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Where to Stay in Zacatecas

Where to Stay in Zacatecas

Zacatecas Northern Central Highlands, Mexico Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full spectrum of lodging options

  • Hostels:

    Mainly in the historic center, offering dormitory beds and some private rooms. They suit budget travelers and solo backpackers, often creating a social atmosphere.

  • Guesthouses/Posadas:

    Smaller, family-run establishments. They deliver a personal experience, often in charming colonial buildings and usually good value.

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Many are in beautifully restored colonial mansions within the historic center, with unique character and mid-range to luxury amenities.

  • Chain Hotels:

    Located both in and outside the historic center, providing consistent standards and amenities, like Hampton Inn and City Express.

Unique local & other options

  • Luxury Hotels:

    High-end properties, often with pools, spas, and fine dining. Some are in restored haciendas or significant historic buildings.

  • Hacienda Hotels:

    Luxurious options outside the city in converted haciendas, offering a tranquil, historic experience.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Platforms like Booking.com and Vrbo list apartments and houses for rent, suitable for families or longer stays, allowing self-catering.

  • Camping:

    No formal camping sites directly within Zacatecas City. Opportunities are in natural parks or rural areas outside the city, if permitted.

Neighborhood Guide

A detailed breakdown of areas and their character.

Historic Center Centro Histórico

Character & Safety
  • The heart of Zacatecas, an UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Narrow cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, walkable.
  • Generally safe during the day and early evening, well-patrolled.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially on weekends.
  • Parking is limited and often paid.
  • Hilly terrain might be challenging for some.
  • Petty crime can occur in crowded areas; stay aware of belongings.

Beyond the Historic Center

Character & Benefits
  • Residential areas (e.g., Lomas de la Soledad, La Minera).
  • Quieter, potentially lower accommodation prices.
  • Parking is often easier.
  • Access to larger commercial amenities like supermarkets.
Considerations
  • Requires transportation to reach the historic center.
  • Less charm and fewer local dining options.
  • Safety varies by specific neighborhood; less tourist-focused security.

Local Views

Iconic Scene
  • The ornate facade of the Zacatecas Cathedral towers over Plaza de Armas.
  • A central feature in the Historic Center.
Recommendation
  • Capture this architectural beauty for a lasting memory.
  • Consider different times of day for varied lighting.

Homestay & Community Tourism

Opportunities:

Formal homestay programs within Zacatecas City's main tourism offerings are less common. However, some local language schools or cultural exchange programs might arrange homestays for students or visitors interested in a cultural immersion.

Guidance:

Inquire with local educational institutions if this type of experience aligns with your travel plans.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking with these recommendations.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (Holy Week, Christmas/New Year, July-August): Book several months in advance, especially for popular boutique hotels. Prices are highest.
  • Shoulder Season (March-Early April, Oct-Nov): Book 1-2 months ahead for preferred options and good rates. This period balances weather and fewer crowds.
  • Low Season (Jan-Feb, May, Sept): You can find good deals and availability with less advance booking. Still, a few weeks prior helps for the best selection.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo. Widely used and reliable for finding and reserving accommodation.
  • Direct Booking: Many hotels have their own websites where you might find special offers or better rates, especially for boutique properties.
  • Local Agencies: Less common for direct tourist bookings. Some Mexican travel agencies might offer packages that include hotels.

Policies & Negotiation

Negotiation Customs:
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not customary for established hotels.
  • Small guesthouses or posadas might offer a slight discount for cash payment, but it is not guaranteed.
Deposit & Cancellation:
  • Policies vary widely by hotel and booking platform. Always read the fine print.
  • Many bookings need a credit card guarantee; some may charge a deposit.
  • Cancellation policies range from free up to 24-48 hours before check-in to non-refundable.

Alternative Lodging

House Sitting:

Consider platforms like TrustedHousesitters for longer stays with a unique local experience.

Homestays:

Inquire with local language schools or cultural exchange programs for arranged homestays.

Unique Charm:

Look for options within beautifully restored colonial mansions for an authentic Zacatecas feel.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some recommended places to stay, categorized by budget and appeal.

Budget & Mid-Range Picks

Hostal del Centro

Hostel/Guesthouse in Historic Center, MXN $250 - $600/night

  • Good value, central location.
  • Dormitory & private rooms.
  • Social atmosphere.
  • Book on Booking.com
Hotel Posada de la Moneda

Budget Hotel in Historic Center, MXN $600 - $1200/night

Mid-Range Favorites

Hotel Baruk Teleférico y Mina

Mid-range Hotel, Historic Center/Mina El Edén, MXN $1500 - $2500/night

Hotel Emporio Zacatecas

Mid-range/Boutique, Historic Center (Av. Hidalgo), MXN $1800 - $3000/night

  • Excellent central location overlooking the Cathedral.
  • Elegant rooms.
  • Good service.
  • Book on Booking.com

Luxury & Family-Friendly

  • Hotel Mesón de Jobito:

    Luxury Boutique in Historic Center, MXN $2500 - $4500/night. Beautifully restored 19th-century building, charming courtyard, fine dining restaurant, cultural significance. Book on Booking.com

  • Quinta Real Zacatecas:

    Luxury, Historic Center (Avenida Rayón), MXN $3500 - $6000+/night. Built into a former bullring (San Pedro Bullring), unique architecture, lush courtyards, exceptional service. Highly iconic. Book on Booking.com

  • Hotel Arroyo de la Plata:

    Mid-Range Hotel, Historic Center (Quieter part), MXN $1200 - $2000/night. Spacious rooms, some with multiple beds, often includes breakfast, good location for exploring. Book on Booking.com

Solo, Long-Stay & Cultural Picks

  • Hostal del Centro:

    Hostel/Guesthouse, Historic Center, MXN $250 - $600/night. Social environment, easy to meet other travelers, central for walking. Book on Booking.com

  • Airbnb Apartments:

    Vacation Rental, Historic Center/Residential areas, prices vary. Offers kitchens and more space, suitable for self-catering and extended stays. Explore on Airbnb

  • Quinta Real Zacatecas:

    Luxury, Historic Center, MXN $3500 - $6000+/night. Built within the historic San Pedro Bullring, it is one of Mexico's most unique hotels. Book on Booking.com

  • Hotel Mesón de Jobito:

    Luxury Boutique, Historic Center, MXN $2500 - $4500/night. A restored 19th-century building, offering a glimpse into colonial life. Book on Booking.com

Other Accommodation Considerations

Homestay Programs

Formal homestay programs are limited. Local language schools or cultural exchange programs might arrange homestays for students or those seeking cultural immersion.

  • Inquire with local educational institutions.
Camping & Outdoor

No formal camping sites exist directly within Zacatecas City. Camping opportunities exist in natural parks or rural areas outside the city, if permitted.

  • Requires specific planning.
  • Local knowledge is beneficial.

Booking Policy Reminders

Read Fine Print

Policies vary by hotel and platform. Always read the fine print before confirming any reservation.

Credit Card Guarantee

Many bookings require a credit card guarantee. Some may charge a deposit, like the first night's stay.

Cancellation Terms

Cancellation policies range from free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in to non-refundable rates. Understand these terms.