A well-run hostel in the heart of Guadalajara's historic center offering clean dormitories and private rooms in a charming colonial building. The social atmosphere, rooftop terrace, and regular cultural events make it a favorite among backpackers.
Hostal Hospedarte Centro occupies a renovated 19th-century colonial building on Maestranza Street in Guadalajara's historic center, a few doors down from the Hampton Inn and roughly 300 meters from the Cathedral. Teatro Degollado, one of Mexico's finest 19th-century theaters, is 200 meters east. Mercado Corona, a working neighborhood market with cheap lunch stalls, is 400 meters away. Multiple bus routes and the Juárez light rail station are within a 10-minute walk, connecting guests to Tlaquepaque, Zapopan, and the wider city.
The building's stone arches, tiled floors, and central courtyard are original features of the colonial structure that the Hospedarte group has preserved while installing modern hostel infrastructure. The conversion retains the character of a Guadalajara townhouse rather than a purpose-built accommodation facility, which contributes to the property's appeal among travelers interested in the city's architectural heritage.
Accommodation options include mixed and female-only dormitories with four, six, and eight beds, as well as private double and twin rooms. All dormitory beds come with individual lockers, reading lights, and power outlets. Shared bathrooms are modern and cleaned multiple times daily. Private rooms have en-suite or dedicated private bathrooms.
There is no on-site restaurant, but a communal kitchen is available for self-catering, and Maestranza and the surrounding centro streets have numerous fondas (family-run lunch restaurants) serving comida corrida — a two or three-course set menu — for well under MXN 100. The hostel's rooftop terrace with hammocks and city views is a social hub in the evenings, and the staff runs a regular calendar of cultural events including walking tours of the historic center, cooking demonstrations, and guided visits to local mezcal bars.
The Hospedarte group operates two properties in Guadalajara; the Centro location targets travelers who prioritize proximity to the main historic sights, while the Chapultepec branch (2 km west) suits those focused on the contemporary bar and restaurant scene.
Amenities
- wifi
- rooftop terrace
- shared kitchen
- laundry
- lockers
- social events
Location
Maestranza 147, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco
20.6745, -103.3421 View on map
Highlights
- Colonial 19th-century building on Maestranza Street, 300 meters from Guadalajara Cathedral and walking distance from the city's main historic monuments
- Rooftop terrace with hammocks and panoramic views over the colonial centro skyline
- Staff-organized cultural events including historic-center walking tours, cooking sessions, and mezcal bar crawls
- Both dormitory (mixed and female-only) and private room options in a well-maintained restored building
- Communal kitchen and easy access to cheap fondas on nearby streets for budget-friendly self-catering
Tips for visiting
- The female-only dorm sells out faster than mixed dorms; book at least two weeks ahead if that is your preference, especially in high season (November to April)
- Check the hostel's social media for the week's event calendar before arrival — some events require prior sign-up and fill quickly, particularly the mezcal tastings
- Bring your own padlock for the locker if you want a combination type; the hostel provides keyed padlocks but combination locks can be more convenient for daily access
- The rooftop terrace has limited shade — mornings are the most comfortable time to use it; evenings attract the social crowd but can get noisy until around midnight
When to visit
October to April for the most comfortable walking weather and peak cultural events; Fiestas de Octubre (late September) brings vibrant street life but higher hostel occupancy.
Accessibility
Colonial building with multiple levels and no elevator; not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Ground-floor common areas are accessible.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum stay at Hostal Hospedarte Centro?
There is no minimum stay requirement; single-night bookings are accepted. For stays of a week or more, ask staff about weekly rate discounts, which are sometimes offered directly.
Is the hostel suitable for older travelers or those who are not in their 20s?
Yes. While the social atmosphere is lively, the hostel attracts a range of ages. Travelers in their 30s and 40s are common, especially in private rooms. The focus on Guadalajara's cultural scene means the crowd skews toward curious, culturally engaged guests rather than purely party-oriented ones.
Is there a curfew or late check-in restriction?
The hostel has 24-hour reception and no curfew. Late arrivals should notify staff in advance to ensure smooth check-in, particularly if arriving after midnight.
How safe is the surrounding area late at night?
Maestranza Street and the immediate historic center are generally safe for pedestrians at night, with a regular police presence around the main plazas. Standard urban precautions apply; avoid displaying expensive electronics or walking alone in quieter streets after midnight.