11 Best Hotels in Santa Fe, New Mexico

This luxurious, secluded, yet centrally located tract of about 15 spacious one- and-two-bedroom vacation rentals is located on a hill just north of Downtown. Kitchens are especially impressive in these units, which also have kiva-style fireplaces, patios with gas grills, washers and dryers, and plenty of off-street parking. Rates run from about $1,750 to $2,300 per week in summer (and about one-third less the rest of the year).

This locally owned, intimate bed-and-breakfast sits only seven blocks from the Plaza on a piece of land that has been in the Quintana family since long before New Mexico became part of the United States. When the owner Pete is in the lobby, guests are regaled with Santa Fe lore and personal stories about the colorful people and various businesses that have occupied the neighborhood. The twelve rooms have various personal touches such as handmade beds and traditional handicrafts adorning the walls, and some have fireplaces and mountain views. Free on-site parking is a huge plus, especially in the busy summer season.

This classic Santa Fe hacienda is just blocks from the Plaza yet set in a quiet residential area and sheltered from outside noises by thick adobe walls. Southwest decor mixes with French country and Mexican details to create an ambience perfectly suited to this city. Homemade, organic breakfasts are deluxe; afternoon snacks will leave you begging for the recipes (which they'll cheerfully provide). The rooms are extremely comfortable and quiet, with details like plush comforters and sheets, and cozy robes. Several rooms and suites open on to the interior courtyard, which has a kiva fireplace and offers a perfect respite after a long day of exploring, and full-service Absolute Nirvana Spa is across the street at the sister property, the Madeleine Inn. The owners also operate a few nearby vacation rentals well suited to groups or longer stays.

This contemporary motor court–style inn looks from the outside like an attractive, if fairly ordinary, adobe motel, but it has stunning and spotless rooms with elegant Southwestern decor. Tile baths, high-quality linens, and upscale furnishings fill every room, along with high-end toiletries; many have kiva fireplaces, or balconies and patios, and in most cases refrigerators and deep Jacuzzi tubs. A small business center and gym are open 24 hours. Most rooms open onto a courtyard parking lot, although chile ristras hanging outside each unit brighten things up. The make-your-own-breakfast-burrito buffet is a nice touch.

The kind of place where Lucy and Ricky might have stayed during one of their cross-country adventures, the El Rey was built in 1936 but has been brought gracefully into the 21st century, its rooms and bathrooms handsomely updated without losing any period charm. Rooms are individually decorated and might include antique TV armoires, beamed ceilings, upholstered wing chairs, and sofas; some have kitchenettes. Each unit has a small covered front patio with wrought-iron chairs. Beautifully landscaped grounds are covered with flowers in the summer and towering trees shade the parking lot. There's a landscaped courtyard with tables and chairs by the pool.

A delightful, affordable, country hacienda that's a 15-minute drive southeast of the Plaza, this adobe bed-and-breakfast sits amid 10 secluded acres of piñon and ponderosa pine, with grand views of the Ortiz Mountains and the area's high-desert mesas. Ryan and Jessica Miller—along with their friendly dogs—warmly welcome guests to this low-key retreat and prepare expansive full breakfasts. Arts and Crafts furniture and Southwest pottery fill the common room, in which a hot breakfast is served and guests can relax throughout the day. The individually decorated rooms are brightened by Talavera tiles, folk art, and colorful blankets and rugs; some have kiva fireplaces. Two of the largest rooms, Eldorado and Luna, have wood-burning fireplaces and private entrances that lead out to a tranquil courtyard with wonderful views of the foothills. Guests have access to El Gancho Health Club nearby.

Once a run-down motor court dating to 1936, El Rey Court was redesigned and now attracts design aficionados and Instagram influencers with its hip take on modern,1950s-inspired Southwest decor. The property features motor court-style rooms as well as some suites and adjoining rooms for families or large parties. No two rooms are alike, with many featuring special vintage touches such as inlaid tile decorations, original artwork, and tin light fixtures. The large pool is ideal for cooling off on hot days, and there is a hot tub for cool nights. The on-site bar, La Reina, specializes in tequila and mezcal and is a popular meeting place for a younger local crowd with live music on many weekends. A café tent offers coffee and pastries while some of Santa Fe's favorite casual dining spots are within walking distance including the Pantry, El Parasol, and Mampuku Ramen.

Once an old motel on the original Route 66 in need of a major facelift, the Mystic is now a hip hang-out with a funky Joshua Tree vibe that is heavy on the pastel colors and folky artwork. The rooms are simple but stylish with tile floors and soothing decor, and some have small refrigerators. There is a full bar in the inviting lobby that's good for socializing, and a large event space out back that can fit 200 people, making the Mystic a popular wedding location.

Rooms in this reasonably priced 1873 adobe compound have handmade and hand-painted furnishings, Navajo weavings, brick and hardwood floors, sand paintings and pottery, locally carved santos (Catholic saints), and Western art. All have kiva fireplaces and private entrances, and many have kitchens. Breakfast is served in the convivial main dining room with lots of fresh fruits and yogurt, baked goods, cereals, coffee, and teas, but the standout features are red chile pork tamales and hearty green chile chicken stew. The Plaza and the Railyard District are both a short walk away.

This compound consists of clusters of three-story town houses with pitched roofs and tall chimneys. Best bets for families or up to four adults traveling together are the one-room penthouse suites, which each have a loft bedroom and a separate sitting area (with a curtain divider) that has a Murphy bed. All units have wood-burning fireplaces and there is a nice pool on the property. It's right off a major intersection about 3 miles south of the Plaza, but it's set back far enough that there's little regular traffic noise. Ask for one of the second-floor end units for the best mountain views.

On the southern edge of the Railyard District, this smart motel offers affordable comfort, modern bohemian Southwestern decor, and a location that's just about a 5-minute walk to the Railyard and a 15-minute walk from the Plaza. Although there is a $15 "Xperience Xclusive" fee in addition to room rates, it includes access to the seasonal outdoor pool, parking, shuttle service to/from the Plaza, property-wide Wi-Fi, the 24-hour fitness center, the business center, and an extensive hot breakfast. The on-site bar and restaurant, Social, has good Southwestern comfort food, a broad drink menu, and regular live entertainment. Get a room upstairs in one of the rear buildings for the most privacy and quiet.