19. PAN:AM Bed & Breakfast – Santo Domingo

A pink interior courtyard with lights strung overhead and a bell tower of the Baroque church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán visible in the background at Hotel Pan:AM in Oaxaca.

Charming bed and breakfast just around the corner from Santo Domingo Church. Cozy rooms have red brick ceilings, tile floors, and minimalistic decor and either a double or two single beds. Oaxacan breakfast is complimentary daily in their open-air courtyard or on the covered terrace. Centrally located at Labastida Park with the city’s best dining, nightlife, and sights right at your feet. The street in front is a main thoroughfare for taxis, making it incredibly convenient to get around even to farther destinations.