I Tried Budget, Mid and Luxury Hotels in Mexico City – Here’s the Best Value

Updated: October 21, 2025

There are so many great places to stay in Mexico City, whether you’re on a shoestring, splashing the cash or somewhere inbetween. But how do you know which will give you the best value for money?

That’s why on my recent trip to Mexico’s capital, I booked into a budget, mid-range and luxury hotel to find out for you.

Red Tree House B&B Mexico City Chelsea

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Which Mexico City Hotel Is the Best Value for Money?

During my recent trip to Mexico City, I stayed in three different types of accommodation: budget, mid-range and luxury. 

I was keen to compare rooms with some similarities, and so managed to find three large rooms in each category. And I think you’ll be impressed in the space that each of them has!!

All prices are what I paid in August 2025, and include all taxes and fees, including the nightly tourist tax. And yes – I paid in full for them all. No freebies here!

Budget Accommodation in Mexico City

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Review

Chelsea by the courtyard of Viajero CDMX Hostel Mexico City

Before some of you scrunch your face up at the word ‘hostel’, just know that Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel has won ‘Best Large Hostel‘ in Northern & Central America for the last couple of years.

Plus, as well as cheap dorm rooms, they’ve got loads of private rooms too, which is what I booked for our stay.

The room

Studio
£65 a night

I booked the Studio with private bathroom for £65 a night (including VAT and tourist tax) and could not get over the sheer size of the room – and that was before I took in the height of the ceiling! The room felt clean and comfy, and I appreciated the stylish details given that it was in a hostel. In fact, I think it’s fair to say that this room was in no way giving hostel vibes. 

What I liked

The space, the powerful shower and the little balcony that overlooked the street below! I also loved that there was water waiting for us, which we could top up in the courtyard. The tall ceilings and exposed stone wall made our room really impressive. It was a real ‘wow’ moment I was not expecting!

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel 14

What could be improved

There was no hairdryer and whilst there was plenty of room to store our suitcases, there wasn’t many hangers or drawers to pack our clothes away. Also, this is a sociable hostel and so expect music until late and some nights, you may find a karaoke session going on next to your room! They do leave ear plugs though, and there is a cut off to festivities. The loud sound we weren’t expecting though was the rain which in our room, was amplified by it hitting a nearby plastic roof! It wasn’t a big issue for us, but worth noting for any light sleepers to be asked to be in a quieter room.

The only other thing worth noting is that there was not air conditioning in our room, though there was a fan. As we went in late August, this wasn’t an issue for us. Some of the dorms, though, do have AC!

The hostel

The hostel is really inviting, with a large central courtyard that houses a bar and a restaurant that serves up local dishes. There’s co-working spaces, communal lounges and regular social events that make it easy to meet fellow travellers.

Viajero CDMX Hostel Mexico City courtyard

Food and drink

They serve breakfast between 8 – 11am Monday to Saturday, and 8:30am – 11:30am on Sundays and Holidays. I went for the chicken Chilaquiles which cost $110 (£4.46) and unlimited black coffee and juice will set you back $30 (£1.22). The drinks, though nothing special, were perfect for getting me started for the day but the food – that was really good!

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Breakfast 1
Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Breakfast 4
Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Breakfast 2

Sadly the bar was undergoing refurbishment when we stayed but recent reviews share that you can expect to pay around $160 (£6.49) for a cocktail at happy hour.

Other rooms

There’s load of options, from beds in a mixed dorm with 14 beds (starting from £10 a night), female only dorms, single rooms, studios and private rooms that sleep four. Some dorms do have air conditioning and other do not – so make sure you check if that’s important to you!

Customer service

There’s a 24 hour reception and after hours when the main gates are locked, there was always someone to buzz us in. The staff helped with everything and greeted us so warmly!

Wifi and remote working

Unfortunately the internet was down when we arrived, and then was a little intermittent when it finally came back on. We ended up mostly tethering to our phones!

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Wifi Nomad

Location

In the historic centre of Mexico City (also known as Centro), the hostel is set on a pedestrian street just steps from Zócalo, the National Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Surrounded by museums, markets, and lively plazas, it’s perfectly placed for exploring the city on foot.

Overall thoughts

I can understand why it’s got great reviews and even snobby James agreed that is was a great place to stay – though perhaps that’s because we had our own room!

I would definitely recommend it – be you staying in a dorm or somewhere more private.

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Night Time

Mid-range Accommodation in Mexico City

The Red Tree House Review

Red Tree House Mexico City Chelsea

After that social hostel feel but with a grown up spin? The Red Tree House beloved B&B has a real homely feel, with a team of staff who go above and beyond to make you feel welcome.

The room

Penthouse Suite
£177 a night

We stayed in the Penthouse Suite for £177 a night (including all taxes), which was on the third floor overlooking the treetops. The space was stylishly decorated with colourful art, and plenty of cosy touches that made it feel more like staying in a friend’s home than a hotel. Since it is the suite, it not only had a spacious room but a kitchen, dining room, lounge and small balcony.

What I liked

I loved the view from our room, and the bedroom was really well appointed with plenty of space for storing our things. It also had one of the best showers – the pressure was INCREDIBLE. I also liked that we had an option to eat in, though with so many great affordable options nearby, this didn’t get a lot of love. Oh, and there’s air conditioning!

What could be improved

When we booked the ‘Penthouse Suite’ we didn’t realise that there were actually two and that one of them – this one – didn’t come with an outdoor terrace. It wasn’t very clear online! Given this, I would have opted for a cheaper room as we didn’t really use the lounge and kitchen area though we were so excited to use the outdoor space. Also, the space was a little dark compared to the other option. So make sure you request the suite with the big terrace!!

The B&B

Red Tree House is ran by Craig and Jorge who began their B&B journey by renting one room on Craiglist in the hope of meeting new and interesting people from around the world! Fast forward to the present day, and they now run the number one B&B in Mexico City. Their aim is to provide an experience for their guests, and give them a space to bring them together too.

There are over 20 rooms and apartments in total, spread across the main house – which is centred around a leafy communal courtyard – and a neighbouring house next door.

Red Tree House Mexico City Outside

Food and drink

The only food and drink on offer is what’s offered at breakfast and at happy hour – but those two both delivery in SPADES. At breakfast, the kitchen cooks up a different local dish each day and then you can help yourself to yoghurt, fruit and fresh pastries. Hot drinks are on offer too, but don’t expect fancy barista coffees. 

As for the happy hour, each day the bar area re-opens between 6-8pm for wine, beer and soft drinks. The hosts are so attentive – especially at filling up the glasses! – and it’s a great chance to get to know them and meet your fellow guests. I told you, it’s like grown up hostel vibes!

And want to know the best bit? Both of these are included in the price of your room.

Red Tree House Mexico City Breakfast

Other rooms

Standard rooms start at £110 a night (including all taxes) and there’s a super cute Treehouse option for the same price which would be perfect for solo travellers. As well as suites, there’s also 2 and 3 bedroom apartments which would be perfect for groups and families.

Customer service

The team here are so wonderful, making you feel at home straightaway. I also loved all the local recommendations that came in the welcome book!

Wifi and remote working

Great wifi – we were able to work easily from here, including uploading large files. Also, there’s beautiful communal lounges to work from so it’s actually a perfect spot if you needed a place to work remotely from. Oh, and a workplace pal in Leo the dog!

Red Tree House Mexico City Lounge
Red Tree House Mexico City Lounges 3

Location

Red Tree House is in Condesa, one of Mexico City’s most desirable neighbourhoods, surrounded by tree-lined streets, cafés, and bars. It’s a lovely area to stroll around and still well connected for getting to the main sights.

Overall thoughts

Even given the room mix up, this is one of my most favourite places that I’ve ever stayed. Just next time, I’d opt for a cheaper room and just use the communal areas to chill out in!

The Red Tree House CDMX Mexico Chelsea on balcony

The Best Mid-range B&Bs and Hotels in Mexico City

Luxury Accommodation in Mexico City

La Valise Mexico City Review

La Valise Mexico City Chelsea

If The Red Tree House felt like a warm hug, La Valise is pure indulgence. Housed in a gorgeous 1920s townhouse in Roma Norte, this boutique hotel is all about luxury, design, and those little details that make you feel SPOILED.

The room

Gravity Suite
£399 a night

I stayed in the Gravity Suite for £399 a night (including taxes) and it honestly felt like stepping into an interiors magazine! The interiors were moody, arty and super stylish, with a huge king-size bed, a spacious lounge, and even your own swing patio. The bathroom was equally impressive, complete with a deep soaking tub and rainfall shower.

What I liked

It was HUGE. I have lived in smaller flats and whilst I can’t deny the price is high, you do get a lot for your money if you are looking to really treat yourself. Especially if you compare it with the price of other 5 star luxury hotels in the city where the same cost may get you just a room.

I also loved all the art – it felt very classy – and the ‘help yourself’ minibar with beer and soft drinks. Plus, having a whole area for you to store your luggage was really helpful at keeping the suite clear.

I’m also such a fan of a bathtub so it was a real treat to enjoy that!

What could be improved

Honestly, the room was pretty exceptional – but you’d hope so for the price!! At a stretch, the toilet is in a bit of a pokey room but… It’s the toilet. I’d actually much rather it was separate and have the lush bathroom on its own!

The only other flag is that as well needing to add on VAT and local tax to the nightly price, there’s also a destination fee of $40 (USD) a night which isn’t obvious when you’re booking. In fact, the first price I saw on the website was £285 a night and the final price after all taxes and fees was £399 so yeah… It’s quite the leap so don’t get caught out!

The hotel

La Valise is small, with only a handful of suites, so you don’t get the extra facilities of a bigger hotel – but that’s part of its boutique charm. You’re booking an intimate experience rather than a resort-style stay.

It does have a few tricks up its sleeve though, in the form of a treatment room and a ‘Piscinema’ where you can book a slot to watch a film from a private pool! Even better, the latter is included in the price.

La Valise Mexico City Chelsea pool

Food and drink

Breakfast is included and delivered straight to your room at a time you decide – think fresh pastries, fruit, and great coffee. As there’s a coffee shop next door, you can request barista made coffees too!

Plus if you fancy a hot drink during your stay, you can grab one for free from the cafe. Result!

For everything else, Roma Norte is packed with incredible restaurants and bars just minutes away.

La Valise Breakfast

Other rooms

While the Gravity Suite was incredible, La Valise is perhaps best known for its ‘Polaris’ and ‘Cilene’ suites which have gone viral thanks to their king-size beds that literally roll out onto a private terrace! But you will have to pay for the pleasure – starting from £690 a night including all taxes and fees!!

The Nova Suite is the cheapest – starting from £340 a night – but it’s almost half the size of the Gravity Suite.

Customer Service

As there’s only a small reception, I thought that there wasn’t much opportunity for the team here to offer service but boy did they prove me wrong. After confirming the best way to communicate with us – in our case, Whatsapp – they were extremely attentive and answered any question we had almost instantly. They were also super proactive in making sure we were happy, asking what time we’d like breakfast and giving us recommendations.

They were amazing!

Wifi and remote working

As you’d expect, the Wifi was great here though I have to admit I didn’t work that much as I was trying to make the most of it! As for lounges, there is the cafe next door but otherwise you just (ha!) have the space that’s in your chosen suite.

Location

La Valise sits in Roma Norte, one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods. With leafy streets, hip cafés, and some of Mexico City’s best nightlife and dining right outside the door, it’s the perfect base for exploring.

Overall thoughts

I wish there wasn’t that hidden destination fee but… It was pretty incredible. I kept kicking my feet when I looked around the place – it was NEXT LEVEL FANCY.

Obviously, it’s not winning any awards for being ‘cheap’ but I do think if this is your normal budget, then you will go away feeling like you spent your money well.

La Valise Mexico City Chelsea in the bath

My Final Conclusion

I really enjoyed staying in all three rooms and genuinely thought they were all worth the price in their given category.

However, when it comes to what room was the most value for money, there’s one option that just about inches it – and that’s Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel.

Why? Well, to get such a huge room with interesting features and great service without having to spend a fortune, I think it really delivers.

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel Chelsea Bed

However...

If I was to look beyond the three rooms I stayed in, I actually have another answer which I think wins hands down.

The standard room at Red Tree House

Why? For £110 a night, not only do you get to stay in a comfy, well appointed room but you get to experience one of the friendliest places I have ever stayed! Plus, the fact that this price includes a great breakfast and a very generous happy hour, I really think your money goes far here.

For those where budget isn’t an issue, La Valise is also a great option if you’re looking for a real treat. 

I tested out three hotels in Mexico City

About Chelsea Dickenson

Chelsea Dickenson is the founder of Holiday Expert and a UK travel expert known for helping people travel smarter without overspending. Trusted by over 1 million followers across her social platforms, Chelsea’s known for not only sharing helpful travel advice, but testing out travel hacks and those deals that seem too good to be true.

As well as her social content online, you can find Chelsea on the sofa on This Morning as one of their regular travel experts, and writing for the Metro in her monthly column – as well as popping up as a guest expert across other media publications.

She also keeps followers updated with topical articles on Holiday Expert, the best deals on her weekly newsletter and the most interesting travel stories on her podcast, The Holiday Expert Show.

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