Where to Stay in Mexico City: The Best Areas & Hotels for All Budgets

Finding your place in Mexico City

Mexico City (CDMX) is a vast mosaic of neighbourhoods, each with its own character and soul.

From the artistic streets of Roma Norte and the leafy avenues of Condesa to the exclusive Polanco and the historic centre, you’ll find everything from colourful colonial buildings and Art Deco villas to charming boutique hotels and modern luxury hotels in Mexico City.

Although the mega-metropolis can feel overwhelming at first, most attractions are actually surprisingly close to each other, making the choice of accommodation an important part of planning your trip.

In this guide to where to stay in Mexico City, we share our experiences with the city’s different neighbourhoods and offer recommendations for the best places to stay in Mexico City for tourists.

We cover a range of options, from budget accommodation to some of the best hotels in Mexico City, including standout options in Condesa, Roma Norte and Polanco.

Our favourites: Where to stay in Mexico City

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• Budget: Hotel Escala Colonia Roma – Small, comfortable double rooms with private bathrooms at reasonable prices.
• Value for money: District Polanco by Lumina – More affordable than it appears, and it looks pretty great!
• Luxury: Ignacia Guest House – A colourful boutique hotel with just nine suites.
• Ultra-luxury: Las Alcobas – Exceptionally luxurious, with a homely atmosphere and outstanding service.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Mexico City here (adlink).

The best areas to stay in Mexico City

Where to stay in Mexico City? Well, although the city is vast, most attractions in Mexico City are actually quite close to each other.

For this reason, the best hotels in Mexico City are largely found in a few tourist-friendly neighbourhoods.

Most visitors choose to stay in Condesa, Roma Norte or Polanco.

If you are travelling on a tighter budget, you might also consider staying in Centro Histórico (adlink).

Hotels in the city centre are generally cheaper and keep you close to many historical attractions. However, it is not quite as cosy in the evenings, and you need to be more cautious after dark.

The best areas to stay in Mexico City:

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• Roma Norte: A cosy, walkable neighbourhood filled with excellent restaurants and coffee shops. It’s a real favourite with tourists, and where we stayed ourselves.
• Condesa: A slightly pricier, greener alternative to Roma Norte, located nearer to Chapultepec Park.
• Polanco: Even more upscale, ideal for shopping, art and fine dining.
• Juárez: Just north of Condesa and Roma, this is another good option. It can be a little cheaper while still offering a safe, central location with plenty of restaurants.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Mexico City here (adlink).

Here is a map of Mexico City, showing the best areas to stay:

The best hotels in Roma Norte

Roma Norte is undoubtedly one of Mexico City’s most charming neighbourhoods.

This is where we stayed during our 10-day visit to Mexico City.

The tree-lined streets are filled with Art Deco buildings and colourful street art, while the pavements are alive with the many cafés, restaurants and bars.

Here you can find everything from fancy cocktails and Michelin-recommended restaurants to small taquerias and cosy cafés.

Roma Norte particularly attracts young creatives and international residents, giving the neighbourhood a cosmopolitan feel while still retaining its authentic Mexican character.

Gentrification is inevitable, for better or worse.

With its numerous vintage shops and art galleries, Roma Norte is perfect for strolling and exploring.

It is also very well located, allowing easy walks to Condesa and Chapultepec Park or a short Uber or metro ride to the historic centre.

Our favourites: The 3 best hotels in Roma Norte

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• Luxury: Ignacia Guest House – A colourful boutique hotel with just nine suites.
• Value for money: Santa Casa by Tasman – A charming former duchess’ villa, now transformed into a cosy boutique hotel.
• Budget: Hotel Escala Colonia Roma – Small, comfortable double rooms with private bathrooms at reasonable prices.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Roma Norte here (adlink).

Luxury: Ignacia Guest House

Ignacia Guest House is a charming Beaux-Arts mansion from 1913 with only nine suites, which gives the feeling of being a guest in a private home rather than a typical hotel.

Behind the discreet façade lies a lush courtyard and an original part of the house with a library and living room.

Each room has its own colour scheme. Ignacia Guest House may not be ideal if you’re not a fan of colour, but the design is exceptionally well executed.

The day begins in the house’s open kitchen with a traditional Mexican breakfast, and every afternoon there is a complimentary happy hour in the courtyard.

The hotel is named after the house’s former housekeeper, and the location is perfect – just one block from where we stayed in Mexico City.

See prices and availability at Ignacia Guest House here (adlink).

Value for money: Santa Casa by Tasman

In the heart of Roma Norte lies Santa Casa – a beautiful villa from the 1930s.

The house was among the first in the neighbourhood to have electric lighting and once belonged to a duchess known for hosting rather lively parties.

Today, the villa has been transformed into a stylish boutique hotel, where the original details have been carefully preserved, allowing you to truly feel the soul of the place.

Guests can relax in the peaceful courtyard or enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace before heading out to explore Roma Norte’s cosy streets filled with unique galleries and cafés.

See prices and availability at Santa Casa by Tasman here (adlink).

Budget: Hotel Escala Colonia Roma

The double rooms at Hotel Escala Colonia Roma are nowhere near as flashy as some of the other hotels in Mexico City we recommend.

That said, they’re inexpensive – and if all you need is a safe place to rest your head after a long day exploring Roma Norte and the rest of the city, it’s perfect.

All rooms have free wifi, a small desk and a private bathroom, making it a good choice for anyone seeking budget accommodation in Mexico City.

See prices and availability at Hotel Escala Colonia Roma here (adlink).

The best hotels in Condesa

Condesa feels like a more sophisticated (and more expensive) older brother to Roma Norte.

Its green boulevards and many parks make it one of Mexico City’s most inviting neighbourhoods to stay in.

We also spent a lot of time here during our visit.

The oval Avenida Ámsterdam, once a horse racing track, has become a symbol of the neighbourhood’s relaxed lifestyle, with its popular jogging and dog-walking route and understated yet chic cafés.

In Condesa, you stay among elegant Art Deco architecture and leafy parks such as Parque México, where locals gather for yoga, dog walking (the dog schools are impressive!), or simply to enjoy the sunshine.

The restaurant scene rivals Roma Norte’s but has a more refined feel.

The location is excellent too, with Chapultepec Park just a short walk away. It’s the best place in the city for longer walks or runs away from the air pollution.

Our favourites: The 3 best hotels in Condesa

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• Luxury: Mondrian Mexico City – One of the best hotels in Condesa, offering a spa, fitness centre and several restaurants.
• Value for money: Hotel Villa Condesa – A cosy boutique hotel set in a restored Art Deco villa with 13 spacious rooms.
• Budget: Hotel Roosevelt Condesa – Ideally located next to the oval Avenida Ámsterdam, with spacious rooms at an affordable price.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Condesa here (adlink).

Luxury: Mondrian Mexico City

Mondrian is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Condesa.

Like the neighbourhood itself, the hotel blends modern and classic styles seamlessly, with service that is consistently excellent.

In addition, the beautiful Parque México is just a five-minute walk away.

See prices and availability at Mondrian Mexico City here (adlink).

Value for money: Hotel Villa Condesa

Hotel Villa Condesa is a charming boutique hotel set in a former Art Deco villa from Condesa’s heyday.

The building has been carefully restored, preserving beautiful details such as the wrought-iron gate and white façade, while the interior features warm colours and plenty of greenery.

The 13 rooms are spacious and airy, with several offering private balconies.

Breakfast is served on the covered terrace beneath a glass roof.

See prices and availability at Hotel Villa Condesa here (adlink).

Budget: Hotel Roosevelt Condesa

It is generally quite expensive to stay in Condesa. Hotel Roosevelt Condesa is one of the more affordable options, although it is located next to a potentially noisy intersection.

Just a two-minute walk away is the distinctive oval Avenida Ámsterdam, where many of the neighbourhood’s best spots can be found.

We enjoyed many lovely walks here during our stay in Mexico City.

The double rooms are pleasantly spacious, and each comes with a small desk, free wifi and a private bathroom.

See prices and availability at Hotel Roosevelt Condesa here (adlink).

The best hotels in Polanco

Polanco is Mexico City’s equivalent of Beverly Hills – an exclusive neighbourhood known for its designer boutiques, international restaurants, and its mix of Art Deco villas and ultra-modern buildings.

Along the fashionable Avenida Presidente Masaryk, you’ll find some of the city’s best shopping and finest dining options, including several of Latin America’s most renowned restaurants.

But Polanco is more than just luxury.

The neighbourhood is also home to important cultural institutions such as the iconic Museo Soumaya and pleasant green spaces like Parque Lincoln.

Its central location, just north of Chapultepec Park, makes it easy to explore the rest of the city, while the quiet, well-maintained streets give the impression of a small enclave amidst the energy of Mexico City.

Our favourites: The best hotels in Polanco

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• Ultra-luxury: Las Alcobas – Stylish boutique hotel with homely comfort and excellent service.
• Ultra-luxury: JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City – The city’s best location with stunning views and a wealth of amenities. One of the best hotels in Polanco.
• Luxury: The Alest – A British-style boutique hotel with an elegant and classy atmosphere.
• Value for money: District Polanco by Lumina – More affordable than it appears, and it looks pretty great!
• Budget: Casa Castillo – Comfortable rooms with options for a balcony, sofa and small kitchen. Located right between Polanco and Chapultepec Park.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Polanco here (adlink).

Ultra-luxury: Las Alcobas

If you want to stay in luxury without the full range of amenities offered by large hotel chains, Las Alcobas is worth considering.

This boutique hotel is discreetly situated in the heart of the exclusive Polanco neighbourhood and feels more like a stylish home than a typical hotel.

The service, however, is exceptional and consistently praised by guests.

The 35 rooms are equipped with high-tech features and luxurious touches such as deep bathtubs and rain showers.

See prices and availability at Las Alcobas here (adlink).

Ultra-luxury: JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City

If you’re looking for more facilities and an even better location, JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City Polanco is another excellent choice for accommodation in Mexico City.

The views from its 26 floors, and especially from the heated outdoor pool, are among the best in the city, overlooking Polanco on one side and Chapultepec Park on the other.

The hotel also offers spa treatments, a fitness centre and 24-hour room service.

See prices and availability at JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City here (adlink).

Luxury: The Alest

The Alest is a new boutique gem in Mexico’s exclusive Polanco neighbourhood, where British elegance meets Mexican charm.

The 19 rooms are decorated with Mexican art, and the bathrooms feature Carrara marble.

On the third floor, the junior suites offer large terraces with views over the treetops.

Guests can borrow bicycles to explore the neighbourhood, and another delightful touch is the remote-controlled boats available for a fun afternoon at Parque Lincoln, where locals gather to sail them on the pond.

See prices and availability at The Alest here (adlink).

Value for money: District Polanco by Lumina

The small boutique hotel District Polanco manages to look more luxurious than its price suggests – especially given its excellent location in the heart of Polanco, right on the main thoroughfare, Avenida Presidente Masaryk.

In addition to being beautifully designed with comfortable finishes, the rooms include amenities often missing from cheaper accommodations, such as air conditioning, reliable wifi, a coffee maker, a TV with streaming services, a minibar and a hairdryer.

Individually, these features may seem minor, but together they create a noticeably more upscale experience.

See prices and availability at District Polanco by Lumina here (adlink).

Budget: Casa Castillo

Technically, Casa Castillo is not in Polanco, but the neighbourhood’s “border” is only 300 metres away, and you’re very close to the entrance to Chapultepec Park and the Estela de Luz monument on the wide Paseo de la Reforma.

In other words, the location is really good, and in the budget category, you get better accommodation for your money here than in central Polanco.

Room facilities vary considerably, so be sure to check the pictures and descriptions carefully before booking.

Some rooms include a desk or table with chairs, while others offer a sofa, balcony, refrigerator, or even a small kitchen.

See prices and availability at Casa Castillo here (adlink).

The best ultra-luxury hotels in Mexico City

Let’s be clear: There are lots of luxury hotels in Mexico City.

The 5-star hotels are clustered in prime locations, especially along Paseo de la Reforma (near the Angel of Independence) and in the Polanco neighbourhood.

Since we’ve already covered the best hotels in Roma Norte, Condesa and Polanco, here are two more ultra-luxury hotels worth considering, in addition to the already mentioned Las Alcobas and JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City (adlinks).

Our favourites: The best ultra-luxury hotels in Mexico City

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• Ultra-luxury: Four Seasons Mexico City – Understated luxury with large, elegant rooms. One of the best hotels in Mexico City.
• Ultra-luxury: The St. Regis Mexico City – Butler service and an outdoor pool with a view. Another standout among luxury hotels in Mexico City, perfect if you are seeking sophistication and comfort.

Ultra-luxury: Four Seasons Mexico City

The Four Seasons Mexico City is one of the most exclusive luxury hotels in Mexico City, and it’s located near the lovely Chapultepec Park.

Although it sits right on one of the city’s busiest streets (Paseo de la Reforma), the hotel feels like a calm oasis with a beautiful courtyard.

The bright rooms are tastefully decorated with warm lighting and marble bathrooms with deep bathtubs.

The hotel has a rooftop pool, a well-equipped fitness centre and one of the best hotel spas in Mexico City, which offers Mexican-inspired treatments that incorporate local ingredients such as mezcal, amaranth and chocolate in the massage oils and scrubs..

See prices and availability at Four Seasons Mexico City here (adlink).

Ultra-luxury: The St. Regis Mexico City

The St. Regis Mexico City can also be found on Paseo de la Reforma, right at the entrance to Chapultepec Park.

The rooms have deep purple and grey tones with floor-to-ceiling windows, and every detail has been carefully considered.

If you need a shirt pressed or a morning coffee served, there’s even 24-hour butler service.

End the day with a cocktail at King Cole Bar or a swim in the 15th-floor pool with some of the best views in Mexico City.

See prices and availability at The St. Regis Mexico City here (adlink).

How long to stay in Mexico City

The ideal stay in Mexico City is around 4-5 days if you want to experience the main sights without rushing.

This allows time to see the Centro Histórico, visit a couple of the city’s museums, explore the neighbourhoods of Roma Norte and Condesa, and try plenty of yummy food.

We stayed for 10 days, which was perfect for us.

It gave us time to move at our own pace, explore more areas and fit in a day trip to the Teotihuacán pyramids.

With 10 days, we also had time to revisit our favourite spots and try some of the many great restaurants.

If you have a week, you’ll have enough time to see the key attractions and take one or two day trips without feeling pressed for time.

If you’re only making a short stop in Mexico City, you can still get a taste of the city in one or two days, but you’ll need to prioritise and plan carefully – distances are long, and traffic can be heavy.

At a minimum, we’d recommend spending three days in Mexico City so you can fit in:

• Teotihuacán Pyramids. An unmissable day trip from the city.
• Chapultepec. Visit the castle, enjoy a walk, and spend a few hours at the Museo Nacional de Antropología.
• Centro Histórico. The city centre is packed with experiences. You can easily spend (at least) a day experiencing the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the post office, the cathedral, the zócalo and seeing the city from above.

Length of stay for tourists in Mexico

Most visitors from Europe, the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia and many other countries can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days without a visa.

However, you should always check the latest entry requirements for your specific country before travelling, as rules can change.

Upon arrival, you’ll need to fill out a tourist card (FMM – Forma Migratoria Múltiple), either on the plane or at the airport. Keep it safe, as you must return it when leaving Mexico.

FAQ about accommodation in Mexico City

Is it safe to stay in Mexico City?

Yes, as long as you choose the right neighbourhoods in Mexico City.

Roma Norte, Condesa and Polanco are all very safe areas where you can walk around comfortably, even at night. Other areas may be more prone to crime.

The Centro Histórico, where many of the city’s main attractions are located, is generally safe during the day, but it’s best to be more cautious after dark.

If you feel uneasy at night, consider using a rideshare service such as Uber rather than hailing a taxi on the street.

Alternatively, you can use official taxis called “sitios” (half pink/half white).

Always check that there is a taximeter and that it’s reset when you get in, or agree on a price before the journey begins.

How long to stay in Mexico City?

We recommend a minimum of 4-5 days in Mexico City to get a good sense of the city and fit in a day trip or two.

We spent 10 days ourselves, which allowed plenty of time to see the main sights and soak up the atmosphere in the different neighbourhoods.

Which neighbourhood is best for first-time visitors?

Roma Norte or Condesa are ideal for first-time visitors. Both neighbourhoods are safe, very walkable, full of cafés and restaurants, and centrally located near most attractions.

Roma Norte has a more relaxed, hip vibe, while Condesa is slightly more sophisticated and green.

Is it expensive to stay in a hotel in Mexico City?

Mexico City offers accommodation across all price ranges.

In popular neighbourhoods like Condesa and Polanco, prices tend to be higher, while cheaper options can be found in the Centro Histórico or in the areas right around Paseo de la Reforma (Anzures, Cuauhtémoc, and Juárez).

If you want to stay as cheaply as possible, hostels with dormitory rooms are available, but for just a little extra per night, you can usually book a private room with a private bathroom.

Is it important to stay near the metro?

Staying near a metro station can be convenient, but it’s not essential.

Uber is cheap, safe, and often more comfortable. We preferred to ride them instead of the metro, especially in the evenings or when travelling with luggage.

Check out our guide for transport tips and advice on getting around Mexico City.

Are there any neighbourhoods to avoid in Mexico City?

As a tourist, it’s best to stick to central neighbourhoods such as Roma Norte, Condesa, Polanco and Centro Histórico.

For walking late at night, Roma Norte, Condesa and Polanco are safer options, with plenty of lighting and activity.

Avoid walking alone in the Centro Histórico or less familiar areas after dark, and always keep valuables out of sight (as always when travelling in big cities).

The Doctores neighbourhood, just east of Roma Norte, is also known for being less safe.

What should you consider when visiting Mexico City in winter?

Although daytime temperatures in Mexico City are usually mild, it can get quite cold in the evenings and at night during winter.

It’s a good idea to choose accommodation with heating, or at least good insulation and extra warm blankets.

When to visit Mexico City

At an altitude of 2,240 metres (around 7,350 feet), Mexico City enjoys a pleasant climate year-round.

Daytime temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 20-26°C (68-79°F), though evenings and nights can be cooler, particularly in winter when temperatures may drop to around 10°C (50°F).

From June to September, it’s the rainy season.

This means afternoon showers almost every day, so it’s a good idea to carry a rain jacket or umbrella. On the other side, the rain helps reduce some of the city’s air pollution.

During the dry season from October to May, humidity is lower and rainfall is minimal. It’s ideal for sunshine lovers, though a warm sweater is useful for chilly winter evenings.

Sun protection is important throughout the year. At this high altitude, the sun can be quite strong even when temperatures feel mild.

When is the best time to visit Mexico City

March to May offers the most beautiful weather and blooming jacaranda trees, but it is also high season with more tourists.

From June to August, you can often find good hotel deals if you don’t mind afternoon showers.

September to November have pleasant temperatures and plenty of cultural events (including Día de los Muertos!), while December to February is cooler and quieter in terms of tourism.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is ideal for sun lovers, with temperatures around 26°C (79°F).

The city is at its most beautiful when the jacaranda trees bloom in shades of purple from February to March.

Book accommodation well in advance during the high season.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is low season, making it perfect for budget travellers, as hotel deals are often available.

Be prepared for daily afternoon showers, which also help clear the air of pollution.

Daytime temperatures remain comfortable around 26°C (79°F).

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings some of the year’s biggest cultural events, with October and November standing out for Día de los Muertos celebrations, when the city is filled with colourful decorations and skeletons.

Temperatures are cooler, but still comfortable for sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Daytime temperatures range from 20-22°C (68-72°F), but evenings can be chilly, so bring a warm jacket.

Many hotels offer good deals during this period, though some restaurants and shops close around Christmas and New Year.

Tip: UV radiation is high year-round due to the city’s altitude. Always wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight around midday.

What to do in Mexico City

We’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide to Mexico City, with descriptions and plenty of pictures of the city’s best experiences and attractions.

You’ll also find information on the best day trips from the city.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Mexico’s capital (or are already there), we’re sure this guide will help and inspire you.

Our best tips for Mexico City

• Book accommodation early. This is especially important during holiday periods or if you want to secure the best deals.
• Bring pesos. Larger restaurants and shops usually accept credit cards, but for smaller places, street food and markets, it’s a good idea to carry cash.
• Get a Mexican SIM card or e-SIM with data. You can buy one at 7-Eleven or Oxxo in the airport arrivals terminal or in shops around the city. Airport SIMs are more expensive but convenient if you want to use Uber right away, for example. We bought Telcel because we had heard that it had the best coverage, and it worked well for us. We’ve also previously used Airalo (adlink) with great success.
• ¿Habla inglés? While many people in tourist areas speak some English in Mexico, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
• Use Google Translate: If you have data on your phone, you can use the camera function to translate things like menus and signs live. The microphone function is useful if you’re communicating with locals who can’t speak English.
• Plug type and voltage: Mexico primarily uses Type A and Type B plugs (flat, parallel prongs), similar to those used in the United States and Canada. Mexico operates on a 127V supply voltage and a frequency of 60Hz, so check if your devices are dual-voltage if they come from regions with different standards. It’s a good idea to bring an adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
• Avoid drinking tap water. We use a water filter from Tappwater (adlink) that fits most taps, making the water safe to drink. This allows us to refill our own bottles and avoid buying plastic. Large bottles of water can also be used. Brushing your teeth with tap water is generally fine. Alternatively, you can buy large bottles of water and fill them into smaller bottles. We brushed our teeth in tap water without any problems.
• Tips (“propinas”) are expected in many places. You can often choose between 10%, 15% and 20% on the card terminals. 10-15% is generally fine, with 20% for exceptional service. For Uber rides, tipping isn’t necessary unless you receive extra help, such as with luggage – then 5-10 pesos per bag is polite.
• Protect yourself from the sun. The UV index is high due to the city’s altitude. Wear sunscreen, a hat, or stay in the shade during midday. Also, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Thank you for reading

We hope our guide to where to stay in Mexico City has helped you navigate the city’s many neighbourhoods.

If you have any questions about accommodation, feel free to ask in the comments below. You’re also very welcome to share your own hotel experiences.