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Where to Stay in Queretaro

Where to Stay in Queretaro

Queretaro Northern Central Highlands, Mexico Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Common Lodging Choices

  • Hostels

    Mainly located in the Centro Histórico, hostels include dormitories and private rooms. These are a good choice for budget travelers and backpackers seeking a social atmosphere. Find options at Hostelworld.

  • Budget Hotels/Guesthouses (Casas de Huéspedes)

    These are simple, clean, and locally run establishments. They often sit within walking distance of attractions, giving good value. You find many of these charming, smaller properties in the historic core.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Querétaro has a wide variety of chain hotels (e.g., IHG Hotels) and independent boutique hotels. These present good value, comfortable amenities, and often include features like breakfast or small pools.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Numerous charming, often historically significant, properties reside in the Centro Histórico. These hotels display unique decor, personalized service, and a distinct character, often within restored colonial mansions.

Luxury & Unique Stays

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end international chains (e.g., Grand Fiesta Americana, St. Regis) and upscale boutique options present top-tier service, gourmet dining, spas, and pools. These properties bring a pampered stay with extensive amenities.

  • Haciendas

    Outside the city, notably on the Wine & Cheese Route, you find converted historic haciendas. These represent luxurious, atmospheric stays, often with expansive grounds, pools, and gourmet dining.

  • Colonial Mansions

    Many boutique hotels in the Centro Histórico are restored colonial mansions, retaining historical charm and original architectural details while presenting modern comforts.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Widely available through platforms like Vrbo, vacation rentals represent options from single rooms to entire apartments or houses. These are a good choice for families, groups, or those planning longer stays, giving more space and often kitchen facilities.

Other Accommodation Considerations

Homestays can be arranged through language schools or local contacts, giving an immersive cultural experience. Limited camping options exist near Querétaro City; more are in the Sierra Gorda region for nature enthusiasts.

Community & Homestay

Pros
  • Homestays arranged through language schools.
  • Offer immersive cultural experiences.
  • Connect with local contacts for arrangements.
  • A genuine look into local life.
Cons
  • Limited formal booking platforms.
  • Fewer structured options than hotels.
  • May require more direct communication.
  • Availability varies by season.

Eco-Tourism & Camping

Pros
  • Found in Sierra Gorda region.
  • For nature enthusiasts.
  • Rustic outdoor experiences.
  • Campsites in eco-tourism centers.
Cons
  • Limited options near Querétaro City.
  • May need specialized gear.
  • Requires travel outside the city.
  • Less developed facilities.

General Lodging Advice

Consider
  • Consider your budget and travel style.
  • Read reviews for best fit.
  • Book in advance during peak season.
  • Check location for convenience.
Avoid
  • Last-minute options may be limited.
  • Not all areas suit all travelers.
  • Avoid unverified properties.
  • Always confirm booking details.

Accommodation Planning Summary

Diverse Choices

Querétaro features a wide range of accommodation options, from social hostels and charming guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels and haciendas, as well as vacation rentals.

Best Fit

The ideal accommodation depends on your budget, travel group, and how close you wish to be to the historic core or other specific attractions.

Neighborhood Guide

Choose your accommodation location based on your travel style and preferences. Different neighborhoods feature distinct experiences.

Historic Center & Barrio de la Cruz

  • Centro Histórico: The city's heart and an UNESCO World Heritage site. The area feels lively, especially in the evenings. You truly immerse yourself in Querétaro's history here.
  • Barrio de la Cruz: Adjacent to the Centro Histórico, this area is slightly quieter and more residential. It retains a charming, traditional feel with narrow streets and historic homes.
  • Proximity to Attractions: Excellent for walking to attractions. Good access to city buses and taxis.
  • Ambiance: Centro Histórico can be noisy, especially on weekends and evenings. Barrio de la Cruz is quieter, presenting a more peaceful atmosphere.

Other outstanding Areas

  • Calesa/Alameda: Located around Alameda Hidalgo park, this area is more modern with commercial establishments and hotels. It presents easy access to major avenues and the Aqueduct.
  • Juriquilla/Jurica: Upscale residential and commercial areas north of the city, featuring shopping malls and golf courses.
  • Location Considerations: Calesa/Alameda is good for bus connections and walking to the Aqueduct. Juriquilla/Jurica typically needs vehicle access, suiting those focusing on business or modern amenities rather than colonial sights.
  • Safety: Safety is generally good across all these areas.

Neighborhood Summary

Historic Core Benefits
  • Immersion in history and culture.
  • Walkable to major attractions.
  • Lively atmosphere, especially evenings.
  • Authentic local charm.
Suburban/Modern Benefits
  • Quieter and more relaxed.
  • Newer facilities and amenities.
  • Good for business or longer stays.
  • Often better for parking.

Important Note on Location

Centro Histórico

While charming, be aware of potential noise levels, especially on weekends due to street performers and nightlife. Parking can be difficult and costly.

Cobblestone Streets

The historic core features cobblestone streets, which may pose challenges for walking with certain footwear or for those with mobility considerations.

Transportation

Areas outside the historic center, like Juriquilla, typically need a car or ride-sharing for getting around and accessing tourist attractions.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking in advance, notably during popular times, to secure your preferred stay.

Booking Guidelines by Season

Peak Season High Demand

High Season (October-November, March-May) & Major Holidays:

  • Book 2-4 months in advance.
  • Popular boutique hotels fill quickly.
  • Demand is high.
  • Secure your spot early.
Shoulder & Low Season Good Value

Shoulder Season (February, September), Low Season (June-August, December-January):

  • Book 1-2 months ahead for shoulder season.
  • Find good deals 2-4 weeks ahead in low season.
  • Popular places still fill.
  • Booking ahead for specific properties is still a good idea.

Trusted Platforms & Policies

International Booking Platforms

Platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com, Airbnb, and Vrbo are widely used and reliable for finding accommodation in Querétaro.

  • Consider direct booking on hotel websites for potential perks.
  • Local reservation systems may exist for specific properties.
  • Check for loyalty program benefits.
  • Compare rates across different sites.
Policies & Fluctuations

Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not common for established hotels. Small guesthouses in low season might give a slight discount for cash payment if you ask politely.

  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary widely; check carefully.
  • Many hotels allow free cancellation up to a certain point.
  • Accommodation prices reach their highest during high season and major holidays.
  • Prices are generally lowest during the rainy season and mid-winter.

Family-Friendly & Solo Traveler Stays

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Look for hotels with pools, especially when traveling with children. Many chain hotels or larger haciendas outside the city have this amenity. Vacation rentals via Airbnb provide more space and kitchen facilities for families.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels with common areas (like Hostal Casa Mexicana) present social opportunities to meet other travelers. Well-located budget hotels feature safety and convenience for independent exploration. Prioritize properties with good reviews for solo travelers.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    For extended visits, consider apartment rentals through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. Some hotels offer extended-stay rates. For a more residential feel, explore areas like Barrio de la Cruz or modern suburbs.

  • Consider your needs

    Match your lodging to your travel style and duration. Different options cater to different preferences, from social to luxurious.

Properties with Historical Significance

  • Hotel Boutique La Casa de la Marquesa

    This property was formerly the mansion of a prominent historical figure, offering a direct connection to Querétaro's past and an exquisite experience.

  • Hotel Mesón de Santa Rosa

    Housed in a historic building dating back to the 17th century, it provides an authentic colonial atmosphere and comfortable rooms.

  • Restored Colonial Mansions

    Many boutique hotels in the Centro Histórico are restored colonial mansions, retaining historical charm and original architectural details.

  • Deepen Your Stay

    Choosing a historically significant property can greatly enhance your cultural immersion in Querétaro.

Accommodation Recommendations

Budget-Friendly Picks

For travelers seeking value without compromising location:

  • Hostal Casa Mexicana: A well-located, clean hostel in the historic center offering dorms and private rooms, with a friendly atmosphere.
  • Hotel Hidalgo: A basic, clean, and centrally located hotel giving good value for simple comfort.
  • Check Hostelworld for more hostel options.
Mid-Range to Luxury Stays

For those seeking comfort, amenities, and distinct character:

  • Hotel Mesón de Santa Rosa: An elegant colonial hotel in the historic center, with comfortable rooms and good amenities.
  • Hotel Doñan Urraca: A charming boutique hotel known for its pool and excellent service.
  • Hotel Boutique La Casa de la Marquesa: An exquisite restored colonial mansion with high-end service.
  • Grand Fiesta Americana Querétaro: A modern, upscale hotel near the Aqueduct, suitable for business and leisure travelers.
  • Explore options on Booking.com or Agoda.

Summary of Accommodation Types

Budget Friendly

Hostels and guesthouses for cost-conscious travelers, often in the historic center.

Mid-Range Comfort

Chain hotels and independent boutiques offering balanced quality and amenities.

Luxury & Unique

Upscale hotels, restored colonial mansions, and haciendas for a pampered or atmospheric stay.