More and more frequently, I hear rave reviews of Mexico City (aka Ciudad de Mexico or CDMX) from my traveler friends.
Videos by TravelAwaits
They talk about the culture, from streetwear to nail salons to music. They gush about the food, the drinks, and the dancing. They dream about going back; some even talk about moving to CDMX.
Here’s what I can tell you about the city off the top of my head: it’s massive.
Mexico City isn’t just the capital of the country—it’s also the world’s fifth-largest city in terms of total population in its urban areas, which are home to almost 22 million people. (And that’s just an estimate.)
Tokyo takes first with 37 million, followed by Delhi (32 million), Shanghai (24 million), and São Paulo (23 million). For context, New York City comes in 11th place on this list with just over 20 million.
So, how will that huge population affect your trip?
To be blunt, I tend to avoid hectic cities with overwhelming crowds and levels of noise. (I like to relax, okay?) But given Mexico City’s sterling reputation, I’d hate to bar myself from a great experience.
The balance lies in knowing where to stay, where to eat, where to visit, and which places to avoid. Don’t just toss yourself into the madness and hope for the best, in other words.
If you really want to pierce the veil of the second-largest city in the Americas, I suggest being mindful about which hotel you book.
At their most basic, the best hotels in Mexico City give you a comfortable place to rest and recharge. But some of the best hotels in Mexico City will also help you make sense of the city’s amazing neighborhoods and idiosyncrasies while putting you close to some of its best eats, bars, clubs, and more.
Here’s where I think you should stay the next time you head to Mexico City. (If you want my pick of the bunch, I vote for Casa Decu.)
Best hotels in Mexico City
- Best location in historic downtown: Hotel Zocalo Central
- Most beautiful architecture: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico
- Best location in trendy area: Mondrian Mexico City Condesa
- Best no-fuss boutique stay: Casa Decu
- Most social hotel: Casa Sabina
- Best BnB choice: Stella Bed & Breakfast
- Best Mexican flair: Soy Local CDMX
Best hotels in Mexico City
Best location in historic downtown: Hotel Zocalo Central
Renowned for its gorgeous rooftop views, you won’t get a better vista of Mexico City’s most historic streets than at the Zocalo. In fact, many locals and tourists head to the rooftop for after-work drinks and first dates.
With plenty of elevated decks that let you soak up the views, you might actually spend more time at your hotel than you previously thought. I think the rooms are a little plain, but that’s not a big deal if you’ll be busy on your trip.
The main appeal here is the views and immersion in the city’s oldest district.
Most beautiful architecture: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico
Speaking of old architecture, the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico lets you take another up-close look at the city’s heritage. In this case, you’re treated to a stay in a 20th-century Art Nouveau masterpiece.
From the lobby to the elevators to the bathrooms, you’re going to feel like you’re walking through a Gilded Era movie set. Though Casa Decu (below) is my favorite pick for the best hotels in Mexico City, the Gran Hotel is a very close second.
The best part? This hotel also has a fifth-floor terrace where you can have a bite to eat and soak up views of the surrounding area.
Best location in trendy area: Mondrian Mexico City Condesa
If the picks listed above felt a little too austere for you, then you’ll love the Mondrian Mexico City Condesa.
Condesa is one of CDMX’s most popular neighborhoods, bordering Roma and close to Polanco—two other trending neighborhoods you should know about. (I know about them after hearing multiple friends rave about their experiences in the city.)
At the Mondrian, you’re treated to a clean, comfortable stay that has plenty of artwork and other colorful accents that perfectly fit the atmosphere outside.
Best no-fuss boutique stay: Casa Decu
Want a cozy spot to hang up your hat after a long day—no frills needed? Casa Decu has a gorgeous and simple setup, full of black-and-white accents and greenery that will let you unwind in total peace.
As someone who’s a little bit sensitive to madhouse hustle-and-bustle that’s common to cities like CDMX, this is my first choice thanks to its tranquil atmosphere. I also like the simple, clean design and its flora.
Nothing relaxes me more after a long day of eating street tacos and shopping than staring at a hibiscus.
Most social hotel: Casa Sabina
Want to meet like-minded travelers while you explore the city? I’ve left my social butterfly era behind (for now, at least), but many of the positive takes on CDMX that I’ve heard are based on its easygoing atmosphere, which makes it easy to make friends.
Casa Sabina makes it easy for guests to hang out and get to know one another.
It also has the type of experimental design that creative and Instagram-happy travelers tend to like. Even the rooms are highly unique, with multiple floor plans emphasizing vertical space.
Best BnB choice: Stella Bed & Breakfast
Similar to Casa Decu, Stella Bed and Breakfast is ideal for anyone who really wants a sanctuary to escape Mexico City’s vibrancy.
The only reason I prefer Casa Decu to Stella is its location; Stella Bed & Breakfast is a little bit further off the city’s tourist track.
The design is nature-centric, letting you feel fully removed from the bustling urban world outside. The décor is more home-style and relaxed, letting you get cozy after a long day or wake up at your own pace when the sun rises.
Best Mexican flair: Soy Local CDMX
Looking for a hotel that oozes Mexican style and flair? Soy Local CDMX offers a colorful and unique layout, from its gorgeous painted accents to its dark wood furniture.
I always love those faithful design elements; they enrich a trip by adding an extra dose of culture. And in Mexico, that usually involves color, craftsmanship, and cheerfulness.
As a bonus, staff at Soy Local are known for being friendly and helpful, while guests have also raved about its location in Zona Rosa. If you want to get off the tourist track in Mexico City, start here.
