Tijuana functions as the gateway to Mexico, and sits just south of the border to San Diego. It is without a doubt one of the world’s busiest border cities, which results in a vibrant cocktail of cultures, an upbeat nightlife, and a great range of restaurants and bars.
Tijuana’s location on the border of Mexico and the USA has historically brought many challenges to the city, however, in recent years, a cultural renaissance has taken place. The downtown area is now a mecca for local artists and musicians and boasts one of Central America’s most diverse culinary scenes. This has catapulted the city to become one of Mexico’s leading destinations to visit.
Tijuana’s stunning accommodation scene perfectly encapsulates the vitality and resilience of the local people. From quaint residential-style boutiques to high-energy luxury compounds, here are my favourite cool and unusual hotels in Tijuana, Mexico (in no particular order)…
1. K Tower Boutique Hotel By Lucerna – an upscale, urban and stylish hotel in close proximity to local popular attractions
At K Tower, I was met by one of the friendliest and warmest welcomes I have ever encountered. I was greeted with complimentary champagne on arrival, and waited on the comfy loungers in the lobby for a few moments while my luggage was escorted to my room.
Once I entered my peaceful cocoon, I was draped in comfort by the smooth tapestries, plush linens, and the intimate décor. There’s a personalized butler service here, and planning once-in-a-lifetime excursions is made efficient and easy by the charming staff presence.
Whether you choose to relax in the Jacuzzi or rooftop pool, recline in the tea bar, or tuck into succulent local and international meals in the restaurants, your entire experience here will be accompanied by an elegant ambiance.
2. Hotel Boutique Lafayette Tijuana – a cool, trendy and unique hotel with an Insta-worthy interior design perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
Bringing old-world glamour and modern design together in the heart of downtown Tijuana, this graceful boutique boasts 12 personalized guestrooms which each tell a unique story.
The hotel is inspired by its leafy surrounds, and plenty of natural hues ornate the elegant interiors. The communal spaces, notably the restaurant and the bar, were designed to add a vibrant flair to your otherwise cosy and intimate hospitality experience.
My hip guestroom was embellished with bright colours and quirky artwork, however elegance still took centre stage through a plush king-sized bed, optimal positioning of electronic equipment, and smooth, soft fabrics.
3. Hotel Real del Rio – a sleek, contemporary and spacious hotel within walking distance of the Plaza Comercial Rio Square
Centrally located in Tijuana’s financial district, this contemporary design-led propertybrings all the luxuries of a five-star resort to the budget-conscious traveller.
Each room is decked out with an ambient lighting system that sets a vibrant tone and features state-of-the-art amenities like wall-mounted flat-screen TVs and modern workstations.
Hotel Real del Rio was the perfect spot for me to combine business and leisure, with its 3 multi-functional rooms kitted out with the latest technology.
Come night time, La Miel invites you to enjoy the fusion of traditional national and international dishes, which incorporate flavours, textures, and aromas that delight the most seasoned palates.
4. Gamma Tijuana – a new, modern and charming hotel where guests can experience a memorable and unique vacation
Gamma Tijuanaoffers a glimpse into México’s beautiful culture, with endless unique experiences on offer. Booking tours and excursions around this illustrious city was made extra convenient by the amiable staff, and the property itself is clad head to toe in traditional richness.
Located in the Otay area in front of Plaza Alameda, close to the border crossing to San Diego, the hotel pampers guests with 140 cosy rooms, a gym, a pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
I thought the breakfast buffet was legendary, and having the option to order room service really added a touch of convenience for the end of a busy day.
To book, check prices or availability for Gamma Tijuana
5. Hotel Jatay – one of the biggest hotels in the city where guests can enjoy a stylish, elegant and contemporary stay
This 4-star havenis the largest hotel in Playas de Tijuana, an area full of cultural charm. I found the service here to be rather unique, with the staff going the extra mile to ensure guests have experienced the city to the fullest.
My room was minimalist and functional, and being surrounded by the sounds of the sea enhanced its soothing feel.
The bathroom was clad in wood and marble and topped with branded toiletries. Breakfast here is a time of togetherness and celebration – there was a huge sense of community in the charming on-site eatery around this time.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Jatay
6. QUARTZ HOTEL & SPA – one of the best accommodations in Tijuana Zona Rio providing guests with an elegant, modern and 5-star stay
Quarts Hotel invites you to escape the ordinary and strike that perfect harmony between luxury, energy, and relaxation. I felt an uplifting spirit throughout the hotel, and this was enhanced with the state-of-the-art facilities on offer.
A holistic wellness experience awaits in the spa, where you can not only keep your skin shimmering with a whole host of natural products, but also receive pampering sessions from fully trained staff. On-site you can benefit from a stunning outdoor pool dotted by loungers, a fully equipped gym, and a handful of graceful communal nooks.
The guestrooms bring the essence of 5-star elegance to a bright open space, and boast jaw-dropping views through floor-to-ceiling windows.
7. One Tijuana Otay – a bright, charming and trendy accommodation providing guests with a delicious complimentary breakfast each morning
A bespoke designfills the white-on-white interiors here with an elegant charm, greeting you with a beautiful aesthetic from the minute you arrive.
Whether you’re staying here for play or work, the hotel’s pleasant spaces are well-equipped for you to kick back in total comfort, and the self-service concept enhances convenience. There are areas where you can recline on a swinging chair or bean bag, and other areas where you can sit at a modern table and take advantage of all the tech-forward amenities on offer.
One thing that remains consistent throughout the property is its high attention to detail, which is evident in the choice of materials and lighting used.
8. avid hotels – Tijuana – Otay, an IHG Hotel – a hip, vibrant and spacious accommodation featuring guests with a 24-hour gym and coffee shop
Situated in close proximity to great entertainment, nightlife, and dining options, this bright and spacious havencaters to business travellers and discerning jetsetters.
Its laid-back style allows plenty of room for hanging out, with fresh complimentary tea and coffee always available. I thought the blue and white colour scheme exuded charm and sophistication and was made even more elegant by the smooth interior furnishings.
My guestroom was functional and minimalist, and I was surprised just how spotlessly clean it was! The service is exceptional and was personalized to my needs, with the staff helping me to arrange both restaurant reservations and city excursions.
9. HOTEL RIO RITA – a quiet, new and hip hotel accommodation surrounded by an array of bars, restaurants and activities
Here we have a brand-new hospitality proposal in the vibrant downtown area of Tijuana, providing a quiet, comfortable, and safe space for adults to relax.
I only booked a standard room, but it was funky and unique, with a wall-sized 60s portrait adding an idiosyncratic touch. You can actually arrange in advance for the staff to pad your room out in romantic décor if you’re visiting as a couple.
The rest of the property is colourful, flamboyant, and a little bit mysterious. The quirky artwork and sculptures, mingling beautifully with the monochrome floral hues and the opulent black seating areas, brought an extra touch of class to my stay here.
10. B my Hotel – a quirky, business-friendly and funky accommodation designed to feel like a home-away-from-home
This urban retreatsets a funky tone upon entrance with its black and red façade. Inside, this quirky theme continues, with graceful wall art and inspirational quotes sprinkled around the property.
Here, relaxation, comfort, and elegance are combined within the bright and commodious spaces, which cater to both solo travellers and couples alike. The guestrooms are colourful, versatile, and full of natural light, and topped with modern amenities.
I thought the hotel’s snack bar was superb, and it was a convenient option for a quick bite. For a more vibrant experience, you can simply head down the road and take your pick from many high-end eateries and other cheap & cheerful options.
To book, check prices or availability for B my Hotel
11. Alou Hotel Boutique – a vibrant, quirky-chic and cool accommodation located in the heart of the city
I thought this residential-style boutiquewas the perfect spot to be immersed in local life. Quaint and sophisticated, the interiors exude warmth and intimacy, with a prevailing family atmosphere greeting you upon entrance.
Throughout the property, space is optimized to guarantee comfort, and within each guestroom is a whole host of graceful furnishings which add that homely touch, like smooth wooden desks.
The beds are comfy and pair elegantly with the quirky wallpaper, and are topped with plush, high-quality linens. There is also a cosy communal space where you can kick back and play a game of chess, or spark a conversation with like-minded travellers.
12. Nook Hotel – a chic, petite and bright accommodation steps away from the busiest street in Tijuana
Nook Hotelis the perfect resting place for a weekend trip to Tijuana, and invites you deep within an eclectic residential neighbourhood full of charm.
Inside the property, a blend of chic sophistication and modern hip added a lot of character to my stay. The property is brightened by vivid paintings which are set elegantly on the brick walls that run along the staircase. Once you enter your cocooning room, you will be met with a wall-mounted flat-screen TV, intimate décor, and all the homely comforts.
A short drive will land you at all of Tijuana’s sights, but when you want to escape the hustle and bustle again, Nook Hotel welcomes you back with its laid-back, family atmosphere.
To book, check prices or availability for Nook Hotel
Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always been a sucker for an adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued his taste for seeking out new cultures. So much in fact he now travels the world as a trading digital nomad, exploring everything from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, street food, playing carrom, and fine wine and knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations.
