Where to Stay in Mexico City
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Mexico City
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Centro Histórico
Historic heart of the city, bustling with ancient ruins, grand colonial buildings, museums, and street vendors.
Our top picks in Centro Histórico
Roma Norte
Bohemian and artistic, with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and vibrant cafes.
Our top picks in Roma Norte
Charming boutique hotel with a beautiful courtyard and personalized service.
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Condesa
Green and elegant, characterized by wide avenues, parks, and upscale restaurants and bars.
Our top picks in Condesa
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Centro Histórico | Budget | Historic heart of the city, bustling with ancient ruins, grand colonial buildings, museums, and street vendors. | first-timersculture |
Roma Norte | Mid-range | Bohemian and artistic, with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and vibrant cafes. | foodiescouples |
Condesa | Luxury | Green and elegant, characterized by wide avenues, parks, and upscale restaurants and bars. | couplesfoodies |
Polanco | Luxury | Affluent and sophisticated, known for its high-end shopping, world-class museums, and fine dining. | luxuryfoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Mexico City
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Mexico City
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Mexico City. 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 Mexico City
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Mexico City
Centro Histórico
BudgetHistoric heart of the city, bustling with ancient ruins, grand colonial buildings, museums, and street vendors.
- +Rich in history and cultural landmarks
- +Very affordable
- +Central and convenient for sightseeing
- -Can be very crowded and chaotic
- -Safety can be a concern at night
Roma Norte
Mid-rangeBohemian and artistic, with tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, and vibrant cafes.
- +Excellent food scene
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Lively atmosphere
- -Can be noisy
- -Parking is difficult
Condesa
LuxuryGreen and elegant, characterized by wide avenues, parks, and upscale restaurants and bars.
- +Beautiful parks and pedestrian-friendly streets
- +Sophisticated dining and nightlife
- +Safe and pleasant ambiance
- -Can be expensive
- -Less budget-friendly options
Polanco
LuxuryAffluent and sophisticated, known for its high-end shopping, world-class museums, and fine dining.
- +Excellent museums and galleries
- +High-end shopping and dining
- +Safe and well-maintained
- -Very expensive
- -Can feel less 'local' and more commercial
Daily Budget (Budget)
MXN 800/day
Hidden Gems in Mexico City
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercado de San Juan
This isn't your average market; it's known for exotic ingredients, including insects and game meats, but also offers fantastic prepared food stalls. It's a culinary adventure for the brave and the curious.
Coyoacan Market
While Coyoacan is popular, its market is a local hub for incredible tostadas, quesadillas, and fresh juices. It's the perfect spot to sample authentic street food in a lively atmosphere.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Mexico City
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Mexico City Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Mexico City 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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Mexico City Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Mexico City 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 Mexico City: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Mexico City'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 Mexico City: Scenic Excursion
Escape Mexico City 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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Mexico City Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Mexico City'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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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Mexico City
Backpackers in Mexico City: FAQ
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