The city of Oaxaca earns its position on many a travel itinerary because it's close to the ruin of Monte Alban, one of the most impressive ruin sites in Latin America, a vast ancient pre-Hispanic complex, built atop the highest mountains in the area. So with this constant stream of tourist activity there needs to be a good choice of accommodation in the city. Most of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Oaxaca City are located in its historic centre, but there is a wide choice for all tastes and budgets from boutique stays to family friendly hotels.

The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in terms of history and culture, it stands unrivalled in South America. But the city boasts more than archaic ruins: a vibrant place teeming with wildlife, art, good food and beautiful churches, it makes for the perfect holiday destination.

The colonial heart is peaceful and shady and, in March, jacarandas bloom green and pure in the lovely central square, which is constantly besieged by some festival, market or troop of street musicians. Oaxaca also has a number of excellent museums. and there are churches everywhere you look! But walking around the city, you will also find fantastic street art, much of which is political satire, smattered on the facades of downtown Bohemian bars and designer boutiques.

Oaxaca is not just a beautiful city: brimming with art, history and gorgeous natural scenery, the city makes for the ideal family holiday destination. Check out our collection of the best places to stay in Oaxaca City to start planning your trip.

The Best Places to stay in Oaxaca

For great value

• Las Bugambilias is a great value, family run B&B with plenty of traditional colour and charm. Its nine rooms allow you to stay right in the heart of old Oaxaca in comfort, and its restaurant serves classic Mexican dishes in a rustic, friendly setting.

For foodies

• Casa Oaxaca is a seven room hotel converted from a charming colonial building, also in the centre of old Oaxaca. Rooms are arranged around a central courtyard and there's a roof terrace, pool and private gardens. This is a great option for foodies, as the chef, and manager, offers excellent Mexican cooking workshops.

For local exploring

• The Hotel Azul is ideally located for exploring the city's sights. The simply-styled courtyard-facing rooms are kitted with light wooden furniture and artworks and the whole property is a showcase for Oaxaca's modern design scene. There is a classy terrace bar and a restaurant serving the best of Mexican fare.

For a boutique stay

• Hotel El Callejon is a perfect combo of old and new (think old adobe walls and chic modern architecture and design) and its twelve stylish rooms carry on the theme with a mix of contemporary and period furnishings.
• Casa Carmen Morelos is a unique art hotel in the beating heart of the city. Its four spacious bedrooms have been designed in conjunction with local artist Amador Montes and each showcases stunning original art beautifully complemented by original colonial features. 

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• Fly to Mexico City, then on to Oaxaca International Airport.
• If you want to rent a car we recommend contacting our partner Rentalcars.
• Go between February and May, when there is little rain and the temperature ranges between 14 and 31 degrees.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Oaxaca.
• Or expand your search to include the 15 Best Beach Hotels on Mexico's Pacific Coast.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Oaxaca City