Casa Quetzal Hotel is housed in an old Mexican-colonial building on a quiet street away from the noise of the bustling center. From the outside, it looks just like a residential property with a whitewashed facade and old red-brick doorway. On the inside, that home-like vibe is amplified, as a small lounge with steps leads to a beautiful stone patio filled with lush green plants. Winding staircases and pathways lead to more pretty green spaces lined with potted cactai, colorful flowers, and plenty of tranquil seating areas to take a break. With no dining areas, the patios are the only real communal spaces, though most guests are simply seeking a place to throw their bags down and venture out to explore rather than socialize. Most of those staying here are couples, though some families and solo travelers also pass through.

The hotel has a convenient location just a few blocks from the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel cathedral and buzzing main square. This colorful area is brimming with charm and lined with lively cafes and restaurants that are great for people watching. The hotel itself is situated on a quiet cobblestone side street, providing a tranquil respite away from the busy central zone. Attractions within walking distance include the Santa Cruz del Chorro Chapel, Parque Juarez, and the ornate Baroque buildings of Casa del Mayorazgo de la Canal. Ignacio Ramirez Mercado -- a vibrant local market selling food, clothes, flowers, and sundries -- is a 10-minute walk away. The city of Guanajuato is around a hour away by car, while Guanajuato International Airport is roughly a one hour and forty five-minute drive from the hotel.

Casa Quetzal has 12 rooms and suites that are individually decorated in a traditional Mexican style, with modern touches. All have cool tiled floors, whitewashed walls, dark wood-carved furnishings, and colorful artwork and textiles. Suites add whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and separate living spaces with comfortable couches. Some rooms include glass doors that open out directly onto the patio. Standard in-room amenities include flat-screen TVs with cable channels, empty mini-fridges, basic tea- and coffee-making facilities, safes, free Wi-Fi, and free bottled water. Some rooms have air-conditioning, with others just have standing fans. Neutral tiled bathrooms are basic, but clean, with walk-in showers, hand-painted sinks, and free basic toiletries. Guests concerned about noise should avoid road-facing rooms.

Facilities are minimal at this simple, no-frills hotel. There's no restaurant or breakfast service, though there are plenty of inexpensive dining options within walking distance. Plenty of green spaces with shady outdoor seating provide places where guests can relax and take a quiet break, but there are no fitness or wellness facilities. Hotel services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, laundry, tour assistance, airport transfers for a fee, and free Wi-Fi. Valet parking is available, but for those who choose the hotel's free self-parking option, the lot is around nine blocks away. Overall, the hotel is not accessible for disabled guests.