Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Occupying a former 16th-century convent in central Oaxaca, this colonial-style property wows visitors with its elegant archways, high ceilings and tranquil patios. The accommodations – with their custom artwork, flat-screen TVs and Salvatore Farragamo bath amenities – also receive high marks from recent visitors for their beautiful colonial decor. During your stay, you can take advantage of this Quinta Real's heated outdoor pool and fitness center. If you're feeling famished, head to El Refectorio Restaurant, which serves up zesty local specialties along with globally inspired fare, or try out one of the hotel's three other restaurants and bars. If you're a globetrotting foodie looking to eat your way through Oaxaca, you'll also be happy to know that plentiful restaurants are conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel. What's more, I Prefer members can cash in or accrue reward certificates for choosing to bed down here.

Sidling up to the verdant Sierra Juarez Mountains, this boutique retreat lures those looking for a secluded getaway with a touch of colonial charm. Previous guests particularly praise the Hotel Hacienda Los Laureles - Spa for its friendly staff and lush garden, which they say help create a peaceful atmosphere. Los Cypress, the on-site eatery, also earns a nod of approval for its tasty Mexican dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. Once you've soothed your appetite, you can indulge in a replenishing treatment at the full-service Petit Spa or claim a sunny spot by the pool and outdoor Jacuzzi. Should you wish to steal away from the property grounds, the hotel's concierge can help you can arrange for a round of tennis or horseback riding. If you're visiting for business, you can also take advantage of the library, business center and ample meeting areas. When you're ready to turn in, you'll find your stylish digs outfitted with a 25-inch TV, upscale bath products and a patio or terrace overlooking the verdant garden and neighboring mountains. You'll find Hotel Hacienda Los Laureles - Spa just over 3 miles north of downtown Oaxaca.

Hostal de La Noria's intimate colonial-style retreat caters to travelers looking for easy access to beloved sites surrounding Oaxaca's main square (or Zócalo), located two blocks away. Previous guests compliment the locally inspired fare served at Asuncion Restaurant. But if you're the type that enjoys traveling by following your taste buds, recent visitors assure that you'll have your pick from a handful of excellent restaurants nearby. Afterward, you can arrange for a guided tour of Oaxaca through the hotel concierge. Should you crave more relaxation, you can claim a spot at the sunny terrace as you savor a refreshing cocktail from Los Chapuline Bar. When it's time to hit the hay, retire to your cozy digs. While some describe the beds as uncomfortably firm and walls as wafer-thin, others call the interior rooms on the upper floors pleasantly quiet. Regardless, you can rest assured that you'll have a cable TV, air conditioning and a coffee maker. What's more, recent visitors claim that you can count on a friendly and hospitable staff to ensure a warm welcome.

Located just over a mile north of the Oaxaca city center, Hotel Fortin Plaza offers a quiet retreat within a 30-minute walk of top city attractions. After you've explored the sites, you can wind down with a dip in the heated pool and a meal at Nizhanda Restaurant. According to past visitors, this hotel's warm and gracious staff is a main selling point for choosing to stay here. The restaurant, on the other hand, garners mixed reviews: Some report an exceptionally delicious breakfast buffet, while others lament the dishes, describing them as unmemorable and overpriced. Once you've soothed your appetite, head to your well-appointed accommodations. The hotel's guest rooms and suites come outfitted with wooden furniture, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, coffee makers and complimentary Wi-Fi access. What's more, guests staying here can enjoy in-room dining, a complimentary shuttle to downtown Oaxaca and babysitting services (with advance notice).