Mexico City may be intimidating in its scope, but an increasing number of intrepid travelers are discovering that it has a lot to offer at a very wallet-friendly price. At more than 7,000 feet above sea level, Mexico’s capital city boasts centuries-old Aztec ruins alongside gleaming modern architecture, bustling street markets and trendy mezcalerias, and world-class art museums and street art. Not to mention it’s one of the best places to pick up a bag of saucy, spicy, gummy worm-filled Dorilocos.
Airbnb is booming in Mexico City, with entire-place rentals averaging just $81/night. Local hosts have clearly worked hard to create competitive listings, and it’s easy to find a spacious, central, well-equipped rental for well under $100—which leaves you more pesos for pozole, empanadas, and conchas. Here are 10 of our favorites.
Erica Jackson Curran is a former alt-weekly editor turned moonlight freelancer based in Richmond, Virginia.
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Who wants to stay in an 18th century mansion for around $70/night? Located in the historic center of the city between the Zocalo and Belles Artes, Casa Borda was originally built by a wealthy miner to compete against a local conquistador. Today, the building is split into 11 apartments. This one has a queen-sized bed, a sunny balcony, and a fully equipped kitchen.
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This modern two-bedroom apartment is located in an art deco apartment building that was recently upgraded with a snazzy reception area, a funky bar, and a shared terrace (pictured) with views of the historic center. With a large kitchen, living room, dining room, and balcony off one of the bedrooms, the apartment is in a walkable area close to public transportation.
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Look for an old white building with a trippy elk mural on the front to find this loft in the Roma neighborhood, highlighted by Airbnb as one of the top 10 most popular neighborhoods in the world. There's a large plant-filled terrace, a small kitchenette, and a huge walk-in shower.
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Perfect for the solo traveler, this art-filled one-bedroom in Roma has tons of character. The space is compact, but there is a tiny kitchen, a living/dining area, and a balcony. Past guests love the strong wi-fi and the wide array of nearby restaurants recommended by host Carlos.
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"Be nice" is the only house rule at this one-bedroom apartment in Centro Historico. Five minutes from Zocalo, the city's main square, the apartment sleeps four with a bed and futon. There's also a nice sized kitchen, dining area, shared laundry, and a rooftop garden with panoramic views of the city.
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This light, bright two-bedroom apartment is in Condesa, a hip neighborhood known for its nightlife. Located between Parque Mexico and Parque Espana, it's next door to Burro Baik if you want to rent a bike, or pick one up at the nearby Eco-Bici bike-sharing station.
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One recent guest called this colonial-era loft "magic." Close to the metro and Madero Street, a popular pedestrian street, the building has security card access and a large rooftop terrace. The host offers his car and even a driver for an extra fee.
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With soaring ceilings and massive windows overlooking the city, this Condesa penthouse looks luxe, but it still averages less than $100/night. Catch up on emails in the lofted office space, and dine out on the private patio or shared rooftop deck. Superhost Juan Carlos currently has 59 five-star reviews calling the space "spotless" and "plush."
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Embrace the boho vibes of this cozy studio situated in a quiet part of El Centro. With the apartment averaging just $40/night, the host is upfront about its flaws—the water pressure is weak most of the time, and the oven has seen better days. Even so, guests say it's clean, comfortable, and close to some great cafes and taquerias.
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Lucia's sunny Roma apartment is a five-minute walk from the metro and Eco-Bici. With colorful Mexican textiles, cacti galore, and typical architectural details, the place will make you feel like a real Chilango (i.e. Mexico City resident). Past guests say the kitchen is stocked with good-quality cookware, and the rooftop patio is a nice bonus.