Where to Stay in Oaxaca City: A Boutique Hotel I’d Choose Every Time

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Oaxaca City… consider it found.

You can probably already tell from the photos just how beautiful this place is. But you’re going to have to trust me when I say this: it FEELS even better.

During my time in Oaxaca, I spent three months living in an Airbnb in Reforma ~ a very local neighbourhood that I genuinely loved as it gave me a slower, more everyday experience of the city. But… it also meant a 25–30 minute walk into the centre each day, where most things are.

And while that was perfect for long-term living, it’s not what I’d recommend if you’re coming for a shorter stay and want to be right in the heart of everything.

So when I started thinking about where I would suggest to you, somewhere I’d actually choose for myself if I was only coming for a few days, one place stood out above the others: Grana B&B

And I was very happy to have a little weekend staycation there myself to experience it properly and see if it was a place I could truly put my name to (I really take my recommendations seriously hehe). Which it most definitely is.

These are some of the things I loved finding out…

A place with a past (and a soul)

I loved discovering that the building wasn’t always a hotel. It used to be home to several different families, each living in small apartments, all sharing the central courtyard as a communal space.

After being abandoned for around thirty years, it was brought back to life ~ but instead of stripping it of its history, the owners preserved so many of the original features (like the fountain pictured below). It doesn’t feel like a “designed” hotel, but rather like a place that’s been lived in, and invites you to do the same.

The details that give it personality

I loved that everywhere you look, there’s intention. From the tables to the cups, so many of the pieces have been sourced from local artists around the city ~ and it gives the whole space a heartwarming, grounded energy.

And I have to say… the kitchen. I don’t know how else to describe it other than: “literally the most beautiful kitchen I have ever seen.” Honestly, if I could have wrapped it up like a taco and taken it home with me, I would have.

The rooms are also absolutely gorgeous. I stayed in The Loft and while I personally took advantage of eating out and didn’t use the kitchen, it was still great to have that extra space. And the decor was completely on point.

The kind of place that attracts the right people

I loved the other guests I met there. A creative couple from New York. A woman preparing to host a yoga retreat. There was just this shared feeling ~ like everyone had chosen this place because of an intuitive feeling.

It seems to naturally attract creatives, kind souls, people who are a little more intentional about how they travel. And being around like-minded travellers changes your whole experience of a stay, don’t you think?

The people behind it

I also loved finding out that the majority of the staff have been with the hotel since the very beginning. And you can feel that family-like energy.

There’s a warmth to the way they interact, a sense of familiarity that makes it feel like you’re being welcomed into something, not just checked in.

Other thoughtful touches with your well-being in mind

I loved that they offer sunrise yoga classes twice a week on the beautiful rooftop. The breakfasts were some of the best I’ve had anywhere. They have not only a gorgeous healthy buffet spread but also dishes that are freshly prepared for you. On the second floor, there’s also a cosy library room, with cushions on the floor, to enjoy some quiet time with a book.

Location (the biggie)

Grana B&B is located right in the historic centre of Oaxaca City, which means you can step outside and walk straight into cafés, restaurants, colourful markets and some of the city’s most beautiful streets.

After spending time staying further out, I can honestly say this makes a big difference ~ especially if you’re only visiting for a few days.

Is this place for you?

I’d recommend this hotel if you:

If that sounds like you, you’ll feel very at home here and I honestly wouldn’t look anywhere else.

Would I stay here again?

Without hesitation ~ yes . I really believe this is one of those places that isn’t hit or miss. It seems everyone who stays here walks away saying the same thing: it couldn’t be any better.

I said it before, but I’ll say it again: I take what I recommend seriously, and I can with every inch of heart say, if I were to plan a trip to Oaxaca City for a short stay, I genuinely wouldn’t stay anywhere else. You can also read more review from others here.

If you’re planning your trip…