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1. Dulche de Leche

This one is my go to. Dulche de Leche is perfect for when you want something sweet. Although they have some sandwiches and juices, their main focus is cakes and pastries. They have a few location throughout Valencia, one in Rusafa (my go to), one in the center and a third one close to the Arts & Science center. Laptops are allowed from Monday through Thursday – and they are strict on that.

2. Café ArtySana

A very popular spot for coworking, and for a good reason. They have two locations in Valencia, one in Rusafa and another one in Cabanyal. In my opinion it’s the perfect spot to have breakfast or lunch – they have stuff like salmon bagels and a whole lot of sandwiches. Then of course the typical juices, coffees and pastries – including some vegetarian options. Café ArtySana is very popular among digital nomads, and it’s often packed with mostly people working or studying from their laptops.

3. Brunch Corner – La Virgen

Brunch Corner is an aesthetic café located in El Carmen. As the name suggests, they focus on brunches. They have a variety of bagels, pancakes, sandwiches, cakes and whatnot. Using laptops is allowed during weekdays only.

4. Jungle Por Favor

This one opened quite recently in the Arrancapins neighbourhood. It’s a small cozy space with a lot of flowers, offering salads, sandwiches as well as coffees and juices. For those that are vegan – they do have some vegan options!

5. Starbucks

You can always count on Starbucks when it comes to laptop friendly cafés. They have two locations in Valencia, both in the center, one on Passeig de Rusafa and one on Calle Sant Vicent Mártir.

6. Fornelino Russafa

A perfect option if you aren’t looking to have a full meal. Fornelino’s main focus is croissants – the Nutella ones are my favourite! They have other types of pastries as well as coffee. Fornelino is located in the middle of Rusafa as well as on Peris y Valero, which I’d say is usually the more quiet of the two.

7. Flying Bean Coffee

This one is one of my favourites – it’s located here, just a short walk from Rusafa. The avocado toast and the cinnamon rolls are my go-to’s, and the coffee is great. It’s a really cozy place and in my experience it’s usually pretty quiet.

If you are planning a trip to Spain, you might also want to check out:

• Best coffee shops in Madrid
• How to get around Spain
• Best hostels in Spain
• 8 Amazing day trips from Valencia
• Most Instagrammable places in Valencia
• Best things to do in Granada
• How to find apartments to rent in Valencia

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1. Spotahome

Spotahome is similar to Airbnb, but is geared more towards longer stays where Spotahome acts as an agent between the landlord and the tenant. It’s very user friendly and allows you to filter out accommodations based on availability, your budget, property and a number of other factors. On Spotahome you’ll find both apartments and rooms in shared apartments, for anywhere from a month to 12+ months. What I like about Spotahome is that before booking you’ll see an exact overview of how much you’ll pay each month. You can even search for apartments that don’t require a deposit! A

So how does it work? When you find an accommodation you’re interested in, you’ll send a booking request, and the landlord then has up to 24 hours to respond. You will only be charged if and when the landlord accepts your request. The landlord doesn’t receive any payments until 48 hours after you check in, so in case the room/apartment isn’t as described, you’ll be able to report it to Spotahome before the landlord has received any payments. Spotahome charge a one time fee for each booking. By booking through this link or using the code SOLD-3e2q-T you can get a 30€ discount off your booking.

2. Badi

Badi is a platform similar to Spotahome, but mainly features rooms in shared apartments. It offers a variety of filters that will help you find exactly the type of place you’re looking for. On Badi you can find accommodations for anywhere from a month to 12+ months. When you find an accommodation you’re interested in, you’ll message the landlord and arrange a viewing date and then eventually sign a contract directly with the landlord.

3. Idealista

Idealista is a website where you can find rooms and apartments to rent, as well as apartments for sale. It’s important to know that landlords will normally not respond to messages on Idealista or even text messages, which may sound old fashioned, but that’s just how it works in Spain. So, when you find a room/apartment you like – you should pick up the phone and call the phone number listed in the ad. Unless the listing states otherwise, don’t expect the landlord to speak English as this is rare in Spain. So if you don’t speak Spanish, you will most likely need to find someone that does to translate for you.

Unlike Spotahome, Idealista does not act as an agent between the landlord and the tenant, it’s only a website where owners can advertise their rooms/apartments. You’ll sign a contract directly with the landlord after viewing the room/apartment.

4. Facebook groups

Facebook groups are another way to find rooms or apartments to rent in Valencia. While perhaps not the most efficient way to find accommodation, you might get lucky! If you choose to go with this option, just remember to watch out for scammers and never send any money before having seen the room/apartment in person. I’d even recommend google searching the photos to see if they have possibly be stolen from an Airbnb listing, for example.

Here are some of the Facebook groups you can use to find long and short term accommodation in Valencia:

Valencia Apartments and Houses

Alquiler de Habitaciones Valencia (only for rooms!)

Valencia Long Term Rentals

Rooms and Flats for Rent Valencia

I hope this post helped you understand how to find short and long term accommodation in Valencia. If you want to get notified when I publish new blog posts, just click the red bell in the bottom right corner or follow me on Instagram where I usually announce new posts :))

If you are planning to stay in Valencia, you might also want to check out:

• 8 Amazing day trips from Valencia
• Best coffee shops in Madrid
• How to get around Spain
• Best hostels in Spain
• Most Instagrammable places in Valencia
• Best things to do in Granada
• Best cafés to work from in Valencia

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Where to stay in Budapest

Budapest offers plenty of accommodations for all budgets! I stayed at Maverick Urban Lodge, which is a budget friendly hostel located on the Pest side and had a great experience.

• Luxury: Áurea Ana Palace by Eurostars. An incredible traditional five star hotel, situated at the heart of Budapest. The hotel is beautiful and features a spa and wellness centre with a sauna, among other things.
• Mid-range: Gerlóczy Boutique Hotel. Set in a historic building, this boutique hotel is located in the very center of Budapest.
• Budget friendly: Maverick Urban Lodge one the best hostels I’ve stayed at! Amazing facilities, beds have privacy curtains as well as plug-ins and a reading light. Prices from as low as 9EUR per night!

How to get around Budapest

Public transportation in Budapest is efficient and easy to use. It consists of a metro system, trams and buses and tickets can be purchased online or on the BKK vending machines at the stations. A single ticket costs 350 HUF (around 0.9 EUR). I always bought my tickets through the BKK app, which is available for Apple and Android users and can be downloaded here. Note that you need to activate your ticket before using it! This is done in the orange machines at the stations, or if you bought the ticket through the app, you simply activate it in the app.

Budapest is pretty walkable, but you will probably want to use some sort of transportation to get from one part of the city to another.

Three day Budapest Itinerary Day 1: Pest side

I’d say that one of the best ways to start your day in Budapest is with a breakfast or brunch at Double Shot Coffee & Brunch. They have bagels, acaí bowls, eggs benedict, french toasts, burritos and whatnot – everything I tried there was delicious (especially the salmon bagel!). Note that it’s a very popular place (cause it’s that good), so try to arrive before 11am, and/or reserve a table in advance!

Now it’s time to head to the Dohany Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe. For those that are into history, check out this guided tour that includes a visit to the Dohany Street Synagogue, as well as a walk through the Jewish quarter.

From there, you can do a 20 minute walk or opt to take the bus to Shoes on the Danube bank, a memorial of Jews who were murdered there during World War II. Then do the 10 minute walk along the Danube promenade to the Hungarian Parliament, one of the most famous landmarks in Budapest.

Next up on this three day Budapest itinerary is St. Stephen’s Basilica, a Roman Catholic basilica. Side note, you can take some cute photos of the Basilica from the street Zrínyi Ulica :))) During winter there is also a market on that street, as well as in front of the Basilica. If at this point you feel like sitting down and grabbing a cup of coffee, I can recommend Madal Café and Cause Café & Roastery. Or, if you wanna have coffee in the company of lots of cats, there is a Cat Café really close to the Basilica :))) Then you can take a walk through the Jewish Quarter, located in District 7. Make sure not to miss the Jewish Ghetto Wall Fragment.

For dinner I’d recommend Bestia – it’s a nice restaurant (yet not overly expensive) that offers hamburgers, meat, fish and soups, as well as some vegetarian dishes. Then if you’re up for it, Budapest has those so called ruin bars that are worth checking out, even if you aren’t really a going-out type of person. The ruin bars are a collection of bars, situated inside neglected pre-war buildings that have been transformed into cool & unique bars. The most famous of those bars is Szimpla Kert. Just like the rest of the ruin bars, it’s furnished with garage sale type of furniture, which gives them this unique vintage vibe. It consists of two floors and a total of nine bars! And don’t worry if you’re on a budget – a beer costs less then 2 euros!

The ruin bars are located in Budapest’s old District, the VII neighbourhood (the old Jewish quarter). The neighbourhood was left to decay after World War II, so it was a perfect place to develop an underground bar scene, which I guess is not so underground anymore, though :))

Day 2: Buda side

On the second day of this three day Budapest itinerary, it’s time to check out the other side of Budapest, the Buda side! Buda is a more upper class part of the city, while also having a more residential feel. For breakfast, or just to grab a coffee, I can recommend 4minutes cafe, a small cozy place with great coffee, pastries (vegan!) and overnight chia.

One of the most famous landmarks in Budapest is located on the Buda side, the Fisherman’s Bastion. Located on top of a hill, this fairytale-like castle offers panoramic views of the city – and in my opinion, is the most instagrammable place in Budapest! Entry to the Fisherman’s Bastion is free of charge, but if you want to visit the upper towers there is a 1000 HUF (2.6 EUR) fee to be paid. While you’re at it, check out Matthias church, which is located right next to the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Next up on this three day Budapest itinerary is the Buda Castle. An historical castle and palace complex that’s often referred to as the Royal Palace, as it used to be where the Hungarian kings lived. It’s one of the main symbols of Budapest and houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum. To get to the castle you can either take the funicular or you can take the steep stairs from the Chain Bridge. I’d recommend taking the funicular – thank me later!

From there, head over to Gellért Hill, a hill overlooking the Danube river as well as the city. The walk up to the hill is relatively easy and takes 15-20 minutes. If for whatever reason you don’t feel like walking, the Budapest Hop-on Hop-off bus also makes a stop at Gellért Hill. Make sure to visit Citadella, an historic fortress located on Gellért Hill. Note that Citadella is closed until later in 2023 due to reformation, but you can still explore the rest of Gellért Hill.

After exploring Gellért Hill, head back down and walk across Liberty Bridge. Just as you cross the bridge, you’ll spot your next stop, Central Market Hall. It’s the largest market hall in Budapest, a beautiful vibrant market where you’ll find all sorts of foods, wines, souvenirs, clothes, household items and whatnot. Note that unfortunately some of the businesses seem to take advantage of tourists by overcharging, refusing to give a receipt or tell you what exactly you’re paying for, so just keep that in mind. The market is still worth a visit, even if it’s just to walk through and explore.

In the evening, I’d recommend having dinner and/or drinks at 360 Bar where you have views of the city’s skyline, live music as well as a selection of cocktails! During winter, they even offer heated igloos on the roof that will keep you warm – just make sure to book one in advance.

Day 3

The third and last day of this three day Budapest itinerary will start with a visit to the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths. As the mornings there are less crowded, this is the ideal time to visit. After relaxing at the thermal baths, and perhaps grabbing some lunch, the Vajdahunyad Castle is next up on the itinerary. The castle is located within one of the largest public parks in Budapest, City Park, just a short walk from the Széchenyi Baths. It’s worth adding that during the winter there is an ice skating rink there as well! Before leaving the City Park area, make a stop at Heroes’ Square, one of the major squares in Budapest.

Once you have checked out Heroes’ Square, now head over to Budapest Eye, which is roughly a 10 minute metro ride away (take the M1 metro line to the Deák Ferenc Tér stop). The Budapest Eye is a huge Ferris wheel that will give you a bird’s eye view of Budapest. Each ride lasts around 10 minutes, with the wheel going three rounds. Standard tickets to the Budapest Eye are 3900ft (around 10EUR).

I hope this three day Budapest itinerary has helped you plan your trip to Budapest! If you want to get notified when I publish new blog posts, simply click the red bell in the lower right corner or follow me on Instagram where I usually announce new posts :))

In case your trip to Budapest is a part of a larger journey through Eastern Europe, you might want to check out my posts about nearby Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

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Getting from San Cristóbal to Guatemala by chicken bus

A colectivo (chicken bus) is the most budget friendly option to get from San Cristóbal to Guatemala. For those not familiar with colectivos (also often referred to as chicken buses), these are mini vans that don’t have a fixed schedule, but instead leave when the bus has filled up. Note that colectivos only accept cash! Here’s how to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Guatemala by colectivos:

• Take a colectivo from San Cristóbal to Comitán (the bus terminal in San Cristóbal is located next to the ADO terminal, exact location here). Cost: 70pesos (3.5 USD)
• Take a colectivo from Comitán to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc. Cost: 75 pesos (3.75 USD)
• Get your stamp to exit Mexico. Note that if you arrived in Mexico by plane, the exit tax is included in your ticket. If you arrived another way, you may be charged the exit tax of $1150 pesos (around 58 USD).
• Catch a taxi to the Guatemala border. Cost: 15 pesos (0.75 USD) per person with a full taxi
• Get your stamp to enter Guatemala.
• Catch a tuktuk to the colectivo stop. Cost: 3Q (0.4 USD)
• When you get to the colectivo stop, tell the drivers where you want to go and they’ll help you.

Expect the journey to take 10-12 hours if you’re headed to Lake Atitlán, and closer to 12 hours to Antigua.

Shuttle bus from San Cristóbal to Guatemala

In case you aren’t quite up for making the journey by chicken bus, another pretty affordable, but more convenient option, is to take a shuttle bus. These will cost more, but in return will make the journey much simpler as you won’t need to be changing buses all the time, as well as providing door-to-door service. Tickets can be purchased from one of the many tour operators in San Cristóbal, you’ll find plenty around the center. Prices are pretty steep, around $1500 pesos (75 USD), and I’d recommend purchasing a ticket 2-3 days in advance just in case. The process will look something like this.

• You will be picked up by your shuttle bus and drive to the border.
• Once at the border, you’ll hand over your passport and get your exit stamp from Mexico. Note that if you arrived in Mexico by plane, the exit tax is included in your ticket. If you arrived another way, you may be charged the exit tax of $1150 pesos (around 58 USD).
• Get back on the bus and drive to the Guatemala side of the border. This is where you’ll get your stamp to enter Guatemala.
• After getting your entry stamp and entering Guatemala, another shuttle bus will be waiting for you and will take you to your final destination in Guatemala.

Read also: 5 Amazing Places to Visit in Guatemala

Find your accommodation in Guatemala here!

Final thoughts

If you’re still not sure which transportation options to choose, here are my thoughts on each. Although it may sound complicated to make the journey by colectivos (chicken buses), it really isn’t. This route is frequented by backpackers and you are very unlikely to encounter any problems, especially if you speak Spanish. Just make sure to start your journey early so you won’t arrive too late. The main inconvenience, in my opinion, is that the colectivos don’t have A/C and tend to get very crowded. If that sounds like a nightmare to you and you aren’t on a strict budget, I’d go with the shuttle bus. The shuttle buses normally have A/C and don’t get overcrowded, so it will be a much smoother ride. For those on a budget, colectivos (chicken buses) are the obvious choice.

You can of course also make the journey by a rental car, just make sure to read the find print and familiarize yourself with the possible extra charges for renting a car in one country and returning it in another.

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Note that there is no Uber in Cancún, or anywhere in Quintana Roo, so that’s not an option.

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How far is Tulum from Cancún?

Tulum is located 131km (around 81 miles) from Cancún. The drive between Cancún and Tulum takes around two hours, depending on traffic.

How to get to Tulum from Cancún airport

Taking an ADO bus

The most budget friendly option to get to Tulum from Cancún airport is taking an ADO bus. The ADO buses aren’t only affordable, they are also convenient, save and reliable. The buses are modern and have A/C as well as USB outlets and usually free wifi. This is my preferred mode of transport when going anywhere in Mexico, including when going to Cancún airport.

The ADO buses go directly to Tulum from terminals 2, 3 and 4. You can see the schedule and purchase tickets here. The price is $340 pesos ($17 USD) for a one way ticket. You can also buy your ticket directly at Cancún airport, but it’s a popular route and occasionally gets sold out. In case these times don’t work for you, another option is to take an ADO bus from the airport to Playa del Carmen, which leave twice an hour. From Playa del Carmen you can then take another bus to Tulum.

A quick tip: If you’re visiting Tulum and are on a budget, this is my favourite hostel in Tulum! It’s very social, has daily activities and free bikes available to guests. Plus it’s very close to the ADO station in Tulum!

Renting a car

Having a car isn’t necessary when visiting Tulum, but of course it gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. If you are planning to rent a car during your Mexico trip then you can pick it up right at the airport.

Taking a taxi

When taking a taxi from Cancún airport, you’ll need to purchase your ticket before exiting the airport. After clearing customs you will see a taxi booth where you buy your ticket, you will then head out and wait for the taxi driver to come get you. I honestly wouldn’t recommend taking a taxi unless you’re arriving late at night when the ADO buses have stopped running. Taxis at Cancún airport are really overpriced and will try to rip you off. If you’re arriving late, I’d look into private transport or a shared shuttle instead of getting a taxi.

Private transfer

For those that want the luxury of having a driver waiting for them at the airport and driving them directly to their accommodation, private transfer is the way to go. Getting a private transfer doesn’t really make sense unless you’re traveling with a few other people as it’s quite expensive. But if you are traveling with a few people, private transfer might come to about the same price per person as the ADO bus, so it’s worth checking.

Book your private transport from Cancún Airport here

How to get to Tulum from downtown Cancún or Playa del Carmen

If you are already in Cancún or Playa del Carmen and are looking to get to Tulum, you have a few transportation options. A colectivo is the cheapest option but a bit more hassle than the ADO buses. If you aren’t on a tight budget, I’d recommend taking the ADO bus.

Taking an ADO bus

The ADO buses are a safe, affordable and reliable way to move around Mexico. Taking an ADO bus to Tulum from downtown Cancún or Playa del Carmen is what I’d recommend to those traveling on a budget. Tickets cost $218 pesos ($11 USD) from Cancún and $108 pesos (5 USD) from Playa del Carmen. You can buy tickets directly at the bus station, but I’d recommend purchasing them in advance either through the ADO website or through their app.

The ADO bus station in Cancún is located here. There are two ADO bus station in Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen turística and Playa del Carmen alterna. There is no difference between the two stations, just pick whichever is in a more convenient location for you.

Taking a colectivo

Colectivos are shared mini vans, they are less spacious and not as comfortable as the ADO buses, but are cheaper. If you have a lot of luggage I wouldn’t recommend this option as they might not have space for it.

Taking a colectivo from Cancún to Tulum will require a stop in Playa del Carmen, where you’ll get off and take another colectivo from there to Tulum. The journey will cost around $100 pesos ($5USD) and can only be paid in cash. Try to have the exact amount as they don’t carry a lot of change. The colectivos depart from next the ADO bus station in Cancún, on Avenida Tulum. The colectivo stops close the ADO station in Tulum.

To take a colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, you’ll have to make your way to under Highway 307, here, to be exact. You will see white mini buses and it’s likely you’ll hear someone yelling “Tulum, Tulum“. This is where you’ll get on the colectivo. The trip will cost around $45 pesos ($2.25 USD). Try to have the exact amount as they don’t carry a lot of change.

Renting a car

You can get from downtown Cancún or Playa del Carmen to Tulum by renting a car. The drive will take around 1.5 hours from Cancún and around an hour from Playa del Carmen. I’d recommend using rentalcars.com to compare prices between all major car rentals to make sure you get the best deal!

Taking a taxi

One way to get to Tulum from downtown Cancún or Playa del Carmen is to take a taxi. You can expect to pay anything from $75 to $12USD for a taxi from Cancún to Tulum, and around $35USD from Playa del Carmen. However, note that taxi drivers around Quintana Roo are known to do their very best to rip off tourists, so it’s entirely possible you will be quoted a higher price. Always make sure to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi, or else they’ll charge you whatever they want when you arrive!

I hope you found this post helpful. If you want to get notified when I publish new blog posts, just click the red bell in the bottom right corner or follow me on Instagram where I usually announce new posts :))

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, you might also want to check out:

• How much you can expect to spend per day in Mexico
• Five must visit places in Mexico
• Four day Tulum itinerary
• Visiting Izamal: The yellow city in Mexico
• Where to eat in Bacalar
• Your guide to visiting Isla Mujeres
• 10 Things to do in Mexico City
• San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Guide
• Best cafés to work from in Cancún
• How to get from San Cristóbal to Guatemala

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Is San Cristóbal worth visiting

San Cristóbal is absolutely worth visiting! It’s not only the perfect base to explore all that Chiapas has to offer, the city is also an incredible destination on its own. The fact that it’s largely inhabited by indigenous people makes it unique and unlike anywhere else in Mexico. What’s more, it’s full of trendy coffee shops as well as restaurants. Furthermore, Chiapas is one of the most affordable regions in Mexico.

Is San Cristóbal save

Like with many places in Mexico, safety seems to be a concern for many, mostly due to negative media coverage of Mexico. Hence why I felt this San Cristóbal de las Casas travel guide wouldn’t be complete without addressing this matter.

San Cristóbal, like most of Mexico, is considered save. The only exception is the unstable situation on the road between Ocosingo and San Cristóbal, which is a known Narco territory where roadblocks and robberies are known to occur. However, you do not need to pass this route to get to San Cristóbal, so there’s no need to worry. I just want to mention it so that you know to avoid it! Even though San Cristóbal is safe, you should still take normal precautions, just like you would anywhere else. Avoid flashing your valuables, wearing expensive jewellery and walking around late at night.

For more practical tips to stay safe, I recommend that you read these 14 tips for staying safe while traveling!

When is the best time to visit San Cristóbal

The best time to visit San Cristóbal de las Casas is during the dry season, from November to May. In this period you get warm temperatures and little rain. Note that due to the high altitude, it can get pretty cold, or I might even say very cold, when the sun goes down. So regardless of which time of year you visit, make sure to pack something warm to wear in the evenings!

During my visit which was in February, the day time temperatures were pleasant, around 22°C (72°F). At night it cooled down significantly to around 12°C (54°F), but due to the humidity it felt much colder. Luckily, our apartment had some ponchos that we could use in the evenings.

Where to stay in San Cristóbal

I would recommend staying in or close to the historic centre (Zona Centro). It’s the most convenient way to explore the city as way you will be close to all major attractions. You’ll also have the best coffees and restaurants within walking distance. Here are some of the best accommodation options for every budget:

Best hostel in San Cristóbal de las Casas: Kotantik

Best budget hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas: Casa Azabache

Best mid-range hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas: La Estancia

Best luxury hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas: Collection O Casa de Familia

Here you can see reviews and compare prices of accommodations in San Cristóbal

How to get to San Cristóbal de las Casas

If you are traveling to San Cristóbal from within Mexico or Guatemala, it’s possible to get there by bus. It’s likely to be a very long ride though, depending on where you’re coming from. Check bus routes, schedules and prices here.

Alternatively, the closest airport to San Cristóbal de las Casas is Tuxtla Gutiérres (TGZ), which is located roughly 80km (50 miles) away. To get to San Cristóbal from the airport you can take a taxi, a public bus, a private shuttle or you can rent a car.

Taking an OCC/ADO bus

Those traveling on a budget will probably prefer to take an OCC bus (from the ADO company) from the airport. This is a convenient and affordable way to get from Tuxtla airport to San Cristobal, it’s a direct bus and the journey takes around 1,5 hours. Tickets are $250 MXN pesos and can be purchased at the ADO counter in the airport, or online. When booking online just make sure to put in Aeropuerto Ángel Albino instead of Tuxtla airport, as the system doesn’t recognize it.

Taking a taxi

Taking a taxi is the most convenient way to get from Tuxtla airport to San Cristóbal. Taxi will cost around $800 MXN pesos, which can be split between whoever you are traveling with, or even a stranger. It might seem strange to some to share a taxi with a stranger, but it’s a common practice among locals. If you are a solo female traveler, I’d recommend you to approach a fellow female traveler and if she wants to share a taxi. I have actually made a few friends this way during my travels!

An important thing to keep in mind when taking a taxi from Tuxtla airport to San Cristóbal is to make sure to take an official taxi! After you pass baggage claim and make your way toward the exit, you will see taxi counters on your right just before exiting the airport. Head to the counters, where you will book and pay for the taxi. You will then be handed a ticket that you will give to the taxi driver.

Renting a car

If you are planning to do a road trip in Chiapas, I would recommend that you rent a car directly at the airport. This will be significantly cheaper than renting one once your in San Cristóbal, plus it saves you the hassle of figuring out how to get to San Cristóbal from the airport. You should also keep in mind that it’s difficult to rent an automatic car in San Cristóbal, which is important to know for those that don’t know how to drive a manual. Use rentalcar.com to compare prices to make sure you get the best deal!

Although roads in the state of Chiapas aren’t in the greatest condition, driving is considered safe. Just make sure to avoid the road between Ocosingo and San Cristóbal, which is a known Narco territory where roadblocks and robberies are known to occur.

How to get around in San Cristóbal de las Casas

As long as you are staying in or close to the historical centre, San Cristóbal is very walkable and all major tourist attractions can be reached by foot. Taxis are easy to locate and very affordable, should you need them. We paid $80 pesos ($4 USD) for a 10 minute ride from the bus station to our apartment, just to give you an idea of the price you can expect. Make sure to always negotiate the fare upfront and have cash for the fare, as taxis in San Cristóbal generally do not take cards!

Although San Cristóbal is walkable, it is not built for dragging around luggage, especially if it’s heavy. Sidewalks are very narrow and usually made of cobblestone and/or have holes in them. So believe me when I tell you that if you are carrying a suitcase on wheels, you will want to take a taxi if you need to move your luggage from A to B. When we arrived in San Cristóbal, we had planned to walk to our apartment which was about 15 minutes away. We gave up on that after just about 2 minutes, sat down at a local restaurant where we had tacos and margaritas, and then asked the waiter to call us a taxi This might just be the most important thing you take from the San Cristóbal de las Casas travel guide :)))

There is no Uber or Grab in San Cristóbal.

Things to do in San Cristóbal de las Casas

There are a ton of things to do in and around San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Join the free walking tour

The free walking tour is a great way to begin your trip in San Cristóbal. Discover the history of the city, learn about the culture, traditions and customs and get to know the city from a local perspective. The tour is interactive, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and make comments.

The tour starts here, in the heart of the city, at Plaza de la Paz. The tours take place every day at 10am and 5pm. They are in English and last about two hours.

Explore the many Artisan Markets

San Cristóbal de las Casas is home to a range of interesting markets that are worth browsing through.

Mercado de Artesanias de Santo Domingo, is a market full of colourful indigenous crafts, such as textiles, jewelry, baskets and weavings. It’s located next to Templo de Santo Domingo and is open every day from 9am to 8pm.

Mercado de Dulces y Artesanias Ámbar is an indoor market where you’ll find sweats, baked treats as well as clothes and handmade items. It’s open every day from 8am to 9.30pm.

Mercado José Castillo Tielemans is the most traditional market in San Cristóbal, over 50 years old. It’s a lively market where can buy local products, handicrafts, all sorts of foods, including baked goods. It’s open every day from 7am to 8pm.

Visit a museum

As the cultural capital of the state of Chiapas, San Cristóbal is home to a number of interesting museums. They focus mostly on textile and the ancient Mayan culture & traditions. Here are some of the most popular ones.

Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya (Maya World Textile Center)

Inside the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo, you will find the Maya World Textile Center. A museum that focuses on Mayan textiles and embroidery techniques, displaying over 500 examples of handwoven textiles from throughout Mexico and Central America. The museum features permanent exhibition rooms where you’ll see videos explaining the production process of clothes and textiles.

Note that Maya World Textile Center is closed on Mondays.

Entrance fee: $65 pesos ($3.25 USD)

Museo Mesoamericano del Jade (Jade Museum)

One of the things that Chiapas is famous for is its jade, a precious stone used by ancient Mayas. The museum showcases replicas of Mayan jade jewelry and other jade objects found in Mexican archeological sites.

Entrance fee: $35 pesos ($1.75 USD)

Museum Casa Na Bolom

Casa Na Bolom, which means House of the Jaguar, is an historical building that is now a museum dedicated to the protection of Chiapas’ indigenous culture as well as the environment. It was once the home of Danish archaeologist Frans Blom, and his wife Gertrude Duby Blom, a Swiss photographer. The couple were among the first foreigners to contact the Lacandon indigenous group, which are the only ethnic group to manage to escape the Spanish conquest. Among things you will see in the museum are photos of the Lacandon culture and hand drawn maps of the entire Chiapas rain forests, which used to belong to the Lacandon group. Today Casa Na Bolom operates as a hotel, restaurant, museum and a research center.

Note that Na Bolom is closed on Mondays.

Entrance fee: $60 pesos ($3 USD)

Take a walk down Calle Real de Guadalupe

Wandering the pedestrian street Calle Real de Guadalupe was honestly one of my favourite things to do in San Cristóbal. It’s essentially the main promenade, a lively street where you’ll see street vendors and performers. Real de Guadalupe is lined with trendy coffee shops and restaurants, as well as many arts & crafts stores.

Admire the view from Iglesia de Guadalupe

At one end of Calle Real de Guadalupe you’ll find Iglesia de Guadalupe. You will need to climb a few stairs to get there, which is certainly worth it for the views you get from the top!

Try a cup of Chiapas coffee

This San Cristóbal de las Casas travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Chiapas coffee! Mexico is one of the top 10 coffee producers in the world, with the state of Chiapas making up 40% of the Mexico production. There are a number of trendy coffee shops all around San Cristóbal, almost too many! Our favourite one was Ki Múul, which is located on Real de Guadalupe.

Go on a day trip

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a popular base for doing day trips to the many places worth seeing around the state of Chiapas. I can highly recommend visiting Sumidero Canyon, which is just over an hour’s drive away. We did an amazing day trip that included a scenic boat ride through the canyon as well as a stop in the picturesque town Chiapa de Corzo.

Other popular day trips include Palenque, Agua Azul waterfall and Misol-Ha waterfall. Note that these are roughly a 5 hour drive from San Cristóbal, so it will be a very long day.

For those that aren’t up for so much time on the road but want to visit a waterfall, there is a more manageable option. El Chiflon waterfalls are only a 2.5 hour drive from San Cristóbal. The easiest way to visit El Chiflon is on an organized day trip. However, these usually include a stop at Montebello Lagoons, which may or may not interest you. If you’d rather visit on your own, the easiest option is to rent a car. To make sure you get the best deal, use rentalcars.com to compare prices. It’s also possible to take a combination of a bus and a colectivo. Take an ADO or OCC bus from San Cristóbal headed to Comitán de Domínguez (around $96 pesos), and from there take a colectivo to El Chiflon ($30 pesos).

Visit some of the churches of San Cristóbal

With the state of Chiapas being one of the most religious part of Mexico, it might come as no surprise that there are many churches in this area. Some of the ones worth visiting are:

• Cathedral Santo Domingo
• Iglesia de Guadalupe
• Cathedral de San Cristóbal de las Casas
• Iglesia de San Cristóbalito
• Saint Lucias Temple

I hope you found this San Cristóbal de las Casas travel guide helpful and that is answered the questions you had about visiting San Cristóbal. If you’re planning to head over to Guatemala from San Cristóbal, check out this post about how to get from San Cristóbal to Guatemala.

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, you might also want to read:

• How much you can expect to spend per day in Mexico
• Four day Tulum itinerary: Things to do in Tulum
• Visiting Izamal: The yellow city in Mexico
• 5 Must visit places in Mexico
• Where to eat in Bacalar
• Your guide to visiting Isla Mujeres
• 10 Things to do in Mexico City
• Best cafés to work from in Cancún
• How to get from San Cristóbal to Guatemala

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you click through and make a purchase (at no extra cost to you)

Best time of the year to visit Izamal

Like with the rest of the Yucatán peninsula, the best time for visiting Izamal the yellow city is during the dry season, from late November through April. During these months the weather is cooler, drier and less humid than during the more humid rainy season. It’s worth noting that it can get unpleasantly hot in Izamal during March and April. So for those that prefer slightly lower temperatures, the months of November, December and January might be the best time to visit. The average temperatures during those months ranges around 25°C (77°F).

How much time do you need In Izamal

Izamal is small, so you’ll only need a couple of hours to see the main points of interest. A day trip should give you enough time to explore Izamal. However, if you have time and want spend the night there, here are your accommodation options.

I visited Izamal on a day trip from Mérida, where I stayed at Casa Continental which I can highly recommend! I did quite a bit of research on accommodations in Mérida before choosing this one, and it did not disappoint. Amazing value for money, comfy beds, A/C, helpful staff and it’s also very close to two great cafés – Baretto and Latte Quatro Sette.

Things to know before visiting Izamal

Although visiting the yellow city Izamal is fairly straight forward, there are a few things you should keep in mind. To start with, it can get very hot in the middle of the day, so I’d recommend trying to get there early in the day so that you can explore before it gets too hot. Ideally, you’d want to sit down somewhere to eat during the hottest time of the day. Note that not many restaurants in Izamal seem to have A/C. If you find yourself in a desperate need of cooling down (which I did multiple times during the day haha) the only place I found with A/C was the Oxxo supermarket. Truly a lifesaver. I visited in late April and it was very very hot.

Another thing to keep in mind when visiting Izamal is that there aren’t too many attractions, so don’t expect there to be a long list of things to do and see. Visiting Izamal is mostly about wandering through the colonial streets and admiring all the fascinating yellow buildings. On that note, visiting izamal is bound to include a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!

Why is Izamal yellow?

When I first heard of Izamal, I immediately started wondering why the entire city was painted in yellow. The answer is apparently not clear. A popular theory is that it was painted in preparation for Pope John Paul’s II visit to Izamal in 1993, in the same colours as the Vatican flag – yellow and white. However, it has been reported that Izamal was already yellow before that time.

The other theory is that Izamal was painted in yellow to honour the god of the sun. Given that here is a pyramid in the middle of Izamal honouring this god, this theory is perhaps more probable.

How to get to Izamal

Getting to Izamal can be done by public buses, colectivos, organized tours or by renting a car. Depending on where you’re visiting from, public buses or colectivos are usually the best options. When visiting Izamal from Mérida, the best option is to take a public bus from the company Oriente. The journey takes just over one and a half hour, the buses depart from Terminal de Autobuses Noreste, located on the corner of Calle 67 y 65, click here for the Google Maps location. Tickets are sold at the terminal and cost 35 pesos each way. Here are the options you have to get to Izamal:

• Public bus: taking a public bus to Izamal is very efficient and affordable, especially when visiting from Mérida or Valladolid.
• Renting a car: is a good option if you plan to explore more of the Yucatán peninsula. However, I wouldn’t recommend renting a car for one day just to drive to Izamal, it’s just not worth the hassle in my opinion. Taking a bus would be so much easier.
• Colectivo: A colectivo is a shared van, often referred to in Central America as chicken bus. Colectivos have no fixed schedule, instead they leave whenever they fill up. Normally they fill up in just 10-15 minutes, but it can take longer. Prices are about the same as for public buses, 30-40 pesos (1.5-2 USD). Colectivos will take longer than the buses as they stop every time someone wants to get off or get on, so I’d recommend taking a public bus instead.
• Organized tour: There are plenty of tour companies throughout the Yucatán peninsula that offer trips to Izamal. Typically, these day trips include transportation, usually in a mini van, sometimes a lunch as well as often including a visit to one or two cenotes. These trips are booked directly from the tour operators, normally a day or two in advance.
• Private tour: if you are traveling with a group and want to make your trip to Izamal as easy as possible, a private tour would be something worth checking out. Being picked up and dropped off directly at your accommodation and being able to customize the trip to your preferences is of course very convenient. However, it wouldn’t really make sense price-wise unless split between a few people.

Things to see in Izamal

Although the best thing to do in Izamal is simply to wander around and admire all the yellow buildings, there are a few things you shouldn’t miss.

Convento de San Antonio de Padua

Founded in 1549, Convento de San Antonio is undoubtedly the the symbol of Izamal. Once a center for worship of supreme Mayan god of sun, this impressive building is now a Franciscan Monastery and it’s certainly one you can’t miss when visiting the yellow city of Izamal. Convento de San Antonio was built on top of an ancient Maya pyramid known as Pop-hol-Chac. The pyramid was destroyed and its stones were used to build this catholic temple. You are bound to be fascinated by the massive courtyard, which is actually the second largest closed atrium in the world. You should know that there is no entrance fee to enter the Convento de San Antonio.

Parque Itzamna

Parque Itzamna is the main square in Izamal, located in front of the Convento de San Antonio. It’s a beautiful place to sit down and perhaps grab the famous Mexican marquesitas, from one of the street vendors. This is also where you’ll find a colourful sign spelling out the city’s name.

Kinich Kak Moo

Another important attraction in Izamal is the mayan pyramid Kinich Kak Moo. Located just three blocks away from the Convento de San Antonio, it’s the largest pyramid in Yucatán and the third one in Mexico. The pyramid is named after the sun god and was one of the most important temples in pre-Columbian times. It’s one of the few pyramids that is still allowed to climb, probably because it hasn’t become as crowded as more famous Mayan sites such as Chichen Itza. From the top you have panoramic views of Izamal and surrounding areas. Entrance to Kinich Kak Moo is free of charge.

Izamal Centro

Izamal Centro, or downtown Izamal, is the most beautiful part of the city. This is where you’ll find most of the picturesque streets as well as the most important places to see. The further you get from the center, the less cute the streets tend to be – and you might even spot a house that’s not yellow!

Mercado de Izamal

Mercado de Izamal is a typical Mexican market where you can try local tacos, exotic fruits and vegetables, or pick up some souvenirs. Here you can get a feel for the daily life in Mexico as you will see a lot of locals doing their daily shopping. On the weekends there is sometimes live music going on.

Where to eat in Izamal

You will find that most restaurants focus on traditional Yucatán cuisine, so a visit to Izamal is a perfect opportunity to try the delicious local cuisine.

• Kinich restaurant: Arguably the most famous restaurant in Izamal. An upscale restaurant with open-air seating, serving traditional Yucatán style food.
• Hun Pic Tok: A small cafeteria located in a beautiful quiet courtyard with outdoor seating. They have fresh juices and coffee as well as some local dishes.
• Loncheria y Antojitos La Guadalupana: A real Mexican place with a variety of local food at local prices! Great option for those wanting to eat where the locals eat at very affordable prices

I hope you found this post helpful and that you feel more prepared for visiting Izamal the yellow city. If you want to get notified when I publish new blog posts, just click the red bell in the bottom right corner or follow me on Instagram where I usually announce new posts :))

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, you might also want to check out:

• Four day Tulum Itinerary: Things to do in Tulum
• Five must visit places in Mexico
• How much you can expect to spend per day in Mexico
• Where to eat in Bacalar
• Your guide to visiting Isla Mujeres
• 10 Things to do in Mexico City
• San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Guide
• Best cafés to work from in Cancún
• How to get from San Cristóbal to Guatemala

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If you are planning your first trip to Costa Rica, you might also want to check out this post about 21 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Costa Rica

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you click through and make a purchase (at no extra cost to you)

1. Zip lining through Monteverde cloud forest

The first of the 10 best things to do in Costa Rica is one that no trip to Costa Rica would be complete without – zip lining! That might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Costa Rica, but I’ll tell you why it’s a must. Not only do you get a birds-eye view of the lush green cloud forest, it will also fulfill your adrenaline needs. It’s truly an unforgettable experience! There are plenty of zip lines all over Costa Rica, but the one in Monteverde is the one I’d recommend.

In Monteverde there are a couple of companies offering zip lining, so you’ll have a few options to choose from. The five main ones are:

• Selvatura Park – includes 13 zip lines, Superman and a Tarzan swing
• 100% Aventura Park – includes 10 zip lines (one of which is the longest in Costa Rica), Superman and Tarzan swing
• Sky Trek – includes 7 zip lines, open-air gondola and a vertigo drop
• Extremo Park – includes 16 zip lines, extreme Tarzan swing, giant rappel, Superman and a subterranean zip line. If you want to do bungee jumping, this is the only one that offers it.
• Original Canopy – includes 14 zip lines, 1 vertical descent (repel) and a Tarzan swing

As you can see, all of them are quite similar. I would recommend reading the reviews for each of them and choose based on that. I have done the Original Canopy and Selvatura Park and can recommend both.

2. Surfing

Costa Rica has become a popular surf destination, and understandably so. With favourable surfing conditions year-round, as well as consistent water temperatures around 28°C (82°F), it’s easy to see why surfers are drawn to Costa Rica. From beginner friendly waves to world-class breaks, Costa Rica has waves to suit all types of surfers. Note that surfing is mostly limited to the Pacific coast, with popular destinations including Santa Teresa, Tamarindo and Jacó. If you want to try surfing, Costa Rica is definitely the place for it!

For those looking for laid-back surf lifestyle, Santa Teresa is a must visit! It’s a small town on the Pacific coast, offering amazing surfing conditions for every level and gorgeous sunsets. It’s one of my favourite places in Costa Rica! This is my top choice for a hostel in Santa Teresa.

3. Relax at Tabacón Hot Springs

Situated in the heart of the rainforest, at the base of Arenal Volcano, are the Tabacón Hot Springs. These naturally flowing thermal mineral springs offer a unique blend of nature and relaxation. The lush tropical gardens will make you feel like you’re in another world. It’s pure magic. Spending the day jumping from one hot spring to another, walking through all the greenery and then watching the stars after the sun went down is pure bliss. Visiting Tabacón was certainly one of the highlight of my time in Costa Rica.

It’s not cheap, but in my opinion it’s well worth the price. If you can afford the splurge I’d definitely recommend it! I have visited other hot springs in the Arenal region, and none of them compare to Tabacón. You really get what you pay for.

You can visit the Tabacón Hot Springs as a part of an organized day trip, by purchasing a day pass or if you want to really treat yourself, you can stay at their hotel, the Tabacón Resort.

4. Visit the Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano is among the most visited places in Costa Rica and certainly its most well-recognized volcano. It became famous since it erupted consistently from 1968 until 2010, when it returned to a dormant state. Even though you won’t see any lava, the perfectly symmetrical volcano is still very impressive. Hiking through the Arenal Volcano National Park offers amazing views and you’ll be able to walk on top of cooled lava. There is also plenty of wildlife in the park. You can for example expect to see jaguars, deers, racoons, sloths as well as various types of monkeys. It’s also a great area for bird watching, as there are over 850 species of birds found within the park.

5. Walk through Monteverde Hanging Bridges

You can’t list the top 10 things to do in Costa Rica without including the hanging bridges in Monteverde! Wandering through the lush green cloud forest is a unique experience and makes you feel like you’re in a postcard. The cool temperatures in Monteverde, as well as the mist, creates a magical contrast to all the greenery. My top pick would be the hanging bridges tour at Selvatura Park. I’ve done that one two times and it’s amazing. You’ll cross 8 hanging bridges that range from 50-170 meters (150-510 feet) in length. The trail between the bridges is well kept and relatively flat, making it easy to navigate.

6. Visit Rio Celeste

Nestled in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, is Rio Celeste, a waterfall famous for its majestic turquoise blue waters. There are many beautiful waterfalls to be found within Costa Rica, but the teal blue waters you see in Rio Celeste puts it on top of the list. Not too many years ago Rio Celeste was a pretty well kept local secret, but today the Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica.

As there are only a certain number of visitors allowed in the park each day, make sure to plan accordingly, especially if you’re visiting in the high season (December-April). The latest you can enter is at 2pm and it closes at 4pm. Keep in mind that he trail can get very muddy so do not attempt to do the hike in flip flops :)))

It’s most common to visit Rio Celeste on a day trip from La Fortuna, which is 1,5 hours drive away. The best way to get there is by renting a car. There is a wide variety of accommodation in La Fortuna for all budgets.

7. Snorkeling

With its extensive roughly 1200km coastline, bordering both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is a world-class destination for snorkeling. On a good day you can expect to see corals, turtles, starfishes and tropical fishes. The best time for snorkeling is during dry season, as rainfall decreases the visibility. On the Caribbean coast the driest months are September and October, while on the Pacific side the dry season lasts from December through April. Cahuita national park, located in the Caribbean, is home to one of the biggest coral reefs in costa rica. Other popular destination for snorkeling include Isla Tortuga and Tamarindo.

8. Go Sunset Paddle Boarding

What better way to enjoy the sunset than from a paddle board in the ocean. The sunsets on the Pacific coast are amazing, so I’d recommend doing paddle boarding there rather than on the Caribbean side. For example in Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, Santa Teresa or Uvita.

9. Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park

Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park is a must for anyone interested in observing the Costa Rica wildlife. Within the park you have a couple of trails that will lead you through the rainforest. You’re likely to see monkeys, sloths, agoutis, iguanas as well as hundreds of bird species. What’s more, there are two gorgeous beaches in the park, Espadilla Sur Beach and Manuel Antonio Beach.

I would highly recommend getting a guide when you visit the park, as it’s surprisingly hard to spot the animals yourself. The first time I visited I went without a guide, thinking it was completely unnecessary and that I’d easily be able to spot the animals myself. I turned out to be very wrong about that – I only saw a few monkeys out of pure luck, they just happened to be right next to the trail. The second time I went with a guide, and it was a completely different experience. I saw all sorts of animals that I never would have spotted myself.

You can book a guided tour or you can show up at the entrance of the park and there you’ll have the option to hire a guide.

10. Take a trip to Tortuguero National Park

The last of the 10 best things to do in Costa Rica! Tortuguero National Park is the Amazon of Costa Rica. Located on the Caribbean coast, this remote natural paradise is named for the famous sea turtles that come to the area to nest (Tortuguero means place of turtles). The park can only be accessed by a boat or a plane, and the main mode of transportation within the park is via fresh water canals. Floating down the canals with rainforests on both sides might just make you feel like you’re in the Amazon. As you cruise through the waterways you can spot monkeys, parrots, sloths and crocodiles, along with other exotic animals. The area is also home to beautiful dark sand beaches, but due to strong currents and risks of shark attacks, swimming there is not safe.

It’s worth noting that Tortuguero receives frequent rains, so don’t go there expecting to be sunbathing, there are other places better suited for that! Tortuguero is more of an exotic adventure type of place.

When visiting Tortuguero National Park, one option is to stay in Tortuguero, a small village at the heart of the national park. If you’re short on time, you can also do a day trip from San José. For those that want to explore Tortuguero National Park in depth, this all inclusive 3-day tour from San José is worth checking out.

I hope this post inspired you to visit Costa Rica and that these 10 things to do in Costa Rica gave you an idea about the best things to do in this magical country. If you want to get notified when I publish new posts, just click the red bell in the lower right corner, or follow me on Instagram where I usually announce new blog posts :)))

If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, you might also want to check out:

• 21 Things you must know before visiting Costa Rica
• My trip to Costa Rica
• Mistakes to avoid when backpacking

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Where to stay in Cancún

After living the island life for two weeks, I stayed in Cancún for a week to catch up on some stuff. I stayed in downtown Cancún, which is the area I’d recommend you to stay in if you’re planning to get some work done. Unlike the hotel zone, this area feels very local and gives you a chance to experience the Mexican way of life. It’s also far more affordable than the very touristy hotel zone. Make sure to check out the lively Parque de las Palapas, the main square in downtown Cancún, to get a taste of Mexican food, pick up souvenirs and, if you’re lucky, catch a show at the central stage.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you click through and make a purchase (at no extra cost to you)

Best cafés to work from in Cancún

After trying out various cafés, I found these to be the best cafés to work from in Cancún.

Ché Ché

Edited with the Mexico preset pack/photo filters – available here

My personal favourite! I went there for breakfast every single morning during the 10 days I stayed in Cancún. They have delicious smoothie bowls, avocado toasts, juices and coffee, as well as some typical Mexican food and veggie burgers. It’s a convenient place to sit down with your laptop – thanks to the A/C it’s nice and cold in there, which is much needed in the Mexican heat. Ché Ché seems to attract a lot of digital nomads, as the majority of the guests were usually working from their laptops.

Location: Avenida Carlos Nader 7, 5, 77500 Cancún, click here to see it on Google Maps

The Bowl Bar

The Bowl Bar is the typical breakfast and lunch kind of place. They have a huge variety of healthy food, such as smoothie bowls, smoothies, wraps, sandwiches and omelettes. It’s nicely decorated and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. There didn’t seem to be as much of a working from your laptop kind of vibe here as in Ché Ché, but they were perfectly fine with people bringing their laptops.

Location: Avenida Bonampak Manzana 50 Lote 15, 3, 77500 Cancún, click here to see it on Google Maps

Padlock to lock up
your valuables

Insulated water bottle
to keep your water cold

Power bank so you can charge your phone wherever you are

Rooster Café

Edited with the Mexico preset pack/photo filters – available here

Rooster Café is my favourite for going for a coffee and something sweet in the afternoon. Although they do serve breakfast, I found it to be more of a lunch or pastry kind of place. But I guess it all depends on what your preferences are. The breakfast was too heavy for me, it consisted mostly of eggs and beans – mainly omelettes and . can especially recommend the cinnamon rolls!

Location: Avenida Sunyaxchen 41, Kaan-chac, 24, 77509 Cancún, click here to see it on Google Maps

Starbucks Bonampak

While it might be a basic option, after all it’s a Starbucks – but I still feel that it had to be included! The atmosphere is very much work or study type of vibe, as most of the people there seemed to be either working or doing some sort of group projects from their laptops. It’s the perfect place to sit down with a coffee and get some thing done – and as everyone else seemed to be working hard, I feel like it made me more focused as well.

Location: Avenida Bonampak Manzana 20, Kukulcan Boulevard, 77500 Cancún, click here to see it on Google Maps

Now that you’ve gotten the hang of the best cafés to work from in Cancún, why not check out some fun activities for your days off!

I hope this post helped you find the best cafés to work from in Cancún! If you want to get notified when I publish new posts, just click the red bell in the lower right corner, or follow me on Instagram where I usually announce new blog posts :)))

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, you might also want to check out:

• How much you can expect to spend per day in Mexico
• Five must visit places in Mexico
• Where to eat in Bacalar
• Visiting Izamal: The yellow city in Mexico
• Your guide to visiting Isla Mujeres
• Four day Tulum itinerary: Things to do in Tulum
• San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Guide
• 10 Things to do in Mexico City
• How to get from San Cristóbal to Guatemala

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You might also want to check out: How to travel around Spain

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you click through and make a purchase (at no extra cost to you)

A shortcut to the best hostels in Spain

In case you don’t feel like reading the whole guide and instead just want a shortcut to the best hostels in Spain, I got you!

• Best hostel in Madrid: The Central House Lavapies
• Best hostel in Barcelona: Rodamon Barcelona Centre
• Best hostel in Valencia: Cantagua hostel
• Best hostel in Málaga: The Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel
• Best hostel in Sevilla: Black Swan Hostel
• Best hostel in Granada: Eco Hostel
• Best hostel in Alicante: The Market Hostel
• Best hostel in Zaragoza: The Botanic Hostel
• Best hostel in Bilbao: Latroupe la Granja
• Best hostel in Mallorca: The Boc Hostels City
• Best hostel in San Sebastián: Koba Hostel
• Best hostel in Gran Canaria: Aguita House
• Best hostel in Cádiz: Planeta Cadiz

Let’s now go a little deeper into the best hostels in Spain, city by city!

Best hostel in Madrid

Madrid is the capital of Spain. It’s an energetic city filled with wold class museums, royal palaces, culture, scenic parks, street art, restaurants and amazing cafés. It’s also notorious for its nightlife, so if you’re looking for some good parties, Madrid is your place. Make sure to take a walk down Madrid’s most famous street, Gran Vía, and to visit Círculo de Bellas Artes to enjoy some stunning views of the city.

Best overall hostel in Madrid – The Central House Lavapies

The Central House Lavapies is conveniently located right in the center of Madrid. It features a bar, a restaurant, an open air patio as well as a rooftop terrace. There is even a small pool on the terrace. I could definitely see myself launching at the sun beds on the rooftop on a sunny day! The rooms are stylish and each bed has a power socket, person light and dark curtains. Which, if you’ve stayed in a hostel before, you’ll know makes such a difference.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld.com

Best party hostel in Madrid – Cats Hostel Madrid Sol

Cats Hostel Madrid Sol is a lively party hostel, centrally located near Puerta del Sol. They have an Andalucian riad-style courtyard, a great variety of common areas for you to socialize – including a bar and a movie room. Like in any good hostel – each bed has a power socket, person light and dark curtains.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostel in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that has it all. It’s the capital of Catalunya and the second largest city in Spain. Barcelona has something to offer for every type of traveler, whether you are a beach person, a dedicated art fan, a foodie, a cultural enthusiast or a party person. It has so much to offer that it might almost feel overwhelming. Let’s at least get one thing out of the way and dive into the best hostels in Barcelona, it has some of the best hostels in Spain!

Hot tip: get the Hola BCN transport card for unlimited access to the public transport system!

Best overall hostel in Barcelona – Rodamon Barcelona Centre

Rodamon hostel is perfectly located in the heart of Barcelona, at the famous Passeig de Gracia, close to Gaudi’s La Pedrera and Casa Batllo. Set in a beautifully renovated 20th century building, it’s a boutique style hostel featuring fully equipped kitchen, a nicely decorated terrace as well as common areas. Then it has three very essential things, that I wish all hostels would have – each bed has a power socket, person light and curtains. Having curtains makes such a difference as it allows you to have your own space, even though you’re in a shared room.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best party hostel in Barcelona: Kabul Party Hostel Barcelona

If you are going to Barcelona to party, this is the hostel for you! Kabul party hostel is considered to be one of the best party hostels in Europe, mostly known for its very social atmosphere, and of course the parties! They even have a free breakfast, so you don’t have to worry about going out to get breakfast when you wake up. Speaking about free things, they also offer free walking tours of the city every day. If that’s not enough to convince you, they have a beautiful patio overlooking my favourite plaza in Barcelona, Placa Real. Certainly the best hostel in Spain for those that want to party!

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

If you are in to party hostels, you probably want to experience the Barcelona nightlife! This pub crawl is a great way to do just that, as well as to meet other travelers!

Best hostel in Valencia

Although often overshadowed by Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia often doesn’t get the attention it truly deserves. Spain’s third largest city is a great combination of culture, futuristic buildings, history and beaches. It is also the birthplace of paella, so having a paella when in Valencia is a must! Lets now look at the best hostels in Valencia.

Best overall hostel in Valencia – Cantagua Hostel

Cantagua hostel is a beautifully designed boho style hostel, just a few minutes away from the bustling Ruzafa neighbourhood. There is a fully equipped kitchen, a large common area where you can socialise with fellow travelers and work from your laptop. One of my favourite things about this hostel was the atmosphere in the morning, everyone chilling in the common area – having breakfast and drinking coffee. Which brings me to another thing I loved about Cantagua, they have a proper coffee machine so you can have delicious cup of coffee in the morning. This has to be one of the best hostels in Spain for digital nomads, as you have plenty of space to work from your laptop.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best party hostel in Valencia – NONE!

After reading the reviews of the party hostels in Valencia, the main one being Red Nest Hostel, I can’t recommend any of them. Especially not for solo female travelers! I want to be honest on this blog, so I won’t recommend something unless I honestly think it’s good. For those that want to party, I’d recommend doing this Pub Crawl where you’ll meet other travelers and discover some interesting bars in Valencia. Cantagua is also a social hostel so you should have no problems meeting people there.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostel in Málaga

Málaga is known to many as the capital of Costa del Sol and to others for being the birthplace of Picasso. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world and is becoming a cultural hotspot in Spain with a long list of museums, art galleries as well as historical sites. I loved how Málaga felt like a mix of Spain and Morocco, which is typical for the Andalucia region. In Málaga, and all over Andalucia, you will encounter some riad style courtyards and patios. Málaga is spoiled with around 300 sunny days per year, which is one of the things that attracts visitors to this lively city.

Best overall hostel in Málaga – The Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel

The Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel is for sure one of the best hostels in Spain. It’s honestly one of the most stunning hostels I’ve ever seen. Located in the historic center of Málaga, the entire hostel looks like a work of art. It features a gorgeous boho style rooftop terrace, beautifully decorated rooms and lots of plants. They offer organized activities as well as a mojito happy hour every night at their rooftop!

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best social hostel in Málaga – The Lights Hostel

If what you are looking for is a hostel with an atmosphere, the Lights Hostel is a great choice. Between its rooftop terrace, the free sangria, communal dinners and their organized events, there are endless of opportunities to socialize and meeting other travelers. If you’re a party person – there are pub crawls every night that you can take part in if you wish. This is not a party hostel and guests are asked to be quiet during the night, so you will be able to get a good night’s sleep.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best luxury hostel in Málaga – TOC Hostel Málaga

For those that are looking for a more luxury hotel-like experience, but don’t have the budget to stay in a hotel, TOC Hostel Málaga is perfect for you. A beautiful hostel in the center of Málaga, that feels more like a hotel than a hostel. It’s a comfortable and calm place, ideal if you want a more relaxing stay.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostel in Sevilla

Sevilla is located in the south of Spain in the Andalucia region. It’s a city filled with stunning architecture, loads of history and beautiful riad style courtyards. Sevilla is notorious for its tapas bars, sangria and flamenco shows, as well as its Andalucian culture. You will be amazed by the colourful building, the narrow couple stone streets, all the plazas and the stunning cathedral. Note that Sevilla gets incredibly hot during July and August, so try to avoid visiting during those months if you can.

Best overall hostel in Sevilla – Black Swan Hostel

The Black Swan Hostel is a modern hostel located in the center of Sevilla. It features a nice rooftop terrace with views of the city, a fully equipped kitchen as well as plenty of common areas. The hostel has a very social atmosphere, with activities and communal dinners organized by the hostel. The rooms are spacious and comfortable and each bed is equipped with a power socket and a personal light.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostel for groups in Sevilla – TOC Hostel Sevilla

TOC Hostel Sevilla is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by bars and restaurant. This modern and stylish hostel has facilities such as a movie room, a beautiful outdoor terrace, a common area and a kitchen. It’s not particularly social but the facilities are excellent, so it would be ideal for those traveling in a group.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostel in Granada

Granada is located in the Andalucia region in the south of Spain, and is probably most famous for being home to one of the most visited site in Spain, the Alhambra. Within the city you will also find plenty of historical sites, picturesque alleyways and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Since Granada used to be ruled by Moors, the Arabic influence is visible in the architecture as well as in the food scene.

Check out the best things to do in Granada!

Best overall hostel in Granada – Eco Hostel

Eco Hostel is located at the main street in Granada, just a few minutes walk from the famous Albaicin neighbourhood. The hostel has a true hostel vibe, with a real community feeling. Every night they organize activities such as taco nights, family dinner, walking tours or hikes! Featuring a cafeteria, a patio, a cinema room, a living room and a large equipped kitchen, there are plenty of areas to socialize or just to hang out. Moreover, the hostel has a coworking space, making it a great option for digital nomads and others that need space to do some work or studying. Definitely one of the best hostels in Spain!

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best social hostel in Granada – Oripandó Hostel

This Andalucian style hostel is located in the heart of the historical Albaicin neighbourhood. It’s not just the rooftop terrace with a view of the Alhambra and the pool that makes this hostel unique, it’s the atmosphere. Described as a home away from home, this hostel has a very unique friendly and social vibe. They also offer free breakfast as well as guided tours.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in Alicante

Located on the Costa Blanca, Alicante is a popular beach destination. It offers its visitors the perfect combination of culture, leisure activities and history. One of the most charming part of Alicante is Casco Antiguo (the old town) – a maze of quaint cobblestone streets, filled with tapas bars and restaurants. Alicante’s most prominent landmark is the Castle of Santa Barbara (Castillo de Santa Barbara), situated on a hilltop above the city. Thanks to its mild climate, Alicante is a nice place to visit all year round.

Best overall hostel in Alicante – The Market Hostel

Located in the San Anton neighbourhood in the center of Alicante, just a few minutes from the old town. It’s a nice modern hostel with a quiet atmosphere, featuring a common area where you can have free coffee or tea. Each bed has a personal light, a power socket and curtains. Note that this is about the only hostel in Alicante, so you might as well go ahead and book it!

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in Zaragoza

Zaragoza isn’t one of the typical destinations in Spain. Despite being the 5th largest city in Spain, it doesn’t attract as many visitors as smaller cities such as Málaga and Bilbao. As more of a hidden gem, Zaragoza is the perfect place to take a break from the more touristy places and experience the local life and culture. The city awaits you with impressive monuments, Moorish palaces and plazas, not to mention he symbol of Zaragoza, the Basilica of El Pilar.

Best overall hostel in Zaragoza – The Botanic Hostel

The Botanic Hostel, which is in fact the only hostel in Zaragoza, is located in the heart of the historic center of Zaragoza. It’s a nicely decorated modern hostel, with a stylish common area where you can grab free tea and coffee. Each bed has its own light, a power socket and curtains for some extra privacy.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in Bilbao

Bilbao is an up-and-coming city in Basque Country in the North of Spain. This diverse and colourful city has undergone a major refurbishment in recent years. The most popular tourist attraction is the Guggenheim Museum, an iconic building that houses important collections as well as temporary exhibitions. Bilbao is also a haven for foodies, with its abundance of incredible restaurants, including some Michelin ones.

Best overall hostel in Bilbao – Latroupe la Granja

Latroupe la Granja is a beautifully decorated hostel in the center of Bilbao, close to both the bus and the train stations. It’s a modern, well signed hostel, the facilities are clean and the staff is helpful. There is a great community atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to socialize with their daily group activities, such as game nights. You can be sure to have a good night’s sleep here – the beds are comfortable and each of them is equipped with a personal light, a power socket and curtains.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in Mallorca

Mallorca is one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, located off the south coast of mainland Spain. The island’s teal blue waters and pristine beaches draw a lot of visitors, but there is a lot more to explore on this Mediterranean island. Mallorca has beautiful mountains, a rich history, a vibrant capital city and charming towns. The island is also popular for cycling and hiking, as well as for sailing and other types of water sports. As public transportation is somewhat limited, the best way to explore all the island has to offer is to rent a car, which will allow you to explore places not accessibly by public transport.

Best overall hostel in Mallorca – The Boc Hostels City

The BOC Hostels City is a modern hostel located a short walk from the center of Palma. It’s a brand new hostel with excellent facilities and a friendly social atmosphere. There are plenty of common areas, including a rooftop with a pool, a large kitchen as well as a dining area. The beds aren’t the typical bunk beds, but instead the pod style ones, giving you extra privacy. In addition, each bed has curtains, a personal light and a power socket.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in San Sebastián

San Sebastian is located in the North of Spain, in the mountainous Basque Country. Nestled on a circular bay with pristine sandy beaches, this coastal city was once a popular getaway for Spanish royalty. It has a very unique culture unlike the rest of Spain, charismatic old town as well as being surrounded by mountains and nature. Famous for having the most Michelin restaurants per square meter in Europe, it’s considered to be one of the best gastronomic destination in Europe. Make sure to try some pintxos, the Northern Spain’s version of tapas.

Best overall hostel in San Sebastián – Koba Hostel

Koba is a new hostel located in the lively Gros neighbourhood, just 5 minutes walk from the Zurriola beach. The interiors are modern and clean, featuring a dining room, a kitchen, a terrace and a chill out area. But the best part might just be the excellent free breakfast they provide every morning.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best surf hostel in San Sebastián – Surfing Etxea

If you’re one of those that come to San Sebastián to surf, Surfing Etxea is the perfect choice! Located just 2 minutes from Zurriola beach, which is famous for its waves. The hostel rents out surfboards and wetsuits, as well as offering surf lessons. There is a nice bar/café on the ground floor, in addition to a shared lounge and a terrace.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in Gran Canaria (Gran Canary)

Gran Canary (or Gran Canaria in Spanish) is the biggest of the Canary Islands. Just like the other Canary Islands, Gran Canary is blessed with an enviable climate, with temperature ranging around 20°C (68°F) throughout the year. Due to its diverse landscape, it’s often referred to as a mini continent. With everything from beautiful coastline, pristine beaches, colourful towns and nature pools, to volcanic rocks, mountains and sand dunes – it’s save to say it has a lot to offer. In the recent years, Gran Canary has become a hotspot for digital nomads, in part due to its warm stable climate.

Best overall hostel in Gran Canaria – Aguita House

Aguita house is located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which is the capital of Gran Canary. Aguita house is a social hostel with great atmosphere, situated just 1 minute from the beach. Among the facilities at the hostels are a shared lounge, kitchen, barbecue as well as a rooftop with stunning views of the ocean.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best hostels in Cádiz

Located in the south of Spain, this Andalucian port city boats charming neighbourhoods, old architecture, beautiful narrow streets and plazas. Cádiz is the oldest city in Western Europe, founded in 1100 B.C. Cádiz is often overlooked for other more famous Andalucian cities such as Sevilla and Granada, so it feels much less touristy and more authentic. Make sure to head to Playa de la Caleta to watch the sunset!

Best overall hostel in Cádiz – Planeta Cadiz

Planeta Cadiz is located in the historic center, with everything you need within walking distance. The hostel is clean and modern, in a beautiful historical building. It features a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a game room, as well as a large rooftop terrace. Each bed has a power socket, a personal light and a curtain which is a great addition to any hostel.

Read reviews and compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

I hope this post has been helpful in finding the best hostels in Spain!

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If you are planning a trip to Spain, you might also want to check out:

• Best coffee shops in Madrid
• How to get around Spain
• Most Instagrammable places in Valencia
• Best things to do in Granada
• 8 Amazing day trips from Valencia
• How to find apartments to rent in Valencia
• Best cafés to work from in Valencia

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