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Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca Oaxaca State, Mexico Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full spectrum of lodging options from hostels to luxury hotels

  • Hostels

    Mainly located in the Centro Histórico, hostels offer dorm beds and sometimes private rooms. They cater to budget travelers and backpackers. Many include breakfast and organize social events, making them good places to meet other travelers.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Oaxaca has many charming, often colonial-style properties in the Centro and Jalatlaco neighborhoods. These hotels feature unique designs, personalized service, and a range of amenities, providing a distinctive stay.

  • Colonial Hotels

    Many historic buildings in Oaxaca have undergone conversion into hotels. These properties retain architectural charm with beautiful courtyards and traditional decor, offering a glimpse into the city's past.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    These include both modern and traditional hotels. They offer comfortable stays with standard amenities, providing good value for travelers seeking comfort without excessive cost.

  • Luxury Hotels

    These are high-end properties, often featuring pools, spas, fine dining restaurants, and elevated service. They provide an indulgent experience for those seeking premium amenities.

  • Vacation Rentals (Apartments/Houses)

    Widely available through platforms like Airbnb, vacation rentals feature kitchens and more space. They are suitable for families or those planning longer stays, providing a home-like environment.

  • Camping

    No official camping sites exist within Oaxaca City. Some eco-tourism sites or adventure tourism operators in the Sierra Norte may offer glamping or camping experiences for those seeking an outdoor adventure.

  • Homestays

    These offer a cultural immersion and a chance to live with local families.

Neighborhood Guide

Oaxaca City's neighborhoods each have an unique character.

Centro Histórico

Pros
  • Walking distance to most major attractions (Zócalo, Santo Domingo, markets)
  • Lively atmosphere
  • Endless dining and shopping options
  • Very safe for tourists
Cons
  • Can be noisy, especially around the Zócalo
  • Higher prices for accommodation and some services
  • Crowded during peak season
  • Awareness of pickpockets in crowded areas advisable

Jalatlaco

Pros
  • Quieter than the Centro but still walkable to most attractions (15-25 min walk to Zócalo)
  • Good selection of cafes, independent shops, and restaurants
  • Provides a more local feel
  • Generally safe
Cons
  • Slightly further from the main tourist hub
  • Some streets can be dark at night

Xochimilco

Pros
  • Authentic local experience
  • Quiet
  • Close to artisan workshops, making for pleasant walking
  • Generally safe
Cons
  • Further from the main Zócalo (20-30 minute walk)
  • Fewer dining options directly within the barrio

Reforma

Pros

Quieter and more spacious, good for longer stays. Good selection of modern cafes and restaurants. Very safe.

Cons

Less historic charm and further from the main tourist attractions, often requiring a taxi or a longer walk.

Booking Strategies

Planning your accommodation in Oaxaca can benefit from these strategies.

Advance booking recommendations by season

  • High Season (Oct-Feb, Easter, Guelaguetza in July): Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular boutique hotels or during major festivals. Some top hotels can be booked 9-12 months out for Día de Muertos or Guelaguetza due to high demand.
  • Shoulder Season (March-May, September): Book 1-3 months in advance. There is more flexibility during these periods.
  • Low Season (June-August, excluding Guelaguetza): Book a few weeks to a month in advance. More walk-in availability is possible during this time.
  • Seasonal price fluctuations: Accommodation prices can double or triple during peak festival times, like Día de Muertos and Guelaguetza, compared to the low season. Room rates are generally highest from late October to February.

Trusted booking platforms and local reservation systems

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda are widely used for hotel reservations.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb is the dominant platform for finding apartments and houses. Vrbo also has options.
  • Direct Booking: Many boutique hotels have their own websites where you can book directly. Sometimes, direct booking features better rates or additional perks.
  • Local Agencies: Some local tour agencies may assist with hotel bookings, notably for unique or smaller properties.

Additional considerations

Negotiation customs for walk-in rates
  • For smaller, independent guesthouses or hostels, especially during the low season, you might be able to negotiate a slightly lower rate for a walk-in stay or for a longer booking, specifically if you pay cash.
  • This practice is less common with larger hotels or during high season.
Deposit and cancellation policies
  • Policies vary by accommodation and booking platform.
  • Always check the specific policy before confirming your reservation.
  • Many hotels provide free cancellation up to a certain period before arrival.
  • Deposits may be needed for some bookings or long stays.

Helpful Tip

Neighborhood Choice

Consider staying in Jalatlaco if you prefer a quieter atmosphere than the busy Centro, but still desire easy walking access to attractions.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for different budget levels, family needs, and types of travelers.

Budget Options

Hostal Central

Centro Histórico | 200-400 MXN/night (Dorm)

Casa Angel Youth Hostel

Centro Histórico | 250-450 MXN/night (Dorm)

Mid-Range Options

Hotel Los Amantes Oaxaca

Centro Histórico | 1500-2500 MXN/night

Hotel La Casona de Tita

Jalatlaco | 1200-2000 MXN/night

Luxury Options

  • Hotel Quinta Real Oaxaca

    Centro Histórico | 3000-6000+ MXN/night. Housed in a former 16th-century convent, stunning architecture, pool, fine dining, prime location next to Santo Domingo. Check availability on Booking.com

  • Pug Seal Oaxaca

    Centro Histórico | 3500-6500+ MXN/night. Modern luxury within a colonial building, art focus, high-end amenities, pool, excellent service. Check availability on Booking.com

  • Hotel Escondido Oaxaca

    Centro Histórico | 4000-7000+ MXN/night. Chic, minimalist design, rooftop pool, excellent restaurant, central location. Check availability on Booking.com

Traveler Specific Recommendations

  • Family-friendly options

    Many mid-range and luxury hotels feature larger rooms or suites. Vacation rentals through Airbnb are often ideal for families due to the increased space and kitchen facilities. Hotels with pools add a benefit for families traveling with children.

  • Solo traveler recommendations

    Hostels like Hostal Central and Casa Angel Youth Hostel are excellent for meeting other travelers and contribute to a social atmosphere. Boutique hotels provide security and comfort for those seeking more privacy.

  • Long-stay accommodations

    Vacation rentals, notably apartments available via Airbnb, are best for long stays. They feature cost-effectiveness and a local living experience, with amenities like kitchens. Some hotels may provide weekly or monthly discounts during the low season.

  • Properties with cultural or historical significance

    Hotel Quinta Real Oaxaca, housed in the former 16th-century Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena, provides a deep sense of history. Hotel de la Parra, a beautifully restored colonial mansion, also allows guests to experience architectural heritage.

Other Options

Hostelworld

Specializes in budget accommodation around the world.

TrustedHousesitters

A platform for house and pet sitting exchanges, offering unique accommodation opportunities.

IHG Hotels

Global Presence

IHG Hotels (InterContinental Hotels Group) operates a wide array of brands globally, from luxury to mid-range.

Variety of Brands

Brands like InterContinental, Holiday Inn, and Crowne Plaza cater to different traveler needs.

Booking

Book directly through their official website for best rates and loyalty program benefits.