Where to Stay in Mexico City: Insider’s Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

If you’re wondering where to stay in Mexico City, you’ve come to the right place. I spend several months a year in CDMX (Ciudad de Mexico) and honestly can’t get enough. Mexico City is a major metropolis but if you stay in the right neighborhood you’ll spend your time wandering quaint streets, stopping in cute coffee shops and restaurants, and almost forgetting its home to 9 million people. 

Whether you’re a first time visitor, looking for luxury hotels, traveling with kids, or want to stay somewhere local and budget-friendly, this guide will help you find the best neighborhoods in Mexico City for your travel style.

If you want the low-down on what to do with your time in CDMX, I have a complete guide here to my favorite bars, restaurants and activities in Mexico City and a four days in Mexico City itinerary here. 

Quick Guide To Mexico City

A Breakdown of the Best Neighborhoods in Mexico City

Some things are just easier to see on a map, especially when you’re looking for hotels. I’ll dive into each one of these areas in this article, but this is a rough outline of the neighborhoods you can expect to spend time in or stay in as a tourist.

La Condesa and Roma Norte (in blue) are my favorites, Polanco (in yellow) is great for shopping, Centro Historico (in red) can be a solid choice for history buffs, and Roma Sur, San Miguel Chapultepec and Coyocán (in purple and green) are optional budget choices.

Where to Stay in Mexico City for First Timers: Roma Norte and Condesa

Roma Norte and Condesa sit side by side and are often grouped together because they share a similar vibe—beautiful streets, vibrant energy, and an endless selection of cafés, bars, and restaurants.

I honestly think this is the best place to stay in Mexico City and where I stay pretty much every time I visit. When scanning for accommodations in CDMX, you’re basically looking around the areas by Parque México and Parque España.

I’m always shocked by how peaceful it feels. If you’re trying to wander around neighborhoods and fall in love with Mexico City, this should be your home base. It’s incredibly easy to explore on foot and I always feel very safe walking alone. If you stay elsewhere, especially as a first time visitor in Mexico City, you’ll find yourself taking Ubers over here pretty often, and that’s no fun with traffic. 

Honestly, I talk about these neighborhoods in the same breath – it’s Roma/Condesa. You can’t go wrong with either area. The further south you go, the farther you’ll be from the action, but any hotel or Airbnb around here is a good spot and everything is a 30-minute walk or 15-minute bike ride.

Note: Roma and Condesa are more touristy than other neighborhoods, so don’t be surprised if you hear a lot of English, but I still love it. Especially if you’re a first time visitor to CDMX, I’d recommend these neighborhoods.

Best Hotels in Roma Norte

Roma Norte leans a bit more urban and artsy, home to trendy boutique hotels, stylish cocktail bars, and some of the best restaurants in Mexico City. It’s the kind of place where you’ll stumble upon hidden speakeasies, lively street markets, and pop-up galleries without even trying (I can’t resist a pop-up market). If you love being in the center of the action, Roma is for you.

• Luxury: Nima Local House Hotel & Spa – A beautifully designed boutique hotel that feels like a hidden sanctuary in Roma Norte, offering personalized service, elegant rooms, and a tranquil spa for the ultimate relaxation.
  
  
• Mid-Range: Maison Du Comte – This is a pretty cool renovated mansion that blends modern comfort with old-world charm, perfect for travelers looking for a cozy stay in a prime location.
  
  
• Budget: Hotel MX Más Roma – A budget-friendly, contemporary hotel with clean, minimalist rooms and a fantastic location near some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

Best Hotels in La Condesa

Condesa has a slightly more relaxed, residential feel, known for its tree-lined streets, Art Deco architecture, and two of the city’s best parks—Parque México and Parque España. It’s perfect if you want to be close to Roma Norte but prefer a slightly quieter atmosphere, especially at night. Condesa is also home to some fantastic boutique hotels, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a stylish stay with a neighborhood feel.

• Luxury: Andaz Mexico City Condesa – I always recommend this hotel (and it’s part of the Hyatt family, for my points fans out there!). It’s a gorgeous, design-forward hotel that brings all the style and comfort you’d expect from Andaz, plus a rooftop pool and an amazing location right in the heart of Condesa. Perfect if you want a high-end stay with a local, artsy vibe.
  
  
• Mid-Range: Casa Mali by Dominion – If you love the idea of having your own space but still want hotel-level service, this is the spot. These apartment-style suites come with full kitchens and cozy decor, all just steps from Parque México.
  
  
• Budget: Condesa DF – A stylish, boutique hotel that nails the Condesa aesthetic—think minimalist rooms, a leafy courtyard, and a rooftop bar that’s always buzzing. A great option if you want something cool but don’t want to splurge. Also a part of the Marriott family.

Polanco: Luxury High-End Shopping

If you prefer luxury accommodations, Polanco is where you’ll find the city’s top hotels, high-end shopping, and some of the best fine dining spots, including Pujol (it’s one of the best restaurants in the world and reservations book out months in advance). 

This area has a distinctly upscale feel, home to designer boutiques, international embassies, and modern skyscrapers mixed with elegant colonial homes. It’s beautiful, but feels a little more like a mall.

While it’s not as walkable or charming as Roma and Condesa, Polanco is ideal if you’re looking for five-star service, premium shopping, and proximity to top attractions like Chapultepec Park and the Museo Soumaya.

Best Hotels in Polanco

• Luxury: JW Marriott Mexico City – If you’re looking for a polished five-star experience, this is it. Expect top-tier service, plush rooms, and an unbeatable location in Polanco—plus, you can earn Marriott Bonvoy points on your stay (and we know I love points). 
  
  
• Mid-Range: The Alest Hotel – This is a boutique luxury hotel that feels like a hidden gem in Polanco. With elegantly designed rooms, a peaceful courtyard, and personalized service, this is perfect if you want a more intimate and upscale experience without the big-chain feel.
  
  
• Budget: Parklife Masaryk – A stylish yet affordable option right on Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Polanco’s high-end shopping street. This hostel-meets-boutique hotel has modern, comfortable rooms and a great communal atmosphere, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want to stay in one of Mexico City’s most exclusive neighborhoods.

Best Luxury Hotels in Mexico City

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel experience in Mexico City, you’re in luck—CDMX has some truly stunning five-star hotels. Most of the best luxury hotels sit between Polanco, Reforma, and Roma Norte, right near Chapultepec Park and some of the city’s top museums, restaurants, and shopping, so they’re in a great spot.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Mexico City (maybe on your honeymoon?) and craving marble bathrooms, rooftop pools, and the kind of service where they know your name before you even check in, these hotels deliver.

St. Regis Mexico City – Yes, You Get a Butler

The St. Regis Mexico City is the kind of place where every detail is taken care of before you even think to ask. If you haven’t stayed at a St. Regis before, you need to know about the butler service. They will literally pack and unpack your suitcase for you—a service I didn’t know I needed until I experienced it.

Beyond that, you get an incredible spa, and a prime location right on Paseo de la Reforma with sweeping views of the city. If you want a seamless luxury experience with impeccable service, this is it.

📍Check Prices & Availability

The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City – The Best Skyline Views

Mexico City’s Ritz-Carlton is all about sky-high luxury. Sitting on the 37th through 47th floors of a modern glass tower, this hotel gives you unreal panoramic views of Chapultepec Park and the CDMX skyline—especially at sunset. Inside, expect sleek, modern decor, one of the city’s best spas, and an elegant rooftop bar that’s perfect for a nightcap. If your idea of luxury includes floor-to-ceiling windows and a cocktail with a view, this is the place to be.

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Sofitel Mexico City Reforma – French Elegance Meets Mexican Hospitality

The Sofitel Mexico City Reforma brings French luxury with a modern twist to the heart of CDMX. With an emphasis on artful design, top-tier service, and incredible dining, this hotel is a perfect mix of elegant and contemporary. The spa here is next level (seriously, get the deep tissue massage), and the rooftop pool offers a serene escape from the city below. If you’re looking for chic, stylish luxury that still feels warm and inviting, this is a fantastic pick.

📍Check Prices & Availability

Where to Stay in Mexico City for Families

If you’re traveling to Mexico City with kids or just want a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, Roma Norte, Condesa, and Polanco are the best choices (in case you skipped to this section, I describe them earlier in this article!). These neighborhoods are safe, walkable, and packed with parks, great restaurants, and family-friendly attractions. 

Best Hotels in Mexico City for Families

• Luxury: Sofitel Mexico City Reforma – If you’re looking for a luxury stay that works for the whole family, Sofitel delivers. The spacious rooms (with some of the best city views around) give everyone enough space to relax, while the indoor pool is a perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
  
  Plus, the location right on Paseo de la Reforma puts you near Chapultepec Park, museums, and plenty of family-friendly dining options.
  
  
• Mid-Range: Andaz Mexico City Condesa – This is one of my top hotel recommendations in Condesa, especially for families. It has a pool (a rare find in this neighborhood), plenty of space for kids to roam, and a walkable location near Parque México—great for playground time and afternoon strolls. Add in stylish rooms and a lively atmosphere, and you’ve got a fantastic home base for exploring CDMX.
  
  
• Budget: Hotel Geneve Mexico City – A historic, old-world hotel that’s surprisingly budget-friendly. The huge rooms make it a great option for families needing extra space, and the central location in Zona Rosa puts you near parks, shops, and tons of restaurants. Bonus: kids will love the quirky vintage decor and history-filled lobby.

Where to Stay in Mexico City for History Buffs

If you’re all about historic architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks, you can consider staying in Centro Histórico. This is the heart of old Mexico City, packed with colonial-era buildings, Aztec ruins, and world-class museums. 

Staying in Centro Histórico puts you right next to top landmarks like the Zócalo (the main square), Templo Mayor, and Palacio de Bellas Artes. You’ll be able to walk to historic cathedrals, government palaces, and some of the best museums in Mexico.

It’s a little more chaotic than Roma or Condesa and has more traffic and more crowds. You’ll need to take an uber to get anywhere else in the city, so I would usually recommend basing in Roma/Condesa and spending a day in Centro Historico, but you can certainly stay here as well! 

Best Hotels in Centro Histórico

• Luxury: Gran Hotel Ciudad de México – The hotel itself is a landmark, with a stunning stained-glass ceiling, vintage elevators, and elegant architecture straight out of the early 1900s. Plus, you’re right on the Zócalo, meaning you can step outside and immediately be surrounded by Mexico City’s most iconic historic sites.

• Mid-Range: Zócalo Central Hotel – This hotel is also on the Zócalo, offering incredible views of the city’s historic center. The rooms are modern but still feel connected to the city’s past, and the rooftop restaurant overlooks the main square, giving you a front-row seat to one of the most historic areas in Mexico. 

Where to Stay in Mexico City On a Budget (and That’s Less Touristy)

If you want to experience a more local side of Mexico City while keeping your budget in check, neighborhoods like Roma Sur, San Miguel Chapultepec, and Coyoacán offer a fantastic mix of charm, affordability, and authenticity. You can find affordable hotels in Mexico City that are also a little less touristy. 

Roma Sur: The More Affordable Neighbor to Roma Norte

Roma Sur is right next to La Condesa and Roma Norte but still less popular with tourists. It’s honestly a 5 minute walk from everything in Roma/Condesa, but more affordable. I have many friends that live here and it can be a good choice if you’re trying to save a little money. 

Check out the best Roma Sur hotels here.

San Miguel Chapultepec: A Quiet, Artsy Escape

San Miguel Chapultepec is right next to Chapultepec Park (home of the Anthropology museum in Mexico City) and offers a peaceful, less touristy atmosphere. It’s known for its art galleries, cozy cafés, and local markets, and it’s just a short walk or metro ride away from Roma and Condesa.

Check out the best San Miguel Chapultepec hotels here.

Coyoacán: A Colonial, Artsy Escape

If you love history, art, and a relaxed atmosphere, Coyoacán is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Mexico City. It feels like a small colonial town inside the big city, with cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and incredible local food. This is where you’ll find the Frida Kahlo Blue house, along with charming plazas and historic buildings.

Coyoacán is definitely farther from the main attractions in Roma, Condesa, and Centro Histórico. If you’re here for a short trip, it’s better for a day visit rather than a home base. But if it’s not your first time, it’s worth considering!

Check out the best Coyoacán hotels here.

Mexico City FAQs

Is Mexico City safe for travelers?

Personally, I feel incredibly safe in Mexico City. But like any big city, it depends on where you go and how you travel.

The neighborhoods recommended in this guide—Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Centro Histórico, San Miguel Chapultepec, and Coyoacán—are generally very safe for visitors. If you’re looking for all my safety tips and tricks, check out this article.

Stick to well-lit areas at night, use Uber instead of street taxis, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places.

What are the best activities in Mexico City?

Mexico City has endless things to do, but if you’re short on time, these are the essentials:

• Lucha Libre – Watch an electrifying Mexican wrestling match at Arena México.
• Teotihuacan Pyramids – Explore the ancient ruins just outside the city. Pro tip: go early to beat the crowds!
• Xochimilco – Hop on a colorful trajinera (boat), bring drinks, and enjoy the floating party.
• Frida Kahlo’s Blue House – A must for art and history lovers. Book your tickets in advance—this one sells out fast!
• Street Food Tour – Yes, it’s safe to eat the street food (so long as it’s cooked and not raw vegetables). This tour will take you on a taco extravanganza through downtown.

Want more recommendations on the best activities in Mexico City? I have a full guide to my favorite bars, restaurants, and activities here and a detailed 4-days in Mexico City itinerary here to help you plan the perfect trip!

What’s the best time of year to visit Mexico City?

The weather in Mexico City is generally great year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. Late Summer (June- Aug)  will come with afternoon rainstorms, and keep in mind that winter (December–February) can be chilly (yes, CDMX gets cold thanks to its elevation).

Can you drink the tap water in Mexico City?

No, not at all. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which is available everywhere. Most hotels and Airbnbs provide filtered water, and you’ll find bottled water at every convenience store. Even locals avoid drinking from the tap, so play it safe and do the same.

Do you need to know Spanish to visit Mexico City?

No, but learning a few key phrases (Gracias, Lo aprecio, Tienes una mesa para dos personas?) helps. In tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco, pretty much everyone speaks English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and bars. 

Is Uber available in Mexico City?

Yes! Uber is the safest and most convenient way to get around. It’s generally cheaper and more reliable than street taxis, and you can avoid potential scams by having the price set in advance. If you’re landing at Mexico City’s airport, Uber is the best way to get to your hotel.

What’s the best way to get around Mexico City?

• Uber – Best for convenience and safety.
• EcoBici – A bike-sharing system, great for Condesa/Roma. I absolutely love biking through these neighborhoods. Just download the app ahead of time and you’ll find a bike dock every few blocks.
• Walking – The best way to explore neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, Polanco, and Coyoacán. Wander, buy a popsicle, enjoy life. 

How much should you tip in Mexico City?

Tipping is expected and here’s a quick guide to follow:

• Restaurants – 10-15% 
• Bars – 10-15% or round up.
• Hotel staff – 20-50 pesos per bag for bellhops, 50-100 pesos for housekeeping per stay.
• Street performers & musicians – A small tip (5-10 pesos) is appreciated if you stop to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Mexico City: Final Thoughts

Mexico City is massive, vibrant, and full of incredible neighborhoods—where you stay will shape your experience. If it’s your first visit, Roma Norte and Condesa offer the perfect mix of charm, walkability, and great dining. Polanco is ideal for a luxury stay, while Centro Histórico is an option for history lovers. If you’re looking for a more local, budget-friendly vibe, San Miguel Chapultepec, Roma Sur, or Coyoacán are great options.

I honestly love every trip I take to Mexico City and I’m certain there’s a neighborhood that will match your style. And trust me—you’ll probably be planning your next trip back before you even leave. 

Cheers to your next adventure!