Mexico City, Mexico is the capital of Mexico (CDMX for short) and so worth the visit. I visited Mexico City in the fall of 2020 and it sparked a love so deep that I have about 30 more places in the country I want to explore….. That is if I can resist just going back to CDMX over and over! The city is so vibrant with perfect spring weather year-round, beautiful greenery lining the streets, delicious food carts on every corner, and the most friendly locals. It is truly a magical place. While it’s true certain parts of Mexico are not safe to travel, I assure you Mexico City is safe and they are ready to welcome you with open arms!
However, Mexico City is huge. And like most cities, you will have areas that you need to avoid. So, where should you stay in Mexico City? Whether you choose the hip neighborhood of Roma or the posh Polanco, a luxe hotel or an Airbnb, there’s more than a few choices. I personally love to stay in really nice 5 star hotels when I’m visiting a country like Mexico, because they’re usually more affordable than they would be in the United States. No matter your budget, though, you will find some amazing gems dotted along CDMX. Keep reading to discover the best neighborhoods and hotels in Mexico City.
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Where to stay in Mexico City
Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and is a huge, sprawling city with a population of over 8 million people. There are over 300 neighborhoods nestled within the vast area of CDMX so it can be overwhelming to choose where to stay. While CDMX is a safe city, of course you know that no matter where you go there are always areas you should avoid.
Have no fear! You don’t need to stress about where to stay and where to avoid because I’m outlining it all for you below. Even though there’s hundreds of areas to choose from, there are three main neighborhoods recommended for tourists. These neighborhoods are safe, close to tourist areas, and have vibrant local scenes with plenty of restaurants and things to do within walking distance. Each of the 3 neighborhoods below has a distinct vibe, so let’s discuss!
Best neighborhoods to stay when visiting Mexico City
Reforma
Reforma is named for the famed Paseo de la Reforma, which is a beautiful tree-lined avenue that will take you from Chapultepec park, through downtown, and towards Roma Norte. It’s centrally located and closer to more of the classic downtown “hubbub” you think of when you think of a big city. Many of the more luxurious hotels are in this area and you’ll also find more financial and business dealings around Reforma. Reforma is one of the main tourist areas of Mexico City and is within close walking distance to many other popular neighborhoods and attractions.
Stay in Reforma if you’re after a 5 star luxury hotel, want to be close to the park and natural areas, or just want the feel of a big city.
Polanco
Polanco is a wealthy residential neighborhood dotted with famous restaurants, luxury shopping, and adorable hotels and apartments. The famous restaurant Pujol calls Polanco home and you can’t walk down the street without seeing a dozen mouth-watering restaurants on either side of you. You’ll also find plenty of designer stores and upscale shops. Polanco has great bars and nightlife as well, so it’s a great place to stay if you’re wanting to do it all and is my personal pick when visiting CDMX!
Stay in Polanco if you are visiting CDMX as a foodie, a big shopper, and want more of a boutique hotel vibe.
Roma
Roma is the hipster neighborhood of Mexico City and is where I stayed on my visit! There is so much character in this beautiful area of the city. You’ll find colorful shops, pop up markets, and delicious restaurants everywhere you go. You can’t step outside your hotel without seeing handfuls of young adults sitting outside at a cafe, walking dogs, and just enjoying the beautiful weather. We loved the small wine bars and tiny restaurants tucked on the tree-lined streets. There are also several food and shopping markets in Roma as well.
Stay in Roma if you want more of an artsy-hip vibe with more small, local restaurants and Airbnbs or small hotels and hostels.
Condesa
Similar to Roma, Condesa is another hipster neighborhood with tree lined streets and plenty of people milling about walking dogs and enjoying the weather. Condesa has a distinctly European vibe which makes it all the more special. It’s nestled right in between Roma and Chapultepec, so you have a great location. Spend your afternoons at artisan boutiques and delicious cafes.
Stay in Condesa for a great location and a European hipster vibe.
Before you start booking… don’t forget to use a travel advisor!
Sure, you can book any hotel on your own… but why would you?! Save yourself some time, sanity, AND get some extra perks by booking through an advisor. When you book through me, a Fora affiliate, you’ll get to relax and just click “confirm!” when it’s time to book your Mexican vacay.
In addition, book through me, and you’ll get these amazing perks at any of these listed resorts along with 2,000 other properties worldwide:
- Daily breakfast for two
- Room upgrades (when available)
- Early & late checkout
- Resort credit for the spa or onsite restaurants
And you’ll be known as a VIP to the hotel… I’ve got the hookup for ya 😉
Best hotels in Mexico City
Luxury
Four Seasons Mexico City
Blended seamlessly into the city, the Four Seasons Mexico City is an oasis in the middle of the bustling downtown. Located right on the Paseo de la Reforma, you can stroll straight from your hotel to the famous Chapultepec Park in the heart of CDMX. The hotel beautifully highlights Mexican culture and art while maintaining the incredible 5-star service Mexico City is known for.
Book with me and receive:
• Daily full breakfast for two people per bedroom, served in a hotel restaurant or through In-Room Dining
• Hotel/Resort Credit (based on room category booked) Guest Rooms: USD 100 credit per stay Suites and Specialty Suites: USD 200 credit per stay Private Retreats: USD 200 credit per bedroom per stay
• Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in
Sofitel Mexico City Reforma
When we passed the Sofitel during our trip, the hotel was completely decked out in cempasuchiles (marigolds) for Day of the Dead. Oh, it was breathtaking! And a nod to how much the Sofitel respects and celebrates Mexican culture. Located in Reforma, you’ll be able to walk or take a short taxi from your hotel to all the main spots you’re wanting to visit. Rooms are fresh and clean with a modern design.
Book with me and receive:
- Room upgrade (to the next room category, subject to availability)
- Early check-in & late check-out (subject to availability)
- Daily complimentary breakfast for up to 2 guests
- Property credit to be spent during the stay
- A VIP Welcome (greeting & amenity)
The St. Regis Mexico City
A classic luxurious hotel chain, the St. Regis has stayed true to its roots with a clean, luxurious design. It’s located right on the Paseo de la Reforma giving you a convenient location. Honestly, the design leaves a bit to be desired compared with the other hotels. The service is top-notch, as you would expect at a St. Regis, but if you want more local flair, I suggest one of the other hotels listed.
Book with me to receive:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Daily Breakfast for 2
- Food & Beverage or Spa Credit (value varies by property)
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Boutique
Octavia Casa
With just 7 rooms, Octavia Casa is a perfectly designed boutique hotel in the heart of the Condesa neighborhood. Octavia is actually a Mexican designed clothing brand and the hotel reflects this style and warmth. This is a great place to stay if you want a cute, local boutique hotel in a trendy neighborhood.
Brick Hotel
If you like a modern, contemporary design, Brick Hotel is the place for you. Located in the hipster neighborhood of Roma, this boutique hotel oozes modern and clean design. It’s also a great place to land if you like to have the convenience of amazing restaurants and bars right inside your hotel. You’ll find the renowned Cerrajería restaurant, Embury bar, and terrace for snacking and drinks. There’s also a spa on site!
Book with me to receive:
- Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in
- Guaranteed 3pm late check-out
- Welcome treat in room on arrival
- 25 USD food and beverage credit per room, per stay (excluding minibar)
Casa Teo
Casa Teo was originally home to Enrique Olveras, a famous Mexican chef, and was where he welcomed friends and family. It is now a luxe bed & breakfast in Polanco, of course, which is the neighborhood housing his famous restaurant, Pujol. The design is tranquil and clean, perfect for relaxing after a full day of eating and exploring.
Las Alcobas
Las Alcobas is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Polanco. Even though the hotel is owned by Marriott, it’s not a watered down chain hotel feel. What once was a palatial residence is now converted into adorable little alcoves (where the hotel got its name!). The decor is utterly Mexican. Las Alcobas is perfect if you want a smaller, local vibe with the amenities of a luxury hotel like a restaurant and spa.
Final thoughts/recommendations on where to stay in Mexico City
A visit to Mexico City is a must for an avid traveler. The city is full of friendly faces, rich history, and don’t even get me started on the food! However, with a population over 8 million, CDMX is sprawling and spread out–there are over 300 neighborhoods in the metropolis! Choosing where to stay in Mexico City can be quite a feat. But there are a few neighborhoods that tourists should stick to–Polanco, Roma, Condesa, and Reforma. You’ll also have your pick of beautiful, luxury and boutique hotels in all the best areas. And don’t forget, when you book through me you’ll get amazing perks that you can’t get anywhere else like room upgrades, free breakfast, and more! What better way to enhance your Mexico City vacation?
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