Where to stay in Mexico: areas & booking tips

Mexico's hospitality industry is incredibly diverse. You might stay in a luxury retreat built around an ancient Mayan cenote or in a colonial-era convent that’s now a boutique hotel. With more than 90 million international visitors each year, it’s one of the world’s most popular destinations, and the range of accommodations covers every budget and travel style. Here’s our guide to where to stay in Mexico.

Where to stay in Mexico: From budget to luxury

Mexico has a wide range of places to stay. The busiest season runs from December through April, and during that time, prices can go up by about 30-50%, especially around Christmas and Easter (see our guide to the best time to visit Mexico).

Along the coast, you’ll mostly find budget hostels, mid-range hotels, and resorts. In the colonial cities, many boutique hotels are set in old mansions that have been converted into guesthouses.

If you plan your Mexico itinerary during Day of the Dead or spring break, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance. Around holidays, many places require a minimum stay of three nights.

Just keep in mind that star ratings don’t always match international standards — a three-star in Mexico might be closer to a two-star elsewhere. Coastal areas get pricier during the North American winter months, but prices in inland cities tend to stay steadier year-round.
 

Best accommodation types in Mexico

How to plan a trip to Mexico? You have a lot of choices when it comes to the type of accommodation.

Haciendas

From $2,500 MXN (125 USD) per night

These are restored colonial estates, usually built in the 1700s or 1800s, and often still have original stone floors, arched doorways, and old furniture. Most have big gardens, swimming pools, and on-site dining with regional dishes. You might also find things like horseback riding or mezcal tastings. Some haciendas in the Yucatán are connected to old henequen plantations, while the ones in central Mexico are more likely to be linked to mining.

Beachfront cabanas and palapas

From $800 MXN (40 USD) per night

If you’re after something low-key by the beach, these thatched-roof huts are everywhere along the coast. You’ll often get a hammock, a mosquito net, and the sound of the ocean instead of air conditioning. Some are quite basic  with shared bathrooms and limited electricity, while others are a bit more private, with their own bathrooms, kitchenettes, and terraces. You’ll find plenty of these in Tulum and Zipolite. Many of them focus on sustainability, with composting toilets and solar power. You can also find accommodation near Mexico's cenotes.

Posadas and Casas de Huéspedes

From $400 MXN (20 USD) per night

These family-run guesthouses are a great way to experience daily life in Mexico. You’ll usually get a room with a private bathroom, a fan, and maybe a homemade breakfast in the morning. 

The hosts are often happy to give local tips, help with transport or tours, and share stories about the area. Many of these are in colonial towns like Guanajuato or San Cristóbal, often inside old houses with courtyards, rooftop terraces, or shared kitchens. They’re friendly, laid-back places to stay if you’re looking for something more personal. You'll find these often in Mexico's pueblos magicos.
 

All-inclusive resorts

From $3,000 MXN (150 USD) per night

Resorts in Cancun and the Riviera Maya usually bundle meals, drinks, entertainment, and water sports into one upfront price. You’ll find multiple restaurants, swim-up bars, kids’ areas, and nightly performances all on site.

Higher-tier packages tend to include things like spa treatments, room service, or better liquor. Some resorts have adults-only sections if you’re looking for quiet, while others cater to families with water parks and group activities. Wristbands help staff know what’s included in your stay, especially when it comes to restaurant access and drink selection. See our guide to how many days you need in Cancun.

Boutique hotels

From $2,000 MXN (100 USD) per night

These small, design-focused places usually have fewer than 50 rooms and a strong local identity. You’ll see hand-crafted décor, local art, and a more personal feel overall. They’re easy to find in areas like Roma Norte in Mexico City, Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen, or the center of San Miguel de Allende. Some have rooftop pools or mezcal bars, and breakfast is usually thoughtfully prepared. Many are set in restored colonial buildings.
 

Eco-cabins and glamping sites

From $1,200 MXN (60 USD) per night

If you like being close to nature, eco-cabins in the jungle or mountains are a good choice. These places usually use solar panels and recycled water systems, and are built with local materials. You might get an outdoor shower, a big window looking out into the forest, and a chance to see wildlife up close.

They’re common in the cloud forests of Chiapas, the mountains of Oaxaca, and the jungle areas around the Riviera Maya. Some activities include nature walks, birdwatching, or joining a traditional temazcal (sweat lodge). A few of these places cut electricity after dark, so bring a flashlight.

Cave and cliffside stays

From $1,500 MXN (75 USD) per night

For something different, you can stay inside actual caves or on dramatic cliffs. These places are often built into mountainsides or perched above the sea, which keeps them cool and quiet.

In Guanajuato, some old mine shafts have been turned into guest rooms. Tepoztlán has hillside retreats with sweeping views, and some coastal towns have cliffside cabins. Most places still have modern bathrooms and ventilation, even if the atmosphere is rustic. This is easily one of Mexico's best vacation spots. Just keep in mind that some involve steep climbs or even cable cars, so they might not be ideal for those with limited mobility.

Ranch stays (Estancias)

From $1,800 MXN (90 USD) per night

Staying on a working ranch can be a fun way to experience rural life up close. You’ll likely be able to ride horses, watch cattle roping, or see traditional rodeo events. Meals usually include meat raised on site, homemade tortillas, and regional dishes (see our guide to the best food in Mexico).

These types of stays are common in the north, like Chihuahua, and also in the central areas around Guadalajara. Some ranches also distill their own mezcal or tequila.

Mid-range hotels

From $1,000 MXN (50 USD) per night

This is a reliable choice if you want comfort without spending too much. These hotels often have pools, on-site restaurants, and solid wifi. Mexican chains like City Express or Fiesta Inn are consistent across cities, and international brands are common near airports and business hubs.

Most include air conditioning, cable TV, daily cleaning, and sometimes extras like breakfast or parking. That said, quality can vary depending on the location — hotels in touristy areas tend to be more polished than those in residential neighborhoods.

Historical homes

From $2,200 MXN (110 USD) per night

In cities with a lot of colonial history — like Oaxaca, Puebla, or Morelia — you can stay in old mansions that have been turned into small hotels.

Many still have original frescoes, hand-painted tiles, and antique furniture. Some include shaded courtyards, private libraries, or classes in traditional cooking. Others have architecture tours that explain how the buildings have been preserved. 

Average prices per night

Accommodation prices in Mexico vary widely depending on location, season, and property type. At the beach, mid-range resorts in places like Cancun or Playa del Carmen typically range from 2,200 to 4,600 MXN ($120–250 USD) per night during high season (December to April), with budget options starting around 1,300 MXN ($70 USD). Prices often drop in the summer, though discounts vary by property.

In Mexico City, you’ll find a broad range of hotel types — 3-star hotels average around 1,400–1,500 MXN ($75–80 USD) per night, while 4-star and higher-tier stays cost more. Boutique hotels in popular towns like San Miguel de Allende can exceed 5,000 MXN ($270 USD) during festivals or holidays.

Budget stays are widely available across the country, though breakfast isn’t always included. In beach areas, expect to pay significantly more for oceanfront properties compared to those a few blocks inland — sometimes up to 50% more. Also keep in mind that taxes usually add 16–19% to the base rate, and tipping is expected for most services.

To see how to make the most of your budget, see our Mexico travel tips.

Where to stay in Mexico: Best areas by region

The best places to visit in Mexico each come with their own character, and where you stay can shape your whole trip. Here’s a breakdown of areas that tend to work well depending on what you’re interested in.

Mexico City

If you want your Mexico accommodation to be near museums, art, and food, Mexico City’s a great base. Roma Norte and Condesa are solid choices for first-time visitors — walkable, leafy, and packed with cafés, bakeries, and bars.

Polanco feels a bit upscale, with designer shops and fine dining near Chapultepec Park. Coyoacán is more laid-back and artsy, with a slower pace and local markets on the weekend. If you’re watching your budget, Centro Histórico has cheaper hotels and lots of colonial architecture, but it’s worth staying alert at night around here. See our guide to how many days you need in Mexico City.

Playa del Carmen

Right on the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is good for beach days with plenty of nightlife. Fifth Avenue (La Quinta), especially between Calle 8 and 38, is a popular base — easy access to restaurants, bars, and shopping, all on foot. Playacar is quieter, with gated streets and bigger resorts, making it good for families. If you want a more local or laid-back feel, head north of Calle 38. 
 

Oaxaca City

This highland city draws travelers for its food, festivals, and mix of Indigenous and colonial culture. The Centro Histórico, especially around the Santo Domingo church, is the most convenient area if you want to explore museums, markets, and restaurants on foot. Xochimilco and Jalatlaco are slightly quieter and have a more creative feel, with murals, galleries, and studios. Around Llano Park, you’ll find simple hotels near cantinas and local markets — a good pick for budget-conscious travelers.

Tulum

Tulum is divided into two main areas: the beach and the pueblo (town). If you’re there for yoga, wellness retreats, or just want to be near the ocean, the beach road is where most of the hotels and restaurants are — many right on the sand. It’s pricey, though.

Tulum Pueblo is more affordable and has a local vibe, with food trucks, hostels, and longer-term rentals. Between the two, La Veleta and Aldea Zama have newer apartments and vacation rentals — handy if you want kitchen space or are traveling with kids.

Puerto Vallarta

This Pacific coast town is known for beach life with a strong local feel. In Zona Romántica, you’ll find cobblestone streets, lively bars, and an LGBTQ+ friendly scene—great for solo travelers and couples.

Marina Vallarta is better for families and travelers looking for resorts and golf courses. If you're after something more local (and easier on the wallet), El Centro has simple guesthouses and budget hotels near taco stands and markets. Up in Conchas Chinas, hillside villas come with more privacy and sweeping ocean views—ideal if you want to stay somewhere quiet and self-contained.
 

San Miguel de Allende

This colonial mountain town draws artists, expats, and weekenders from Mexico City. If it’s your first time in San Miguel de Allende, stay in Centro—you’ll be walking distance to the main plaza, churches, galleries, and restaurants. 

San Antonio is quieter and residential, with galleries tucked into leafy streets—good for longer stays. Guadiana is more modern and has parking, which helps if you’re driving. Atascadero, just uphill from the center, is more residential and affordable, with fewer tourists around.

Cancún

Cancún’s best known for big resorts and beach vacations, but there’s more going on if you know where to look. The Hotel Zone is arranged by kilometer markers—lower numbers are closer to downtown and nightlife, mid-range sections are full of family-friendly hotels, and the higher numbers get quieter the farther out you go.

Downtown Cancún has local neighborhoods, street food, and budget hotels—worth checking out if you’re trying to save or want a more local vibe. Puerto Juarez is just north of downtown and gives you easy access to Isla Mujeres without paying resort prices—good if you’re catching the ferry or doing day trips. See our guide to how many days you need in Cancún.
 

Booking tips and travel advice

A few simple strategies can make your stay smoother—and cheaper.

• Book direct when you can. Especially for smaller hotels and guesthouses, it’s worth emailing or calling directly. Many give a discount (around 10–15%) if you skip the big platforms. You might even get an upgrade or breakfast thrown in, especially in low season.
• Avoid peak Mexican holidays. Semana Santa (Easter week) and Independence Day (September 15–16) are major travel periods in Mexico, with prices skyrocketing and rooms getting booked months ahead. If your dates are flexible, aim for shoulder seasons like May or October.
• Ask for quieter rooms. In colonial towns, traffic noise, loud church bells, and street music can carry. Interior courtyard rooms tend to be quieter, though they might be a bit darker. Top floors get you above the noise—just keep in mind that many older buildings don’t have elevators.
• Double-check what’s included. Some booking sites list prices without taxes. Mexico typically adds 16% VAT and a 3% lodging tax. For all-inclusive resorts, service fees can bump your bill by another 20%, so make sure you know the total cost upfront.
• Pay attention to cancellation policies. Boutique hotels often have stricter rules, especially during high season. Some require 30 days' notice for a refund. If you're traveling during hurricane season (June to November), it’s worth getting travel insurance—and checking what your hotel does in case of bad weather. Some may only issue credits, not refunds.