Where to Stay in Oaxaca on Your Trip (Updated 2023)

Posted: 10/16/2023 | October 16th, 2023

Oaxaca is now one of the most popular destinations in Mexico. Thanks to its history, textiles industry, and architectural beauty — and the growing popularity of mezcal — everyone wants to go there. There’s a ton to see and do, and every time I visit, it seems busier. (It’s not just foreigners either: it’s become really popular with Mexicans and Argentinians too.)

While there are lots of neighborhoods to stay in, most everything is adjacent to downtown (Centro). Whether you stay in one area or another is just a matter of how far you want to walk to the center. Do you care if you walk 20 or 30 minutes, or would you prefer just 5 minutes? That’s the only real difference that you have to think about.

The only noncentrally located neighborhood is Reforma, the more modern and upscale part of town. It’s a really nice area, and there are a lot of good accommodations, shops, and restaurants there.

However, as a tourist with likely only a few days here, I think you’re better off staying in a more central part of town. This will make it easier to get around (Reforma is not really within walking distance of the main sights).

So, with that said, I’m just going to name my favorite places to stay and tell you how far of a walk they are from the Zócalo (the main public square downtown):

BUDGET: Casa Angel Hostel – This is a super social hostel on the northern edge of downtown, just a 15-minute walk to the main square. The staff organize many events, including happy hours, yoga classes, and group barbecues. Breakfast is included and there’s also bar on the roof that makes hanging out and meeting people a breeze. The beds are soft, comfortable, and come with privacy screens. The bathrooms are kept really clean too. It’s one of the best hostels in the city.

BUDGET: Hostal Central – Located on the western edge of downtown, just a 10-minute walk to the main square, Hostal Central offers one of the best free breakfasts in town. The beds have orthopedic mattresses and all the dorms have lockers so you can store your gear safely and securely. There’s a shared kitchen for cooking your own meals and the staff organize regular activities so it’s easy to meet people.

MIDRANGE: La Casona del Llano – Right on Parque Llano, about 15 minutes’ walk from the main square, this is a really nice, traditional hotel with rooms centered around a beautiful garden. The restaurant serves a delicious breakfast (as…