Mexico might be a country that’s better known for its beaches and coastline, but the nation’s capital of Mexico City is slowly making its move into travel circles as an eclectic and diverse urban destination.
This is the real Mexico, far removed from the holiday resorts and party beaches of Cancun and it’s a place that should be given a chance by anyone truly wanting to learn more about this huge country.
Mexico City is best described as a unique sprawl, North America’s largest city has consumed many smaller towns and regions in its non-stop expansion, creating a huge range of different areas and neighborhoods to visit and to stay in.
In fact, Mexico City’s expansion began many hundreds of years ago, when the Aztecs laid its first foundations. It now holds the title of the oldest capital on the American continents, north, south or central.
There’s a lot you might not yet know about this historic city, and a lot waiting to be discovered
Despite misconceptions to the contrary, many of Mexico City’s neighborhoods are completely safe for travelers too, especially the ones that have become firm favorites on the tourism scene.
From the historic central district to the glamour and money of Polanco, there is an area for everyone. Here’s our guide on where to stay in Mexico City.
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Centro Historico
The Centro Historico is the absolute heart of Mexico City. It’s where the city’s ancient origins can be found in all its historic glory.
The Centro Historico was the original site of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan and, today there are still many lasting relics that still stand from this time, including the famous Templo Mayor.
The Spanish then built what would evolve into Mexico City, on the site of the former Aztec capital when they conquered them, and from here the city spread out into the surrounding area to become the huge beast it is today.
There is much to see in the Centro Historico, from Aztec and Colonial Spanish buildings to the largest public square in the Americas.
For first-time visitors and history lovers wondering where to stay in Mexico City, this is the place to choose, not just for the sightseeing but because there’s accommodation here to suit any budget.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Centro Historico:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Centro Historico:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Centro Historico:
Top hostels we recommend in Centro Historico:
Polanco
Polanco is Mexico City’s most affluent, expensive and high end neighborhood. This is where Mexico’s rich and elite live in the city, and alongside that demographic, there are an increasingly large number of luxurious and expensive hotels to go to be found.
In the Polanco district, you can find embassies, designer shops, and gourmet restaurants. Everything here is more expensive, but if you have the money, there’s plenty to spend it on in Polanco.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Polanco:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Polanco:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Polanco:
Top hostels we recommend in Polanco:
Zona Rosa
The Zone Rosa, or Pink Zone, in English, is Mexico City’s most famous bar and nightlife area, and a firm favorite for tourists visiting the capitol.
The Zona Rosa encompasses a large portion of Mexico City’s longest and most famous boulevard too, the Paseo de la Reforma, a long avenue that stretches across the cultural and historic center of the city, and a place not to be missed.
There’s a diverse range of accommodation in the Zona Rosa, from hostels to luxury and it’s all great value.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Zona Rosa:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Zona Rosa:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Zona Rosa:
Top hostels we recommend in Zona Rosa:
Colonia Juárez
Juarez is found on the edge of the long Paseo de la Reforma, and not far from the historic center of Mexico City. The district was once the haunt of Mexico’s elite, until the start of the 20th century that is when urbanization took its toll on the area.
Now in the 21st century though, Juarez is beginning to find a new version of itself, as its unique galleries, cafes and bars begin to become well known amongst the travel circles visiting the city and looking for somewhere a little bit new and different.
This is an alternative Mexico City at its finest.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Colonia Juárez:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Colonia Juárez:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Colonia Juárez:
Top hostels we recommend in Colonia Juárez:
La Condesa
La Condesa and Roma is a large area south of the historic center of Mexico City. It’s a favorite because of its unique culture, as the area was for years a favorite amongst artists and innovators looking for cheap rents.
Prices have gone up since those days, but it’s still a charming place to stay in Mexico City, with plenty of open, green spaces in an otherwise urban metropolis and many a boutique hotel to book.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in La Condesa:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in La Condesa:
Top budget hotels we recommend in La Condesa:
Top hostels we recommend in La Condesa:
More on Mexico:
- Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide
- What to Do in Mexico City – Itinerary for 3 Days
- Ultimate Packing List for Mexico
- The Amazing Mexico City Pyramids of Teotihuacan
- 12 Best Day Trips from Mexico City (That are Worth Taking)
- Manzanillo Mexico Travel Guide: A Cancun Alternative
- 30 Awesome Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
- 29 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
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Article by David Stock
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