The Best Hotels to Book in Durango, Mexico

Be sure to visit the Bandstand and Cathedral on Plaza de Armas in Durango
Be sure to visit the Bandstand and Cathedral on Plaza de Armas in Durango | © Witold Skrypczak / Alamy Stock Photo
Tim Forster

In mountainous Northwest Mexico – part-desert, part-forest – Durango City is an architectural marvel, packed with splendid Spanish-colonial-era parks, temples, plazas and a cathedral. You may have seen it in the movies – the capital of Durango state once served as a backdrop for Westerns. A short stay here is a treat, spent ambling around, taking in the sights. As a bonus, you’ll encounter few crowds, as it’s off the beaten tourist track. Double bonus: the best hotels are often cheaper than they’d be elsewhere. We explore the best of the (wild) bunch of hotels in Durango, Mexico – now bookable on Culture Trip.

1. Hotel Gobernador

Hotel

A tree-covered walkway to the rooms at Hotel Gobernador, with a cobbled path and small plants and bushes around
Courtesy of Hotel Gobernador / Expedia

In a colonial-era building, walled off from the busy streets, is this exquisite five-star hotel in Durango. The dimly lit historical interior with woody, earthy tones oozes luxury, and the 99 spacious rooms keep up that seductive charm, especially in the suites. The Gobernador has a lush garden with a pool and a casual outdoor restaurant and cafe; a further two restaurants indoors serve an array of international cuisine. It’s right on the edge of the Centro district, meaning the attractions and many restaurants and bars the city has to offer are just a few minutes away on foot.

2. Hotel Misión Express

Hotel

Room at the Hotel Misión Express has modern design, wooden desk and orchids to decorate
Courtesy of Hotel Misión Express / Expedia

This uncomplicated and affordable hotel in Durango, part of an upstart Mexican chain, is relatively new to the city and looks the business: cast your gaze over the wood-paneled smoke-free rooms with splashes of color, and get to know the particularly friendly and accommodating staff. Amenities include a gym and free parking, and rates typically include a free breakfast. The location, around 3.5mi (5km) out from Downtown Durango, might not be ideal for those looking to explore the city center, but you’re in close reach of Durango International Airport and major highways.

3. Hotel Rincon Real Suites

Hotel

Outdoor pool area at Hotel Rincon Real Suites has a long walkway, a row of pot plants and loungers
Courtesy of Hotel Rincon Real Suites / Expedia

Slap-bang in Durango’s historical center, Rincon Real is a cozy, casual affair that comes with eminently affordable rates. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, with non-negotiable basics including TVs and air conditioning. The fancier suites also include kitchenettes. You’ll also find all the bare necessities – a gym, a restaurant and, crucially, a bar. It’s capped off with a lovely courtyard swimming pool – you’ll cool down fast in the hot months of spring and summer.

5. Hampton Inn by Hilton Durango

Chain Hotel

Suite at Hampton Inn by Hilton Durango has a leather sofa, a wall mounted TV, a dining table and modern decor
Courtesy of Hampton Inn by Hilton Durango / Expedia

Know the name? That’s right – this is a big chain hotel that’s consistent, reliable and, essentially, ticks all the right boxes. It has up-to-date modern rooms in a range of configurations to suit solo travelers, couples and families. Prices are moderate, valet parking and breakfast are included, and there’s wifi, air conditioning and an in-house gym. Best of all, being a couple of kilometers (a few miles) east of the Centro Histórico, it’s pretty convenient for the varied museums and other attractions in Durango – take a short drive or a moderate walk.

6. Fiesta Inn Durango

Hotel

Reception area at Fiesta Inn Durango has modern design, mood lighting, a bookcase, a co-working station and clean, light walls
Courtesy of Fiesta Inn Durango / Expedia

There’s no arguing about the convenience of the location: Fiesta Inn is inside the large Paseo Durango shopping mall. Result: a kaleidoscope of shops, entertainment and places to scoff, without even heading out into the heat. Fiesta is a Mexican chain mostly geared towards business travelers, and its Durango outpost is no different: the hotel rooms are tidy and straightforward, and amenities lean in that direction, too, with a gym and meeting rooms available. Yes, it’s a little way – 0.5mi (0.8km) or so – from the attractions in the city – but it’s still very central, meaning easy hops to wherever you’re bound in Durango.

7. Grand Hotel Elizabeth

Hotel

Room at Grand Hotel Elizabeth has a blue and red bed cover, wall mounted TV, chest of drawers and a small work desk
Courtesy of Grand Hotel Elizabeth / Expedia

Here’s a bright and friendly three-star hotel, deep in the historical heart of Durango – most of the must-see attractions are just a short walk away from your front door. The simple, bright rooms eschew blandness with a splash of Pop art color. Our advice: couples and small families will love it, thanks to the reasonable prices, which can dip below $60 (£44) a night in the off-peak season. The pièce de resistance? The hotel’s rooftop bar and terrace, overlooking Durango in all directions – the perfect place for a tequila sunset.

Don’t miss out on the top things to see and do while you’re in Durango. If you’d prefer to stay on the coast, book into one of the best hotels in nearby Mazatlan.

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