Travelers searching for true colonial splendor and a prime location in downtown Morelia will find no better choice of accommodation than the Hotel Virrey de Mendoza. Located right on the city's main plaza, this historic mansion was once the home of Antonio de Mendoza, the first viceroy of Mexico.

Today it is the choice of visiting presidents, and the country's most notorious bullfighters rush to reserve the 'lucky' Suite de Mendoza for the night before an important tournament.

All of Virrey de Mendoza's 55 rooms and suites have a good dose of viceregal charm, with fine furnishings, high ceilings and wooden floors. Rooms overlooking the plaza are sought after for their fine views over the cathedral and wide plaza, but they can be very noisy. Interior rooms would be a better choice for light sleepers.

The hotel's restaurant is highly recommended for Mexican and International dishes served in a formal setting (with reasonable prices too). If you're staying a while, you might also take advantage of the central location to try some of Morelia's many other choice restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel.

Most of the city's major sights can be toured on foot from your base, and the concierge can also advise on excursions to neighboring Patzcuaro or to the Monarch Butterfly sanctuaries.

We recommend reserving your room well in advance if you're planning to stay around the time of public holidays - Virrey de Mendoza is a deservedly popular choice amongst Mexicans and foreigners alike.