Founded in 1610, enchanting Santa Fe is the second-oldest city in the US. Artists and heritage aficionados have long been drawn to this striking city, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo foothills of northern New Mexico, famed for its beautifully preserved architecture and creative spirit. The best places to stay in Santa Fe are centred around the impressive Santa Fe Plaza, the traditional heart of the city, with accommodation options including everything from intimate B&Bs and pet friendly properties to chic spa hotels for well-heeled couples and fun-loving families.

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• Top Resorts in Santa Fe

Renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture, New Mexico's state capital of Santa Fe is dominated by adobe buildings, colourful façades and crooked streets lined with shops, galleries, eateries and museums. Amble around the Santa Fe Plaza, and pop into the Palace of the Governors — the oldest public building in the USA — which now houses the New Mexico History Museum. The nearby Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is a particular highlight, as are the Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, the Loretto Chapel and the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture. The Museum of International Folk Art and the New Mexico State Capital are also fabulous for art lovers. For a real insight into the city’s complex and intriguing history, take a guided walking tour.

Don't miss venturing out of the city to El Rancho de las Golondrinas, a living history museum set across 200 acres of grounds. The Santa Fe countryside is glorious. Active travellers of all ages can enjoy cycling, hiking, horse riding and — during the winter months — skiing in the nearby mountains whilst in the area.

Delve into the city’s creative scene on Canyon Road, catch at show at the Santa Fe Opera House, or discover great galleries, exhibitions and events. Forward-thinking and fun, the community continues to champion independent makers and traditional crafts, with turquoise and silver jewellery, textiles, pottery and hand-carved furniture aplenty. Santa Fe is famous for its food, and its lively evening scene. Savour delectable regional cuisine at the city’s many terrific eateries — some of which are set within the best places to stay in Santa Fe!

The Best Places to Stay in Santa Fe

For an Intimate B&B

• Inn of the Turquoise Bear is a charming heritage property in the Don Gaspar Historic District. Once a stomping ground for writers, the inn has traditional interiors with viga ceilings, textured rugs and wood-burning fireplaces. Book one of just eight cosy rooms, enjoy generous breakfasts and late-afternoon snacks. Lovely.
• El Farolito takes its inspiration from Santa Fe's Native American and Spanish cultural roots, with locally crafted furniture and regional art. The eight rooms are individually designed, and many boast fireplaces and patios. Small, central and traditional.
• Four Kachinas Inn has six rooms in downtown Santa Fe. Savour Southwestern delights on the patio at breakfast, and kick back in rooms decorated with local artwork and textiles. An intimate B&B for couples or families.
• The Parador is a quaint B&B in a historic farmhouse, with rustic rooms clad in traditional prints and mismatched antique pieces. The small terrace, gardens and artists in residence contribute to the laid-back, creative atmosphere. With 15 appealing rooms, this is one for art lovers in search of an authentic New Mexican experience.

For Foodies

• Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi prides itself on serving terrific regional cuisine. Pick this place for a taste of authentic New Mexico in the heart of the city. Expect a warm, traditional feel, an eco-friendly ethos and a plethora of Latin-influenced fare. The tapas is perfect for evenings with family and friends.
• Casa Culinaria is a foodie's dream, with an enticing menu of innovative dishes crafted by chef-owner Carolina. 12 quaint, traditional rooms make for a wonderful Santa Fe base, and cooking workshops will appeal to keen chefs. A gourmet bolthole with lots of charm.
• La Fonda is an elegant 180-room hotel on the city's beautiful central plaza. Sip cocktails at the rooftop bar before tasting regional fare with a modern twist at La Plazuela Restaurant. Foodies can book the 'Eat Stay Cook' package for lessons at the acclaimed Santa Fe School of Cooking.

For Couples

• The Inn of Five Graces has lavish interiors, with a treasure trove of colourful materials sourced from New Mexico, Tibet and Nepal. An extravagant, romantic choice for couples, with wonderful mountain views, a spa and a gym. Close to the Santa Fe Plaza. For design lovers.
• El Rey Court has a fresh, pared-back feel, with bright and inviting guestrooms featuring tiled floors, antique furnishings and southwestern decor in an adobe brick roadside inn. Unwind at the swim club — think pool, sauna and hot tub — after days of exploring. A cool bolthole for hip couples.
• Hotel St Francis is an atmospheric heritage spot — the oldest hotel in Santa Fe — in a century-old building with a candlelit loggia, pretty courtyard and swish, romantic feel. White-on-white rooms have authentic antique furnishings, and there's a chic restaurant, bar and wine tasting room. For well-heeled couples.
• The Old Santa Fe Inn channels old-fashioned charm in an adobe building close to the city's many historic attractions. Pick this place for a sense of historic Santa Fe, with antique furnishings in tranquil guestrooms and suites, and a top-notch location. The fitness centre, events facilities and big breakfasts are excellent, too. For grown up fans of traditional style.

For Families

• Inn on the Alameda is a charming hotel with hardwood floors, earthy tones and local art in 72 rooms — some of which have balconies, fireplaces and sofa beds for little ones. Hearty breakfasts and a friendly feel make this a wonderful family choice. In the heart of Santa Fe.
• Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe has smart two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites for families, complete with wood burning fireplaces and balconies, as well as a Presidential Suite with a full kitchen, living room and multiple bedrooms. The great food — including pizza — adds to the family-friendly appeal, and the central location is ideal for exploring downtown Santa Fe.
• Las Palomas has lashings of eclectic charm, with artfully furnished rooms, studios and casitas, many of which offer sleeper sofas for little ones. Pets are welcome, big continental breakfasts are a real treat, and there's a warm, creative vibe. Very trendy and family-friendly, close to Santa Fe Plaza.

For Cultural Immersion

• Hotel Santa Fe prides itself on being the city's only Native American owned hotel. Expect a warm welcome — to the sounds of a native flute —and an immersive cultural experience, including Northern New Mexico flavours at Amaya Restaurant, an award-winning Native American art collection, cultural seminars and tours, and a superb spa. There's an outdoor pool, hot tub and gym, too. Modern amenities with a heritage twist for curious culture aficionados.

For a Spa Break

• Ojo Santa Fe sits within 70 acres of gardens, with a lake and working farm. Contemporary casitas and rooms are airy and comfortable. There's a strong wellbeing focus, with farm-to-table dining and top-notch Western and Eastern therapies at the sumptuous spa, yoga and thermal spring waters. A world-class destination spa retreat. Great for couples or for friends travelling together.
• Inn & Spa at Loretto is a stylish spot with 136 spacious rooms and suites featuring balconies and big bathtubs. The main attraction is the award-winning spa, which offers a range of innovative treatments and specialises in creating its own essential oil aromatherapy blends — dubbed 'Spirit of Loretto'. Families are welcome and the kids will love the heated garden pool.
• Eldorado Resort & Spa is a luxury choice in Santa Fe city centre, complete with an impressive rooftop pool, trendy restaurants and the excellent Nidah Spa, which focuses on Ayurvedic treatments and energy balancing bodywork. The regenerative Rose Quartz Facial is a real treat. A five-star base for an indulgent and restorative couples' break in the city, or hosting a big event.

For a Luxury Ranch

• Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado is surrounded by spectacular mountain and desert landscapes, perfect for active explorers. This exclusive ranch features individual casitas with New Mexican-inspired interiors, a superb swimming pool, soothing spa and delectable cuisine. A luxury resort for couples or families.
• Hacienda del Cerezo is a mountaintop ranch hideaway, boasting beautiful views of Santa Fe and the desert plain. Expect traditional decor, a stunning infinity pool, candlelit dinners with classic guitar accompaniment, and heaps of activities — from horse riding to tennis coaching. For families, couples and keen horse riders. A tranquil & indulgent oasis.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Santa Fe Regional Airport and travel into the city by bus or car.
• New Mexico is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures of around 30°C between June and August. Travel in April - May or September - October for fewer crowds, or come during the winter for snow sports in Taos Ski Valley, a coupe of hours' drive to the north.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Albuquerque.
• Broaden your search to include all the best places to stay in New Mexico.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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