The Best Hotels in Zacatecas, Mexico, for Every Traveler

Casa Faroles means “house of lanterns,” and this elegant hotel is situated on the cobbled road of Tacuba in the centro histórico. A grand split staircase leads to the rooms on the upper floors, one of which benefits from a private patio open to the elements, while some have balconies onto the street. In five minutes on foot you can be at Rincon Típico, a classic fonda, or refreshment stall, serving great value local cuisine.

Located, unforgettably, in a restored 19th-century bullfighting arena overlooked by the historic Zacatecas Aqueduct, the massive open internal courtyard at Quinta Real Zacatecas was once the floor of the stadium. The former stands rising up around it are full of little alcoves at ground level: full of intimate spots for dining. Many of the suites overlook the exquisitely tiled former arena floor. The hotel has both La Plaza Restaurant for fine dining and the Botarel Bar, perfect for a glass of wine in the evening as the sun sets.

Originally built in 1700, this hotel is another jewel of Zacatecas’ historic colonial centre, fronting onto a stone paved square with a small garden, Jardín Juárez, at its heart. Built around various internal courtyards and corridors, the 52 rooms and suites are set off wide landings and overlook the elegant communal spaces. The Presidential Suite includes a meeting room, jacuzzi and a view of the street. All of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance but the Museo Pedro Coronel, with a range of modernist works by Picasso and Dalí, Mexican folk art and pre-Hispanic pieces displayed in a 17th-century seminary, is particularly recommended.

Found on a quiet street in the historical centre, a little away from the busiest squares and avenues. Room rates include a continental breakfast and there’s also a 24-hour gym. About 15 minutes away on foot is the Museo De Minerales Y Fósiles, a cracking natural history museum filled with fossils and minerals. It is part of the Mina El Edén, a 16th-century silver mine which yielded so much wealth for the Spanish colonists in Zacatecas. It’s a fun tourist attraction now, with tours, dioramas and an underground train.

This boutique hotel is filled with a variety of paintings and sculptures by Mexican artists, including some grand and vivid works taking up entire walls. There are rooms with interior and exterior aspects, and a suite with a commanding view of Avenue Hidalgo, right by the famous Fernando Calderon Theater. There are attractive hardwood floors and bespoke toiletries throughout and some rooms have balconies and terraces, as well as a jacuzzi. The communal roof terrace is special, with its splendid vista of the Cathedral, and you can book to have a massage there high above the city in the sun.

The architecture here blends Spanish hacienda with Moorish influences. The Master Suite features two desks, living space and a balcony. In general the rooms are larger than most you would find in city centre hotels, the Hotel Spa Hacienda Baruk being on the eastern edge of town. There’s also a gym, a heated indoor pool and a spa, plus plenty of well-kept gardens to wander in.

A large purpose-built chain out of town to the west; rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and many have views of the surrounding mountains, some from private balconies and terraces. Suites feature jazzy green sofas and there’s an on-site gym, restaurant, business center and bar. Nearby Viva Mexico is a colourful spot for a casual dinner which most tourists won’t venture to.

Arroyo de la Plata means stream of silver, which doesn’t have much to do with this large utilitarian looking glass-fronted hotel on the main road running east to west through Zacatecas city. The 123 rooms are no frills and functional, with the option of a jacuzzi. The hotel also has an indoor pool, sauna, coffee shop and gym and the centro histórico is a short walk away.

This chain hotel is colored deep yellow like many historic buildings in Zacatecas, but the similarities end there. Unlike the old haciendas, it’s purpose-built and functional, with simple air-conditioned rooms. There’s also a gym for guests to use and you can be in the centre of town in 10 minutes by taxi as you’re on the right side of the city for Mina El Edén.

A sister hotel to Hotel Spa Hacienda Baruk, you’ll have a privileged spot here overlooking the centre of Zacatecas and right by the entrance to Teleferico, Mexico’s oldest cable car which first opened in 1979. The cars now have glass bottoms and take you to the top of Cerro de la Bufa on the other side of the valley, where you’ll find an interactive museum and 18th-century chapel.