Mexico City, or CDMX as it’s also known, is rapidly becoming a top destination for global travelers, and for good reason. This sprawling metropolis is a vibrant mix of ancient history, rich culture, world-class art, and contemporary hospitality, offering an unparalleled travel experience. As one of the oldest urban centers in the Americas, Mexico City boasts historical treasures like the Teotihuacan pyramids and the Templo Mayor, beautifully contrasted with the Spanish colonial architecture found in charming areas such as Coyoacan. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the city’s dynamic arts scene, home to renowned institutions like the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Frida Kahlo Museum, alongside modern galleries scattered throughout Roma and San Miguel Chapultepec.
Foodies, too, will discover a culinary paradise in Mexico City. From celebrated street food and bustling markets to sophisticated cocktail bars and innovative fine dining restaurants, the city’s gastronomic offerings are incredibly diverse. Beyond the historical and cultural attractions, Mexico City provides endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment with its expansive green spaces, a staggering number of museums (173!), and exciting nightlife.
Having visited Mexico City multiple times for various reasons – work trips, romantic getaways, and even a bachelorette party – I can attest to its magnetic appeal. The city’s dynamism and diverse neighborhoods are what make CDMX a world-class destination. Each neighborhood presents a unique experience, catering to every type of traveler, whether you’re a museum enthusiast, a night owl, or a history aficionado. This guide will help you navigate the best areas and hotels for your next trip to Mexico City, featuring top accommodations that have been recognized in Travel + Leisure’s prestigious World’s Best Awards and It List.
Why You Can Trust This Guide
As a travel writer specializing in Mexican destinations, I, Austa Somvichian-Clausen, have extensively explored Mexico City. My experiences include immersing myself in the city’s craft cocktail scene for national publications, staying in numerous hotels for both research and personal travel, and consistently discovering new neighborhoods on each visit. This firsthand experience allows me to provide informed and reliable recommendations to ensure you find the perfect place to stay in Mexico City.
Where to Stay in Roma
Roma, particularly Roma Norte, is a neighborhood that frequently comes up in travel conversations. This larger area, also known as Colonia Roma and La Roma, is situated in the Cuauhtémoc borough, just west of the historic city center. Roma is broadly divided into La Romita and Roma Sur, which are primarily residential, and the lively Roma Norte. Today, Roma Norte is arguably the city’s most vibrant spot, celebrated for its picturesque streets, inviting cafes and restaurants (like the famous Panaderia Rosetta), and trendy boutiques. I appreciate Roma Norte for its walkability and relative safety. However, it’s worth noting that prices in this sought-after neighborhood are generally higher compared to other parts of Mexico City.
La Valise Mexico City
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-la-valise-mexico-city-WHERECDMX0724-b350ab68260a42ba90065b1427e57c7f.jpg)
Image: A beautifully designed guest room at La Valise Mexico City, showcasing its unique and art-focused ambiance.
What We Like: La Valise stands out with its artfully designed suites and personalized service. Its central location in Roma Norte allows easy exploration of the neighborhood’s trendy cafes, art galleries, and restaurants, perfect for discovering the area on foot.
What to Consider: Housed in a historic building without an elevator, upper floors at La Valise may not be accessible for wheelchair users. Also, the hotel has a policy of only accommodating children over 12 years old.
La Valise Mexico City offers an elegant retreat from the energy of Roma Norte within a beautifully renovated 1920s French-style townhouse. As part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, La Valise features communal spaces and distinctive suites adorned with antiques, local art, and unique design elements. Highlights include the oscillating circular door in the Moon Suite and the Cliene Suite’s rolling bed, which can be moved outdoors for stargazing.
With only eight suites, booking well in advance is highly recommended. While La Valise doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, it is ideally located near some of CDMX’s finest dining spots, from upscale restaurants like Restaurante Rosetta and Blanco Colima to iconic cocktail bars like Licorería Limantour.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available only on the first floor. There is no elevator in this historic building.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Museo Objeto del Objeto (MODO), Mercado Roma, Plaza Río de Janeiro, Galería OMR
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $350 per night
Nima Local House Hotel & Spa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-nima-local-house-WHERECDMX0724-2182c06ca62045cca5e9031d0c37e59b.jpg)
Image: A welcoming living room at Nima Local House Hotel & Spa, showcasing its attention to detail and home-like atmosphere.
What We Like: At Nima, every detail is thoughtfully considered. The exceptional staff can secure reservations at top restaurants throughout the city, and guests are greeted with fresh flowers and a welcome drink upon arrival, enhancing the personalized experience.
What to Consider: Nima is aptly named a “House Hotel” as it offers only four rooms. This intimate setting, while charming, means availability is very limited.
Situated directly across from La Valise, Nima Local House Hotel & Spa is a boutique hotel that emphasizes an intimate guest experience and outstanding concierge service. Located within a beautifully restored early 20th-century mansion, Nima harmoniously blends historic charm with contemporary comfort. It features just four exquisitely designed rooms, lush indoor gardens, a spa complete with a sauna and steam room, and a relaxing rooftop terrace. The interior design is characterized by a clean, bright white palette, complemented by homely touches and abundant greenery. I particularly appreciate the hotel’s dedication to creating a home-away-from-home ambiance, including an honesty bar, and its superb location in Roma Norte.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Museo Objeto del Objeto (MODO), Mercado Roma, Plaza Río de Janeiro, Galería OMR
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $425 per night
Where to Stay in Polanco
Polanco is the ideal neighborhood for discerning travelers with a taste for luxury and high-end shopping. This upscale district features a mix of designer boutiques, art galleries like the renowned Museo Soumaya, and elegant cafes along its tree-lined avenues. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining at acclaimed restaurants such as Pujol, celebrated for its innovative Mexican cuisine, or savor traditional flavors at El Bajío. Polanco also offers green retreats such as Parque Lincoln, perfect for relaxing walks, and a vibrant nightlife scene along Avenida Presidente Masaryk. One of my favorite hidden gems in Polanco is Xinú, a local perfumery providing a unique sensory experience.
Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-las-alcobas-WHERECDMX0724-d97c3f75f1404b249b879381ace1ebec.jpg)
Image: A sophisticated guest room at Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, showcasing its modern and luxurious design in Polanco.
What We Like: Las Alcobas excels in providing in-room wellness features, including memory foam mattresses and hydrotherapy jet-equipped soaking tubs, enhancing guest comfort and relaxation.
What to Consider: In contrast to the verdant patios of Roma Norte accommodations, Las Alcobas offers a more contemporary and sleek luxury experience, which might not appeal to those seeking a more traditional Mexican aesthetic.
Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel, enjoys a prime location directly on Avenida Presidente Masaryk, a grand boulevard famous for the city’s best shopping. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a striking spiral staircase that ascends from the lobby, though elevators are also available. Las Alcobas offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites with high-end amenities, including custom furniture, luxurious linens, and spa-inspired bathrooms featuring handmade soaps and self-cleaning aromatherapy tubs. The hotel’s dining options, Anatol and Dulce Patria, are both renowned for their innovative cuisine, with Anatol offering Italian-inspired dishes and Dulce Patria focusing on upscale Mexican fare. Las Alcobas was recognized as a World’s Best Awards winner in 2023.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Museo Soumaya, Museo Jumex, Parque Lincoln, Auditorio Nacional, Avenida Presidente Masaryk
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Rates: Starting at $400 per night
Casa Polanco
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-casa-polanco-WHERECDMX0724-73d31fc4c81345a68b832960a5850067.jpg)
Image: The library at Casa Polanco Hotel Boutique, showcasing its sophisticated and inviting common spaces.
What We Like: Casa Polanco beautifully combines the historical charm of its Neocolonial mansion setting with modern luxury amenities. The variety of common spaces, from rooftop terraces to a cozy library, provides ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
What to Consider: A stay at Casa Polanco is a significant investment, which may be prohibitive for travelers on a tighter budget, particularly those planning extended stays in CDMX.
Experience true Mexican elegance at Casa Polanco, a hacienda-style boutique hotel housed in a meticulously restored mansion just south of Parque Lincoln. Guests are treated to spacious and elegantly appointed rooms that exude sophistication and warmth, complemented by luxurious amenities.
The hotel’s tranquil ambiance is perfect for relaxation, while its central Polanco location provides easy access to premier attractions, including high-end shopping on Avenida Presidente Masaryk, cultural experiences at Museo Soumaya, and leisurely strolls in Parque Lincoln. Casa Polanco’s personalized service and attention to detail ensure a memorable and refined stay, making it an exceptional retreat in one of Mexico City’s most dynamic districts. Casa Polanco was also recognized on Travel + Leisure’s It List in 2023.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Parque Lincoln, Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Auditorio Nacional, Zoológico de Chapultepec
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $500 per night
[At Casa Polanco] the service is attentive but never intrusive, and the team delights in the details. Love mezcal? They’ll organize a private tasting of rare, small-batch mezcals in the sitting room. Adore architecture? They can arrange a tour of the renowned architect Luis Barragan’s Casa Pedregal.
— Jeff Chu, T+L Contributor
Where to Stay in Centro Historico
For history enthusiasts and those who appreciate neighborhoods with a strong sense of place, Centro Historico is an excellent choice. As the historical heart of Mexico City, it is rich with landmarks, bustling markets, and cultural experiences. Days can be spent exploring the Zócalo, one of the world’s largest public squares, and admiring the impressive architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. Art lovers will want to dedicate time to the murals at the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Diego Rivera Mural Museum, and then enjoy street food at the vibrant Mercado de San Juan.
Círculo Mexicano
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-circulo-mexicano-WHERECDMX0724-09f315b5c6b045ae862832fa206bb793.jpg)
Image: A minimalist yet stylish guest room at Círculo Mexicano, highlighting its thoughtful design in the historic district.
What We Like: Círculo Mexicano offers a relaxing and conveniently located stay in the historic district with its minimalist yet thoughtful design. The rooftop area, featuring breakfast service and a small pool, is a significant highlight.
What to Consider: Finding Círculo Mexicano for the first time can be slightly challenging, as it is located within a larger building on a cobblestone street behind the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Círculo Mexicano, set in a beautifully renovated 19th-century building, provides guests with a unique and authentic experience in Mexico City’s oldest neighborhood. The hotel’s stylish rooms feature modern amenities while preserving architectural details that reflect its rich heritage. Its central location places guests within walking distance of iconic attractions such as the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, and Templo Mayor, making it easy to explore Mexico City’s cultural treasures.
With its personalized service, tranquil atmosphere, and proximity to major landmarks and vibrant street life, Círculo Mexicano is an ideal choice for travelers eager to immerse themselves in the historical and cultural richness of Centro Historico. This hotel was also recognized on Travel + Leisure’s It List in 2021.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, Museo del Templo Mayor, Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL)
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $200 per night
Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico
What We Like: The Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is distinguished by its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, iconic stained-glass ceiling, and prime location directly on the Zócalo, offering a truly unique stay.
What to Consider: While its central location on the bustling Zócalo is convenient, it may also mean exposure to noise and crowds, especially during public events and festivals.
Describing the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico as having historic details is an understatement. This luxurious hotel is housed in a beautifully preserved Art Nouveau building, featuring an iconic stained-glass ceiling that is mesmerizing, and elegant, period-inspired decor that evokes a bygone era.
Its prime location on the Zócalo provides breathtaking views of the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, placing guests within easy reach of key attractions like Templo Mayor and Palacio de Bellas Artes. The hotel offers modern amenities, including spacious rooms, fine dining at the rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views, and attentive service. With its blend of historical charm, a prime location, and upscale comforts, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de México provides a memorable stay in the heart of Mexico City’s historic center.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Nacional de las Culturas del Mundo INAH, Metropolitan Cathedral
- Loyalty Programs: iPrefer by Preferred Hotels & Resorts
- Rates: Starting at $200 per night
Where to Stay in Condesa
If Roma Norte is the trendy and youthful area of CDMX, Condesa is its more relaxed and mature counterpart. This bohemian district is perfect for visitors who enjoy exploring stylish cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries nestled among tree-lined streets and Art Deco architecture, but with a more laid-back atmosphere than its busier neighbor.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides through the verdant Parque México and Parque España, both offering green spaces, dog-friendly environments, and a relaxed atmosphere. Condesa also boasts a diverse culinary scene, from gourmet dining at Lardo and Merotoro to delicious street tacos at El Tizoncito. The area’s equally appealing nightlife includes eclectic bars like La Clandestina, ideal for craft cocktails, and wine bars such as NIV and PLONK.
Hotel San Fernando
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hotel-san-fernando-WHERECDMX0724-0be35daeeb5b463994229b5d685573d4.jpg)
Image: The exterior of Hotel San Fernando, highlighting its beautifully restored Art Deco apartment building in Condesa.
What We Like: Hotel San Fernando offers an intimate and vibrant hotel experience within a historic property, blending the best aspects of Airbnb and hotel stays, particularly in its room designs.
What to Consider: As a smaller boutique hotel, Hotel San Fernando has fewer amenities, which might be a drawback for travelers seeking facilities like a gym or pool during their stay.
Part of the Bunkhouse Hotels group, Hotel San Fernando is a small boutique property offering stylish and thoughtfully designed rooms that reflect the area’s creative vibe. It was also recognized on Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List of best new hotels.
Housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco apartment building, each room is uniquely designed with custom furniture and kitchenettes, creating a cozy and artistic atmosphere perfect for a relaxing retreat. Breakfast is served daily on the rooftop patio, and downstairs, Lounge Fernando adjacent to the lobby offers small plates and inventive cocktails, hosting Sunday DJ sets.
The hotel’s excellent location provides easy access to Condesa’s lush parks, Parque México and Parque España, and it is conveniently located next to PLONK, one of my favorite wine bars in the city. Keep in mind that as a historic building, there is no elevator.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Parque México, Parque España, Bosque de Chapultepec, Museo Nacional de Antropología
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $225 per night
[At Hotel San Fernando,] the sense of entering a serene refuge from the 21st century begins as you pass through the original curved doors to the lobby, which is adorned with striking green tiles, stained-glass windows, hanging textiles, and decorative lamps from the Oaxacan-based studio Oaxifornia.
— Tony Perrottet, T+L Contributor
Hotel Condesa DF
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-condesa-df-WHERECDMX0724-5025b6818a3e46318723ac02b0fc48ba.jpg)
Image: The stylish bar area at Hotel Condesa DF, reflecting its contemporary design and ambiance.
What We Like: As a member of the Design Hotels Network, Hotel Condesa DF is undeniably aesthetically pleasing. Starting your day with breakfast on their scenic rooftop is a delightful experience.
What to Consider: The rooms at this boutique hotel are relatively small, which may not be ideal for families traveling with children or guests who prefer more spacious accommodations.
Hotel Condesa DF stylishly combines contemporary design with the bohemian charm of the Condesa neighborhood, offering a chic and comfortable retreat. While the rooms at Condesa DF are compact, they are elegantly designed with minimalist decor, high-quality furnishings, and large windows that bring in ample natural light. Some rooms also feature private terraces, often cited as a highlight by guests.
Guests can begin their day with breakfast on the rooftop terrace, enjoying panoramic neighborhood views, and return in the evening for cocktails and tapas as the sun sets. The hotel also features El Patio, a contemporary French-Mexican fusion restaurant that offers a popular Sunday brunch.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Parque México, Parque España, Bosque de Chapultepec, Museo Nacional de Antropología
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Rates: Starting at $300 per night
Where to Stay in Coyoacán
Coyoacán, a charming and historically rich area, is famous as the former home of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. It’s characterized by UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cobblestone streets, and beautiful colonial architecture, making it perfect for art and culture enthusiasts. A must-visit is the Coyoacán Market, offering local crafts, fresh produce, and Mexican street food. Enjoy churros and hot chocolate at the historic Café El Jarocho (open since 1953) or savor innovative Mexican dishes at Los Danzantes after visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul), which offers an intimate glimpse into the life of the iconic artist.
Mansion de Papilio
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-mansion-de-papilo-WHERECDMX0724-6ef75d25812f4c84be482e4ac6c68280.jpg)
Image: The grand exterior of Mansion de Papilio in Coyoacán, highlighting its historic architecture and serene setting.
What We Like: Staying at Mansion de Papilio, a beautifully restored mansion with elegant architecture and period furnishings, feels like stepping back in time. The presence of peacocks on the property adds to its unique charm.
What to Consider: Guests seeking a contemporary vibe or modern amenities like a gym might prefer other options. Also, while charming, peacocks can be noisy at times.
Few accommodations in Mexico City possess a richer history than Mansion de Papilio. This family-owned mansion hotel, opened in 1923, has served as a set for numerous film and television productions. An adults-only hotel with just seven rooms, it offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. It is also conveniently located near Casa Azul.
The hotel offers breakfast in a cozy dining area, a fireplace living room for relaxation, an English pub with a pianist, and lush gardens inhabited by colorful peacocks. Each room at Mansion de Papilio is uniquely decorated, featuring comfortable beds, antique furniture, and modern amenities.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul), Leon Trotsky Museum, Coyoacán Market
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $150 per night
H21 Hospedaje Boutique
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-h21-hospedaje-boutique-WHERECDMX0724-90e1e8cd19554046ab592f4efa2b334a.jpg)
Image: A guest room at H21 Hospedaje Boutique, showcasing its minimalist, contemporary furnishings with Mexican design touches.
What We Like: H21 Hospedaje Boutique, situated on a quiet street just a block from the main attractions of Coyoacan, provides a peaceful stay. The hotel is also highly praised for its attentive customer service.
What to Consider: With only nine unique suites, booking in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability.
H21 Hospedaje Boutique is known for its exceptional staff who offer outstanding service, proactively reaching out to guests before their stay to understand their needs and assist with restaurant or experience bookings.
The unique suites are distinctively designed with minimalist, contemporary furnishings and subtle Mexican design elements. They are equipped with full kitchenettes, and some include small, leafy terraces. The hotel provides a breakfast buffet, complimentary parking, and a generous noon check-out time.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Museo Nacional de Culturas Populares, National Cinematheque, Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul), Fuente de los Coyotes
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $180 per night
Where to Stay in Reforma
For travelers seeking to be at the heart of the action, Reforma offers a vibrant big-city atmosphere. Known for its iconic avenue, Paseo de la Reforma, lined with impressive skyscrapers, historical monuments, and green spaces, Reforma is a hub of activity. History buffs can explore landmarks like the Angel of Independence and Chapultepec Castle, both located along Paseo de la Reforma, while art enthusiasts can visit the Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL) for an extensive collection of Mexican art.
Reforma is one of the safest and most centrally located areas, making it an excellent option for those with limited time in the city who want to maximize their experience. Even if you don’t stay at the Four Seasons in this neighborhood, I highly recommend visiting its lush central courtyard and enjoying a drink at their renowned cocktail bar, Fifty Mils.
The St. Regis Mexico City
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-st-regis-mexico-city-WHERECDMX0724-6e3730bbbb494fc9bb309a7dff49ad65.jpg)
Image: A contemporary guest room at The St. Regis Mexico City, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the city skyline.
What We Like: Unlike some luxury hotel brands that can feel formal, The St. Regis Mexico City is distinctly modern and refreshingly approachable, with warm, professional service and top-tier rooms.
What to Consider: The rates at The St. Regis can be high, especially for longer stays. It may also not appeal to travelers seeking a more intimate, boutique hotel experience.
The St. Regis Mexico City has been featured on Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards list multiple times (2021, 2022, and 2023), recognized for its elegance, comfort, and impeccable service. Known for its panoramic views of Mexico City’s skyline and Chapultepec Park, this luxury hotel offers a sophisticated retreat for discerning travelers seeking a central location.
Guests receive exemplary customer service, with personalized attention to every detail. The rooms at The St. Regis Mexico City are elegantly furnished, featuring plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities. The newer Garden Terrace Suites include sprawling private patios with comfortable seating and outdoor tubs. During a recent stay in one of these suites, I was provided with a personal attendant. The hotel boasts excellent dining options, including Diana Restaurant, serving a buffet breakfast and gourmet Mexican cuisine with city views, and King Cole Bar, offering craft cocktails in a refined setting.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Chapultepec Park, Auditorio Nacional, Museo de Arte Moderno, Museo Nacional de Antropología
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Rates: Starting at $400 per night
The hotel sits in a great location, making it walkable to the Roma and Condesa neighborhoods. The new garden suites have jacuzzis and infinity pools and the on-site dining options and bars make it easy to get a good bite if you don’t want to venture out.
— Susmita Baral, Editor
Hotel Volga
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hotel-volga-WHERECDMX0724-7ee3da5080454fd48acb14289b75e2d0.jpg)
Image: The trendy bar at Hotel Volga, showcasing its unique industrial chic design and atmosphere.
What We Like: Hotel Volga is a unique and somewhat hidden gem in one of CDMX’s busiest areas. Its industrial chic design, excellent Italian-inspired restaurant, rooftop pool, and underground vinyl bar are compelling reasons to choose Volga.
What to Consider: Hotel Volga is an adults-only property, so it is not suitable for families traveling with children.
Hotel Volga, featured on Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List, is an industrial design enthusiast’s dream and surprisingly spacious inside. While technically located in the small Cuauhtémoc sub-neighborhood, it is just one block from Reforma, tucked away on a side street.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a winding copper staircase leading down to a vast open lobby that includes the hotel’s restaurant, Elora, a noteworthy Mediterranean dining spot. Modern, sleek rooms overlook the lobby, featuring quirky indoor terraces with sliding metal casings. The rooftop offers a picturesque pool and cocktail bar, while the basement houses Minos, a vinyl bar that becomes lively in the evenings.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: El Ángel de la Independencia, Galleries like AGO Projects, Museo del Chocolate
- Loyalty Programs: iPrefer by Preferred Hotels & Resorts
- Rates: Starting at $200 per night
I barely knew where to rest my eyes at the architecturally inventive Volga Hotel, the latest offering from the Mexican hospitality group Hamak that takes the concept of a ‘design hotel’ to new levels. Perhaps guests should think of it as an urban cenote – or at least that’s what Javier Sánchez, one of the three Mexican architects behind this hotel, which opened its doors fall 2023 in the trendy neighborhood of Cuauhtémoc, – wants you to think.
— Tony Perrottet, T+L Contributor
The Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-four-seasons-hotel-mexico-city-WHERECDMX0724-e4c872c94b6047039c0b26135ff1203c.jpg)
Image: A guest looking out of a window in a room at The Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, enjoying the view and luxurious ambiance.
What We Like: The Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City is a true urban oasis, featuring a lush, plant-filled center courtyard that smells of jasmine in the evening, exceptional service, and a chic cocktail bar.
What to Consider: With over 200 rooms, it is one of the larger hotels in the city. Travelers seeking a more intimate hotel experience may prefer a smaller property.
The standout feature of the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City is its stunning courtyard, abundant with plants, trees, and a soothing fountain, creating a tranquil atmosphere at any time of day. An outdoor pool and a wellness center offering treatments inspired by Mexican ancestral traditions further enhance the on-property experience.
Rooms are clean, spacious, and comfortable, featuring luxurious marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. On-site gourmet dining options include Zanaya, specializing in seafood and Mexican cuisine, and Fifty Mils, a popular cocktail bar using local ingredients. Note that Fifty Mils is frequented by both locals and visitors and stays open until 2 a.m. on weekends.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: Chapultepec Park, Museo Nacional de Antropología, Museo de Arte Moderno, Chapultepec Castle
- Loyalty Programs: Four Seasons Preferred Partner program
- Rates: Starting at $500 per night
Where to Stay in Zona Rosa
Zona Rosa is known for its lively streets filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it ideal for travelers looking for nightlife and entertainment. It is also Mexico City’s main LGBTQ+ neighborhood, hosting the majority of queer nightlife options, such as Almacen, Kinky Bar, and Cabaretito Fusión. Karaoke enthusiasts will also find Zona Rosa appealing, as most Korean karaoke bars are located here.
For daytime activities, Zona Rosa is a convenient starting point for exploring other neighborhoods, especially for dining in upscale areas. Its location just north of Roma Norte and directly on Paseo de la Reforma makes it easy to access excellent restaurants and attractions.
Sofitel Mexico City Reforma
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-sofitel-mexico-city-reforma-WHERECDMX0724-495ca6ea9e7d469699a876adc4f8319e.jpg)
Image: A modern and elegant guest room at Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, offering city views and luxurious amenities.
What We Like: Sofitel Mexico City Reforma is a consistently excellent option, featuring modern, clean rooms with L’Occitane amenities and outstanding on-site dining and bar choices. The rooftop cocktail bar with scenic views is a definite plus, perfect for starting an evening before exploring Zona Rosa.
What to Consider: While technically in Reforma, more budget-friendly options are available across Paseo de la Reforma in Zona Rosa proper.
Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, part of the French luxury hotel chain, is located just across Paseo de la Reforma. Rooms are beautifully designed, blending French elegance with modern Mexican touches and featuring plush bedding, spacious bathrooms, and advanced amenities like Bluetooth connectivity and automated curtains.
Guests can start their day with a generous breakfast buffet, dine at Balta, the on-site Mexican and Mediterranean restaurant, for dinner, and enjoy cocktails at the chic rooftop bar, Cityzen. The hotel’s proximity to Kinky Bar highlights its convenient location for nightlife in Zona Rosa.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: El Ángel de la Independencia, Museo del Objeto del Objeto (MODO), AGO Projects
- Loyalty Programs: ALL (Accor Live Limitless Loyalty Program)
- Rates: Starting at $300 per night
Hotel Geneve Mexico City
What We Like: Hotel Geneve Mexico City uniquely blends historic charm with modern comfort, offering a memorable stay in the city center. Its beautifully decorated rooms and public spaces are filled with antiques and memorabilia, creating a distinctive atmosphere.
What to Consider: Some guests may find certain aspects of the hotel dated, and those seeking a thoroughly contemporary hotel experience might prefer other options.
While many hotels in Zona Rosa and nearby Reforma offer a modern hospitality experience, Hotel Geneve Mexico City provides a unique and memorable stay with its historic charm and contemporary amenities.
Renowned for its rich history and elegant architecture, this over 100-year-old hotel exudes character with antique furnishings and warm service. Features include stained glass ceilings, elegant chandeliers, ornate brass details, and more. Enjoy a drink at the cozy London-inspired Phone Bar before exploring the surrounding bars and clubs, or dine at Veranda Bistro, the hotel’s restaurant featuring living plant walls and black and white checkered floors.
The Details:
- Accessibility: Accessible rooms are available.
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Nearby Attractions: El Ángel de la Independencia, Museo del Objeto del Objeto (MODO), The Wax Museum (Museo de Cera), Galleries like AGO Projects
- Loyalty Programs: None
- Rates: Starting at $130 per night
Neighborhood Recap
Mexico City offers dynamic hotel accommodations for every type of traveler, from honeymooning couples to groups of friends, families, and solo adventurers. For those prioritizing daytime activities like museums, shops, and parks, quieter neighborhoods such as Coyoacán and Condesa are ideal. Nightlife enthusiasts will thrive in Zona Rosa, while shoppers may prefer Polanco or Roma Norte, depending on their style preferences. Travelers who prefer the reliability of reputable brand names will find excellent options in high-end hotels like the Four Seasons, Sofitel, and St. Regis, while intimate boutique hotels such as Nima and H21 provide a more personalized, home-like experience. No matter your preference, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Mexico City.
Know Before You Go
Many Businesses are Cash Only
While larger establishments accept major credit cards (American Express may be less widely accepted, so carry an alternative), many smaller vendors in CDMX operate on a cash-only basis. Ensure you have enough cash for your trip to avoid inconvenience.
Only Drink Bottled Water
Tap water in Mexico City is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water and consider purchasing larger jugs and refilling a reusable bottle to be more economical and environmentally conscious.
Utilize Public Transportation
While ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and affordable compared to U.S. cities, Mexico City’s public transportation is efficient and easy to navigate. Using public transport is also a great way to experience the city like a local.
Brush Up on Spanish Basics
While English is spoken in many tourist areas, knowing basic Spanish phrases is considerate and helpful. Especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, knowing how to communicate these needs in Spanish at restaurants is important for safety.
How We Chose These Hotels
Austa Somvichian-Clausen, a New York-based writer with extensive knowledge of Mexico City’s neighborhoods and hotels, selected the best properties in each area. Her evaluation criteria included brand reputation, architectural design, in-room comfort and amenities, on-site dining and beverage options, historical significance, and location.
A key consideration was the level of customer service and hospitality at each hotel, which significantly impacts guest experience. The selection process involved firsthand experiences, thorough analysis of customer reviews, and recognition of recent accolades, including Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards and It List winners. Finally, all recommendations align with Travel + Leisure’s core Hotel Values, ensuring quality and reliability in our suggestions.
