Volga

Famed Mexican architect Javier Sanchez strikes again with this futuristic project in downtown Mexico City.

• A lazy afternoon at the rooftop pool
• The small boutique, mezcal tasting bar and art installation, which showcases local Mexican talent

Set on a quiet side street in Cuauhtémoc just a block from the clamorous Reforma, Volga’s sleek but nondescript, gray exterior would be easy to miss were it not for a small sign next to the door. The interior is a different story. Designed by star architect, Javier Sanchez—of Pujol and Condesa DF—the whole property is built around a spectacular, six-story atrium that opens to the skies above. All rooms face the atrium, with private balconies looking down on it—but though guests can observe the goings on below, an iron screen encapsulating the space prevents those in the atrium from being able to see into the guest rooms.

The 50 rooms have a slight Asian feel to them, with light woods, concrete floors and subtle, dark accents. The balcony doors are sound-proof, and no penny has been spared on the beds, which may just offer one of the most comfortable night’s sleep ever. Entry level rooms are small, so it is recommended to book a suite or above.

The property has a decidedly social aspect to it, with an already buzzy rooftop pool club and a speakeasy opening in 2024. Ascending the stairs in front of the atrium, there are three open sublevels dedicated to the hotel’s boutique, a mezcal-tasting bar and an ever-changing art installation, run by House of Kirschner. There is also a cave-like restaurant and bar on the bottom floor. The polite service is more hands-off, lending itself nicely to hotel’s “cool” factor.

The hotel’s space and on-site experiences cater to every sense, immersing guests in a parallel universe where time and space melt away. Ultimately, a stay is what guests make it, with the option to be as involved or hidden away as they’d like.

Couples and adults looking for that distinct “cool factor” and Mexico City’s new “it-place”

Those looking for a more full-service hotel, with a spa, gym and more manicured service