Wondering where to stay in La Paz, Bolivia? This is one of our favourite cities in South America, so we’re excited to share our top picks and insider tips. La Paz, standing at 3,640 metres in the Andes mountains, is not only the highest city in the world but also one of the most unique destinations. Get ready for breathtaking views, bustling markets and diverse neighbourhoods, each offering a distinct experience.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in local traditions, an adventure seeker looking to explore the dramatic Andean landscapes, or simply looking for a fun escape amid this fast-paced city, La Paz has the perfect spot for you. Read on for our recommended places to stay in La Paz, tailored to make your visit the best one ever!
In the guide we take a close look at each of the city’s best neighbourhoods with accommodation recommendations for every budget, including our tips on the best hotels in La Paz and top hostels for backpackers.
This article contains affiliate links to accommodation we recommend from personal experience and research. If you make a booking, we may make commission at no extra cost to you.
Where to stay in La Paz: best areas in brief
In a hurry? Here’s a quick snapshot of the best La Paz neighbourhoods and our top recommended accommodations in each:
📍 Sopocachi, best neighbourhood for nightlife, art and music scenes:
Selina La Paz – hostel designed for digital nomads and remote workers
Stannum Boutique Hotel & Spa – 5-star hotel in great central location
El Museo Hotel Boutique – B&B on a quiet street close to leafy plazas
📍 Zona Centro, the city’s cultural centre, popular with backpackers:
Wild Rover La Paz – the city’s best party hostel
Lobo Hostel – a more laidback hostel with a great terrace area
Hotel Las Brisas – bright hotel with colourful Bolivian artwork
📍 San Pedro, for local markets, street art and cultural attractions:
El Prado Capsule Hostel – modern hostel with air-conditioned capsules
Hostal Iskanwaya – cosy boutique hotel with views
Madero Hotel & Suites – stylish contemporary accommodation with terrace
📍 San Miguel and Calacoto, the city’s upscale neighbourhoods:
Atix Hotel – mountain views and rooftop bar with local-themed cocktails
MET Hotel – chic boutique hotel with its own art collection
Casa Grande Hotel – luxurious, ideal for business travellers
📍 Obrajes, in the quieter residential south suburbs
Qhini Boutique Hotel – nature-inspired design and mountain panoramas
Where to stay in La Paz: neighbourhood guide
Now we’ll take a deeper dive into the best neighbourhoods in La Paz, and share our favourite hotels and hostels in each to help you choose your ideal accommodation.
Whether you are on a backpacking budget, seeking luxury, or somewhere in between, you’ll find somewhere in our guide to suit your style.
Sopocachi
The Sopocachi neighbourhood in La Paz is in many ways the life and soul of the city. It’s where you will find the most popular nightlife spots and restaurants, and is the hub of the city’s art and music scene.
Sopocachi is one of the very best places to stay in La Paz if you are looking for a blend of culture, comfort and charisma. Renowned for its vibrant energy and eclectic charm, Sopocachi encapsulates the essence of La Paz’s lively atmosphere.
As we love our food, drink and socialising on our travels, Sopocachi is our favourite neighbourhood in La Paz. It’s also strewn with beautiful architecture and cultural hotspots dotting every corner, and you can slow down and people-watch in its open parks and plaza.
These are our top recommendations for places to stay in Sopocachi:
Selina La Paz
Selina La Paz is an ideal choice for where to stay in La Paz, especially for travellers and digital nomads. It offers stunning city views and excellent amenities like fast free wifi, 24-hour reception (which isn’t a given in La Paz), a communal kitchen and a wellness area with a yoga deck.
Selina hostels and hotels are created with travelling remote workers in mind, and at Selina La Paz you’ll find its trademark setup with a coworking spaces. The Selina in Buenos Aires is featured in our guide to the world’s best hotels for remote workers, and this one in La Paz has similar facilities.
You can also relax in the cinema room, enjoy a book in the library or unwind with a cocktail at the bar. With live music and social events, Selina ensures a fulfilling stay. Their tour desk can arrange local trips, including biking the Death Road or exploring Salar de Uyuni.
Situated among a dynamic mix of restaurants, bars and shops, and close to cable car stations, Selina La Paz is definitely one of the best places to stay in La Paz for urban explorers.
View prices on Booking.comStannum Boutique Hotel & Spa
Stannum Boutique Hotel & Spa, situated a short walk from the heart of Sopocachi and a main city thoroughfare, is a top choice for La Paz accommodation, offering a blend of luxury and convenience. This is one of the very few 5-star hotels you will find in the central areas of the city.
The hotel’s dining options provide a gourmet experience with the added relaxation of drinks at the bar. There is also a well equipped fitness centre, ideal if you are looking to stay active on your travels.
As it is situated near La Paz’s financial and cultural core, Stannum Boutique is close to key transport links including the sky blue and white cable car lines, making it easy to explore the city from above on the breathtaking Mi Teleférico. This hotel is one of the best places to stay in La Paz if you want a piece of modern luxury while being closely connected to the city.
View prices on Booking.comEl Museo Hotel Boutique
El Museo Hotel Boutique, a short walk from Sopocachi Teleférico station, puts you in the heart of La Paz’s vibrant culture and entertainment scene, just a block from the lively Mercado Sopocachi and close to Multicine Shopping Centre and El Prado Walk.
The hotel has the feel of a quiet B&B, set on a peaceful side street close to some of the city’s leafiest plazas. While it’s not a very busy area, there are still plenty of choices for places to eat nearby and it’s easy to get around.
Set in a rustic old whitewashed maisonette, El Museo Hotel Boutique will welcome you with a daily complimentary continental breakfast. This is one of the best places to stay in La Paz for easy access to the city’s major cultural attractions and a charming base to enjoy local life.
View prices on Booking.comRitz Apart Hotel
If you’re looking for luxury, Ritz Apart Hotel is one of the best places to stay in La Paz. It combines 5-star decadence with a strategic location in a peaceful residential area near the city centre. It’s close to key business sites, embassies and cable car lines, ensuring easy city access.
The hotel features modern amenities like free wifi, kitchenettes, and HD cable TVs, catering to both short and long stays. You can enjoy a buffet breakfast and try local and international dishes at the in-house Duke’s Restaurant, known for its grilled specialities and pasta.
For relaxation, massage treatments are available, and the hotel’s tour desk is ready to assist with excursion planning. The hotel also offers shuttle services to El Alto International Airport for a smooth transition to and from your flights.
View prices on Booking.comZona Centro
Zona Centro is the pulsing heart of La Paz, brimming with fast-pace city life and steeped in culture. As a cultural epicentre, Zona Centro is home to many of the city’s best museums, art galleries and theatres, offering a deep dive into Bolivia’s rich heritage. Staying here will immerse you in the rhythms of daily life and the city’s dynamic spirit.
If you’re looking for where to stay in La Paz on a budget, you will find many of the city’s top backpacker hostels clustered in Zona Centro. We stayed in this area while backpacking in Bolivia ourselves, and found it to be a convenient base for exploring. The city’s main bus station is also here, so it’s ideal for navigating when you’re arriving and moving onto the next destination.
There’s a good mix of hostels here, including party hostels and more laidback backpacker accommodation, as well as some lovely mid-range hotels.
With its central location, Zona Centro is the perfect starting point for your La Paz adventure, easily connecting you to the rest of the city. Whether you’re after history, culture, or just to be among vibrant city life, Zona Centro is one of the best places to stay in La Paz.
Wild Rover La Paz
Wild Rover La Paz is one of a small chain of four hostels in South America with a reputation for bringing the party to life, and this one is true to that spirit. This is a top choice for where to stay in La Paz if you want a lively atmosphere and to get involved with nighttime activities.
The hostel features a garden, terrace, restaurant and bar, and creates a social vibe with daily activities. You can join in with salsa classes, cocktail-making lessons and yoga, and in the evenings get involved with the fun at the hostel’s UV parties and “wild bingo”.
Conveniently located near key Teleférico stations for easy city navigation, Wild Rover also provides services like a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers and free wifi. Whether you’re here for the culture, adventure or the party hostel scene, Wild Rover is bound to give you great memories of La Paz.
View prices on Booking.comLobo Hostel
If you’re looking for where to stay in La Paz to soak in the local vibe at a more relaxed pace, Lobo Hostel is a great option. With a laid-back bar and lounge and an on-site coffee shop and café, you can easily find spaces to relax and mingle over drinks or a casual meal.
Lobo Hostel features a terrace that offers breathtaking city views, perfect for relaxation. You can enjoy a mix of local and international dishes at the hostel’s restaurant, with free wifi throughout and a bar for evening unwinding.
This is the kind of hostel we prefer to stay in ourselves these days, now that our party hostel years are behind us. It’s got more of a low-key vibe without any noise at night, while still being fun and sociable. There’s a mix of ages here too, it’s not just a young crowd.
The hostel’s prime location means you’re surrounded by a variety of shops and restaurants, and close to some of La Paz’s most iconic attractions. Plaza Murillo, the city’s main square, is eight blocks from the hostel, and the mystical Witches Walk and the historic Church of San Francisco are just a few steps away.
View prices on Booking.comNo Fear Hostel
No Fear Hostel, with a prime location in Zona Centro, is a nice in-between option for La Paz budget accommodation. It’s not really a party hostel, but it does organise social activities. It’s a laid-back place for exploring the city on a budget while meeting other travellers.
The hostel organises regular movie nights, pub crawls and walking tours. But there isn’t an on-site bar so you can always get a good night’s rest. So, this is one the best places to stay in La Paz for getting the best of both worlds between socialising and sleep!
A beautiful sun terrace is one of the hostel’s standout features, with lovely city views in the La Paz sunshine. You can also benefit from amenities including free wifi, room service, lockers, currency exchange and luggage storage. It offers bike rentals to help you get around, as well as a shuttle service to El Alto International Airport.
View prices on Booking.comHotel Las Brisas
Hotel Las Brisas is an ideal choice for your La Paz accommodation, perfectly blending Bolivian culture with urban energy. Here you can enjoy a panoramic breakfast featuring local flavours against views of bustling streets, encapsulating La Paz’s vibrant atmosphere.
The bright colours and artworks of Hotel Las Brisas are in very much in tune with the city’s personality. It is anything but bland. This is a great place to stay in La Paz if you want to experience the essence of the city in your accommodation rather than disappear into just another contemporary hotel at night.
The hotel has a lounge, terrace, bar and free wifi, complemented by 24-hour service and airport transfers for comfort and convenience. Rooms are cosy and adorned with that local flair, bringing authenticity to your stay.
View prices on Booking.comHotel Boutique Vivenzo
If you’re into boutique hotels, then Hotel Boutique Vivenzo is a great choice in Zona Centro. This 4-star haven close to the city centre has a homely feel with a tranquil garden, shared lounge and concierge services.
Each room at the hotel is a cosy retreat equipped with a flat-screen TV, free wifi and a private bathroom. You can start your mornings with a diverse breakfast selection, from buffet to continental or American options.
With its convenient location in Zona Centro, Vivenzo blends boutique homeliness with the pulse of city life. Opt for a stay here for a mix of elegance, comfort and personalised service in the heart of La Paz.
View prices on Booking.comSan Pedro
San Pedro in La Paz is where you will find the most vibrant slice of Bolivian city life, buzzing with the energy of local markets, colourful street art and rich history. Famous for its unusual San Pedro Prison (which you may know about if you’ve read the controversial book Marching Powder), the neighbourhood offers a fascinating glimpse into a unique aspect of La Paz’s culture.
As it is located on the west side of the city centre, La Paz is one of the closest neighbourhoods to El Alto International Airport, and so it’s a convenient base for quick and easy transfers.
Walking through San Pedro, you’ll be treated to authentic Bolivian flavours at local eateries and find artisanal treasures on bustling street stalls. The neighbourhood’s lively atmosphere, fuelled by street performers and artists, makes it a captivating spot if you want to dive into the real La Paz.
Like Zona Centro, San Pedro is a hotspot for backpacker hostels, but the budget accommodation in this neighbourhood tends to be a bit more chilled out. There are also some lovely hotels to be found here. Let’s get into our favourites.
Hostal Iskanwaya
Don’t be confused by its name “Hostal” – Hostal Iskanwaya is not a hostel, but rather a cosy boutique hotel. Right in the heart of the city’s attractions, the hotel is nestled just a short walk from iconic spots like the San Francisco Church and the lively Witches Market.
Hostal Iskanwaya is located close to Teleférico stations, so it’s easy to hop on and explore the city more widely. The Coca Museum is also a five-minute walk away, where you can learn all about the city’s famous plant and its many uses.
You can enjoy the serene mountain views from the rooms at Hostal Iskanwaya, perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring. The hotel also features a helpful tour desk, on-site shops and complimentary breakfast, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
View prices on Booking.comEl Prado Capsule Hostel
El Prado Capsule Hostel in La Paz provides a modern, unique stay for backpackers with its capsule dormitory accommodation. The hostel’s air-conditioned capsules have built-in amenities like flat-screen TVs and power points, while dorms have private bathrooms and free wifi.
Conveniently located within walking distance of attractions like the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore and the Hernando Siles Olympic Stadium (the largest stadium in Bolivia), El Prado Capsule Hostel is one of the best places to stay in La Paz for exploring the city’s cultural sites.
El Prado Capsule Hostel is one of the closest La Paz accommodation options to Mirador Killi Killi for stunning city views – one of the best things to do in La Paz in this part of the city.
View prices on Booking.comSaint Peter’s Llama Hostel
Saint Peter’s Llama Hostel in La Paz is a unique, sustainable lodging option that stands out for its commitment to eco-friendly practices. Situated right near the bustling El Prado Walk, the main street of downtown La Paz, this hostel is great for travellers looking to be at the heart of it all.
The hostel features a sun terrace where you can relax once you’re done with sightseeing. Its facilities also include a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, full-day security, free wifi and an airport shuttle service.
If you want to explore the local nightlife, the team at the hostel organises pub crawls nearby, and sightseeing tours are also available if you are eager to delve into La Paz’s rich culture and history.
View prices on Booking.comMadero Hotel
Madero Hotel & Suites in La Paz offers stylish accommodation with a terrace, complimentary private parking, an on-site restaurant and a bar. The restaurant and terrace is a real highlight of the place, perfect for enjoying a meal or relaxing with a drink while looking out over the city.
The showers at Madero Hotel have reliable hot water, which is not always guaranteed in La Paz accommodation. If you’ve travelled much in the area you will definitely appreciate this!
Madero Hotel has a very modern feel, combining comfort and convenience to make sure you get the most from your stay in La Paz. It is located near attractions and restaurants, as well as sky blue and purple Teleférico stations for ease of getting around.
View prices on Booking.comSan Miguel and Calacoto
San Miguel and Calacoto are La Paz’s upscale neighbourhoods, renowned for their serene environment, chic dining spots and lush landscapes. With elegant tree-lined streets and refined architecture, they offer a peaceful retreat if you’re looking for where to stay in La Paz away from the bustling city centre.
San Miguel is brilliant for shoppers and foodies with its trendy boutiques and diverse eateries, ranging from cosy cafés to upscale international restaurants. It’s an ideal spot if you are looking to indulge in a culinary journey.
Calacoto complements this with its spacious parks and contemporary facilities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy green spaces and active recreation.
Both neighbourhoods are cultural hubs, filled with art galleries and cultural centres that enrich La Paz’s artistic scene. So, let’s take a look at the best places to stay in La Paz in the lush surroundings of San Miguel and Calacoto.
Casa Grande Hotel
Casa Grande Hotel in La Paz redefines luxury for business travellers, combining chic design with sustainable luxury in the city’s affluent south zone. The lobby will welcome you with its modern glass atrium and interior gardens, setting the stage for a sophisticated stay.
The hotel rooms offer either mountain or city views, complemented by top-notch amenities including a heated indoor pool and a cutting-edge fitness centre.
Located conveniently near the San Miguel area and a brief drive from Megacenter Shopping Centre, Casa Grande is our pick for the best place to stay in La Paz for travellers seeking that bit of luxury.
View prices on Booking.comHotel Mitru Sur
Hotel Mitru Sur in La Paz brings a mix of luxury and comfort. You can enjoy a variety of restaurants near the hotel, and a number of attractions, including Cota Cota Lagoon and botanical gardens.
With its fitness centre, lush gardens and indoor pool, the hotel ensures a stay filled with relaxation and leisure. Each air-conditioned room is equipped with all the essentials for a cosy stay, including a minibar and a flat-screen TV. You can treat yourself to some exquisite dining at the hotel’s restaurant or unwind at the stylish Sky Bar.
View prices on Booking.comAtix Hotel
Hotels with a view are always our favourites in La Paz, and Atix Hotel is one of the very best. This boutique escape gives you one of the most stunning perspectives of the Andean valley that surrounds the city.
The hotel, through its Proyecto Nativa, serves up a love story of Bolivian traditions with a modern twist, especially at its rooftop 591 Bar where cocktails are themed around local tales and legends.
Ona restaurant offers a dive into Bolivian cuisine, set against the hotel’s contemporary design of native wood and stone. You can enjoy complimentary breakfast, free wifi and rooms adorned with art by Gaston Ugalde, featuring mountain views and luxurious amenities.
The hotel’s Wellness Club provides a space to unwind with a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, infinity pool and gym.
View prices on Booking.comMET Hotel
MET Hotel in La Paz is a chic boutique destination where design and service converge.
The hotel is a lively gathering spot thanks to its integrated restaurant and bar, an all-day dining spot that is a hit with locals. For relaxation, you can unwind in the serene indoor pool, indulge in a private massage, or keep fit in the fully equipped gym.
If you are an art lover you will be captivated by the MET Art collection, highlighting Bolivian contemporary art that complements the hotel’s modern aesthetics. Conveniently located near shopping, dining and the Irpavi cable car station, MET Hotel is your gateway to exploring La Paz.
View prices on Booking.comObrajes
Obrajes, located in southern La Paz, offers a quiet residential vibe that is in stark contrast to the busy city centre. There are still plenty of amenities around the area, so it’s a prime La Paz accommodation choice if you want somewhere a bit more downbeat.
The valley floor location of Obrajes brings milder temperatures and lush scenery, ideal for outdoor activities and picnics.
The area is dotted with local markets and boutique shops that showcase Bolivian culture and craftsmanship. With several Teleférico stations nearby, it’s easy to get from Obrajes into the city centre or venture further afield.
The neighbourhood’s diverse dining options range from cosy cafés to international restaurants, catering to all tastes and making Obrajes a great choice if you are looking for a quiet yet vibrant stay in La Paz.
Qhini Hotel Boutique
Qhini Hotel Boutique is our top recommendation for where to stay in La Paz’s Obrajes neighbourhood. The hotel offers a tranquil escape with lush gardens and gorgeous panoramas of the surrounding mountains.
Rooms at Qhini are designed for comfort, featuring desks, flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms and fridges. The location near key Teleférico stations makes it easy to step out and explore La Paz.
Drawing its name from a particularly sweet variety of potatoes, Qhini Hotel Boutique has a nature-inspired design and relaxing atmosphere, making it one of the best places to stay in La Paz for a quieter experience.
View prices on Booking.comWhere to stay in La Paz: map of hotels and hostels
You can click on the map below to browse the locations of the best hotels and hostels in La Paz in each neighbourhood featured in this guide:
La Paz offers a diverse array of accommodation options, from the tranquil luxury of Qhini Hotel Boutique to the vibrant social atmosphere of Wild Rover hostel. Whether you’re seeking the upscale serenity of neighbourhoods like San Miguel and Calacoto or the pace and cultural richness of areas like Sopocachi and Zona Centro, we hope this guide has helped you find a base in the city that matches your travel style.
Have you already visited Bolivia’s stunning mountain city? Let us know your own recommendations on the best places to stay in La Paz in the comments below.
Are you planning an extended trip through the country? Check out our epic 2-week Bolivia itinerary.
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