Affordable Hotels in Mexico City That Rival Luxury Counterparts
Mexico City has hotels that are far more polished than their nightly rates suggest. Many of the best stays are located in historic buildings, creative neighborhoods, and walkable streets where cafés and galleries outnumber tour buses. Prices under $300 per night still unlock thoughtful design, strong locations, and details usually associated with higher-end properties.
Hotel Carlota (Approx. $150 per Night)
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Here, concrete walls and warm wood finishes define the rooms, and air conditioning is standard in all 36 rooms. A small courtyard pool and a restaurant focused on contemporary Mexican dishes keep guests on-site longer than planned. Complimentary bicycles provide easy access to Paseo de la Reforma, which is just a short walk away.
Downtown Mexico (Approx. $240 per Night)
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The hotel is situated in a 17th-century palace within Centro Histórico. Twenty rooms are situated inside the restored structure, which maintains an intimate atmosphere throughout the day. The rooftop pool and terrace overlook church domes and old rooftops, and breakfast includes house-baked bread alongside fresh fruit. Pet-friendly policies add flexibility for travelers moving through the city at a slower pace.
Círculo Mexicano (Approx. $260 per Night)
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This former 19th-century townhouse was transformed by Grupo Habita into a serene retreat above a bustling ground-floor marketplace. Twenty-five rooms feature custom oak furniture, and many open onto private terraces or balconies. With an infinity pool and a Japanese soaking tub on the rooftop, you will also enjoy stunning views of the Metropolitan Cathedral. The on-site restaurant specializes in seasonal interpretations of Mexican street food.
Casa Pani (Approx. $170 per Night)
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It was originally built in the 1960s as architect Mario Pani’s private residence, but now offers just six rooms. The guesthouse mixes mid-century design with newer suites added through a central courtyard. A communal kitchen encourages longer stays, while original art fills shared spaces. The location places guests near Japanese cafés and ramen shops in a quieter pocket of the city.
Hotel San Fernando (Approx. $195 per Night)
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Condesa’s Art Deco roots come through immediately in this former apartment building from 1947. Nineteen rooms feature coral-toned walls, custom wood furniture, and lighting made by Mexican studios. Guests receive complimentary breakfast on the rooftop, while the ground-floor bar pours natural wines and agave spirits. Parque México is situated just steps away, which is particularly beneficial for travelers who appreciate having green space nearby.
Ignacia Guesthouse (Approx. $290 per Night)
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Roma Norte sets the tone here, and design carries it through the front door. This 1913 Beaux-Arts mansion holds nine suites, each with its own color palette. Shared spaces include a library, a leafy patio, and a Maya-inspired hot tub. Breakfast is served communally, and an afternoon happy hour is included in the stay.
Umbral, Curio Collection by Hilton (Approx. $230 per Night)
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Centro Histórico gets a contemporary counterpoint inside the renovated Edificio España. Original architectural details remain visible, including mosaic floors and a skylit atrium. Sixty-plus rooms feature artwork by Mexican creatives, and some suites include vinyl record players. The location places museums, plazas, and restaurants within walking distance.
Hotel Zócalo Central (Approx. $210 per Night)
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Hotel Zócalo Central, situated just steps from the city’s main square, strikes a balance between its prime location and quiet interiors. Rooms are designed for rest after busy sightseeing days, and soundproofing helps despite the surrounding noise. The rooftop restaurant overlooks the Zócalo. Staying here removes the need for daily transportation planning.
Gran Hotel Ciudad de México (Approx. $210 per Night)
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A former department store from 1899 gives Gran Hotel Ciudad de México its dramatic interior. The Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, dating back to 1908, spans the central atrium. An antique elevator still operates inside the building, and the staircase mirrors one found at Paris’s Le Bon Marché. Even short stays include full access to these architectural details.
District Polanco by Lumina (Approx. $190 per Night)
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Polanco prices often climb quickly, which makes this small hotel stand out. Rooms include air conditioning, reliable Wi-Fi, streaming-enabled TVs, and minibars. The location sits directly on Avenida Presidente Masaryk, placing shopping and dining within steps.