Whether you’re looking for an incredible Airbnb, a luxurious hotel or the perfect hostel, this guide on where to stay in Oaxaca City has you covered!
If you’ve read other ‘where to stay' in Oaxaca’ articles, we suspect you may be feeling a little overwhelmed right now, with a seemingly vast number of areas to pick and choose from before you even get started on finding your actual hotel, hostel, or Airbnb!
Thankfully, it’s not that complicated.
This beautiful Mexican city was designed according to a rigid colonial grid pattern by the Spanish, with the zócalo public square at the heart of absolutely everything; Oaxaca is also much smaller than many of you may be thinking.
So, whilst there are indeed several defined geographical barrios (neighbourhoods) within the city centre, its colonial layout and compact size means that, irrespective of where you actually stay, your accommodation will be in a decent location and only 10-15 minute walk from the zócalo, markets, restaurants, and other main attractions (the exception to this is Reforma, but for reasons you’ll discover later, we don’t really recommend staying in this area).
Therefore, it’s more important to focus on finding the right space rather than the right location.
In our personal guide on where to stay in Oaxaca, we’ve made things easy for you by curating the pick of the best accommodations in the city: split by neighbourhood and all with excellent reviews, you’ll find stylish Airbnbs, charming boutique hotels, traditional guesthouses, and great value hostels.
Whether you’re travelling on a backpacker’s budget, a digital nomad setting up base, or just visiting for a week and looking to stay somewhere special for your vacation, you’ll something perfect here for your travel style and budget.
If you’re in a rush though, our top picks are:
Luxury & Boutique Hotels // Quinta Real, Hotel Escondido Oaxaca, Casa Antonieta
Mid-Range Hotel // Grana B&B, Boulenc Bed & Bread, City Centro by Marriott
Affordable Guesthouses // Un Sueño Valle de Huajes, Hostal Mixteco Naba Nandoo
Airbnbs // Cosy Space (our Airbnb), An Island in the City, Creole House, Casa Jalatlaco, Casa El Jardín, La Buena Espina
Hostels // Viajero Oaxaca, Azul Cielo
El Centro Historico
El Centro is Oaxaca’s historic city centre, and where you’ll find the vast majority of the city’s touristic sites. Whatever your travel style, it’s also the area you’ll spend most of your time in, so is an excellent option for first-time visitors to Oaxaca (or those only spending a short time here).
It’s also where you’ll find the many of the city’s best accommodation options, from luxurious boutique hotels like Hotel Escondido to a wide variety of welcoming hostels.
Note that we are aware some people separate the historic centre into two sections - the zócalo and around Santo Domingo Church - however given their proximity to each other and that there really is no demarcation (or difference in vibe or experience), we have kept the central area to one section.
Boutique & Luxury Hotels in The Centro
Quinta Real | The epitome of luxury and historical grandeur. Nestled in the heart the city, this boutique hotel is housed in a meticulously restored 16th-century property, and effortlessly blends colonial charm with modern opulence.
For a similar vibe at a lower price point, be sure to take a look at the opulent Palacio Borghese Hotel Boutique.
Casa Antonieta | This stunning hotel has worn many hats; first a convent, then a colonial palace, and now a stunning boutique property which frequently tops ‘most beautiful hotels in Oaxaca City’ lists. Seamlessly blending old-world charm with a contemporary twist, the rooms themselves are thoughtfully designed, combining modern comforts with traditional Mexican elements (like handcrafted furnishings and locally-sourced artisanal textiles). Stepping beyond the rooms, the hotel boasts a lush courtyard, a rooftop terrace with breathtaking vistas of the city skyline and Muss Café, one of the best coffee shops in Oaxaca.
Hotel Escondido Oaxaca | This outrageously beautiful, contemporary hotel will be easy on the eye for even the most design-led visitor to Oaxaca. Minimalist, it’s got a slight Scandinavaian vibe to the aesthetic and a look that has been created using traditional materials and techniques. There’s also a rooftop pool and excellent on-site restaurant.
Hotel Casona de Tita | This luxurious hotel combines traditional Oaxcan design with modern comforts. Offering just six rooms - each exquisitely decorated with antique and contemporary furniture, Oaxacan textiles and works of art - it maintains an intimate feel. It’s pricey, but for the right type of traveller will be just perfect.
Other boutique properties to take a look at include 509 Accommodation, Hotel Sin Nombre and Hotel Los Amantes.
Mid-Range Hotels and Affordable Guest Houses
Grana B&B | Located one block from Templo de Santo Domingo, this charming accommodation boasts a unique blend of traditional Mexican architecture and contemporary design, with each room thoughtfully decorated with local artwork, handcrafted furniture, and rich textiles. Communal spaces include the lush courtyard or the rooftop terrace and gorgeous kitchen, where an excellent breakfast is served each morning.
Boulenc Bed & Bread | Whilst we weren’t the biggest fans of their restaurant, we’d very happily stay in their B&B! Decorated in earthy tones throughout, it’s got a bohemian vibe, with distressed furniture, vintage pieces, original artwork and natural furnishings. Also benefits from an excellent communal roof terrace and a fantastic breakfast (as one would expect given they also own a bakery!).
Hotel Con Corazon | Technically located a little west of centro, but we just had to include this wonderful little, socially conscious hotel. It partners with local NGOs to create educational programmes for local children, and the reviews are also just fantastic.
Ayook | This small contemporary hotel (built from the ruins of an 18th century house) is the ideal pick for those that care about good design, but want it at a slightly lower price point. The rooms are cosy and simple, but considered and stylish.
Hotel Maela | This cosy and comfortable traditional guesthouse has excellent reviews, friendly staff and a lovely plant-filled courtyard to enjoy the morning sun.
Other good value options include NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca, Hotel Boutique Casa Abuela Maria, Comala Bed & Breakfast and El Diablo y la Sandia.
Hostels in Centro
Viajero Oaxaca | This is our pick if you’re looking for a vibe-y, aesthetically pleasing hostel. The communal spaces - including the rooftop bar - are stunning, the room are large and well-equipped and whilst the privates are fairly expensive, the dorms remain excellent value.
Casa Angel Hostel | If you’re a solo traveller who’s looking to meet people, Casa Angel is an excellent option. They put on an impressive number of activities every day of the week, and were even voted a top hostel in 2021 by Lonely Planet!
El Cielo | Long-standing and perennially popular, the colourful and friendly El Cielo offers simple but comfortable privates and dorms plus excellent communal areas with a bar, garden, pool, table tennis, chill out areas, roof terrace, and communal kitchen.
Whilst they won’t suit everyone, if you don’t need your hostels flashy and instead prioritise good vibes, comfortable and affordable accommodation, and helpful staff, be sure to check out both Hostal Luz de Luna Nuyoo and Iguana Hostel.
On our most recent trip, we were staying in this Airbnb before the Pueblos Mancomunados hike, and then spent a couple of nights at the Selina on our return to the city as our preferred hostels didn’t have private rooms available. It’s in a good location and popular but, unfortunately, we can’t recommend this accommodation, which is a common theme for us when staying at this chain of properties elsewhere in Latin America. Whilst very beautifully designed, the privates were overpriced and there’s much better value available elsewhere. Several of the facilities we paid a premium for were not open either, like the rooftop bar, and the place lacked any sort of vibe.
Travel Tip // We always travel with a set of earplugs, which can make a huge difference in dorms and street-facing accommodation. We used foam ones in the past, but the reusable Loop Quiet earplugs are far better and were a great addition to our essentials.
Airbnbs in Centro
As one would probably expect for an up-and-coming destination like Oaxaca, there are an abundance of really excellent Airbnbs in the centre. And whilst they tend to be at a higher price point, you generally get what you pay for!
One important thing to note is that many of the individual hosts have at least a couple of properties available. We will only link to one listing per owner, but be sure to check out their profiles for other great options and more availability.
Creole House | A couple of blocks west of centro, this Airbnb is truly stunning. Like, right out of a magazine stunning! Located behind the exemplary sister restaurant, Criollo, this two-bedroom property offers a hotel-like experience (the chefs personally curated the space with a group of JSa architects) with the benefit of a private living room, pool and patio.
If ‘private pool’ piqued your interest but you’d prefer your own kitchen, be sure to check out this equally gorgeous Casa Nova and Casa Hidalgo. Or if you don’t mind sharing a pool with a couple of other apartments and saving some dollars, Matamoros.
Casa Antigua | This 18th century property was brought back to life in 2021 by an architect with a vision and a skillful team of artists and craftspeople. The property is perhaps not as modern as some would like, but for us it seems just perfect (especially with the addition of a sun terrace and plunge pool).
Casa Mulata | Located less than a block from Santo Domingo, this large two-bedroom property set across two floors is a real show-stopper. Located in a colonial building, it has undergone a complete restoration (conceived by architect Joao Boto) and offers multiple spaces to relax, an excellent kitchen, and a large terrace replete with hot tub and views. One of the more expensive properties on this list.
Around a similar price point is Casa Baba de Nopal.
An Island in the City | If you adore contemporary and considered design but need it at a more affordable price point, this is the place for you! Poured concrete, natural materials, minimalist aesthetic and artisanal accents; this one-bedroom place is just gorgeous.
Colourful Vibes | Oaxaca is a city of colour, so if you’d like that reflected in where you stay, check out this eclectic and vibrant two-bedroom apartment that’s just the right side of kitsch.
Other one and two bedroom properties that caught our eye in Centro were Rubina, Casa el Jardín Secreto, Sierra Sur Apartment, Stylish Apartment, and Cozy apartment in Centro Histórico.
Those travelling to the city with friends or family are spoiled for choice when it comes to Airbnbs in centro; indeed these include some of the most incredible Airbnbs in Oaxaca full stop. So, if you need at least three bedrooms, we highly recommend checking out Luxe Home, A Colonial Dream, Garcia and Dream Garden Villa.
Alternatively, you could book a couple of apartments in this boutique apartment complex. All apartments are new, stylish, modern, and considered, and share the same roof terrace. Find all listings here.
Casa Origins | This cute little one-bed is the ideal budget-friendly apartment for a single traveller or a couple. You’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay, alongside a charming little terrace area that looks out over a plant-filled patio.
If you’re travelling on a bit of a budget but really want to be based in the centre of Oaxaca, the good news is that there are quite a large number of apartments available for less than $50 a night - we recommend taking a look at the following listings: Studio With Terrace, Downtown Loft, Heart of the City, Amarillo, Beautiful Oaxacan Loft, Spacious Two Bed.
the northern quarter
It's not actually called the 'Northern Quarter', but it feels like the most suitable description for this cool enclave north-west of the historical centre.
Principally based around the top of Calle Macedonio Alcala (maps), a colourful pedestrianised street with various cafes and restaurants on one side and access to pretty little Calle de Xólotl, it's really pretty, and feels like a distinct neighbourhood.
It’s also home to a few of our favourite places to eat and drink in Oaxaca including La Cosecha Organic Market, LA CLÍNICA, Museo de las Nieves and Café El Volador.
Despite only being a few blocks from the centre, another benefit of staying here is the peaceful vibes; when we return to Oaxaca for the third time (this is the sort of place that you always want to come back to), this is the area we’ll likely try and stay in.
Note, there are no hostels currently operating in this area.
Hotels in the Northern Quarter
Un Sueño Valle de Huajes | A charming hotel situated on a quiet residential street that offers understated yet tasteful design at a really affordable price point. The rooms are comfortable, bright and of a good size, and it benefits from both an inviting patio and a large roof terrace.
Airbnbs in the Northen Quarter
LA CLÍNICA | Mentioned above, this cool café-art gallery-shop also has a couple of really excellent and stylish Airbnbs - The Garden Room and The Clinic Suite.
La Buena Espina | Located towards the edge of ‘the Northern Quarter’ this little retreat offers a quiet place to relax away from the city buzz (but still within a few blocks of the centre). It’s also one of our favourites in this area, aesthetically designed with excellent reviews and a private small patio/terrace.
Spacious Apartment | This large one-bedroom is an ideal option for those seeking a homely place to stay, perhaps for a little longer. Light, bright and comfortable, it also benefits from a small tree-shaded patio. Hosts are also incredibly helpful, and previous guests speak very highly of them.
Casa Rufina | Although most of you reading this post won’t need six bedrooms, if you’re travelling to Oaxaca with a large group and looking for somewhere extra special to spend a special occasion (or just splurging on a girls trip), take a look at this outstanding property. All rooms have an en-suite, the house in its entirety is stunning and it has a private pool.
Other properties that caught our eye include: Casa Luu, Oaxacan Pied-a-Terre, Comfortable Studio and Seguro Familiar (the last two are also really great picks if you’re on a budget).
Plan // The Best Things To Do In Oaxaca
Barrio Jalatlaco
Nestled in the northeast corner of Oaxaca City, Jalatlaco offers an alternative experience just a short 10-minute walk from the zócalo.
Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful facades and traditional cobblestone streets, it has in more recent years developed a more contemporary element and sprinkled amidst its picturesque streets are art galleries, boutique hotels, and hip cafes that seamlessly blend modern design with local artisanal craftsmanship. Still considered a little bit of a secret in Oaxaca, it’s becoming an increasingly popular option to stay in, principally due to the new City Centro by Marriott.
Note that whilst there are a couple of hostels in this area, there are none that we particularly recommend.
Hotels in Jalatlaco
City Centro by Marriott | Considered by some to be the most Instagrammable hotel in Oaxaca, this bright pink building has recently been purchased by the Marriott Group. This means that in addition to a visually pleasing design, it offers many of the more traditional facilities of a larger hotel, including a fitness suite, and a gorgeous pool area.
Los Pilares Hotel | Despite the popularity of of the above, the calming and contemporary aesthetics (delightfully mixed with traditional design), and gorgeous colonial-building make this our favourite hotel in Jalatlaco.
Animal lovers should also checkout the beautiful Hotel Tabáa.
Airbnbs in Jalatlaco
Casa Kuvi | This is our budget-friendly pick in Jalatlaco. Simply but tastefully furnished, it’s surprisingly large for the price and even comes with a private roof terrace!
La Taquería | This eco-friendly Airbnb is a really good size, light and bright with an eclectic mix of vintage furniture. There’s a private balcony plus access to a gorgeous communal garden.
Aldea Tuya | Love colour and looking for a three-bedroom property? Look no further. Slightly quirky in its decor, it embodies the colourful aesthetic of Jalatlaco with lots of artisanal pieces, a really decent kitchen and even a large, private terrace with great views over the city.
Casa Jalatlaco | This apartment is just gorgeous - so much so that it’s actually been featured in Architectural Digest. Immaculately designed, with a wonderful mix of contemporary and Oaxaca-inspired elements, a real highlight are the full-opening patio doors that lead on to a fantastic terrace.
Union | This large, open-plan studio apartment is beautifully designed with bespoke wooden furnishes and almost a Japanese-vibe. It also has a proper area to work in making it ideal for digital nomads.
Other properties that caught our eye in Jalatlaco include Me Encanta Jalatlaco, Urban Oasis Loft, Architectural Jewel in Downtown and Small & Cozy Apartments.
Barrio La Merced
This is the area that we stayed in, and we highly recommend it.
Offering a really pleasant mix of of colourful, family-owned and occupied properties, markets and shops, plus businesses catering to trendy new-comers and the younger Mexican generation.
This means that staying here allows the best of both worlds - you’re unequivocally experiencing life in the city of Oaxaca, whilst also having access to cool coffee shops, excellent restaurants (super local tlayudas places sit alongside modern, international picks) and a wealth of really great accommodation options.
Plus, you’re only a 10-15 minute walk from anywhere you want to see, or anything you want to do (and often much less if you stay closer to the La Merced / Centro border).
Hotels in La MErced
Hostal Mixteco Naba Nandoo | This highly-rated, popular family-run guest house is an excellent budget pick. Rooms are simple but comfortable and of a good size. Free breakfast included, a small guest kitchen and a large roof terrace.
Around a similar price point, El Rincón de Doña Bety is another popular option.
Whilst we’re not entirely convinced that the high prices are entirely warranted at Casa Naila Hotel Boutique, if you’d like a more traditional experience with some luxuries, it’s worth taking a look at.
Hostels in La MErced
Azul Cielo | This homely hostel in a large colourful colonial property, is one of the most popular in Oaxaca. It offers comfortable dorms and great privates (although they’re not cheap), a large plant-filled courtyard, communal kitchen and free breakfast. The also put on some activities for guests.
Travel Tip // Whilst Oaxaca is generally very safe for travellers, there are reports of travellers being mugged right outside or very near their hostels at night. From conversations we had, it seems like there’s an organised approach to this, and it isn’t just a single hostel or neighbourhood that’s targetted. We recommend avoiding walking home late at night (take a taxi to the door instead), and always handing over whatever they ask for to avoid escalation.
apartments & Airbnbs in La MErced
Cosy Space | This is the large, open-plan studio apartment we stayed in, and we’d go back in a heartbeat! Located super close to the centre, it’s got a really great kitchen, large dining area and is stylishly furnished. (it’s on the road so can get a little bit noisy in the early morning, but we were fine with our Loop earplugs)
Casa Capechik | This modern one-bedroom apartment is our budget pick for La Merced. Small but perfectly formed, all furniture is custom built to make the most of the space.
Casa El Jardín | We absolutely love this one-bedroom apartment located within a beautifully restored, 18th century house. In addition to a private terrace, you also also have access to a serene shared patio filled with plants. This place is ideal for those that prefer the traditional over the modern (whilst not sacrificing the amenities).
Casa Petra | Whilst the kitchen in this one-bedroom is a little limited (so not ideal for a long stay), it is beautifully decorated with traditional Oaxacan flourishes. Full of light, it also has excellent reviews.
Other Airbnb properties that caught our eye in this area are this one-bed, Loft Chapulín, Xicotèncatl and Casa Independencia.
If you need a little more space, consider this excellent four-bedroom property.
Barrio De Xochimilco
Located north of the highway, Barrio De Xochimilco is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Oaxaca, and the ideal place to stay if you’re looking for a more local vibe.
Its location around a 25-minute walk to the zócalo means the city’s main attractions are still within easy reach, but the neighbourhood is far enough away to offer a quiet environment and significantly more affordable prices.
This area would suit those who want their money to go further, or perhaps travellers on a long-term trip looking for a base to work that don’t mind being a bit further away from the centre of the action.
Note that there are no hostels in this neighbourhood and we wouldn’t really recommend any of the hotels or guesthouses as the standard vs price isn’t really good enough to warrant being a longer walk away from everything.
apartmeNts & Airbnbs in Barrio De Xochimilco
Ivyazul | This popular one bedroom apartment is simple but comfortable with a good kitchen and lots of light but it’s really selling features is the huge terrace with expansive views over the city and beyond to the mountains. Find out more here.
Central Apartment | This is our budget friendly pick for Xochimilco. It offers a good sized double bedroom, a decent kitchen, working area and even has a little garden. Plus, it’s got hundreds of great reviews! Find out more here.
Bright 2 Bed House | This little property is one of the more stylish, and thoughtfully designed in this neighbourhood, and the host has really made an effort to create and welcoming and peaceful space. Also has a private courtyard and free parking. Find out more here.
Others that caught our eye include the quirky Casa de Artista B, the stylish indoor-outdoor vibes of Casa Mango, Casa De La Plata, and this cosy apartment.
Reforma
Reforma is the defacto bougie, expat-friendly, affluent area of Oaxaca.
If you’re only in town for a short while, we really wouldn’t recommend staying here - after all, most of us travel to feel like we’re somewhere new, not simply in a neighbourhood that can be copy and pasted from many others all over the world.
It’s also around a 45-minute walk to the centre, meaning it’s far from ideal for visiting several of the best things to do in Oaxaca.
For long-term travellers or digital nomads who are looking for a base to get work done or simply live here for sometime, the area may be ideal though. The apartments are of a really high standard, many very reasonably priced, and Reforma offers lots of amenities.
Hotels in Reforma
Given that it’s such a residential area, there aren’t a huge number of hotels in Reforma. However, one place in particularly is very popular:
Casa de Arte | Part boutique hotel, part art gallery (hence the name), this hotel is just gorgeous! Each their seven rooms is beautifully designed, and adorned with works from local and international artists. It also benefits from a very aesthetically pleasing pool area.
There aren’t any super budget-friendly hotels in the area, but if you’ve got your heart set on Reforma but can’t stretch to Casa de Arte, take a look at Posada de los Angeles.
Hostels in Reforma
Hostel Frida | A quiet, comfortable and colourful hostel only a shotrt walk to the ADO bus station. Has a decent guest kitchen and a roof terrace.
apartments & Airbnbs in reforma
Exclusive "Playa" Terrace | Our best value Airbnb pick in Reforma, this large, open plan apartment is full of light, decorated in a contemporary style and has excellent reviews.
The same hosts also rent out another popular apartment with a fab outdoor area.
Casa Agüi | This is the most expensive Airbnb in this area, but it’s ideal for a family. Large, modern and tastefully decorated it’s got an excellent kitchen and two bedrooms - one of which includes a bunkbed, plus another double.
Master Suite S.301 is another really good sized two bedroom apartment, that’s equally well furnished.
Lightoom III | Immaculately decorated, super modern and full of light, this little one-bedroom is ideal for a couple. It also benefits from a work area and a small balcony - plus it’s got a lovely bathroom.
Breve | We love this super-cool , slightly quirky apartment. It’s got super cool styling, floor-to-ceiling windows and is located right above a coffee shop!
Other Airbnbs that caught our eye were Departamento Eucaliptos, Reforma Department, Newly Renovated Loft, and Casa Gabby.
