The 15 Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels for Luxury Travelers

view of the mountains in one of the best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels in Mexico

Looking for 5 Star Hotels in Oaxaca City?

You’re in the right place because this article highlights the Top 15 best Oaxaca 5 star hotels. While Oaxaca might seem on the rustic side at first glance, there are some luxury hotels in Oaxaca — if you know where to look.

Don’t have time to read the article? The best of the best when it comes to 5 star hotels in Oaxaca Mexico is the Quinta Real Oaxaca, with near-perfect reviews.

There are many different reasons to travel to culturally-rich Oaxaca City — the colorful colonial architecture, delicious Oaxaca food, lively festivals like Day of the Dead, indigenous artisan towns, funky mezcal bars, and more.

No matter why you plan to visit Oaxaca, you’ll need a place to stay. So the question remains: Where are the best 5 Star hotels in Oaxaca City? This article is going to show you, so let’s get to it!

Top 3 Picks: Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

#1 TOP PICK

quinta real oaxaca hotel

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quinta Real Oaxaca
✔️ Airport shuttle
✔️ Outdoor swimming pool

#2 PICK

grand fiesta americana oaxaca hotel

Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca
✔️ Free private parking
✔️ Full service spa

#3 PICK

pug seal oaxaca hotel

Pug Seal Oaxaca
✔️ Concierge services
✔️ Use of free bikes

15 Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

They say where you stay can make, or break, your trip, and these amazing places will help make your vacation unforgettable. Below you’ll find a list of the best Oaxaca luxury hotels that will please any sophisticated traveler.

1. Quinta Real Oaxaca

Beautiful Quinta Real is known as the best hotel in Oaxaca Mexico. (Video: Best Oaxaca luxury hotels via HotelReview)

Located in the restored 16th Century Covenant of Santa Catalina de Siena, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you stay at the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel, a gorgeous boutique property.

This historic hotel was originally built in 1579, and is located in the Oaxaca City Center (AKA the Downtown Historic Centre). This area is one of the Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and has some of the Oaxaca must see sites.

The hotel is the perfect mix of modern luxury and history. It has retained an Old World charm, from the tile floors to the arched courtyards and combination of stone and dark timber.

Besides being a very beautiful facility, the staff were absolutely amazing. Each concierge we worked with was extremely professional and capable. They went out of their way to make our stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible… Two thumbs up!

Bob (read more reviews)

The Quinta Real Hotel is located next to Plaza Santo Domingo, and within walking distance of all major Oaxaca attractions. Located in one of the safest Oaxaca neighborhoods, it’s the perfect hotel for first time visitors. 

Lastly, the hotel is known for its outstanding customer service and amenities, including a gym, outdoor pool, safety deposit box and air conditioning in the rooms.

There’s also the on-site El Refectorio restaurant, which serves international and Oaxacan food, Las Bugambilias Bar and Las Novicias Bar. With so much to offer its guests, you can see why this is known as the best Oaxaca hotel.

🐾 Traveling to Oaxaca with pets? The Quinta Real Oaxaca is one of the best pet friendly hotels in Oaxaca City.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

2. Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca City

The Grand Fiesta Americana is one of the best hotels in Downtown Oaxaca City. (Video: Oaxaca hotels 5-star via LM Latinamerica Meetings TV)

A member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, you won’t be disappointed when you stay at the Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca Hotel. A newer hotel in town, it tastefully blends Old World Oaxaca charm with modern conveniences.

Located in Centro Historico (Historic Downtown Oaxaca City), you’re near all the best things to do in Oaxaca — including the city’s top mezcal bars, boutique shopping and best Oaxaca restaurants, like Casa Oaxaca Restaurant.

Beautiful hotel connected to the roots of Oaxaca but with a modern touch. The staff is sensational and kind, and will always go the extra mile to make your stay the best possible.

-Rodrigo (read more reviews)

This 5-star hotel in Oaxaca City is the perfect luxurious oasis for tiresome travelers — so don’t pass up the chance to treat yourself to a massage at SPA, the hotel’s spa, and enjoy the 24-hour room service.

There’s free WiFi throughout the property, a business center, free private parking for guests who are renting a car in Oaxaca, and free breakfast each morning, with Continental and American options available in the onsite restaurant.

Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City

3. Pug Seal Oaxaca City

Pug Seal Oaxaca is located in one of the best areas of Oaxaca, just a short walk from the Zócalo and Oaxaca Cathedral. (Video: 5-star hotel Oaxaca Mexico via Rock a Little Travel)

Pug Seal Oaxaca City Hotel offers one of the most exclusive lodging experiences in town — but book ASAP as there’s only 20 rooms, and they full up quickly.

It is located in the historic center of Oaxaca, the heart of the city, so you’re within walking distance of everything from attractions and mezcal bars, to museums and many of the best Oaxaca restaurants.

Pug Seal is a beautiful boutique hotel with an excellent service and staff! The decoration of the room and common areas is marvelous… Breakfast is delicious… It is a gem in Oaxaca!

—mauricio (read more reviews)

Staying here is a must for art and design lovers, who will never tire of simply looking around inside this gorgeous boutique hotel in Oaxaca City.

The hotel’s design is a journey through the local Zapotec culture and a tribute to the Mexican aesthetic, created by local artists like Rafael Uriegas, Manuel Lozano and Sabino Guisu.

Guests at Pug Seal will enjoy gourmet a la carte breakfast each morning, personal concierge service and eco-friendly bath products. If you need to work, there’s private areas and meeting rooms, and fast, free Wi-Fi throughout.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

4. Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City

indoor outdoor hotel in Oaxaca City, Mexico
The private rooms at Hotel Escondido take tranquil indoor-outdoor living to the next level. (Photo: Expedia, 5 star hotels Oaxaca Mexico)

Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City is part of the Grupo Habita boutique hotel collection, known for their architecture, design, respect for the local culture and attention to detail.

Their sister hotel, also called Hotel Escondido, is the best luxury hotel in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.

This hotel is absolutely fantastic! From the staff to the accommodation to the coffee in the morning, everything was perfect. The whole vibe in the hotel is great, it seemed like every corner and every angle needed to be photographed.

François (read more reviews)

The Oaxaca City location lives up to the same high standards. It has an eco-friendly design mixed with modern touches like a rooftop swimming pool and flat-screen TV in each room.

Guests also get complimentary continental breakfast each morning.

There’s an onsite Culture Room with art and a library, which doubles as a co-working space for digital nomads and remote workers. You’re within easy walking distance of quite a few sites, like Santa Maria del Marquesado Church.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

5. Hotel Casa Santo Origen

City Centro Oaxaca hotel pool area | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
At Hotel Casa Santo Origen, you’ll feel like you’re staying at a spa. (Photo: Expedia, 5 Star Oaxaca Mexico hotels)

Located 15-20 minutes from Downtown Oaxaca by car, Hotel Casa Santo Origen is the perfect place to escape the city life and enjoy the Mexican countryside.

The hotel’s layout emphasizes privacy, while its contemporary designs and warm interiors offer travelers a unique sense of secluded tranquility.

 Literally the best hotel experience I’ve ever had! gorgeous property, the friendliest staff, comfy beds, world class amazing food, thoughtful design and so much more… Loved this boutique hotel.

Lauren (read more reviews)

Enjoy the on-site restaurant, Entre Sombras, with unique Oaxacan Mediterranean fusion cuisine, and the heated saltwater pool. It’s basically like staying at a Oaxaca spa hotel, enjoying your own personal retreat.

Note: Casa Santo Origen is about 15-20 minutes by car from Downtown Oaxaca. Since there’s no Lyft or Uber in Oaxaca City, you can drive your rental car, have the hotel arrange for a private driver, or take a taxi.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

6. Casa Naila Boutique Hotel Oaxaca

Enjoy one of the best Oaxaca rooftops at your hotel. (Photo: Expedia, Oaxaca hotels 5 stars)

When it comes to Oaxaca hidden gems, the Casa Naila Hotel Boutique is one of the best kept secrets in Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels. With its central location, world-class service, and Old World Oaxacan charm, this one is hard to top.

At Casa Naila Hotel Boutique, guests enjoy a free, full breakfast each morning from 8am-noon, and roundtrip airport shuttle service from Oaxaca Airport. There’s also other great amenities, like a bar, rooftop restaurant and 24-hour front desk.

The whole hotel was great, so welcoming and always went out of their way to assist us. Helped with tour guides, and ensured we were well managed. Breakfast was great and [they] even accommodated different requests.

Charmaine (read more reviews)

All guest rooms are individually decorated, and boast comforts such as laptop-friendly workspaces, air conditioning, fast WiFi (100+ Mbps) and safes for your valuables.

🐾 Traveling to Oaxaca with fur babies? Casa Naila is one of the best pet friendly Oaxaca hotels, and welcomes dogs up to 31 pounds (14 kg).

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

7. Flavia Hotel Oaxaca

When it comes to beautiful design, Hotel Flavia Oaxaca is in a class by itself. (Photo: Expedia, 5 Star Oaxaca luxury hotels)

Oaxaca City and Central Oaxaca are located in the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca Mountains, and this hotel takes full advantage of the sweeping vistas all around. If you’re seeking a tranquil Oaxaca trip, book Hotel Flavia now.

Located outside the city, about 8.5 miles (14 km) from Monte Albán Ruins, you’ll get to experience the “real Oaxaca” staying at this hotel in the San Felipe del Agua Oaxaca neighborhood — an area coveted by travelers in the know!

The grounds were beautiful. The details were chosen carefully and the hotel has a great aesthetic. The service was also top notch. Whenever we needed something they responded right away. The view is also incredible.

kelsey (read more reviews)

Flavia Hotel accommodations include an outdoor infinity pool overlooking the mountains, fitness center, onsite restaurant and bar. There’s 24-hour reception, airport shuttle service, room service and free Wi-Fi throughout.

All rooms have a desk, TV, private bathroom, luxury bed linens and towels, and coffee makers and a safe deposit box. Some rooms have a balcony, while others offer views of the city.

Note: Hotel Flavia is about 25-35 minutes by car from Downtown Oaxaca. Since there’s no Lyft or Uber in Oaxaca City, you can drive your rental car, have the hotel arrange for a private driver, or take taxis to get around.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

8. Palacio Borghese Oaxaca

elaborate foyer in Palacio Borghese Oaxaca hotel | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
The gorgeous Palacio Borghese is one of the best hotels in Oaxaca Centro. (Photo: Expedia, Oaxaca hotels luxury suites)

A mixture of classic European style and Mexican Baroque, the Palacio Borghese is a luxury boutique hotel in Oaxaca City that’s located in the historic center.

In a city full of stylish and beautiful hotels, this one remains one of the most beautiful hotels in Oaxaca Mexico.

White-glove service. A full staff dedicated to making your stay great. Loved the breakfast and the complimentary wine. Very central location as well.

Patrick (read more reviews)

The hotel has only eight rooms, allowing for a more attentive and hospitable staff. The rooms are spacious, beautiful, and decorated with a European touch.

The hotel also has a spectacular rooftop terrace, massage services with aromatherapy, and more.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

9. El Callejón Hotel Boutique

outdoor garden at El Callejon Hotel Oaxaca City hotel
El Callejon is one of the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca City. (Photo: Expedia, 5 Star Oaxaca City hotels)

The hotel is just minutes from Downtown Oaxaca, in the heart of the Xochimilco neighborhood. If you want to stay slightly off the beaten path (and away from the city noise), book El Callejón Hotel Boutique today.

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is the oldest Oaxaca City neighborhood, known for colorful buildings, historic charm and this 18th Century aqueduct.

The property is an oasis in Oaxaca! Walking in surrounded by greenery and perfectly placed foliage complimenting the rest of the designs is a serene feeling. The service and staff are exceptional, EVERY ONE OF THEM!

Brandon (read more reviews)

This hotel is an urban oasis with 12 spacious rooms distributed across four towers, all complemented by private terraces and balconies.

The property also has stunning architecture and a lush garden that provides guests some peace and quiet from the city’s hustle and bustle.

El Callejón Hotel Boutique Oaxaca City offers free private parking, which is great if you’re renting a car in Oaxaca, as many hotels in Downtown don’t offer this.

There’s also a restaurant and bar that has a large selection of the best Oaxaca mezcals the region has to offer.

👩‍💼 Traveling to Oaxaca on business? Callejón Oaxaca Hotel has apartment-style rooms for rent that have a kitchen, microwave, fridge and minibar. It’s one of the best hotels Oaxaca City has for business travelers.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

10. Casa de Adobe Gallery & Luxury Boutique Hotel

pool at Casa de Adobe Hotel in oaxaca city, mexico
The gorgeous outdoor swimming pool at Casa de Adobe Hotel in Oaxaca City, Mexico. (Photo: Expedia, 5 Star boutique hotels Oaxaca)

La Casa de Adobe Oaxaca is a colonial-style hotel located in the posh San Felipe Oaxaca neighborhood, near the airport. If you want a quiet vacation, away from the (often) hectic Oaxaca City Centre — this is it!

Enjoy the swim-up bar, huge pool, and hot tub. Take in the lush garden views as you enjoy al fresco dining at the two onsite restaurants. Want to try traditional Oaxaca food? Don’t miss Clemente Restaurant.

The staff was amazing, from the cleaning people to the front desk staff, Fernando and Carla, to our waiter, Arturo. We felt like we were the only ones at the resort because we had such personal care… Service was very fast with anything we needed.

Davis (read more reviews)

With 18 rooms, you’ll get great service and a lot of personal attention from the staff. The rooms are very luxurious, with rainfall showers, 50 inch TVs (127 cm) with Netflix, air conditioning, bathrobes and daily housekeeping.

Note: Located in the San Felipe del Agua neighborhood, Casa de Adobe Hotel is about 15-20 minutes from Downtown Oaxaca City. Consider renting a car in Oaxaca if you plan to stay here; there is free parking.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

BONUS: 5 More Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels to Check Out

La Casona de Tita Villa Oaxaca is a Colonial gem. (Photo: Expedia, Luxury hotels Oaxaca Mexico)

Some travelers need a lot of choices when it comes to the best luxury hotels in Oaxaca City! If you need a few more suggestions for Five Star hotels in Oaxaca Mexico, here are a few more options to look into:

  1. La Casona de Tita Oaxaca
  2. Hacienda los Laureles
  3. Hotel Boutique Cosijo
  4. Casa Hidalgo Boutique Hotel
  5. La Parra Suites Oaxaca
Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City

Now that you know the best hotels in Oaxaca, you might be wondering, What are the safest areas in Oaxaca City? 

Though it’s known as one of the safest places in Mexico, Oaxaca City does have some neighborhoods that are better than others, so stick to the best Oaxaca neighborhoods mentioned below.

1. Centro Histórico (Downtown Oaxaca)

colorful flags hung above the street in downtown oaxaca city mexico
Oaxaca is a small town, but if this is your first visit, don’t miss the Free Walking Tour of Oaxaca City to get your bearings in this most central of all Oaxaca neighborhoods.

Centro Historico, or Historic Downtown Oaxaca, is one of the best places to stay in Oaxaca for apparent reasons.

Downtown Oaxaca is centered around Zocalo, a large square that houses the massive Oaxaca Cathedral, and many of the best things to see in Oaxaca City.

Whatever happens in Oaxaca City, happens in downtown, so this is THE place to be when you visit Oaxaca.

If you haven’t been to the city before, this is the best place to stay in Oaxaca. It is the heart of the city and the home of many bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

2. Santo Domingo Oaxaca City

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman in oaxaca city
Santo Domingo Temple is also home to the Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Botanical Gardens) and Oaxaca Casa de la Culturas (Oaxaca Culture Center) — some of the best places to visit in Oaxaca.

Santo Domingo is the northern half of Centro Historico, and considered the nicest part of Downtown Oaxaca.

It is walkable, and you’ll be near the best Oaxaca mezcal bars, top restaurants in Oaxaca, artisan shops, local mercados (Oaxaca markets) and art galleries.

Santo Domingo is renowned for its nightlife, beauty and colonial architecture.

Stroll the cobblestone streets, enjoy the breathtaking buildings, and see many of the top Oaxaca attractions, like the Santo Domingo Church and Oaxaca Botanical Garden — two of the top sites in Downtown Oaxaca City.

Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

3. Barrio de Jalatlaco Oaxaca

colorful mural in the jalatlaco oaxaca neighborhood
Jalatlaco is known for its laid back vibes, Colonial buildings, and for having the best street art in Oaxaca. In my opinion, it’s the best area to stay in Oaxaca City.

Located just next to Centro and the famous Parque El Llano Park, you’ll find the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh).

Jalatlaco is lined with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. This neighborhood is hip, artsy, and one of the coolest places to stay in Oaxaca, especially if you love street art.

It’s just a short 10 minute walk from downtown and most major Oaxaca attractions, but it has a locals’ feel. There’s hip coffee shops, family-run restaurants, quirky bars with live music and unique local shops.

Oaxaca Travel Guide and FAQ

Oaxaca Hotel Casa Antigua
Hotel Casa Antigua, and most of the Oaxaca best places to stay are located in downtown Oaxaca City.

How do you pronounce Oaxaca?

Wondering about the Oaxaca pronunciation? It’s a common question, so if you are, you’re not alone! The word Oaxaca is pronounced waa-haa-kah.

Where is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico, surrounded by other Mexican states like Chiapas and Puebla.

🗺️ Oaxaca Map

The southern edge of the state sits on the Pacific Ocean. Oaxaca City is the state’s capital city, and located about six hours south of Mexico City, you can book direct flights.

What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May. If you don’t mind some rain during the Oaxaca rainy season, you will also get lower prices — as this is the slow season.

🌡️ Oaxaca weather

oaxaca weather chart

If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead, through mid-January.

Many also visit Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City) for the Guelaguetza in July, the second biggest Oaxaca festival.

Oaxaca City has a desert climate, so hot days and cool nights. The temperature in Oaxaca City fluctuates a lot, so be mindful and bring layers when packing for Oaxaca.

If you hate the heat, avoid the hottest months of April to May so you have an enjoyable Oaxaca vacation.

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

For the vast majority of travelers, Oaxaca is safe to visit. In fact, Oaxaca is one of the safest states in Mexico. Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe.

woman in front of a pin wall and I love Oaxaca sign (Oaxaca te amo)
Doing some Oaxaca solo travel? Check out this first-hand account from Poonam about her solo trip to Oaxaca.

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic and a Oaxaca safety guide, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca City; they do.

However, if you take the same general travel precautions you would anywhere else — ie. stay aware of yourself, your belongings and your surroundings — you should be safe traveling to Oaxaca City.

What’s the closest Oaxaca Airport?

Wondering, Is there an airport in Oaxaca City? Yes, there’s Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20-30 minutes from downtown. ▶︎ Book your Oaxaca flights now!

eatery in oaxaca airport OAX
Inside Oaxaca Airport (OAX Airport), a small airport in Oaxaca Mexico.

You might see this airport called Xoxocotlán International Airport, but it’s still OAX. Note: Make sure you don’t confuse the work Xoxocotlán for Xochimilco, which is one of the best Oaxaca neighborhoods near downtown.

🚐 Best Oaxaca Airport transportation

Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?

No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

passenger calling uber in oaxaca from their cell phone

They do have DiDi Taxi through the DiDi Rider app, which lets you call a Oaxaca taxi via the app. It’s basically like using Uber or Lyft, but you will get a regular cab.

🚕 Are taxis safe in Oaxaca Mexico?

For the majority of travelers, yes, taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.

I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street.

How do you get around Oaxaca City?

taxi in oaxaca mexico

Oaxaca City is walkable, so if you’re just staying in the city itself, you can walk and use taxis and public transportation as needed.

If you’re doing Oaxaca day trips, a rental car or group tour is your best bet, and I recommend booking Oaxaca tours via Viator and Airbnb Experiences.

How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?

Within Oaxaca City itself, you can see the highlights in 2-3 full days. However, many visitors could realistically spend a week in Oaxaca City — especially art, food and culture lovers.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead decorations
Colorful downtown in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico.

The best things to do near Oaxaca include exploring Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla, Teotitlán Del Valle and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a pueblo magico (magic town).

What is Oaxaca known for?

Wondering, Why is Oaxaca so popular? There are five things Oaxaca is known for — art, culture, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration, mezcal and food.

In fact, Oaxaca is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so try both the street food in Oaxaca and the restaurants — and of course, don’t miss these best Oaxaca mezcalerias (mezcal bars).

For a deep dive into this topic, check out this What is Oaxaca famous for? article. In it, you’ll learn even more about what makes Oaxaca unique.

Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca is magical; it’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.

woman dancing in a festival in oaxaca mexico
You’re going to fall in love with the art, food, beauty and friendly people of Oaxaca.

There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made Oaxacan mezcal, beautiful nature, colonial towns, indigenous artisan communities, and yummy Oaxacan food.

As you’ll usually need to take at least two flights to Oaxaca, Mexico, or even a flight and a bus, you might still be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it.

I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!

Final Thoughts: Top 15 Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels

If you started this article not sure where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico, I hope you’ve found your place. If not, our #1 choice is Quinta Real Oaxaca, one of the highest-rated and best hotels in Oaxaca City, Mexico.

For more of the best Oaxaca hotel options, both in Oaxaca City and on the beaches of Oaxaca, check out these related articles: