San Cristóbal de las Casas sits in a small valley in the Central Highlands of Chiapas, its historic centre still laid out on a Spanish colonial grid of narrow cobblestone streets, red clay tile roofs and wrought iron balconies. It is the cultural capital of the state, and its markets, churches and festivals draw travellers who come for the history, the indigenous Tzotzil and Tzeltal culture, and the crafts.
For a visitor, the practical geography is simple. The Zócalo, officially Plaza 31 de marzo, is the heart of the centre, with the cathedral just to its north and the main sights within walking distance. Around it, the historic centre and the adjoining barrios hold almost all of the accommodation, from backpacker hostels to colonial-style hotels. This guide covers which of those areas to base yourself in, and what to expect at each price level.
Best areas to stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas
1. Barrio del Cerrillo
This barrio, just outside the very centre, has the densest cluster of budget and backpacker accommodation in the city, mostly in colonial-style houses. You find dorm beds and private rooms here, often with shared kitchens, terraces and communal areas, and several places sit close to the main market.
It suits budget travellers and backpackers who want to be within walking distance of the centre without paying centre prices. It is a good base for reaching the market and the main sights on foot.
2. Barrio de Guadalupe
Guadalupe runs along and around the pedestrian boulevard of Real de Guadalupe, which links the centre with the bus station area. Accommodation here ranges from backpacker hostels to very nice hotels, and the boulevard itself is where you find cafés and restaurants.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants restaurants, nightlife and the main square within a short walk. The pedestrian street makes it easy to move between your accommodation and the centre on foot.
3. Barrio de Mexicanos
This barrio lies within the central section of the city, close to the centre. It has a mix of small guesthouses and mid-sized inns, including places on or near Plazuela de los Mexicanos.
It suits travellers who want a quieter base than the main square but still within walking distance of the sights, and it works for those looking at mid-range rooms.
4. Barrio Ojo de Agua
Ojo de Agua is a barrio on the edge of the city, next to the Orquídeas Moxviquil garden. Accommodation here tends toward cabin-style and budget places rather than dense hostel clusters.
It suits travellers with their own transport or those who prefer a quieter, greener setting and do not mind being a little further from the centre. Expect to rely on transport rather than walking for the main sights.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: dorm beds and simple private rooms, often in colonial houses with shared bathrooms, communal kitchens and terraces. Some of the cheapest rooms are advertised on signs on buildings and may have common bathrooms.
- Mid-range: private rooms in small inns and hotels, with private bathrooms, hot water, wi-fi and sometimes a garden or restaurant on site.
- Splurge: colonial-style hotels a couple of blocks from the centre, with restaurants and more spacious rooms.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the Barrio de Guadalupe. It puts you on the pedestrian boulevard of Real de Guadalupe, within walking distance of the main square and the cathedral, and it has the widest spread of places to eat and stay. It also connects easily to the bus station for onward travel.
Frequently asked questions
Where do backpackers tend to stay in San Cristóbal?
San Cristóbal is considered by some to be the backpackers' hub in Chiapas. The Barrio del Cerrillo holds a large share of the hostels and budget posadas, and several are close to the main market.
Which area is best if I want to walk to the main sights?
The historic centre around the Zócalo, the Barrio de Guadalupe and the Barrio de Mexicanos all keep you within walking distance of the plaza, the cathedral and the Santo Domingo church with its crafts market.
Is San Cristóbal a good base for budget travellers?
Yes. Accommodation can be found at the low end of the price range, including rooms advertised on signs on buildings, though these may have common bathrooms.
What is the area around the Santo Domingo church like for staying?
Santo Domingo is known for its large open-air crafts market, the best known area in the city for crafts. Staying nearby puts you close to the market and within the historic centre.
Compare live prices for the area you choose with the booking tools on this page before you commit.