The joy of Popayán is there's a place in the Centro Histórico for any budget, from bottom-dollar dives to luxury hotels in colonial buildings. It is hard to find to find a decent place for $5 or less; most absolute budget places are concentrated between Carreras 3 and 5, and Calles 6 to 8. For those able to spend a dollar or two more per night, or who are traveling as a couple, there are more low-cost options. Room prices triple during Semana Santa and hotels fill up; book well in advance.
On the second floor of a colonial-era building is the Hotel El Paso, a good mid-range hostel choice in Popayán. Furnished with solid, carved wood furniture (including a dressing table), all rooms have private bath with hot water and toilets dressed in frilly covers. The wooden doors are thick,...
Take a seat in one of the rocking chairs around the front courtyard and listen to the water spilling from the fountain. Your room will look out upon this patio or one of the other three of this colonial building in which the Hotel Portales is. All the rooms have private bathroom with hot water...
A first-class hotel just across from Iglesia San José, Hotel La Plazuela is in a 1742 building rescued after the 1983 earthquake. Beautiful period pieces furnish the common sitting areas, original watercolors adorn the walls. You can choose a room off the patio or with a street-side balcony. All...
As its name implies, the Hotel Colonial is in a building from the early centuries of this city. A small inn, the lobby is tastefully adorned with original artwork and flower-filled vases. The rooms are set off two narrow courtyards. Decorated in wood furniture with wrought-iron accents, all come...
Hotel La Casona del Virrey is a surprisingly affordable alternative right in the heart of Popayán. This is the perfect place to be to watch the Semana Santa processions from the balconies; however, expect to pay much more at that time for the privileged view. A stylish inn set in a colonial-era...