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Historical Sites

In Mexico you'll find some of the world's greatest historical treasures.  Spectacular Mayan cities, Aztec temples and huge pyramids are reminders of this nation's ancient civilizations, civilizations that have also been brought to life in the dozens of world-class museums across the country.  From Olmec heads to ancient ball courts and Montezuma's feathered headdress, there's plenty to satisfy the most ardent history buffs here.

AlamosCampecheCentroChichen ItzaCuernavacaGuadalajaraGuanajuatoMeridaMoreliaOaxacaPatzcuaroSan Miguel de AllendeTodos SantosTulumUxmalZacatecas
Suitable for families Family friendly Weddings available here Weddings available Romantic location Romantic location Offers disabled access Disabled access Accepts some pets Pets allowed

Alamos Hotels

Click for more information about Hacienda de los Santos Hacienda de los Santos
WE LIKE: Beautiful property with stunning gardens, great restaurant

This tranquil and indulgent hideaway is one of our favorite locations for a weekend escape with a loved one.  It has all the ingredients for a perfect getaway - sumptuous rooms with wood burning fireplaces, cozy terraces and an exquisite and very romantic restaurant.  

Alamos itself is a colonial town of great character with a history of silver mining, revolution and ghosts.  There are a number of colorful fiestas and plenty of natural and cultural attractions - excursions available include river trips to Mayo Indian villages, bird watching and tropical forest tours.  The proximity to the incredible Copper Canyon, home to one of the world's most scenic railroad journeys, also makes the Hacienda an obvious choice for a vacation combining sightseeing and pampering.

Romantic Location
 

Campeche Hotels

Click for more information about Hacienda Puerta Campeche Hacienda Puerta Campeche
rating: GRAN TURISMO
WE LIKE: Small intimate feel; superb pool; excellent seafood menu

Located in Campeche this 17th century hacienda has been carefully and sympathetically restored to its former glory. Many of the hacienda's original features are still evident, from its thick stone walls to the beautifully tiled floors.

With just 16 rooms, the hotel feels small and intimate, more like a grand home than a hotel. With every luxury to pamper guests, from its excellent restaurant to the unique swimming pool, it's a great place relax and unwind. The decor and furnishing of the guest rooms is elegant and lavish, reflecting the opulence and style of the hacienda's heyday.

Family Friendly
Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Hacienda Uayamon Hacienda Uayamon
rating: GRAN TURISMO
WE LIKE: Good base for sightseeing; spectacular pool; charming rooms;

The majority of Uayamon's twelve rooms are individual houses on a tree-lined road, originally built for the elite of the hacienda staff in the 19th century.

Each Colonial Villa has a spacious air-conditioned bedroom with writing desk and satellite TV, a large bathroom and a terrace overlooking the jungle gardens. High beamed ceilings and mahogany furniture echo the opulence of the hacienda's apogee.

Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
 

Centro Hotels

Click for more information about Hotel Majestic Hotel Majestic
rating: 4 star
WE LIKE: Great location for sightseeing, good value

For a first visit to Mexico City, the Hotel Majestic would be our highest recommendation whatever your budget.  There is no better introduction to the city than to wake in the morning to the sound of trumpets as the National Guard raise the flag in the Zocalo - the second biggest plaza in the world after Red Square in Moscow.

The location and the view are certainly the greatest draws of the Majestic, but they wouldn't have the same appeal in a modern hotel.   Although the guest rooms may not be the most luxurious in town, they wallow in a sense of historical significance whilst remaining comfortable and roomy.  We reckon that the combination of unrivalled location and value for money is one of the best deals in town.

Family Friendly
 

Chichen Itza Hotels

Click for more information about Hacienda Chichen Hacienda Chichen
rating: 5 star
WE LIKE: Located in the grounds of Chichen Itza; charming rooms

Located on the fringes of the Chichen Itza site, the Hacienda Chichen is a perfect base to explore this world-famous landmark.

After a day exploring the ancient city, you can stroll back to your air-conditioned room or take a refreshing dip in the Hacienda's large swimming pool. In the evening, enjoy a lingering meal in the original 16th Century Casco or main house before taking in the Sound and Light show at the ruins.

Romantic Location
Click for more information about Mayaland Mayaland
WE LIKE: Good facilities, located direclty next to the archaeological site
The Hotel Mayaland is located just by the main entrance gates to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza.  The hotel is set in over one hundred acres of tropical forest.  Pretty thatched roof bungalows are dotted through the grounds.  Rooms although like traditional Mayan Houses have many modern amenities including air-conditioning, satellite TV and mini bars.  Other rooms are arranged through the original hotel building which was the first hotel constructed at Chichen Itza in 1923.  All rooms feature beautiful mahogany woodwork, hand-carved furniture and beautiful stained glass windows.
The hotel has several restaurants, three swimming pools, tennis courts and hiking trails.
Family Friendly
 

Cuernavaca Hotels

Click for more information about Las Mananitas Las Mananitas
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Tranquil retreat just a few hours from Mexico City, famous restaurant

Las Mananitas is well known as one of the country's finest restaurants, but many people are unaware of the delightful accommodations also offered within the spectacular gardens.  There are 21 rooms and suites, most enjoying views of the colorful shrubs, tropical greenery and carefully maintained lawns that surround the property, as well as its resident collection of peacocks, parrots and other tropical birds.  It's incredible to imagine that this little paradise lies not only close to the heart of Cuernavaca but also within only an hour or two of the world's largest metropolis of Mexico City.

For business people with meetings in the city, Las Mananitas is the perfect weekend escape.  It's also the ideal start or end to a vacation for those who would rather not stay in the capital - there are many interesting sights in Cuernavaca, including a majestic Cathedral, Hernan Cortes' Palace, and some fine museums - all within walking distance of Las Mananitas. 

Romantic Location
 

Guadalajara Hotels

Click for more information about Hotel de Mendoza Hotel de Mendoza
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Great location for sightseeing, good value

The hotel de Mendoza is located close to all the main city attractions - the Delgado theater can be seen from the lobby, just across Avenida Hidalgo, and the Cathedral is just two short blocks away.

Guest rooms are comfortable and spacious, and many have attractive views of the pool or the adjacent church Santa Maria de Gracia. The hotel's swimming pool is a welcome feature and the staff are very friendly and helpful.

Family Friendly
Click for more information about Hotel Morales Historical and Colonial Hotel Morales Historical and Colonial
WE LIKE: Central location, colonial character
Steeped in history, this charming property offers comfortable, affordable accommodation right in the heart of Guadalajara. The hotel's spacious suites and junior suites are furnished with one queen or two double beds, while the lavish imperial suites offer a king bed and jacuzzi bath. A restaurant and cozy bar are set just off the hotel's stunning lobby; and with meeting facilities and free high-speed Internet access throughout, the Morales provides the perfect base for leisure and business travelers alike.
Family Friendly
 

Guanajuato Hotels

Click for more information about Ex Hacienda la Trinidad Ex Hacienda la Trinidad
WE LIKE: Beautiful gardens, quiet and quirky. Great for long stays.
The Ex-Hacienda la Trinidad is located just outside the city of Guanajuato in the village of Marfil.  A visit here is more like staying in a family home than a hotel, and we particularly recommend the property for longer stays.  Guests are housed in fifteen rooms set in several different buildings within the pretty walled gardens.  Every room is full of character and many enjoy tranquil views over the estate (you can choose the room you prefer when you arrive).  There are no TVs in the rooms - this is a place to escape the modern world and enjoy seclusion and privacy (though internet access is available in the library).  The city of Guanajuato can easily be reached by bus or by car.
 
Click for more information about Posada Santa Fe Posada Santa Fe
rating: 4 star
WE LIKE: Wonderful location right on the main plaza, good restaurant

Probably the oldest hotel in Guanajuato, and certainly the best known, the Posada Santa Fe is the place to stay in town. Not only does it house a venerable collection of the works of local artist and historian Manuel Leal, it also has the most desirable tables for soaking up the local atmosphere - right on the lively Jardin de la Union.

Enter the magnificent lobby and you could be in one of the finest hotels in Mexico. Lofty beamed ceilings, delicate chandeliers and antique chairs all fade into insignificance alongside the giant paintings dominating the walls.

Family Friendly
 

Merida Hotels

Click for more information about Hotel Caribe Hotel Caribe
rating: 4 star
WE LIKE: Central location; colonial architecture; good value

Entering the lobby of the Hotel Caribe from Parque Hidalgo, you cannot fail to be impressed by the colonial warmth of the arches and colonnades rising above gleaming black and white tiled floors. The courtyard has shady walkways on each of the three floors and houses terracotta potted plants and pleasant seating areas.

Guest rooms are pretty and functional, but the main advantage is the excellent location, one block from the main square and with good views of the cathedral from its small rooftop sun terrace.

 
Click for more information about Casa del Balam Casa del Balam
rating: 5 star
WE LIKE: Swimming pool; tropical courtyard; friendly service

The Casa del Balam has all the expected advantages of a great location, plus a few pleasant surprises. The central courtyard is a tropical delight and the ground floor swimming pool is unusually large for a traditional city hotel. Both spots are perfect retreats from Merida's sweltering summers.

We love the big, bright rooms with windows overlooking the University buildings and filled with afternoon sunlight. If you can, try to book one of the three master suites in the oldest section of the mansion - you'll be rewarded by huge rooms, balconies and terraces, plus more character than you'll find anywhere else in town.

Family Friendly
Disabled Access Available
Click for more information about Hacienda San Jose Hacienda San Jose
rating: GRAN TURISMO
WE LIKE: Sumptuous guest rooms; beautiful gardens; excellent service

With just fifteen sumptuous guest rooms, the Hacienda San Jose offers guests the chance to experience the lavish lifestyle of the henequen lords.

The Hacienda is ideally situated close to Chichen Itza and many other of the "must-sees" of the Yucatan, yet also offers guests the chance to lighten their sightseeing trip with a little indulgent relaxation.

Family Friendly
Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Hacienda Xcanatun Hacienda Xcanatun
rating: ESPECIAL
WE LIKE: Excellent spa and pool; tranquil but close to town

The Hacienda Xcanatun fills you with a sense of history of the days of henequen production. This hotel has skillfully combined the traditional with the opulent, with the result that in staying here guests feel completely spoilt and pampered, whilst still getting a feel for the history of this part of Mexico.

All rooms are equally comfortable, carefully and beautifully decorated, and have such exquisite attention to detail that it's very unlikely you will want for anything whilst staying here.

Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Mision de Fray Diego Mision de Fray Diego
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Historical building; beautiful rooms; friendly atmosphere

This 17th century colonial building is without doubt a very special place, and a real treasure right in the heart of Merida.

Whether you choose one of the beautifully decorated and maintained Standard rooms, the unique Special Class room or even an exquisite Suite - you'll be enchanted by this hotel's charms.

Romantic Location
Click for more information about Villa at Merida Villa at Merida
WE LIKE: Beautifully stylish rooms; good location; personal service

A luxurious refuge in the heart of the city; this indulgent hotel with a large swimming pool, shady gardens with sun loungers, attentive service and atmospheric guest rooms makes a perfect base to explore the city of Merida.

Every room is gracefully furnished in the style of the henequen haciendas, and many rooms boast soaring ceilings and the original tiled floors of the century-old mansion. Luxurious bed linens, efficient air-conditioning, free local telephone calls and airport transfers, plus the attentive, personal service are just some of the small touches that make a stay here extra special.

Romantic Location
 

Morelia Hotels

Click for more information about Villa Montana Villa Montana
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Spectacular views, superb restaurant and beautiful gardens

Owned by a French count, the Villa Montana's exquisite gardened terraces and staggering views set it way above the competition. Artists and photographers will be delighted by the multicolored blooms, towering fir trees and ivy-covered stone walls.

Guest cottages are arranged on several levels so that each has privacy and many share the panoramic views of the terraces. From November to March an excursion to the Monarch butterflies wintering grounds is a absolute must.

 
Click for more information about Virrey de Mendoza Virrey de Mendoza
rating: 5 star
WE LIKE: Central location, lots of colonial character

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.

Family Friendly
 

Oaxaca City Hotels

Click for more information about Camino Real Oaxaca Camino Real Oaxaca
rating: 5 star
WE LIKE: One of the most beautiful historical properties in Mexico, great location and courtyard swimming pool

Formerly the 16th Century convent of Santa Catalina, the hotel is a beautiful combination of the historical, together with the excellent facilities and services of the prestigious Camino Real Group.

In one of the bougainvillea decked courtyards is a stunning swimming pool, surrounded by ancient stone walls, restored frescoes and flowering shrubs. In another, tables from the restaurant spill out under colonnades, and echoes of Gregorian chants drift in the breeze.

Family Friendly
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Casa Oaxaca Casa Oaxaca
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Stylish and chic, downtown location, pretty swimming pool

A real haven in bustling Oaxaca, the Casa Oaxaca is surely the city's most artistic hotel.  From a traditional colonial house the owners have created a statement in contemporary style, simple but alluring, and comfortable for a long or short stay.

With just five rooms and two exceptional suites, this Casa will never be overcrowded.  Reserve the whole hotel for a family group and you can revel in the luxury of a secluded swimming pool, personal chef and priceless privacy.  The Casa is also ideal for single guests or couples looking for a balance of personal space and community that is hard to find in a large hotel.  And if you're planning some artistic composition of your own, you've found the ideal retreat.

Romantic Location
Click for more information about Parador del Dominico Parador del Dominico
rating: 4 star
WE LIKE: Great location; modern in-room facilities; good value

The Parador del Dominico is a long-standing feature on central Oaxaca's lodging lists, and has always been a very welcome one. The attractions for us lie in the simple, clean and unfussy lines that harmonize old and new. Traditional materials of stone and tile are tastefully mixed with modern furniture and even halogen lighting in the dining room.

Suprisingly modern facilities include satellite TV, minibar and phone, together with a hook-up for fax or PC.

Family Friendly
 

Patzcuaro Hotels

Click for more information about Mansion Iturbe Mansion Iturbe
rating: 4 star
WE LIKE: Great location; warm, friendly service; cozy rooms

Located in the town's main square, Mansion Iturbe is one of the most charming small hotels we've found in Mexico, with a warm welcome and attentive service. We particularly love the cozy rooms with their dark wooden furniture and 'Dona Paca Cafe' offers some of the best regional cuisine in the area.

The hotel makes a great base to explore the area, and tours of the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, Janitzio Island and local artisan towns such as Santa Clara del Cobre are highly recommended.

Family Friendly
 

San Miguel de Allende Hotels

Click for more information about Casa de Sierra Nevada Casa de Sierra Nevada
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Luxurious property full of colonial charm, elegant restaurant, courtyard swimming pool

With luxurious rooms arranged throughout several exquisitely restored mansions, the Casa Sierra Nevada is the ultimate place to stay in San Miguel. Guest rooms boast wood burning fires or sunny terraces, and the room service is impeccable.

For a break from the rigors of sightseeing spend an afternoon by the magnificent heated swimming pool, delightfully set in a gardened courtyard.  In the evening enjoy a gourmet restaurant, one of the most highly regarded in the country, and one of our favorites for its sumptuous decor and refined elegance.

Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Posada Carmina Posada Carmina
rating: SPECIAL
WE LIKE: Authentic Mexican charm; great restaurant; good value

This pretty hotel has a perfect location in the heart of the historical center of San Miguel de Allende and boasts genuine colonial charm. Recent refurbishments have seen all rooms equipped with cable TVs, direct dial telephones and sparkling bathrooms.

The excellent restaurant is popular with tourists and locals, and prices are very reasonable. The setting is picturesque whether eating beneath the orange trees in the courtyard or inside next to one of the grand stone fireplaces.

Family Friendly
 

Todos Santos Hotels

Click for more information about Todos Santos Inn Todos Santos Inn
rating: 5 star
WE LIKE: Beautiful rooms and gardens; good location

The Todos Santos Inn is a real gem with quality accommodations that are full of period charm and comfortable elegance. It serves as a wondefully luxurious base for excursions into the area's desert landscapes and Pacific beaches. It's also an ideal escape from the commercialized Capes and even a few days will leave you with a taste of the real Mexico.

Romantics will love the hotel's suites: lavishly decorated and very tranquil accommodations, each with a private terrace. The standard rooms have also been furnished with a care and attention to detail that is rarely found in larger establishments.   Recent additions include a small pool and cozy wine bar.

Romantic Location
 

Tulum Hotels

Click for more information about Cabanas la Conchita Cabanas la Conchita
WE LIKE: Idyllic location; beautiful rustic rooms; superb breakfast
For those in search of a simple but idyllic beach vacation, Cabanas la Conchita is heaven on earth. Wake each morning to bright blue skies and the warm Caribbean just yards from your room; fall asleep to the sound of the ocean and the rustle of palm fronds. Days can be filled with swimming and snorkeling, diving and cycling or hiking - or just relaxing on the quiet little beach. The hotel is our favorite amongst the cluster of casita style resorts on this stretch of coast because of the careful and artistic design, the simple luxuries of spotlessly clean bathrooms with hot water, and the pretty and well screened rooms. As an added bonus, it is (for the moment at least) fairly quiet and isn't big enough to be overrun with large groups and families.
Family Friendly
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Coqui Coqui Spa Coqui Coqui Spa
WE LIKE: Small and intimate hotel, spa facilities, good beach

This unique small resort is located on a wonderful beach in Tulum.  There are just 7 beautifully appointed rooms.  The style of the property is very different to others in this area.  It is less beach cabana and more of a elegant but rustic hotel.  Canopied beds, rattan furniture and cream stone bathrooms which feature a large soaking tub add to the style. 

The hotel has a very good spa which offers a range of services from massages to facials and some wonderful spa ritual packages.  There is a small restaurant which serves breakfast.  Lunch and dinner are available with prior reservation.  The hotel is also within walking distance of several other good restaurants.

Romantic Location
Click for more information about Hemingway Hemingway
WE LIKE: Superb beach and oceanfront; on-site restaurant

A wonderfully rustic hotel located on a beach of cool white sand that stretches as far as the eye can see. The water here is incredibly clear making it a superb location for swimming and snorkeling.

This simple hotel is a true getaway; perfect for those who yearn for rest and relaxation. With some rooms directly on the beach and others just a little way behind you are never far from the tempting waters of the Caribbean.

Hemingway is the perfect spot to escape the pressures of day-to-day life and get back to nature in true Mexican style.

Family Friendly
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Mezzanine Mezzanine
WE LIKE: Party atmosphere; cool beachside rooms; friendly service

Mezzanine is changing the sleepy image of Tulum with its inspired modern design and a lively party beat. It's set to become the coolest bar in town, and the four guestrooms are guaranteed to be amongst the most coveted addresses for the in-crowd.

Positioned just yards from the ocean, the guest rooms are eminently comfortable as well as being sleek and stylish. Each has a double height sleeping area and novel mezzanine level for additional guests or for lounging.

Romantic Location
Click for more information about Om Tulum Hotel Cabanas and Beach Club Om Tulum Hotel Cabanas and Beach Club
WE LIKE: Relaxing atmosphere; stylish rooms; beach lounge

The nine cabanas at Om Tulum offer a rustic yet stylish retreat from the rush of everyday life. Furnished in a minimal style, the rooms offer the basic essentials for an uncomplicated beach vacation. Each room has a balcony or terrace from where you can enjoy views of the hotel's lush tropical gardens or even the Caribbean Sea. Electricity is available from 8:30am to 1:00am daily and there are electrical outlets in the rooms for guests use.  Om Tulum is situated on a fine white sand beach that stretches for miles into the local biosphere reserve yet only a short distance from the history of Tulum ruins.

Family Friendly
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Posada Margherita Posada Margherita
WE LIKE: Amazing beach; great food; rooms cool at night

A small and friendly rustic resort located on a beautiful stretch of beach with comfortable, spotlessly clean rooms and a great restaurant. Though the rooms themselves aren't directly on the beach, they are all only a few steps away and most have glimpses of the powder-white sand and turquoise ocean.

Although there are no electrical outlets there is 24-hour electrical lighting and the recent addition of surprisingly effective tower fans ensures that the rooms are kept cool in the evenings.  We were also pleasantly surprised to find other amenities not typically found in this part of Tulum, including room service, and wireless internet access in the restaurant and surrounding beach area.

Family Friendly
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Suenos Tulum Suenos Tulum
WE LIKE: Amazing beach; good snorkeling; tranquil location
This beautiful little hotel has everything for the ultimate get-away-from-it all vacation. Located on one of the most wonderful stretches of beach on the Riviera Maya, wth miles of soft white sand, it's perfect for those looking for solitude and relaxation. The water here is crystal clear and perfect for swimming; there is even a reef within swimming distance of the beach which provides some good snorkeling.
Family Friendly
Romantic Location
 

Uxmal Hotels

Click for more information about Hacienda Santa Rosa Hacienda Santa Rosa
rating: GRAN TURISMO
WE LIKE: Good for sightseeing; luxurious rooms; friendly atmosphere

The Hacienda Santa Rosa is a true haven for those intent on seeing the very best that the Yucatan has to offer. We particularly like the intimacy and serenity of the Santa Rosa. A visit here is rather like staying with friends - the welcome is warm and sincere and it's fun to watch the daily activity around this rather grand house.

Rooms offer glorious oversized bathrooms, soaring ceilings - some more than twenty feet high - and enormous, heavy doors that lend so much to the atmosphere. Some original floor tiles also remain, and the rough walls have been repainted in typically Mexican yellows, oranges and blues.

Family Friendly
Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Hacienda Temozon Hacienda Temozon
rating: GRAN TURISMO
WE LIKE: Historical rooms; grand estate; excellent tours;

Temozon is a grand and formal hacienda estate. Its exquisitely furnished reception rooms and guest quarters offer visitors a real taste of the affluent lifestyle enjoyed by the lords of sisal during the early 19th century. The location is ideal, being in the heart of the Mayan countryside and at the gateway to the stunning Puuc sites of Uxmal and Kabah.

Much of the original decor has been preserved, from the intricately decorated floor tiles (imported from Italy on board the returning sisal boats) to the picturesque red and yellow mineral pigments used to color the stucco walls.

Family Friendly
Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
Click for more information about Hacienda Uxmal Hacienda Uxmal
WE LIKE: Convenient location; swimming pool

A comfortable and attractive destination that makes an excellent location for exploring the spectacular ruins at Uxmal.

The restaurant serves good food, both local and international, and service is always with a smile. If you're lucky you can often hear the mariachis gently serenading diners and this gives the place a wonderful ambiance.

Family Friendly
 

Zacatecas Hotels

Click for more information about Quinta Real Zacatecas Quinta Real Zacatecas
rating: 5 star
WE LIKE: Spectacularly beautiful hotel, great bar
Architecturally stunning, this luxury hotel and its surroundings are a must-see in Zacatecas. Where else can you stay in a hotel that incorporates the oldest bull ring in North America and lies alongside a 16th century aqueduct?

The interior of the hotel is equally impressive. Hallways circle the bull ring, boldly decorated and filled with a profusion of potted plants and shrubs.

You'll find elegant boutiques and grand function rooms around the perimeter, with the prime spot reserved for the sophisticated restaurant. The Quinta Real group are renowned for their high class cuisine with an emphasis on Mexican ingredients.
Family Friendly
Weddings Available Here
Romantic Location
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