Where to Stay in La Paz
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Zona Central
Abundant hostels, cheap eats, and proximity to main attractions make it ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
See full La Paz neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in La Paz
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Zona Central (Downtown)
The bustling heart of the city, packed with government buildings, commerce, and historical sites.
Our top picks in Zona Central (Downtown)
Modern hotel with excellent amenities and convenient access to the commercial district.
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Sopocachi
Bohemian and artsy with charming streets and great city views.
Our top picks in Sopocachi
Zona Sur (Calacoto, San Miguel)
Affluent and modern, characterized by wide avenues, upscale shopping, and a vibrant nightlife.
Our top picks in Zona Sur (Calacoto, San Miguel)
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Zona Central (Downtown) | Budget | The bustling heart of the city, packed with government buildings, commerce, and historical sites. | first-timersculture |
Sopocachi | Mid-range | Bohemian and artsy with charming streets and great city views. | culturefoodies |
Zona Sur (Calacoto, San Miguel) | Luxury | Affluent and modern, characterized by wide avenues, upscale shopping, and a vibrant nightlife. | luxuryfamilies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in La Paz
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in La Paz
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in La Paz. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in La Paz
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting La Paz
Zona Central (Downtown)
BudgetThe bustling heart of the city, packed with government buildings, commerce, and historical sites.
- +Centrally located for most attractions
- +Abundant public transport options
- +Wide range of dining and shopping
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Higher risk of petty crime
Sopocachi
Mid-rangeBohemian and artsy with charming streets and great city views.
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Good restaurant and cafe scene
- +Quieter than the city center
- -Can be hilly, requiring effort to walk
- -Further from some major tourist attractions
Zona Sur (Calacoto, San Miguel)
LuxuryAffluent and modern, characterized by wide avenues, upscale shopping, and a vibrant nightlife.
- +Safer and cleaner than the central areas
- +Excellent dining and nightlife options
- +More spacious and modern accommodations
- -Far from most historical attractions
- -Public transport to the center can be crowded
Daily Budget (Budget)
BOB 200/day
Hidden Gems in La Paz
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercado de las Brujas (Witches' Market)
Explore this fascinating market where you can find traditional Andean remedies, amulets, and medicinal herbs. It's a unique glimpse into local beliefs and practices.
Calle Jaén
FREEStroll down this beautifully preserved colonial street lined with colorful houses, now home to several small museums showcasing Bolivian art and history. It feels like stepping back in time.
El Alto Market
FREEExperience one of South America's largest street markets, a vibrant hub of commerce where locals buy and sell everything imaginable. It's a chaotic but authentic slice of La Paz life.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in La Paz
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
La Paz Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover La Paz on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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La Paz Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through La Paz with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of La Paz: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into La Paz's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from La Paz: Scenic Excursion
Escape La Paz for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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La Paz Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with La Paz's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for La Paz
Backpackers in La Paz: FAQ
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