for colonial zone I recommend Nicolas de ovando hotel ...about $120 a night with an excellent breakfast buffet or a cheaper hotel in the zone ...discovery hotel right beside the parque indepenendcia ...about $40 a night
In the Colonial Zone, I'd recommend Casa Sanchez, we enjoyed our stay there. Renovated colonial home, right off El Conde, attentive staff and a delicious breakfast - not a buffet, made to order.
I would also recommend Casa Sanchez. Number one on Trip Adviser, fast and free WiFi, very close to el Conde, great staff, pool, sun deck and lovely rooms. http://www.casasanchezhotel.com/newsite/
If you are going to be on El Conde, which runs from the Duarte gate and ends at Columbus Square in the Colonial Zone stay at El Conde de Penalba Hotel. It is at the very end of El Conde . Very nice old Colonial style hotel. Very reasonable rates and the place has a great outdoor cafe. Go to their website and check them out. Very safe place to stay and great location.