Campeche is a colonial port city on the Gulf of Mexico, and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is small and walkable, with the old town enclosed by the remains of its colonial walls and the waterfront running along the Gulf coast.
For a visitor, the city divides into two main areas to base yourself: the historic centre, where the sights, squares and most of the cheaper accommodation are concentrated, and the Malecon, the avenue that runs the entire length of the city along the Gulf of Mexico. This guide covers those two areas, what each is like, and how to choose between them.
Best areas to stay in Campeche
1. Historic centre (Centro Histórico)
The historic centre is where the city's colonial character is concentrated, with the central square and the streets around it forming the tourist, cultural and commercial heart of Campeche. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the sights and the main activity of the city.
This area suits first-time visitors and budget travellers in particular. You will find a number of hotels here, especially near the centre square, and they are generally much cheaper than those on the Malecon. Note that because Campeche has a very small tourist industry, accommodation can be hard to find, so it is worth booking ahead.
2. Malecon (Av. Adolfo Ruiz Cortines)
The Malecon runs the entire length of the city along the Gulf of Mexico. There are a few hotels along this avenue, most of them relatively expensive, but they offer clean and comfortable accommodation and rooms with a good view of the Gulf.
This area suits travellers who prioritise water views and are willing to pay more for them. It is less convenient for the historic centre's sights than staying in the centre itself, but it gives you the coastal setting of the city.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: The cheaper options are found in the historic centre, particularly near the centre square, where prices are much lower than along the waterfront. Some places are simple homestay-style accommodation.
- Mid-range: The historic centre also has a range of mid-priced hotels, some in colonial buildings, often with breakfast and wifi included.
- Splurge: The relatively expensive hotels are on the Malecon, where you get clean, comfortable rooms and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the historic centre. It puts you in the tourist, cultural and commercial heart of the city, close to the central square and the sights, and it offers the widest choice of accommodation at lower prices than the waterfront. You can still walk or take a short ride to the Malecon for the Gulf views.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the cheaper places to stay in Campeche?
The historic centre, particularly near the centre square, has hotels that are much cheaper in price than those on the Malecon.
Where can I stay with a view of the Gulf of Mexico?
The hotels on the Malecon (Av. Adolfo Ruiz Cortines) offer rooms with a good view of the Gulf, though most are relatively expensive.
Is accommodation easy to find in Campeche?
Because Campeche has a very small tourist industry, accommodations can be hard to find, so it is worth arranging your stay in advance.
Compare live prices for the historic centre and the Malecon using the booking tools on this page.