
Best Luxury Hotels in Mexico
Peppered with luxury beachfront hotels, Riviera Maya on the Yutucan Peninsula is a wonderful choice for those in need of a paradise sun holiday. And unlike secluded, far-flung destinations, there’s plenty of activities, ancient Mayan ruins and nightlife close by – or, depending on where you stay – right on the doorstep.
Quintana Roo, Cancún
Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
(5 stars)This flagship property of the Live Aqua group of hotels, is in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone, with privileged direct beach access, and proximity to high-end designer shopping at Luxury Avenue and sophisticated retail and family-friendly leisure entertainment at the Fashion Harbour mall. The property is a delight for the senses; from the aromatherapy in the rooms, the award-winning spa; to the seven different swimming pools with different temperatures and orientations. Dining is another highlight, including the new gourmet ‘In Laa´Kech’ restaurant, by Executive Chef Cesar Germain. This is a resort for couples, friends and families that want style, fun and superb facilities all close to the attractions of Cancun and those amazing beaches.
Mexico DF, Mexico City
Andaz Mexico City Condesa
(5 stars)The first urban Andaz property in the Mexican capital is also home to the city’s highest swimming pool. Set on a 17-floor building, this rooftop oasis also comprises the Cabuya restaurant with enviable views and the dog-friendly Wooftop Beer Garden & Canine Club. Accommodating 213 rooms, over 10% of which are suites, the hotel is found in the Conjunto Aristos complex, a renovated heritage site reimagined by José Luis Benlliure Galán. Every bedroom comes with a record player — vinyl are available to borrow from the lobby music library, which is fitting, given the trendy nature of the hotel’s neighbourhood.
Quintana Roo, Playa del Carmen
Viceroy Riviera Maya
(5 stars)Just north of the vibrant town of Playa del Carmen, lies this romantic, intimate adults-only resort. With 41 suites it’s low rise and peaceful, incorporating a private beach, the Wayak Spa, gym, lagoon pool, open-air bar and grill and a fancy Mexican restaurant. You can pack light before coming, the hotel loans guests sombreros, books, snorkelling gear, DVDs, Neil George bath products – and limos are on hand for exploring further afield. Book a thatched Royal Villa for your own butler, pool, hammock, huge soaking tub and indoor-outdoor showers. Do try The Temezcal, an intensive sweat lodge ceremony to truly unwind and experience the mysticism of Mexico.
Quintana Roo, Tulum
XELA Tulum
(5 stars)XELA Tulum is an intimate beachfront retreat in South Tulum with just 12 rooms and suites, offering the character of a private coastal residence framed by lush palms and natural materials. Set along a quiet stretch of shoreline, the hotel occupies what was once a private home, now transformed with a design approach that respects its original spirit while introducing crafted contemporary comforts. The décor blends organic architecture with Mexican craft heritage, where stone, warm timber, woven textiles, Zapotecan ceramics and over one hundred pieces of red clay pottery create a serene, tactile environment shaped by nature and culture.
Guests can dine on modern Mexican cuisine in the open-air restaurant, relax in the spacious living areas, or unwind on the beach with sun loungers and handcrafted umbrellas made by local artisans. The rooftop bar offers sunset views across the Caribbean Sea and Mayan jungle, while the infinity pool leads towards fifty metres of secluded shoreline. Hidden wellness cabins provide tailored treatments inspired by the region, complemented by a small garden-facing gym. XELA Tulum’s setting places guests close to Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Tulum Ruins, local dining spots and boutique shops, while the hotel can arrange cenote tours, cultural rituals, sound baths and personalised wellness sessions.
Mexico DF, Mexico City
Habita Mexico City
(5 stars)Set in the Polanco neighbourhood, the Habita is certainly stylish enough to keep up with its elegant neighbours. The hotel was opened in the year 2000 and was the first non-chain hotel to grace Mexico City. While the overall theme and character of the original ‘50s building have been paid homage to, guests are also treated to plenty of contemporary and very luxurious touches. there are just 36 rooms in total. To add to the feeling of opulence and those who appreciate space should choose one of the junior suites, which come with a large living room and terrace to unwind on while taking in city views.
Quintana Roo, Cancún
Paradisus Cancun
(5 stars)Offering guests a private stretch of 600 metres of powdery sand to spread out on, this stunning hotel is separated into five establishments that have been created in the shape of pyramids. Each pyramid is surrounded by its own tropical garden and comes with a separate lagoon-style swimming pool to ensure guests will find plenty of room to splash around. People who are in search of the optimum luxury will be able to take advantage of a range of upgraded services such as the Royal Service which is reserved exclusively for adults and the Family Concierge. The dining here is among the best in the whole of Cancun and with a seven-star Michelin chef overseeing the creation of dishes, guests can be sure that they will be in for a real treat.
Nayarit, Punta Mita
W Punta De Mita
(5 stars)This colourfully decorated hotel by W does a great job of harmonising both indigenous and contemporary local culture. Bedrooms in the 119 villa accommodations are decorated like a funky hacienda, with quirky wall murals, bright mismatched cushions and bold patterned floors. Some of the public areas could be mistaken for art installations – an incredible 751,184 tile ‘carpet’ mosaic runs up to and through the beach bar. The uber-contemporary pool area has swinging chairs, in-pool loungers and muslin-slung plush daybeds. W Punta De Mita also boasts six dining options, including a street food-inspired Spice market, a lush spa with an adult pool and a DJ on the decks.
Mexico DF, Mexico City
Kimpton Virgilio
(5 stars)Located in the lively Polanquito area, Kimpton Virgilio marks the debut of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in Mexico City and delivers the perfect balance between the cosiness and exclusivity of a boutique hotel with the support of IHG Hotels & Resorts. Offering 48 rooms designed with a sleek and contemporary Mexican aesthetic by Arquitectura de Interiores Studio, Kimpton Virgilio caters to both short-term and extended stays. The hotel emphasises a deep connection to Mexico City through every element, from locally crafted furniture and art to the latest music and decor, ensuring guests’ experiences are immersive and authentically local. Kimpton Virgilio’s restaurant, Pepe: Mesa Española, is a street-side restaurant serving traditional Spanish cuisine with modern and international influences. The hotel’s commitment to highly personalised experiences can be tailored to its gastronomic offerings, design, and services, aiming to become a signature destination in Polanquito for sophisticated adventurers seeking a touch of local flavour.
Quintana Roo, Playa del Carmen
Fairmont Mayakoba
(5 stars)Spread across 45 acres, the 401 suite Fairmont boasts its own golf course, spa and cooking school. It’s just 15 minutes drive from the bright lights of Playa del Carmen, but with so much to do and see here, you won’t want to leave. It’s a great place to wildlife spot, surrounded by ocean, mangroves and jungle on each side. Dinner at La Laguna (beside the lagoon) is a real highlight, not only because of its romantic setting but also for its fantastic Mexican cuisine. Guests can also eat seafood beachside at Brisas, and The Lobby Lounge’s balcony is the perfect spot for an after-dinner margarita or three. The style is contemporary with some traditional Yutucan elements and an earthy colour scheme. Book a beachfront casita for a private rooftop pool, tons of space and butler service.
Quintana Roo, Tulum
Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club
(5 stars)Having made its debut in October 2023, Secrets Tulum offers the latest in barefoot chic. The adults-only hideaway has been designed in circular blocks, with lots of neutral earthy shades and natural materials incorporated into the build. Book a junior suite, with a tropical or swim-up upgrade, or Preferred Club status for access to a private lounge, breakfast in the Rosewater seafood restaurant, a personal concierge service and an upgraded minibar. The amenities onsite include 14 bars and restaurants, a spa, rooftop and courtyard pools and another pool at the Beach Club.
Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende
Numu Boutique Hotel San Miguel de Allende
(5 stars)Part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, this hotel is found in the Centro area of this Mexican city. It’s close to all the main attractions and offers a friendly, personal level of service. Designed by Artigas Arquitectos, there are 44 rooms and suites, all with a terrace or balcony looking over the garden or neighbouring cobbled streets. Also on-site, is the Nubye Spa providing balancing ancient rituals; a courtyard housing El Fogón de Don Enrique gourmet restaurant; Bar El Camino; and a rooftop area with a further restaurant, a pool and a sundeck.
Mexico, Mexico DF
Mondrian Mexico City Condesa
(5 stars)Found where La Roma and La Condesa districts meet, the 187-bedroom Mondrian is part of the landmark I421 mixed-use complex. Designed by Mexican architect Jose Luis Benlliure, with interiors by Jihei Aoki, the Mondrian Mexico City Condesa reflects the capital’s avant-garde personality. Indoor swings, massive feature plant pots and murals by Ara Stark punctuate what is otherwise minimalist decor. Guests can order nibbles on La Terraza, eat Mediterranean food at Cleo, drink cocktails with a view at Skybar and take morning coffee with a fresh pastry at The Flower Shop (which is an actual flower shop as well as a cafe).
