Where to Stay in Oaxaca: Complete Guide to the Best Hotels

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Oaxaca Hotels Guide: Best Places to Stay for Every Traveler

Planning a trip to Oaxaca and need help deciding where to stay?

You’re in the right place!

I’ve handpicked the best hotels in Oaxaca, organized by type of hotel, and I’ve also got tips on where to stay if it’s your first time in Oaxaca.

Whether you’re looking for a charming boutique hotel, a luxurious 5-star experience, a family-friendly stay, or something more budget-friendly, there’s something here for everyone.

From romantic hideaways to hotels with inviting pools, I’ve got you covered. Plus, I’ll share my top picks for where to stay during the Day of the Dead festivities and the best spots for digital nomads.

So, let’s find your dream hotel in Oaxaca!

Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca: My Personal Favorites

If you’re in a hurry but still want to check out my favorite hotels in Oaxaca, here’s a quick snapshot. For more details and pricing, just click on the hotel names:

Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca

Here’s my pick of the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca

  • Hotel Boutique Parador San Miguel Oaxaca: just 300 meters from the Zócalo in Oaxaca’s historic center, this hotel features charming, comfortable rooms with traditional Mexican décor, starting at $185 per night. Strong points: Central yet quiet, beautiful colonial architecture, attentive staff, tranquil courtyard. A perfect spot to experience Oaxaca’s authentic charm in a peaceful setting!
  • Hotel Azul de Oaxaca: Situated just a short walk from Santo Domingo Church, this stylish hotel offers contemporary rooms with a touch of traditional Mexican flair, starting at $305 per night. Strong points: rooftop bar with stunning views, delicious breakfast, on-site restaurant, and a café serving freshly baked bread!
  • Macondo Arte OaxacaThis luxurious 5-star hotel is nestled in the heart of Oaxaca, offering an exclusive and secluded experience with air-conditioned rooms, a comfortable bed, and an outdoor pool. Starting at $500 per night, the hotel blends modern elegance with local charm. Strong points: Secluded atmosphere, refreshing outdoor pool, comfortable beds, and welcome mezcal shots. 
Macondo boutique hotel Oaxaca
Macondo Arte, boutique hotel in Oaxaca

Best Luxury Hotels in Oaxaca

For a luxurious stay in Oaxaca, you can’t go wrong with the beautifully designed 5-star hotels that offer a peaceful escape. Plus, there are plenty of high-end activities to make your trip unforgettable:

Here’s my pick of the best luxury hotels in Oaxaca

  • Casa de Sierra Azul: Experience luxury in the heart of Oaxaca in this charming four-star hotel set in a beautifully restored 19th-century manor. Rooms start at $200 per night, blending historic charm with modern comfort. Strong points: Elegant rooms, intimate courtyard, the on-site restaurant Corazón Oaxaqueño, and exceptional service. 
  • Quinta Real Oaxaca: it is a breathtaking five-star hotel housed in a former 16th-century convent, offering a truly unique and luxurious experience. Rooms start at $420 per night. Strong points: Beautifully preserved architecture, tranquil courtyards, an inviting swimming pool, a gym, and three on-site restaurants. 
  • Pug Seal: a luxurious five-star hotel in Oaxaca with an artsy vibe, where every detail has been thoughtfully designed to offer a unique and stylish experience. Rooms start at $455 per night. Strong points: Artistic and modern decor, personalized service, a very good à la carte breakfast included, and an exclusive atmosphere.
Quinta Real best luxury hotel in Oaxaca
Quinta Real, a luxury hotel in Oaxaca

Best Cheap Hotels in Oaxaca

You can absolutely experience the best of Oaxaca on a budget—here are some tips to help you with that:

  • Pick your travel dates carefully: Prices can vary a lot depending on when you visit. For example, during the Guelaguetza festival at the end of July or Day of the Dead in late October/early November, the city is packed with visitors, and costs tend to rise.
  • Enjoy free activities: There’s so much you can do in Oaxaca without spending a cent! Explore the colorful street art, the Zócalo and the cathedral, the Santo Domingo de Guzmán temple, and stroll through the local markets. Check out the Oaxaca Textile Museum, the Philatelic Museum, and the Oaxaca Painters Museum—all free!
  • Take a Free Walking Tour: Get to know Oaxaca on foot with a tour from Estación México or Destino México. These tours are free, but they rely on tips, so be sure to show your appreciation by tipping your guide.
  • Eat well on a budget: Oaxaca is full of tasty, affordable food options, from daily set menus in restaurants to delicious street food. You can also find great deals at markets like Mercado 20 de Noviembre or Mercado Benito Juárez.

Here’s my pick of the best budget hotels in Oaxaca

  • Andaina Youth Hostel: Just a few blocks from the Zócalo, Hostal Andaina offers great value in the heart of Oaxaca. Dormitory beds start at $14, and private rooms from $23 per night. Strong points: Affordable rates, a rooftop terrace with city views, and a shared kitchen. A solid pick if you want to explore Oaxaca on a budget!
  • Hotel Posada San Rafael: it offers clean, comfortable private rooms at an unbeatable price in Jalatlaco, close to the ADO bus terminal, starting at $33 per night for a private room. Strong points: Great value for private rooms, helpful staff, and a peaceful courtyard. A great option if you’re looking to stay near Oaxaca’s main attractions without spending too much.
  • Viajero Oaxaca Hostal: it’s is all about good vibes and a social atmosphere, offering dorm beds from $19 and private rooms from $62 per night. Strong points: Lively ambiance, an amazing rooftop bar, and a variety of tours and activities. It’s my favorite hostel in Oaxaca, perfect for solo travelers in Oaxaca or anyone wanting to connect with others while enjoying the city!
Viajero Oaxaca hostal best cheap hotel Oaxaca
Viajero Oaxaca Hostal, an amazing budget hotel in Oaxaca!

Family-Friendly Hotels in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a very family-friendly destination in Mexico, offering a mix of cultural activities and fun experiences that will keep kids entertained and amazed.

The city center is walkable, making it practical to explore with little ones. Here are some great things to do with kids in Oaxaca:

  • Explore Oaxaca’s vibrant sights: The young ones will be captivated by the colorful markets and amazed by natural wonders like Hierve el Agua (check it out here!)
  • Visit the Museo Infantil de Oaxaca: A fun, interactive museum where kids can play and learn, including the enchanting “Bosque Encantado” area.
  • Join a food tour: Visit the local market to shop for fresh ingredients, then dive into a traditional cooking class to make authentic Oaxacan dishes—perfect for food-loving families! Book the cooking class here
  • Paint your own alebrije in San Martin Tilcajete: A hands-on workshop where kids can create their own colorful wooden sculptures. – Book it here!
  • Do a chocolate-making workshop: Learn how to make traditional Oaxacan chocolate—delicious and educational! –Book it here!
  • Take a break from culture at Mercury Bowling Club: Enjoy bowling, arcades, and VR games that your kids will love

Here’s my pick of the best family-friendly hotels in Oaxaca

  • NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca: it is welcoming hotel that’s perfect for families. Rooms start at $142 per night, offering excellent value. Strong points: Family-friendly atmosphere, vibrant decor, and a central location close to all the main sights. It’s an ideal choice for families who want a comfortable and affordable base to explore Oaxaca.
  • Hotel Naura Centro: this is a great spot for families in Oaxaca, combining modern comfort with a central location. Rooms start at $280 per night. Strong points: Spacious rooms, family-friendly services, and a very convenient location. You’ll love the on-site dining—La Asuncion serves up delicious Oaxacan dishes, and the café-bistro La Petrona is perfect for drinks and snacks. 
  • Gran Fiesta Americana Oaxaca: a luxurious five-star hotel, perfect for families who want to enjoy a bit of pampering. Rooms start at $385 per night. Strong points: Spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and plenty of family-friendly amenities. The on-site restaurant offers vegetarian and gluten-free options, and there’s also a spa, bar, and gym for a truly relaxing stay. Ideal for families looking for luxury and comfort in Oaxaca!
nana vida family friendly hotel in oaxaca
NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca

Best Romantic Hotels in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway in Mexico, and it’s no surprise that so many couples choose it for their weddings or honeymoons.

Here are some great things to do with your partner in Oaxaca:

  • Wander through the Ethnobotanical Garden: Enjoy a peaceful stroll hand-in-hand through 2 hectares of lush plants native to Oaxaca.
  • Explore art galleries and artisan shops: Discover unique pieces together and find that perfect souvenir to remember your trip.
  • Taste mezcal: Share a tasting experience and explore the flavors of this traditional Oaxacan spirit. – Book the mezcal tasting here!
  • Visit the Santo Domingo Convent: Built in 1551, this iconic site hosts the most amazing museum in Oaxaca—perfect for history lovers.
  • Have a romantic dinner at Criollo: savor dishes inspired by the diverse techniques of Oaxacan cuisine, with influences from the coast, valleys, mountains, and Isthmus. – Make your reservation here
  • Sip cocktails at La Selva: End your evening with a unique cocktail made with local ingredients in a 1920s-inspired setting, perfect for a cozy night out.

Here’s my pick of the best romantic hotels in Oaxaca

  • Grana B&B: Full of charm, this spot is perfect for a romantic getaway in Oaxaca. Rooms start at $185 per night. Strong points: Delicious breakfast, a beautifully restored courtyard, and a big, stylishly rustic kitchen area that adds to the cozy, inviting atmosphere. A lovely choice for couples looking for a peaceful and intimate stay.
  • Majagua Hotel Boutique -Adults Only: A serene escape designed just for adults, with rooms starting at $260 per night. Strong points: Beautiful design with natural greenery throughout, a cool rooftop bar, and breakfast served on the rooftop. The staff is extremely attentive, making it perfect for a romantic retreat in Oaxaca.
  • Casa Antonieta: housed in one of the oldest colonial buildings in Oaxaca, this hotel combines historic charm with modern style. Rooms start at $410 per night. Strong points: Muss Cafe on the ground floor and Ama on the rooftop—one of the most charming bars in Oaxaca, perfect for watching the sunset.
Majagua Romantic Hotel Oaxaca
Majagua Hotel Boutique -Adults Only

Best Hotels in Oaxaca with a Pool

Here’s my pick of the best hotels with a pool in Oaxaca

  • Maka Hostel: It’s surprising to find a hostel in Oaxaca with a pool, but Maka Hostel offers just that at an incredible value. Dorm beds start at $22 per night. Strong points: Affordable rates, refreshing pool, and a social atmosphere. Perfect for budget travelers who want a little extra comfort!
  • Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery: set in a historic building from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the hotel offers a very calm atmosphere despite being centrally located. Rooms start at $270 per night. Strong points: Rooftop pool, spacious rooms, charming courtyard.
  • Casa Peñasco Boutique Oaxaca: A spacious villa with three bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, and a pool. Starting at $630 per night, it accommodates 6 to 8 guests—perfect for families or friends. Strong points: Rooftop pool, terrace with jacuzzi, and stunning views.
Casa Penasco Oaxaca hotel with a pool
Casa Peñasco, hotel with a pool in Oaxaca

Where to stay in Oaxaca: a quick guide to the best hotels

Here’s a simple overview of the best hotels in Oaxaca. You can sort them by price or type!

HotelTypePrice
Hotel Boutique Parador San Miguel OaxacaBoutique Hotel185 $
Hotel Azul de OaxacaBoutique Hotel305 $
Macondo Arte OaxacaBoutique Hotel500 $
Casa de Sierra AzulLuxury Hotel200 $
Quinta RealLuxury Hotel420 $
Pug SealLuxury Hotel455 $
Andaina HostelBudget Hotel14 $
Posada San RafaelBudget Hotel33 $
Viajero Oaxaca HostalBudget Hotel19 $
Nana Vida Hotel OaxacaFamily-friendly142 $
Hotel Naura CentroFamily-friendly280 $
Gran Fiesta AmericanaFamily-friendly385 $
Grana B&BRomantic Hotel187 $
Majagua Hotel Boutique-Adults OnlyRomantic Hotel264 $
Casa AntonietaRomantic Hotel418 $
Maka HostelHotel with a pool22 $
Hotel Siglo XVII Art GalleryHotel with a pool264 $
Casa Peñasco Boutique OaxacaHotel with a pool630 $ (6-8 people)
City Centro by Marriott OaxacaHotel for Digital Nomads 140 $
Hotel Oaxaca RealDay of the Dead125 $
Casa AntonietaInstagrammable Hotel 418 $
Grana B&BPet-friendly187 $
Hotel Azul de OaxacaPet-friendly305 $
Viajero Oaxaca HostelHotel for Solo Travelers19 $

Where to stay in Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead

If you’re visiting Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead, booking your stay in advance is essential, as this popular celebration fills the city quickly!

The best places to stay are near the Santo Domingo Church, close to the Zócalo, or in the Jalatlaco neighborhood, where you’ll be right in the middle of the action.

The festivities kick off with the Muerteada or Comparsa, a lively parade with thousands of costumed participants dancing, singing, and celebrating along the streets.

During this time, you can admire stunning altars along Macedonio Alcalá Street, beautifully decorated with flowers, candles, photos, and offerings to honor the departed.

The cemeteries are also a must-see, filled with music, flowers, mezcal, mole, and hot chocolate.

Notable cemeteries include Xochimilco (November 1) and San Felipe (November 2) in the city, as well as Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán and Santa María Atzompa, just outside Oaxaca.

My Advice
Be sure to check out My Detailed Guide on Día de Muertos for everything you need to know about this incredible celebration! 💀🏵️  
dia de muertos oaxaca
dia de muertos oaxaca

Where to stay in Oaxaca for first-time visitors

If it’s your first time in Oaxaca, Centro (historic center) is the per fect place to stay because it offers a wide range of the best hotels, from budget-friendly to upscale options, all in one of the safest areas to stay in Oaxaca!

  • The boutique hotels, often set in beautiful old colonial buildings, are near the Zócalo and Santo Domingo cathedral.
  • If you’re on a tighter budget, check out the nearby neighborhoods of Xochimilco, Jalatlaco, and Noria—they’ve got some great options too!

Centro is easy to navigate, with the lively Zócalo area offering markets, restaurants, and museums around the main plaza and cathedral.

Just north, Santo Domingo features cobblestone streets, great dining, bars, and the impressive Santo Domingo church and museum.

For a quieter vibe, head to Barrio de Xochimilco, just north of Santo Domingo, with its cozy feel, traditional eats, and charming stays.

Jalatlaco is another great spot—a small, artsy neighborhood with cool murals, coffee shops, and a laid-back vibe, just a short walk from Santo Domingo.

santo domingo de guzmán oaxaca
santo domingo de guzmán oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca for Digital Nomads

If you’re a digital nomad, finding good Wi-Fi in Oaxaca is very important.

Most hotels in Centro and Jalatlaco have pretty reliable internet, but I’d still suggest checking the reviews because the quality can vary.

Personally, I had a great experience at City Centro by Marriott Oaxaca—the Wi-Fi was solid, and I could work without any issues!

Aside from hotels, Oaxaca has some awesome cafes with good internet where you can work in a chill atmosphere.

My Advice
Be sure to check out my guide to the 7 best coffee shops in Oaxaca—perfect spots for getting work done while enjoying great coffee!  

If you prefer a quieter, more focused environment, the coworking spaces in Oaxaca are perfect for getting work done while connecting with other digital nomads. These are my go-to spots:

muss cafe
Muss Café, Oaxaca. Photo Karla Acosta

Map of the Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Here are the best hotels and hostels in Oaxaca on a map to help you locate them.

Rent a car in Oaxaca

Renting a car is definitely the best way to explore Oaxaca, especially if you want to visit the surrounding areas!

To rent a car, personaly, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

  • You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
  • Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
  • Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

How to find a cheap flight to Oaxaca

Xoxocotlán International Airport receives flights from Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, Tijuana and other national and international destinations, mainly with Aeromexico and Volaris.

To find your cheap flight to Oaxaca or your international flight to Mexico, use our flight comparator in collaboration with Skyscanner. It will help you find the best price!

Getting to your hotel from the airport
  • Rent a car at the airport through Booking Cars (click on the link to compare cars)
  • Shared transportation: a very good and affordable option. This is a van that can take up to 8 people and will drop you off at your hotel. Book it here!
  • Private transportation: A comfortable and convenient option, perfect if you’re traveling as a couple or with a small group. You’ll have a private vehicle all to yourselves, making the trip more direct and relaxed. Book it here! – Book it here!
  • Take a cab from the airport (about 400 pesos each way) or walk here for a cheaper cab (about 150 pesos). As far as I know, there is no Uber type app at the moment.
  • By public transport: taking the bus to downtown Oaxaca from the airport is the cheapest option (10 pesos each way). You have to walk 1km to the center and then wait for a bus from the “Halcón company” that will drop you off at the corner of Francisco Javier Mina and Bustamante. But ask before boarding to make sure it is going in the right direction. 
Book your trip now and save money!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

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oaxaca best places to stay
oaxaca best places to stay 
Anonymous

I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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