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14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Guanajuato

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the very heart of Mexico, the lovely old city of Guanajuato – capital of the state of the same name – has long been a popular destination for non-Mexicans, whether for vacationing or as permanent residents. Thanks to its valley location, Guanajuato's streetscape is one of narrow, winding lanes and alleys, often suitable only for pedestrian traffic due to their width and flights of steps (some of these lanes are even located underground).

This delightful UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to numerous small plazas, colonial-era mansions, and churches built using pink or green sandstone, along with many excellent museums and art galleries.

Home to world-class events, like the Festival Internacional Cervantino , which attracts artists from across the globe each fall, this beautiful colonial city offers a wealth of things to do.

An easy four-hour drive north of Mexico City's wonderful attractions , makes a fun destination for a day trip or an overnight stay.

Discover the highlights of this beautiful city with our list of the top things to do in Guanajuato.

See also: Where to Stay in Guanajuato

1. Jardin de la Union and Kissing Lane

2. going underground: exploring guanajuato's tunnels, 3. teatro juárez, 4. the basilica of our lady of guanajuato, 5. alhóndiga de granaditas, 6. the mummies of guanajuato, 7. museo iconográfico del quijote, 8. the university of guanajuato, 9. silver city: la valenciana mine, 10. el cervantino: the international cervantino festival, 11. cristo rey and cerro del cubilete, 12. the diego rivera house and museum, 13. the guanajuato funicular, 14. mercado hidalgo, where to stay in guanajuato for sightseeing, map of things to do in guanajuato, guanajuato, mexico - climate chart.

Jardin de la Union and Kissing Lane

The Jardin de la Union is the heart of historic Guanajuato and serves as the city's main square. Always bustling, this pleasant plaza, with its fountains and flower beds, is ringed by numerous hotels and restaurants, making it a perfect place from which to venture out to explore the rest of the city.

It's also where you'll find a number of architectural gems, from the beautiful old Baroque San Diego Church to the majestic Juárez Theater (Teatro Juárez), which dominates the square (check out the church's museum for its history of the old convent as well as that of the city).

Also worth exploring is Plazuela de los Angeles , which leads to the city's most famous street, the Callejón del Beso , or Kissing Lane , so named as it is narrow enough to allow a loving couple to kiss from windows on opposite sides. These days, the popular thing for couples to do is climb to the third step (as the alley narrows and curves to the right) and secure their eternal love with a kiss.

A tunnel in Guanajuato

A highlight of a walking tour of Guanajuato is diving into the city's amazing network of subterranean streets and alleys. Built of necessity to handle the often-flooded Guanajuato River (Rio Guanajuato), which once flowed under the city, the tunnels became obsolete after a nearby dam was constructed to control the river upstream.

The extensive network of tunnels that remained were put to good use as roadways, alleviating the congested streets above ground while making them safer and more interesting for pedestrians.

These cobblestone roadways also accommodate pedestrians through a number of well-marked footpaths that are fun to explore. Accessible from stone staircases at numerous locations around the old city, the tunnels are a must-see attraction and can also save time if you need to get from one place to another in a hurry (just be sure you have a map with you!).

Teatro Juárez

Dominating the Jardín de la Unión , Guanajuato's pretty main square, is the beautiful Juárez Theater (Teatro Juárez), the city's opera house.

Opened in 1930 after some 30 years of construction, this splendid neoclassical building is notable for its massive Doric columns supporting a Romanesque portico adorned with nine bronze statues of the Greek muses, as well as the steps leading up to the building, a favorite meeting place for locals and tourists alike.

The building's plush Art Nouveau interior is also worth seeing for its rich gilded décor, finely carved wood, and stained glass, especially if you can do so while taking in one of the theater's regular musical or dance performances.

Address: Sopena S/N, Zona Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, GTO

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato

In picturesque Peace Square (Plaza de la Paz), the sandstone-colored Baroque Basílica Colegiata de Nuestro Señora de Guanajuato – the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato – is well worth a visit. Built in the 17th century and much altered thereafter, this attractive building houses one of Mexico's most important relics, the much-revered seventh-century statue of the Virgin of Guanajuato. This carved wooden figure on a silver base was presented to the city by King Philip II of Spain in 1557.

By far the largest building in Guanajuato, the church owes much of its splendor to area miners, who sponsored its construction, a relationship that is marked to this day during annual miners' parades and offerings to the church's patron saint.

In addition to its famous statue, other highlights include its pretty tower, the numerous relics in the main altar presented by the Pope, as well as a number of important paintings by leading Mexican artists.

Other old churches worth seeing are Templo de Belén , built in 1773 and notable for its Churrigueresque façade, and Templo La Valenciana , notable for its three splendid large altars, each of which has been richly decorated in gold leaf.

Address: Ponciano Aguilar 7, Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, GTO

Alhóndiga de Granaditas

Completed in 1809, the Alhóndiga de Granaditas is one of the largest and most interesting of Guanajuato's historic secular buildings.

Built as a granary and also serving for a spell as a marketplace, the building was used by the Spanish and their loyalist allies as a fortress that was overrun by troops led by Miguel Hidalgo in the first defeat for the colonialists who had ruled Mexico for centuries. A statue commemorating the event and Hidalgo's role overlooks the city from a nearby hillside park accessible by a funicular railway.

The building now serves as the home of the Guanajuato Regional Museum with its displays relating to the battle, as well as the eventual execution of Hidalgo when his head and those of his compatriots were placed atop the building for all to see.

In addition to its displays of colonial-era artifacts, the museum also has a large collection of Pre-Columbian materials.

Address: Mendizábal 6, Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, GTO

Mummy in Guanajuato

Although a little gruesome, the Mummies of Guanajuato have proven to be one of the city's most popular attractions and remain an important cultural phenomena relating to local customs and traditions.

Consisting of the naturally mummified remains of locals who died during a cholera outbreak in the mid-19th century, the Mummies Museum (Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato) got its start after the bodies were disinterred between 1865 and 1958 for failure by relatives to pay cemetery taxes. Entrepreneurial cemetery staff charged the curious a small fee to see the mummies, and as word spread, it became something of a spectacle enjoyed by tourists from far and wide.

Adding to the somewhat grisly display is the knowledge that some of those buried were still alive at the time, hence the sometimes frightening expressions on their faces. In addition to a few clothed mummies, the museum also claims to have the world's smallest mummy, a fetus.

Address: Municipal Pantheon Esplanade, Downtown, CP 36000, Guanajuato, GTO

Iconographic Museum of Quixote

Easily spotted thanks to the statue of its namesake standing welcoming by its entrance, the Iconographic Museum of Quixote (Museo Iconográfico Del Quijote) pays homage to Mexico's long-standing fascination with the writings of Spain's Miguel de Cervantes.

With a focus on displays of artwork and artifacts related to Cervantes' most popular piece of fiction, Don Quixote , the museum is well worth taking the time to explore.

Highlights include numerous paintings and statues, along with tapestries and a variety of commercially available materials relating to the story. Also of interest is the International Cervantino Festival held at the Teatro Juárez and other locations across the city each October in celebration of the works of Cervantes.

Address: Calle Manuel Doblado 1, Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, GTO

The University of Guanajuato

Built by the Jesuits in the 18th century as a school, the splendid University of Guanajuato's city center location opened its doors in 1828 and remains the oldest university in Latin America. Located just a few minutes' walk from Peace Square (Plaza de la Paz), the university is well worth taking the time to visit if only to see the famous staircase leading up to this fine neoclassical structure.

If you're up to it and can make the 113-step climb, you'll be able to see some of the building's splendid interior during a visit to the university's natural history museum, as well as its old church.

Address: 20 De Enero 929, 37000 León, GTO

Silver City: La Valenciana Mine

Once the silver mining capital of Mexico and responsible for 80% of the country's production of this precious metal, Guanajuato's long-standing connection to mining runs deep. Today, these old mines - some dating to the mid-1600s - are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be easily visited while staying in Guanajuato as they lie just a few minutes' drive outside the city in the village of La Valenciana.

La Valenciana was largely responsible for much of Guanajuato's wealth and the splendid architecture that came with it. Today, a visit to the La Valenciana Mine (Mina La Valenciana) includes a chance to don a mining hat and tour the old shafts as part of an English language guided tour. Highlights include seeing a number of caverns and drilling equipment, as well as historical artifacts and tools used through the centuries.

Afterwards, be sure to visit the opulent San Cayetano Church (Templo de San Cayetano de La Valenciana), an ornate 18th-century basilica famous for its richly gilded altars, carvings, and artwork.

International Cervantino Festival

Already a bustling year-round tourist destination, come fall, the picturesque city of Guanajuato really springs to life with the arrival of the annual International Cervantino Festival (Festival Internacional Cervantino).

With key events held at spectacular venues such as Teatro Juárez , in addition to some 50 other locations across the city, this October celebration of the works of Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra – famous for his epic work, Don Quixote – draws upwards of 200,000 visitors to witness numerous presentations of art, music, and theater.

In addition to the performances, many city museums host related exhibits, while numerous cafés and restaurants get in on the act with special menus and demonstrations aimed at celebrating Spanish culture from around the globe.

Cristo Rey and Cerro del Cubilete

Perched high atop Cerro del Cubilete, an impressive mountain towering some 2,700 meters above sea level, stands Cristo Rey, a huge statue of Jesus Christ. Located just outside Guanajuato and making a splendid half-day trip, the site is the geographic center of the country and is considered to be one of the most significant religious sites in all of Mexico.

The statue itself is 23 meters tall and was completed in 1950, built in an Art Deco style on top of a smaller monument that was destroyed in 1928. Notable features include an altar under a large metal dome from which is suspended a large crown, signifying that said to have been worn by Christ. The glowing natural light that seeps through gaps in the dome add an otherworldly glow to the experience.

Afterwards, be sure to spend some time relaxing and enjoying the amazing views over the surrounding countryside, especially lovely at sunset.

The Diego Rivera House and Museum

The tortured relationship of famed Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera has been immortalized in works of art throughout the decades.

Frida Kahlo has become a symbolism for Mexican strength, power, beauty, and tragedy. Her husband, Diego Rivera, is Mexico's most famous muralist and is a symbol of Mexican power. Though the two lived a life of struggle and tragedy together, they are, without a doubt, one of the most famous couples in Mexican history.

A visit to Guanajuato isn't complete without a stop to The Diego Rivera House and Museum. He was born in this very building in 1886, along with his twin brother who died shortly after birth. The building was restored in the 1970s under the guidance of his daughter, Guadalupe Rivera Marin, and became the official Diego Rivera House Museum in 1975.

Within its walls, visitors can discover the recreated rooms meant to portray the first years of Rivera's life. Works of art include portraits of Frida Kahlo, as well as his mistress, Dolores Olmedo. Other works include his pencil and ink drawings, photographs, and enlargements of his more famous murals.

Address: Positos 47, Zona Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, Gto., Mexico

Funicular in Guanajuato

One of the best vantage points of Guanajuato is from above. Gazing out over the beautifully colored buildings, historic rooftops, and church towers gives such a sense of place. You really feel like you have discovered one of the jewels and the true heart of Mexico.

So what better way to see Guanajuato from above? Ride its funicular. The funicular is a cable-car elevator system that is designed to go up steep inclines. Guanajuato's funicular opened in 2001 and is located behind Teatro Juarez.

Mercado Hidalgo

Mexico's market scene is famous around the world. Some of the best markets on the planet can be found in Mexico, and Guanajuato is no exception. The Mercado Hidalgo is Guanajuato's most famous market and is housed within a quintessential iron building. Inside the market hall is a humming collection of stalls that sell everything from produce and food to crafts, leather, and souvenirs.

More than just a fascinating glimpse into daily life in Guanajuato, the market hall has a fascinating history. It was originally intended as a railway depot, designed to make Guanajuato an economic hub of Mexico. But the plans to finalize the station never materialized, and in 1910, it was turned into a market.

The inauguration of the station fell over the same time as the celebration of 100 years of Mexico's independence from Spain and so was named Miguel Hidalgo, who was one of the founding fathers of Mexico's independence.

Address: Av. Benito Juárez Mercado, Hidalgo, 36000 Guanajuato, Gto.

We recommend these charming and centrally-located hotels in Guanajuato close to the city's top sights:

  • Hotel Boutique 1850 : This 4-star boutique luxury hotel has an excellent location, contemporary decor, pillow menu, chic rooftop lounge, and wonderful spa treatments.
  • Edelmira Hotel Boutique : For a mid-range boutique hotel in a central location, this is a great choice. It's set on a pedestrian street and comes with a small pool and excellent free breakfast.
  • Posada Santa Fe : This affordable historic hotel offers an unbeatable location with old-world charm.
  • El Meson de los Poetas : You can expect budget-friendly rates at this restored 18th-century mansion. You'll find colonial decor, many stairs, and professional staff.

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Places to Visit near Guanajuato: As difficult as it may be to pull yourself away from beautiful Guanajuato, try to find at least a little time to explore some of the nearby cities with their many points of interest. Great day trips include Guadalajara's many tourist attractions . This city is popular for its distinctive European flavor seen everywhere, from its wide avenues to its colonial architecture.

And let's not forget the country's capital, Mexico City . There's no end of museums and art galleries to explore, as well as many fine churches, cathedrals, palaces, and parks. ( Hot Tip : Both these cities can be reached by an easy one-hour internal flight from Guanajuato.)

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Explore Mexico's Rich History: Mexico's rich history can be seen everywhere. Some of the best ruins to explore near Guanajuato include Teotihuacán, the country's largest Pre-, Columbian ruins. Best combined as a side trip from Mexico City (and three hours from Guanajuato), this UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a first-rate museum, pyramids, and temples.

Although a three-hour flight, if there's room in your itinerary, try to schedule a few days in historic Oaxaca in southern Mexico. Highlights of this ancient Aztec settlement include such historic attractions as the 16th-century Oaxaca Cathedral and the spectacular Monte Albán ruins.

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Mexican Vacation Ideas: Looking for other great places to visit in Mexico ? Our favorites include relaxing on the beautiful beaches and experiencing the highlights of Cancún and the Mayan Riviera , and exploring the attractions and fine colonial architecture in the Yucatán capital of Mérida , to name but two of so many wonderful places to visit.

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25 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico in 2024

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Looking for the best Guanajuato THINGS TO DO IN Mexico?

This top Mexico travel destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site has hundreds — but let’s start by exploring the 25 best things to do in Guanajuato City, the capital of Guanajuato state.

🎁 BONUS: All 25 have been pinned to the handy  Guanajuato, Mexico Map which you’ll find towards the end of the article.

Located in Central Mexico, about five hours by car and bus from Mexico City , Guanajuato has been a popular place for Mexican national tourism for decades.

Nowadays, thanks to social media and YouTube, more and more foreign visitors are discovering this colorful, colonial city.

Ready to discover the 25 can’t miss places in Guanajuato? Let’s get to it.

After you check out the things to see, do and eat, keep scrolling for a Guanajuato Mexico travel guide , to learn everything you need to know to visit Guanajuato like a pro.

The Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico

1. alley of the kiss.

colorful colonial street of Calle del Truco | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

El Callejon del Beso (The Alley of the Kiss) is located on a narrow, winding alleyway.

You’ll find it just behind the Plaza de Los Angeles on just one of the many quiet, narrow, cobblestone streets Guanajuato Mexico is famous for.

If there was ever a Mexican Romeo & Juliet story, it took place on these balconies with a tale of two star-crossed lovers, centuries ago.

Nowadays, visitors recreate their kisses across these two nearly-touching balconies in the Guanajuato Alley of the Kiss, a must see Guanajuato sightseeing stop.

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The story of the Guanajuato alley of the kiss

Narrow, colorful alleyway | Alley of the Kiss | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

According to legend, the daughter of a wealthy Guanajuato family had a bedroom window overlooking the alley. Gazing out of her window one day, she spotted a handsome young man.

The two eventually fell madly in love, though sadly, their love was forbidden because he didn’t come from a wealthy family.

To keep their romance a secret, the young man rented a room in the building next to hers.

The balconies from their two rooms were so close they nearly touched, and this proximity provided the loophole they needed so they could kiss from across the balconies and still remain in their respective homes.

Unfortunately, the girl’s father eventually found out, and forbid them to continue their secret meetings.

In his desperation, Carlos attempted to jump from his window into Ana’s bedroom, but crashed to the ground, hitting the third step in the alley and breaking his neck.

Similar to Romeo & Juliet , this story had a tragic ending. Today, however, the legacy of their love lives on.

Each week, thousands visit the balconies in the Alley of the Kiss to photograph themselves kissing like these star-crossed lovers once did.

best things to do in guanajuato, mexico

2. calle del truco: one of the best guanajuato streets.

colorful colonial street of Calle del Truco | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

According to Guanajuato legend, this street is haunted, so you might want to explore it during the day!

It is said the ghost of a man named Martín, who lost his fortune and then committed suicide, wanders this street — the same street where the casino (AKA truco , or “trick house”) he lost everything in once stood.

🍽🍷 Guanajuato Travel Tips: After strolling this street for a bit, head to Truco 7, one of the best Guanajuato restaurants.

Guanajuato actually has several legends like this one and the legend of the Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss); both may or may not be true.

One thing’s for certain, though, the Calle del Truco is one of the nicest streets in Guanajuato.

Want to learn more of about the history of the city, and it’s local legend folklore? 💃 Book this Premium Guanajuato Historic Tour now!

3. Calle De Sopeña

colorful colonial street of Calle de Sopena | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

Another one of the most beautiful streets in Guanajuato — and if you spent about an hour leisurely walking the Calle de Sopeña, you’d see a good amount of the top sites in Guanajuato.

Start your walk at the Jardin de la Union and walk until the street ends at the Templo de San Francisco .

4. Calle Subterreanea

Entryway to a tunnel street | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

There is almost a second Guanajuato right under the city itself.

Guanajuato was once a bustling mining town, and has a system of complex tunnels and underground passageways. Both cars and pedestrians used the Guanajuato tunnels to get around the city today.

📍 The pin on the map marked “Calle Subterranea” (Underground Street), will lead you to one of the more Instagram worthy Guanajuato tunnels, though there are several others throughout the city.

5. Guanajuato Mummy Museum: One of the Best Guanajuato Museums

mummified human bodies | Guanajuato Mummy Museum | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

The Museo de las Momias (Museum of the Mummies) is the top attraction in Guanajuato — but also one of the most unusual things to do in Guanajuato.

For those seeking out dark tourism in Mexico, this is considered one of the top places in the whole country.

🎨 Guanajuato Travel Tips: For a less macabre museum, head to the Museo Regional de Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas (Regional Museum of Guanajuato).

While the Guanajuato Mummies Museum might not be not for everyone, since the 100-plus mummies of Guanajuato are real human bodies, it is a unique experience you can only have here.

If you’re unsure if you’ll like it or not, it’s worth checking out to see since admission is about $5 USD.

story of the Guanajuato MUMMIES

mummified human body | Guanajuato Mummy Museum | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

Wondering about the Guanajuato mummy story ? It is an interesting piece of Mexican history indeed!

From 1870 to late-1950, Guanajuato’s government enforced what they called a burial tax or grave tax on all bodies buried in the local cemetery.

If the living relatives of the deceased failed to pay the tax for three consecutive years, the government had the body exhumed.

Given Guanajuato’s extremely dry soil, the bodies stayed very well preserved and came out of the ground essentially mummified.

By the time the government stopped the grave tax in 1958, the city had so many mummified bodies that they decided to create a museum.

How to get to the Guanajuato Mummy Museum

• Guanajuato Mummy Museum Address: Explanada del Panteón Municipal s/n, Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, Gto., Mexico . It is located within walking distance of Downtown Guanajuato, but it’s a bit of a steep walk in some parts.

• Walk: The museum is close enough to Downtown Guanajuato to walk. If you walk , keep in mind that Guanajuato is a hilly town, and this is a mildly-strenuous uphill walk in some parts.

• Bus:  Catch the public bus marked Las Momias (The Mummies) along Avenida Juarez (Juarez Ave.) in downtown. The bus costs about $10 pesos (50¢) each way.

• Uber/Taxi:  The third option is to take an Uber or a taxi. From the center of the city, this should cost no more than $100 pesos (about $5 USD) each way.

• Guanajuato Mummy Museum Tickets: $85 pesos (about $4.50 USD)

THINGS TO DO IN GUANAJUATO

6. monumento al pipila: one of the best guanajuato monuments.

large stone statue of a man holding a flaming torch, Pipila Monument | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

If you want cityscape shots and panoramic views of Guanajuato, the Monumento al Pipila is your place.

This monument is a tribute to a local Guanajuato hero named Juan José de los Reyes Martínez Amaro, AKA “El Pipila,” one of the major heroes in Mexican folk tales.

🇲🇽 Guanajuato Mexico Fun Fact: This is the second-tallest monument in Guanajuato State, after Cristo Rey en el Cerro del Cubilet, located in the city of Silao.

It is one of the highest monuments to Jesus in all Latin America, at 8,460-feet (2579 m) above sea level.

Guanajuato funicular (Cable Car)

Funicular cable car going up a mountain in a colorful city

The climb to the Pipila Monument is easy and should take less than 15 minutes.

However, the Guanajuato Funicular (uphill tram, or cable car) is a fun way to go up, for a unique experience and some amazing city views along the way.

7. Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera

historic hacienda with stone archway and purple bougainvillea flowers at Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera | best things to do in Guanajuato, mexico

Located outside of Downtown Guanajuato, but just an Uber ride away, is this beautiful ex-hacienda-turned-museum.

Stepping into the Museo Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera is like going back in time, and every inch of this property is incredibly picturesque.

🎨👩‍🎨 The gardens are so beautiful, many go there to spend a relaxing day painting them with this Watercolor at the Botanical Garden Tour at this hacienda!

Opened as a museum in 1979, Captain Gabriel de Barrera’s grand hacienda still features many of the opulent European period furnishings from when his family lived there.

Spend some time wandering the English garden, eating at the cafe, and taking in the opulence of this fully-restored hacienda.

8. Diego Rivera Museum in Guanajuato City

grand white Guanajuato University building with gothic-style architecture | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Beautiful Guanajuato has been a haven for artists and creative types for some time, including one of Mexico’s most famous artists, Diego Rivera.

The muralist and mosaic artist, and Frida Kahlo’s husband, was actually born in Guanajuato in 1886.

💡 Guanajuato Travel Tip: The museum is closed on Mondays; as are most museums in Guanajuato.

The small Museo y Casa de Diego Rivera (Diego Rivera House and Museum) has some sketches and paintings by Rivera, displayed in the home where he grew up.

It is one of the top tourist attractions in Guanajuato, Mexico.

9. Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato: One of the Best Guanajuato Churches

yellow chuch in guanajuato mexico

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato is the big yellow church you see in so many Guanajuato photos.

Though the outside is more photographed, the inside is very beautiful as well. While it is ok to take photos inside Mexican churches, do remain respectful and quiet while inside.

10. Templo de San Diego

red-domed church

Guanajuato’s second most photographed church! The Templo de San Diego (Saint Diego’s Temple) has a very picturesque red dome, but also a  churrigueresque  style façade.

It’s really almost two photo ops in one, thanks to the temple’s red dome and pink entryway.

Churrigueresque is commonly seen in the architecture of Mexico’s old colonial mining towns. In fact, Guanajuato was once one of the largest silver mining towns in all of Mexico.

The temple is located right next to Teatro Juárez, the next instagrammable Guanajuato spot in this beautiful city.

11. Teatro Juarez

grand vintage Juarez Theater building with statues of men on top | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Teatro Juarez   (Juarez Theater) is among the most iconic of Guanajuato’s grand buildings. This historic theater dates back to the late-19th Century, and still hosts live productions to this day.

It is closely associated with one of Mexico’s largest festivals, the Festival Internacional Cervantino — one of the largest performing arts festivals in the world.

The International Cervantino Festival is an annual music, theater and art festival that takes place in mid-October.

Día de Muertos ( Day of the Dead ) immediately follows the Cervantino, making October and November two of Guanajuato’s liveliest months.

12. University of Guanajuato

grand white Guanajuato University building with gothic-style architecture | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Guanajuato has many colleges and universities, but none more beautiful than the Universidad de Guanajuato.

The school’s dramatic main entrance has 133 steps leading to the entry door. This grand entryway makes for a beautiful backdrop, and a nice place to sit for a while and people-watch. 

13. Templo de San Francisco

grand peach colored Mexican church called templo de san francisco | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

As with most Mexican churches, the Templo de San Francisco is just as beautiful inside as outside. If you do want to take photos inside, just remember to stay quiet and act respectful when doing so.

There are also several sculptures on the streets around the church that make for beautiful photos.

14. Casa del Conde Rul (Museum)

colorful mural of an indigenous woman holding a skull in a museum called  Casa del Conde Rul | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Located just in front of the Plaza de la Paz , the Casa de Conde Rul (House of Count Rul) is one of the most emblematic of Guanajuato’s neoclassical buildings.

The once-home to Count Diego Rul and Doña Ignacia Obregon in the late 1800s, is now an art museum with 10 unique gallery rooms.

15. Mercado Hidalgo

guanajuato tourist places

The largest traditional Mexican mercado (market) in Downtown Guanajuato is a fun, lively place to eat local foods, and shop for souvenirs.

As the market caters to both locals and visitors, you’ll find most of the shopping upstairs, separated from the lower part with fresh fruits and groceries.

Head inside to buy souvenirs at one of the best places for shopping in Guanajuato and to sample some authentic and local Guanajuato food.

For authentic, cheap eats in Guanajuato, the Hidalgo Market is a great choice. You could even do a self-guided food tour in there — making stops at all the places that have a long line!

16. Jardin de la Union (Union Garden): Best Guanajuato Gardens

beautiful garden called Jardin de la Union with large trees in a colonial city  | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Located just in front of the Templo de San Diego, this triangular-shaped plaza is lined with restaurants, bars and cafes on two sides.

Its third side opens onto the very beautiful Calle De Sopeña (De Sopeña Street), one of the favorite places for photographers.

Jardin de la Union (Union Garden) is the perfect place to people-watch, listen to live music from street musicians, buy souvenirs from local street vendors and sample some Guanajuato street food.

When nightfalls, you can hire local guides to take you on ghost tours of Guanajuato City.

17. Plaza de la Paz

guanajuato tourist places

Located just next to the The Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato church is the equally beautiful Plaza de la Paz (Peace Plaza).

This plaza’s outdoor street cafes and old buildings look like they’re straight out of Europe, and make for a nice place to people-watch next to the iconic church.

18. Plazuela San Fernando (Plaza): One of the Best Guanajuato Plazas

brightly colored home and buildings in the colorful colonial town of Guanajuato City, Guanajuato, Mexico, located in central Mexico, and a safe place for female solo Mexico travel | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

This is perhaps the most instagrammable Guanajuato plaza, out of all the pretty plazas in the city. 👩‍🎨 In fact, many artists come here to paint and draw it .

There are some cute cafes, bars and restaurants here for when you need a walking break. Plaza San Fernando is also great for people-watching.

💡 Guanajuato Travel Tip: This square is called both Plazuela San Fernando and Plaza San Fernando.

19. Plaza San Roque

guanajuato tourist places

In Plaza San Roque, you’ll find the San Roque Temple, as well as one of the prettiest, most colorful houses in Guanajuato City.

This historic church dates back to the 18th Century. The inside is very beautiful, but remember to remain quiet and respectful to worshippers when photographing it.

You’ll also find the instafamous Guanajuato flower pot house in this plaza.

If you’re standing facing the San Roque Temple, the house is just to your right. Do note that this is a private residence, so be respectful of the homeowners by not climbing the stairs.

20. Plaza de Los Angeles

Colorful buildings in the european-style plaza de los angeles | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Plaza de los Ángeles (Plaza of the Angels) is located near the famous Alley of the Kiss . It is often full of people, street performers, musicians and locals, hanging out on the steps and talking.

By night, you’ll find many of the Guanajuato Cervantes performers here.

As Guanajuato was the once-home to Spanish author, Miguel de Cervantes, who wrote Don Quixote , his influence is still felt all over the city.

The largest annual festival in Guanajuato, the Cervantino Festival, was named in his honor.

21. Santo Cafe: One of the Best Guanajuato Restaurants

Picturesque Santo Cafe on a balcony  | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

In a city famous for narrow alleyways with pretty balconies, Santo Café stands out by having both.

This cafe is one of Guanajuato’s most Instagram famous eateries, so if you want this iconic balcony shot, arrive right when they open to avoid a long wait time because there are only 4-5 tables on the small balcony.

22. Estacion Gelato

Woman eating ice cream alone at a cafe in guanajuato called estacio gelato  | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

Estacion Gelato  (Gelato Station) is an adorable Guanajuato gelato shop with a cute balcony and the perfect rooftop to enjoy your ice cream.

It’s a great place to take in some nice city views on a break from walking around town.

They have a rotating lineup of flavors, from the traditional to the exotic, like maracuyá (passion fruit).

23. La Clave Azul Restaurant

guanajuato tourist places

This restaurant is a hidden gem, with many other hidden gems inside! The decor is a quirky-chic collection of antique treasures and the outside is quintessential Guanajuato gorgeous.

La Clave Azul Restaurante Taberna (The Blue Key) is perfect for drinks, tapas and photos. Head there from 2pm-5:30pm for Happy Hour when you get free drinks with your tapas orders.

This is one of the best Happy Hours in the city of Guanajuato!

🗺 Guanajuato Travel Tip: La Clave Azul Guanajuato is located at Segunda De Cantaritos 31 , nestled in an alley just off Plaza San Fernando.

24. El Paisa II: Best Guanajuato Tacos

Cutting taco al pastor meat for a taco

A locals’ favorite, this no-frills taquería serves up the best tacos in Guanajuato City. For cheap eats, El Paisa II can’t be beat, with their tasty 75¢ tacos 🤤

If you’re looking to sample some authentic Mexico food , and don’t mind venturing somewhat off the beaten path in Guanajuato City, head to El Pasia II — one of the best restaurants in Guanajuato City!

25. Mezcal Bar el Fusilado: One of the Best Guanajuato Bars

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Heidi Rodríguez (@heidirdzo)

The Cantina El Fusilado Mezcal Bar is worth the 15-20 minute drive from Downtown Guanajuato.

This mezcalería  (mezcal bar) is a locals’ favorite for its many types of mezcal , and old school Mexican cantina vibes.

As you can see in the photo, the outside of this bright blue building with its flowering trees, is also quite beautiful.

In fact, this part of Guanajuato, located outside of the tourist zone is quite pretty and will give you an off the beaten path Guanajuato City experience.

🍺 Guanajuato Travel Tip: Looking for a cantina closer in downtown? Head to La Inundación de 1905, one of the best bars in Guanajuato.

Your Free Guanajuato Map

From the Guanajuato Mummy Museum and the picturesque Alley of the Kiss, to the best Guanajuato tacos and an authentic cantina, this map will get you to all the best things to do in Guanajuato.

If you’re planning to book a Guanajuato tour , awesome choice! — But if not, the map can serve as a great way to discover the must see Guanajuato sites.

Guanajuato Travel Guide

1. is guanajuato safe for travel.

Sho r t answer: Yes, for most travelers, Guanajuato is safe — but don’t just take it from me! Check out Jessica’s first-hand story of safe solo travel in Guanajuato .

Longer answer: As with much of Mexico, the tourist zones in Guanajuato are safe.

If you stick to Guanajuato City, San Miguel de Allende , Dolores Hidalgo pueblo magico (the town where Miguel Hidalgo declared Mexican Independence from the Spanish Crown), and the neighboring state of Queretero , you should be perfectly safe.

As no place on Earth is 100% safe, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below — you know, the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere on Earth. You should also register for the STEP Program and put your mind at ease with an affordable Mexico travel insurance policy.

Wondering Should I get travel insurance for Mexico?

The answer is of course yes , it will give you an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times.

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling. If Mexico travel safety are on your mind, get your free quote below from World Nomads, one of the biggest names in travel insurance.

  • Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take a taxi.
  • Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
  • If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
  • Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
  • Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save the infographic below as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
  • Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things.
  • Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t take drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near one.
  • Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
  • Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay.
  • This should be a no brainer since you’re traveling during a pandemic, but get Travel Insurance !

List of useful spanish words and phrases

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

If you stick to the popular areas of Guanajuato City, most tour operators and people in the service industry will speak English. However, when venturing off the beaten path in Guanajuato, you can expect little to no English.

However, it is good manners to learn at last some basic Spanish when traveling to Guanajuato. 🎧 Listen to Episode 13 of the podcast as travel blogger Elizabeth talk about how she learned eight languages, and gives great tips for how to learn language basics in easy, fun ways.

If learning Spanish isn’t in the cards for you, #NoJudgement! Pin and/or save the infographic below on your phone so you’ll always have the words and phrases you need, even if you’re off-WiFi.

🇲🇽 Mexico Podcast: Need additional Mexico travel safety info?

2. do i need a visa for mexico.

guanajuato tourist places

No, U.S. passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico. This is just one reason Mexico is one of the best travel destinations for Americans.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist visa .

This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country, so don’t lose your FMM!

best things to do in guanajuato mexico

3. how do i travel to guanajuato .

The closest airport to Guanajuato is Bajio Guanajuato International Airport (code: BJM). It is located less than 45 minutes away from the Guanajuato Main Square by rental car , private transportation , Uber or taxi.

The easiest, and often cheapest way is actually via this private transportation shuttle !

As a smaller airport, you might not find direct flights to Leon Guanajuato , but you can connect through most major Mexico airports, including Mexico City (code: MEX), Guadalajara (code: GDL) and Puerto Vallarta (code: PVR).

You can also take a luxury-class ADO bus from Mexico City to Guanajuato, which takes about five hours, or from Guadalajara to Guanajuato, at closer to four hours.

When you factor in airport time, the bus often ends up being be best way to get to Guanajuato. ▶︎ BOOK NOW with BusBud!

4. Best time to visit Guanajuato?

Guanajuato and Central Mexico have what’s known as “eternal spring” weather, so this part of the country has pleasant temperatures year-round.

Guanajuato’s rainy season lasts from about June-September, and then tourism picks back up in October for the Guanajuato Cervantino Festival , followed by Day of the Dead.

Guanajuato Weather

guanajuato tourist places

5. What are the best hotels in Guanajuato ?

guanajuato hotel de la paz | things to do in guanajuato, mexico

There are many options for places to stay in Guanajuato, from boutique hotels and historic haciendas, to hostels and home-stays run by locals.

Below you will find places for all travel styles and budgets, all located in the best part of town, Centro Historico (Historic City Center).

  • Best Guanajuato hotel: Hotel de la Paz — with a great location and amazing views of the center of town!
  • Best Guanajuato boutique hotel: 1850 Hotel Boutique
  • Guanajuato unique stay: Hotel Ex-Hacienda San Xavier
  • Best splurge ($$$$): Casa del Rector Hotel
  • Best mid-budget ($$$): Hotel San Diego and Hotel Chocolate Guanajuato
  • Best cheap Guanajuato hotel ($$): Casa Tecolote
  • Best Guanajuato hostels ($): Casa Lupita Hostel and Hostal Casa de Dante

6. What do I pack for Guanajuato?

Guanajuato has warmer days and cooler nights all year-long, as you can see by the Guanajuato weather chart above.

packing list for mexico

Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Printable Checklist

As far as how to dress, Mexicans are modest dressers, so pants/jeans with long sleeved tops are the norm.

However, sundresses, flowy, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing work for the warmer days; but at night, you’ll want pants and a sweater or jacket.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico

Formerly a Mexico mining town, Guanajuato now relies on tourism as its main source of income — though it still manages to retain an authentic cultural feel, while still having a lot of fun things to do.

If you’re looking to explore more of Guanajuato’s history, you can still visit some of the old mines, like Valenciana Mine, located just outside downtown.

When staying in Guanajuato City itself, you can walk or ask a taxi driver to take you through the network of tunnels that connect the city.

Besides the silver mines, Guanajuato is a very artistic, lively town. There are several art colleges and universities, and a large student population, which adds a youthful feel to this historic town.

Though somewhat off the beaten path, Guanajuato is definitely worth visiting!

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico. Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp upon arrival.

Guanajuato Mexico

Guanajuato: A Travel Guide To The Most Beautiful City in Mexico

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The houses of Guanajuato tumble down the hills that surround it in every imaginable colour. There’s no subtle, complementary colour scheme—fuchsia pink mingles with pillar box red, saffron yellow, baby blue, and lime green.

We like the city better for its discordance. Despite its beauty it’s not perfectly restored and retains a gritty realness—it’s a city where people live, work, study, and play, not a museum piece for tourists.

This colonial city in the mountains of central Mexico was once a silver mining town and although it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, strangely it’s not very popular with foreign tourists, who prefer San Miguel de Allende just an hour away.

The small group of foreigners in Guanajuato tend to be expats or long stay visitors, here to take Spanish classes.

It’s certainly a better place to learn Spanish than the Mexican coast where we were frustrated by our Spanish being responded to with English by staff keen to please vacationers from north of the border. In Guanajuato locals spoke to us in Spanish and we appreciated it.

Exploring Guanajuato

Things to do in guanajuato, where to stay in guanajuato, where to eat in guanajuato, how to get to guanajuato, travel insurance.

Guanajuato, Mexico

We soon fell for Guanajuato—its colours, graceful churches, shady plazas, and lively atmosphere.

It’s a compact, walkable city but the large student population means there’s plenty going on with many cafes, bars, street food stalls, markets, and art galleries.

It was the perfect place to indulge our favourite slow travel activity of aimless wandering. It’s easy to get pleasantly lost in the cobblestone lanes that climb steeply from the centre, turning a corner to find yet another tiny plaza with locals chatting on benches shaded by manicured trees.

It’s definitely a walking city as the narrow streets are a nightmare for cars and one of the city’s unique features is a network of underground tunnels that are used as roads.

Teatro Cervantes, Guanajuato, Mexico

Fine baroque and neoclassical buildings are the result of the prosperity of the silver mines in the 18th century and there are many churches.

We were visiting during Semana Santa (the week before Easter Sunday) a popular time for Mexican tourists to visit the city. In Guanajuato Holy Thursday is celebrated with the Visita a los 7 Templos , a pilgrimage to seven churches, although for many it’s more a social than religious activity.

We opted out but did manage to walk past six of them as we wandered around town and saw the queues snaking out of the churches.

Basilica of our Lady of Guanajuato

The heart of the city is the main plaza, Jardin de la Union. Indian laurel trees have been trimmed to create a dense canopy shading the craft stalls and benches.

It’s surrounded by bars and restaurants whose outside seating is a prime location for people watching. The area is lively in the evenings with mariachi bands and street performers.

Jardin de la Union, Guanajuato

We were staying with our friends Warren and Betsy who got us up at 6.30am to take advantage of the cool mornings for hikes up to the crosses that top many of the surrounding hills, scorched brown at the end of the dry season, but with sweeping views of the city.

View of Guanajuato, Mexico

One of our hikes was particularly challenging as Warren took us off trail and we ended up fighting our way through brush and clambering down steep rock faces using bridging techniques.

But one of the best things about hiking is the satisfaction you feel when it’s over as with aching limbs you relax and reward yourself for a challenge overcome with tacos, beer, and Guanajuato’s excellent street ice-cream.

Back to Contents

Alhondiga de Granaditas, Guanajuato

Our favourite activity in Guanajuato was walking, both through the centre’s streets and the hills outside it. We didn’t visit many of the tourist attractions but there are a couple of art galleries we recommend:

  • Don Quixote Iconographic Museum — We weren’t sure about this one as we haven’t read the book, but as it was free on Tuesdays we gave it a go and are really glad we did. It’s a diverse collection of paintings, murals, and sculptures depicting the character in different styles. Manuel Doblado 1, closed Mondays and Sunday mornings . 30 pesos entrance fee. 
  • Casa Diego Rivera —While you need to go to Mexico City to see Rivera’s famous murals, the house where he was born is worth a visit and it’s only 25 pesos. It contains some of Rivera’s early works so you can see the development of his style, as well as a gallery for contemporary artists. Positos No 47, closed Mondays.

Goats on the Road have more suggestions for things to do in Guanajuato .

  Lonely Planet Mexico is my favourite guidebook with more ideas on things to do in the area. 

Jacaranda tree, Guanajuato

There are hotels, guesthouses and vacation rentals for every budget in Guanajuato such as Hotel Boutique 1850 , a beautiful high-end hotel, and Casa Tepozanes , an inexpensive, friendly and charming guesthouse.

Search for more accommodation in Guanajuato here .

There are plenty of street food stands all over the city. 

For a break from Mexican, we loved the falafel wraps (with chipotle sauce for a Mexican twist) at vegetarian Habibti Falafel ( Sostenes Rocha 18 C) and you can also get mixed plates of falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and vine leaves. 

For more veggie options see Happy Cow Guanajuato . 

We arrived and left on very comfortable Primera Plus buses. From Mexico City (Mexico Norte station) to Guanajuato it takes five hours and costs 680 pesos/ $32 with online discounts available. 

To Puerto Vallarta on the coast, the overnight bus takes nine hours and costs 1187 pesos/$62.

Guanajuato’s nearest international airport is Del Bajío (BJX) in Silao 30 minutes away. Search for cheap deals on Kiwi.com , which offers a lot of flexibility (choose a date range to find the cheapest day to fly). From the US it could be cheaper to fly to Mexico City and take the bus. 

Interjet and Aeromexico fly direct from Mexico City to Del Bajío airport if you don’t want to take the bus. Flights take one hour.

Budget airlines charge for checking in luggage. To avoid these fees, pack light and travel with just carry-on luggage. My book, The Carry-On Traveller: The Ultimate Guide to Packing Light , shows you how.

Don’t forget travel insurance for your trip in case anything goes wrong.

We use and recommend SafetyWing , which is available worldwide, covers COVID-19, and can even be purchased after departure. It’s especially good for longer stays as it’s payable monthly and can be cancelled at any time. Read my SafetyWing insurance review for more details. 

Guanajuato, Mexico

Guanajuato has been called the most beautiful city in Mexico and it’s definitely the most attractive city we’ve visited with its colourful buildings, tree-lined streets, lovely plazas, and easy escape to the mountains.

If you enjoyed this post, pin it!

Is Guanajuato the most beautiful city in Mexico? Take a look at our photo essay and decide for yourself.

223 Comments

We just spent 4.5 days in GTO and loved it! There were so many tourists, the vast majority are not English-speaking. We enjoyed seeing all colorful buildings, loved the vibe of the city and the cultural aspect of it – went to quite a few museums, saw a contemporary ballet at the Juarez Teatro (what an architectural gem!), wandered the streets and alleys, twice took funicular and once walked up to the monument of El Pipila to see the stunning views. Took hundreds of photos!

Reply ↓

I spent a month in Guanajuato studying Spanish at one of the small language schools. I fell in love with this city. It is exactly as described. So beautiful. A very historic Mexican city that is not popular with American tourists. I enjoyed walking the tiny streets and alleys after morning classes practicing my Spanish in the many tiny shops, cafes and restaurants. The local people are polite, kind and helpful. For those that are concerned about safety, I have lived in NYC, LA and now Palm Springs and felt safer in Guanajuato than I did in the US. People are out and about in the evenings enjoying the plazas, music and restaurants. At night the Callejoneadas lead groups of people thru the streets singing traditional songs. There are many small museums and galleries that you can pop into for a few hours and still have time for coffee or lunch before heading to another. The cathedrals are magnificent. I would stop in if the door was open and take a few minutes to rest and meditate. For photographers it is a dream. I took hundreds of photos of the many callejons, colorful buildings and the stunning view from the monument of Pipila. I could have stayed longer. Anyone who is interested in visiting a vibrant, lively, historic and beautiful city should go to Guanajuato.

Guanajuato is an amazing place and deserves a week to enjoy. There’s absolutely no violence in Guanajuato, but some of the surrounding cities are known to have some cartel presence. Nevertheless, I always laugh out loud any time violence is mentioned in Mexico when the same sources never mention all the horrendous crime up and down the streets where they live. Mexico is safe most places.

Our experience is that the heritage cities of Guanajuato and San Miguel are safe. It is outside these and in other urban centers that can be dangerous.

Nice article! I put this on my bucket list.

Unfortunately, Guanajuato is now the homicide capital of Mexico. But I’m going if things ever calm down.

Hi Peter – It’s a bit confusing but “Guanajuato” is 1) the state, 2) the county or municipio and 3) the city. The violence stats almost always refer to the state – which no doubt has some problems. Guanajuato City actually has a low violence rate – using intentional homicides as a measure, Guanajuato City has an annual rate of 9.23 per 100K population compared to some US cities*: Flint, MI 62.0 per 100K, West Palm Beach 16.6 per 100K, San Bernadino, CA 21.9 per 100K or to the US Virgin Islands at 49.3 per 100K of population. One advantage (if you could call it that) to violent crime in Guanajuato and the entire Bajio area is it’s usually cartel related and they are killing other cartel members – not the random violence that we have in the States where I am from. I live in Seattle and feel 10x safer walking through Guanajuato City at 10pm that I do through downtown Seattle. * The data is from here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gtomx/posts/1984590878357745

Well said!!!! I just Love this beautiful city, and I can’t wait to go visit my family that live in this wonderful magical city❤️❤️❤️

There is a tradition in Guanajuato: where students of music schools and bands just take to the streets and give their music to all passers-by. Walking around the city, go up to the Pipila monument, a beautiful view of the city opens up from here – it’s an explosion of colors.

Great article! GTO is an amazing place. I’d like to add there are a few great Facebook Groups serving the Guanajuato expat community. The first is geared for those visiting or living in Guanajuato – all sorts of questions asked and answered about everyday life, or ask your own question and experts will answer it for you. The other Group is a constantly updated list of activities and events in Guanajuato – art, music, food… everything.

expat community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gtomx/

events and activities: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1587748181247376/

Thanks – the groups look useful!

Lived there and it was a wonderful experience…

Debating between language school for 4 weeks in Guanajuato or Merida. Have you been to Merida?

We haven’t been to Merida but I’ve heard it’s lovely (probably quite a bit hotter than Guanajuato which is up in the hills).

Is the city good for visitors with very basic Spanish language skills?

I’m sure you’ll manage fine. Some people speak English and just take a phrasebook or use the Google Translate app if you get stuck.

Absolutely ! Locals would love to be of help. We own a house in San Miguel and visit Guanajuato frequently. A word of caution. Don’t drive, Walk ! Traffic can be horrible in very narrow streets.

Hi, I saw a post where one woman said that the air-quality was very bad there. Is that true? From the photos it looks like the sky is blue and I don’t see smogy air but photos can be deceptive. I would really appreciate an answer.. thank you in advance, Robin

We had no issues with air quality when we were there.

You captured the charm and beauty of the city perfectly!

Thank you Theresa!

How safe is it here ?

We always felt safe in Guanajuato.

Having spent several January’s in GTO it can be rather chilly especially at night. I take warm sleep wear and a heating pad to take the “frost” off my bed. In addition a medium weight jacket (I take my college hoodie) is a good idea. Not intolerable but often not shirt sleeve weather especially on rainy days which can happen.

Should I pack for winter weather? Trip starts January 6, 2018? So excited!!!

The winter climate in Guanajuato is usually quite mild–nights might be chilly, and late afternoons or evenings may be windy. I usually pack a pair of jeans, a wood sweater, and a shawl–socks are good, comfortable walking shoes are a must–don’t forget your sun hat!

The colours of Guanajuato look absolutely incredible! I can’t wait to visit here one day! Thanks for sharing and the great guide!

That’s really beautiful! I NEED to go there at least once in my life.

We definitely recommend it!

Hi. I am in Guanajuato now for the 2017 Festival Internacional Cerventino. I plan to stay for a month. The people are extremely friendly, and the city is beautiful. I find it difficult on the weekends due to the people congestion; tourist from all over Mexcio come for a visit. The festival has been memorable so far. I am also studying the language which helps a good deal. I am 65 year old male. I walk all over town. Lots of ups and downs. Peter

I am female, senior, and travel on my own; how safe is it there?

Hi, Marijke

I’ve travled to Guanajuato twice, solo. I rent a studio near the Embajadoras area. I feel very safe, but almost never venture out alone after dark. I encourage you to visit, stay for awhile–maybe take a Spanish class at a local language school where you will meet fellow travelers. There’s so much to do and see. I highly recommend skipping Cervantino festivities, too crowded for a first-time, solo visit (I went on my second visit). BTW I’m 64 and very fit, bring good walking shoes!

If the US reported all the gratuitous violence that occurs every night, there would be no room for politics. We always feel safe in PV.

Thanks, fortunately I do not live in the US!

When is the best time of year to visit? I’m also a senior female traveler. Thanks

Dori, Guanajuato is beautiful to visit at any time of year. It does get more rain in the summer. Because of the elevation, the nights can be cool in the winter. But the city has so much going for it, the cool nights don’t bother me as it quickly warms up during the day. And in the summer, the rains bring lushness to the hillsides.

Well if you like art. I mean art of all kinds (from paintings to the ballet) . Los Cervantinos, is an amazing art festival that brings some of the best artists from all over the world! Guanajuato is known for its artist community. There have been many famous artists that have lived there. It is beautiful and full of culture. So yes it does get crowded during Los Cervantinos but well worth it if you love art and would like to see why people from all over the world flock there during this World Famous Festival! It’s amazing, and I do recommend it!

I am female and travel on my own; how safe is it there?

I’m senior female and have lived along here for 13 years and visited regularly for 5 years before that. Things happen from time to time, usually when a person is not prudent like walking alone late at night. I feel much safer here than most places in USA. There is MUCH less random violence. Most of what gets into the press is drug related and I don’t “do” and I don’t “deal” and I don’t go to bars late at night, so that leaves me out.

Hi there. I am a 65 female with 2 dogs, one medium and one large. I lived in Mexico about 15 yrs ago and am moving back permanently in about 5 or 6 months. Guanajuato is high on my list and my dogs and I will be renting for a month as I see if this is the place for me. Visited before and like what I know about it. Can you give me advice as to how to find inexpensive place. Yard, for a month? I speak Spanish. Not perfectly but pretty darn Good! Ha! Thanks! Greta

Airbnb is the easiest way to find a place but it’s not the cheapest. It’s the only site I really trust for booking a month long stay in advance (because of the reviews and support from Airbnb if anything goes wrong). Otherwise we look around once we arrive, but that’s a lot more work. Good luck!

Can’t believe I missed going to Guanajuato City. I was in GTO for the first time this past summer and enjoyed the people, climate and the richness of the state. Can’t wait to go back this summer. Looking forward to it. Thanks for the inspiration.

I’ve been all over the World, and Guantato is by far the most beautiful city I have ever seen, no beaches, no shirt, no shoes no problem! It’s like coming in to another place in time thru those tunnels ,many good memories at Bar Ocho and all the history. Danny Lovelace

Hey! Really great write up. We just loved how pristine this place is, and yet it’s still a genuine working town. Most of the activity you see is people going about their everyday business, which makes visiting it a really unique snapshot rather than a relentless tourist mine. We’ve literally just left Guanajuato and thought we’d share this video to help paint a picture…a 360º video of some of the sites we loved the most… https://youtu.be/1FP4UVM–tk

I am just seeing this article for the first time. Very well done – both the writing and the photos! As close as you can come to seeing the beauty of Guanajuato in person! We went to Mexico for the first time in 2007 and visited Guanajuato for the first time on that trip and wham! – fell in love with the place. Three years later, we were renovating a house and then in 2015 we got our “Residente Permanente”. Be careful when you visit Guanajuato….you just might fall in love and put down roots!

Hi Linda. So good to see you comments on Guanajuato. How would you compare it to San Miguel de Allende. I currently live in DC (originally from Tucson) but am thinking of retiring in either G. or SMA. Do you feel safe in the area. Hope to hear from you. Franciska

I just spent some time in both San Miguel de Allende(SMA) and Guanajuato. I really looked forward to SMA but found it a bit boring and depressing,to say the least. Guanajuato on the other hand was one big pleasure. I’ll be back.

Hi Franciska – you would probably get a dozen different answers in comparing SMA and GTO. They are both incredibly beautiful cities, but are very different. SMA has a much larger American population, as evidenced by the fact that many ATMs dispense pesos AND dollars! Most all the restaurants, hotels, shops, etc. will have English speaking staff. This is not as much the case in Guanajuato. Guanajuato is more of a Mexican tourist town, as it is important in the history of Mexico. SMA has a large and thriving artist (of all sorts) community with people from all over. There is more variety in terms of what you can buy. For instance, we went to SMA to buy our light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and some of our furniture. I would also say that because of that, SMA is generally more expensive than GTO. We feel (only our opinion) that Guanajuato has a more “genuine” Mexican culture, while SMA has a more American influenced Mexican culture. My husband and I both speak Spanish, and like learning and improving our Spanish, so communication is not an issue for us. We renovated a house in another country, another language, another currency system, and another system of measurement with an architect who only spoke Spanish, and it was a super successful adventure that I would not trade for anything! It’s really just a matter of what type of atmosphere appeals to you more and in which environment you feel more comfortable. The folks I know who live in SMA make frequent trips to GTO for various reasons and vice versa. I would encourage you to spend quality time in both places. You really can’t lose! Linda

Pro’s and con’s thus far living in guanjuato?

We are spending 6 months in guanajuato (june – nov) this year with our 2 labs. Would like to find info on best spots for exercising them and any pet health tips. . Cannot wait!

Sounds great, Phil. I arrive Thursday for my first time! But staying 3.5 months. Ill be staying out at Presa de la Olla.

Sounds like your are just up the street from my place. Great area!

Returning for my 5th visit this time a bit shorter due to some health stuff but I will be there a full 6 weeks. With the low peso I will be paying under $10 a day for my apartment of a bedroom, kitchen, living room, bath & includes utilities with wifi. It is located in the best area in town but a block from the Governors Mansion. Also near several excellent cafes, coffee houses & tiendas.

Would love to visit for a few months too. Your accommodations sound great. The question I have is can a person with mobility issues get around relatively well?

Love your article. Tried a quote with World Nomads but they only cover under 60. I’m 62.

Oh, that’s annoying. Sorry to hear they don’t cover over 60s.

I have just come back from a wonderful trip to Mexico visiting ‘discovered’ family in Mexico City for the first time. We all have a Great, G,G, Grandfather & Great,G,G, Uncle in common – both of whom came to Mexico to live and work in Guanajuato! I am already planning to return next year, visit this lovely city, and discover and experience more of Mexico, it has been too long since I was last here.

Wow, this post generated so much interest. I am going for 3 weeks to Guanajuato this winter, to explore for possibly of living there in the future. By all accounts it is amazing. If anyone has suggestions about how or where to meet expats there, I’d be grateful. Thanks.

Try this forum, and if you don’t see what you are looking for pose a question of your own. http://gtolist.com/forum/forum-1.html

Spent a wonderful week in Gto in 2004, going back for a week in late Feb. early March. Cannot wait. Gonna eat more ice cream this time, life is short.

I travelled to Guanajuato (GTO) two years for the first time and it was an amazing trip. I fell in love to that city. It was built in the XVII century by the Spaniards, but reached its zenith during the XVIII century and played a key role in Mexico´s Independence movement during the XIX century. It is a Spanish colonial city, but sometimes feels more like an Italian mountain town. Sometimes you get the impression that you are somewhere in South Italy, but colors used in houses and main buildings is Mexican without a question. If you like art, history, architecture and romance, then GTO is the right place for you. You can use GTO as your base city to explore the center of Mexico (referred to as Bajio), which is populated with other worth visiting colonial cities like San Miguel de Allende (equally romantic and colorful but more sophisticated and pricey), Morelia city and Queretaro city. They are safe, affordable and really charming. They are at a 2-hour drive from GTO and can be reached by bus. These 4 cities are World Heritage so that somehow guarantees good quality. In the case of San Miguel de Allende, 3 or 4 years ago it was recognized as the best city for tourists in the world (beating Paris and London) by the prestigious publication Condé Nast and this year Condé Nast recognized San Miguel as the best city for tourists in Latin America and Mexico.

Hi there! I am wondering if you are aware of what GTO is like now? I am planning on vacation this Labor Day weekend. My spanish isnt that great. I’m wondering what the drive is like from the airport to the city. Is it safe to travel at night in the streets?

Hello, I’ve lived in G’to for 10 years and it is a very safe city. That said, of course, as in ANY city it is prudent not to be wandering around alone after 8 or so. The drive from the airport is about 40 minutes but I can’t imagine what you would want a car for. It is hard to drive in the city with many one-way streets&tunnels and parking is very difficult and expensive. G’to is a walking city and quite hilly and with lots of stairs. Sadly, there is no public transport to the city from the airport. A taxi costs about 800 pesos RT — about US$45 — US$23 each way. Where do you plan to stay?

Visited Guanajuato 10 years ago and it has never left my mind. Thought it might be a nice place to retire, and after having travelled all around Mexico quite a few times, GTO remains top of my list. I am in SMA (feeling like adult DisneyWorld) and yes it is beautiful but GTO seems more vibrant. So I am heading to GTO tomorrow to look at the housing market.

Mike Lander, who has posted on this board: where is the Embajadores area?

Whst did you find on your housing search?

Beautiful writing. Gorgeous photos. Am aching to go back to Mexico now.

Hi! My wife and I reside in northern México but have purchased a nice home lot at Comonfort, GTO, about 18 miles from San Miguel De Allende. We plan to build an adobe home there in another year or so. MUCH LESS EXPENSIVE THAN SMA! And still original! When in the SMA area we always take a side trip to Guanajuato City, the state capital. From San Miguel De Allende to GTO City is 58 minutes by very nice buses. (I timed it once.) Upon arrival at the bus station (camionera central) in the city take a taxi for el centro, “distrito historico” or grab a city bus at the camionera central that says “el centro” and/or “distrito historico” on the front windshield (five pesos). It’s easy and very affordable. You will love this city! Best to all of you. Come see us in Comonfort De Chamacuero sometime. Contact at Hotel Posado De Chamacuero on the east side of the central jardin (plaza).

we’re planning a trip of around 8-9 days to include Queretaro, San Miguel and Guanajuato. The current plan is to spend 3 nights in Queretaro, 2 nights in San Miguel, then 3 nights in Guanajuato. Ideally, we would love to base ourselves in one places and not have to move 3 times, but not sure if that’s practical. we don’t want to spend 2 hours in a bus/taxi travelling to/from towns . does this make sense or could we use Guanajuato as a base for San miguel? Grateful for any thoughts and recommendations

hi Glenn, how has your experience in gta, with your home and lot, been thus far?. Sounds interesting. You feel safe? pro’s and con’s living there? I’m thinking of buying land and prefab on top if the price is right.

My wife and I fell in love with Guanajuato City. We have listed our home in a more expat populated Mexican city to fund building a home there. We recently purchased a lot in the Embajadoras area can’t wait to be part of this amazing city!

Wow! Super project. Wishing you good luck.

That’s exciting! Good luck with the move!

never been there would love to visit, but how safe is it?

I’m sure many will concur with the following that Guanajuato is a jewel of a city. Been there last Spring, at a casita on la panoramica. Walked downhill to town every day, early out and back many times in the darkness of night. Never an issue. Same thing for SM de Allende. Two cities that beg visiting, will return soon. Just returned from Merida, Yukatan. Also very charming, with all the nice communities/villages around it.

We felt very safe there.

I have not been to Guanajuato.. But did live for a time in beautiful Aijijic on Lake Chapala.. near Guadalajara I believe it is more beautiful there… it is in the mountains.. more of a Rivera.. though.. more lush and I am inclined to think a little less expensive for day to day living.. owing to the fact that Guanajuato is so close to San Miguel de Allende… Still I will be visiting this gem of a city.. that is called the prettiest place in Mexico in April of 2016..and will compare if it does best .. Aijijic… I am thinking.. she cannot be bested at this point… any feedback ?

I’d love to know what you think. I only heard about Ajijic recently and we’re considering staying there on our next trip to Mexico.

We are currently selling our home n Ajijic so we can make s move to Guanajuato City. Ajijic is a very easy transition for expats to make. A little less Mexican than we like.

If you speak Spanish fluently, you might enjoy living in Guanajuato. It is a small, pretty university town.

If you speak English, you will probably enjoy Ajijic. It is a gringo colony. Very pretty but nothing like Guanajuato.

We have friends that live in Ajijic.

Erin Guanajuato is not obsessed with Cervantes. There is a reason for that. Don Miguel De Cervantes Y Saavedra is a writer form the 1600’s. He wrote El Quijote which is a masterpiece of the Spanish Literature. Guanajuato was a Spanish Colonial City and its mine La Valenciana produced 75% of the silver circulating around the world in its time. I recommend you to read the history of my town Guanajuato is fascinating.

You can have it. You can actually count the number of trees in the whole city. It is in the middle of a totally deforested set of hills. If you like a total absence of nature, Guanajuato is for you. Add to that the utter absence of any quiet–Mexico is an amazingly noisy country, and the Mexicans have a genius for destroying their natural surroundings. They love concrete. Compare it to the charm and setting of any number of cities of similar size in Europe and you’ll see immediately what I mean.

Lorenzo where are you from?

My first visit to Guanajuato was in my youth, being 7 years old at the time, I was enchanted by the town. It is the most beautiful place I have visited. To sit at the plaza and listen to the story tellers speak of “La Llorona” and the “El Callejon del Baso” , all the while I was holding hands with my Chispita.

Will be there with my husband on October 31 :). Can’t wait :)))).

what is a good time (climate) of year to visit?

Hola tienen tours k puedan ofrecer como de 5 dias? Me interesa quedarme en guanajuato como base Pasar anlo nievo ahi

I am from Mexico and although I have enjoyed living in the US for 30 years,I can’t wait to move back to my native country. I haven’t been in Guanajuato in a long time , but I agree with you about it’s enchanting attributes.So, after reading your post, I’ve decided to make a trip there and possibly make it my home. Gracias!

We love Guanajuato. I’m surprised to didn’t mention the Mercado with its tin roof and cupola designed by Gustave Eiffel, the designer of the Eiffel Tower. Or, that Arturo Toscanini conducted the orchestra for the grand opening of the Opera House, or Las Momias!

I want to travel there next year. Will slight mobility issues be a problem with all the steps?

My family is from Guanajuato on my fathers side, my mother is native American Apache, and now that I am married to a Puerto Rican I was very proud to show case the heart of Mexico by bring my husband here to visit. Guanajuato has so much history and culture and some strange natural resources. The Pipila stature was so inspirational and the callejonadas was so romantic culture and tradition is all around and the mummies was incredible sight to see, el callejon del beso was again romantic and El Teatro Juarez was magical Cristo Rey was breath taking. The museums were so classical the town was so peaceful and beautiful. We plan to be there this June 2015 for two weeks we rented a house and we are here to celebrate my husbands 50th birthday. This is Mexico.

Yes, Guanajuato is Mexico. The town seems alive with a heart and soul, my memories hold Guanajuato as a special place in my heart.

I love Gto! San Miguel de Allende is nice, but the Starbucks in the plaza killed its charm so we won’t be going there anymore. We were 3 females traveling in a rented car and didn’t think twice about hiring a guide off the street. It was well worth the 25.00 we paid for a wonderful tour. We visited Diego Rivera’s house, the “Momias”, Pipila, and other landmarks. Dolores Hidalgo is another charming city to visit with so much history and amazing ice cream! My friends and I have made it an annual tradition to visit in late October/early Nov. (Day of the Dead and All Saints Day) and visit Gto. and the neighboring state Michoacán. I can go on and on about how beautiful Gto. is, but one must visit to appreciate its beauty…I love Mexico!

I am planning to spend 4 weeks in Guanajuato this summer to focus on Spanish. I am looking at Escuela Mexicana and their host family program as I’ll be traveling alone, but I’m also curious about the need for immunizations before traveling. Since you were there recently, do you have any suggestions? Did your group get hepatitis a and b and/or typhoid vaccines? Those are the ones listed on the cdc’s website but I’m wondering if they’re really necessary?

You don’t need to get the mentioned shots for visiting this fair city. Generally the shots are necessary for visiting remote places such as Africa that have epidemological issues and/or there is knowledge of insects that transmit diseases that could be prevented with a shot. The chances for getting the conditions you mentioned are the same as the chances of contracting them in the States or in Canada. If you take the same caution that you would anywhere you go (exposed to body fluids of someone who has Hepatitis), then you will be fine. I am a medical professional and have not got the shots specifically for visiting Guanajuato.

I will comment, however, that the altitude is higher than most places in the States. Sometimes I have a problem adjusting to the altitude difference; shortness of breath and gastric issues (and no, it didn’t come from drinking the water … in fact, I was with a Mexican family who had similar problems). Just take it easy, drink lots of bottled water and you will gradually adjust to the altitude.

You will love Guanajuato and one thing I will advise you about is that you will like it so much that you will want to return, and as some have discovered, moved there permanently.

What a beautiful colourful city! Our group of 4 (all very active seniors) spent a week in Guanajuato week before Easter. We felt very safe as we walked up/down steps thru narrow streets and up into the surrounding hills every day and on one occasion thru the underground tunnels late at night. A wonderful adventure!! The closer we got to Easter the crowds started to arrive….but mostly from other parts of Mexico. We feel our timing was perfect…out of there before it became too crowded. We stayed in the Edelmira hotel very close to the main square. Highly recommend it..close to everything…good prices online. Guanajuato had a surprise around every corner/street musicians/dancing/stage performances/interesting restaurants and endless places to explore and walk. Locals were very friendly….We operated on very limited Spanish and the people were very generous in trying to understand our needs..We will be back …but I might tuck a few bottles of white wine in my case….I wasn’t a big fan of what was available but I hear the beer was a big hit!

My wife found this gem of Mexico while searching for nice places to visit in Mexico. (Hi babe, I know you will be reading this!!) it just so happens to be fairly close to the city where my grandpa built a home about 30 years ago, in Guadalajara. I wanna go visit there as well!

Guanajuato, one of my favorite cities on this planet Earth. I learned to appreciate this city through one of my friends who worked at the University. My first visit was for the Festival Cerventino; I loved it. I stayed in a hotel in the center of the city and enjoyed the many acts that came from around the world to perform there. Yes, there were a lot of people but that added to the uniqueness of the event. Of course, it did help to have someone who lives there guide me through the crowds of people.

My camera was busy. After the festival, I enjoyed roaming the winding streets, photographing the buildings, people, and dogs. It’s a pedestrian friendly place. Most of the streets are underground, in tunnels.

In later visits, I went to the Diego Rivera birthplace museum, the many churches in and outside the city, the museum of art/sculptures of Don Quixote, purchased the unique gray pottery with intricate designs that is unique to this region, visited the many galleries and art studios, been up and down the stairs (7 flights) of the University, and enjoyed the wonderful restaurants in the city. Don’t forget to check out the many theaters for performances; there is an orchestra that plays on Friday nights.

It is safe there but as usual, a person needs to simply use common sense, especially when you’re out late at night. It’s no different than being in the States where crime in all cities is significant. The same applies to any other city/town in the world.

I will issue ONE warning: if you go once, you’ll never forget it and will yearn to return someday.

Having a nearby taxi # on your cell phone can work wonders. I know a guy who was drunk and under threat by a gang here in PV at 3am, and he called the taxi and escaped the 3 blocks to his condo.

I lived in Guanajuato of years. Do not trust the appearance! Guanajuato has become a dirty dangerous city, it has nice colonial buildings and a lot of happy colors over the walls in the alleys but is fucking dangerous. Trust me. I speak for personal experience and for what happen to many others! Especially womens. They just try to sell the city as a wonderful cultural destiny… it is not. Just spend there few days no more. I do not have not even a one friends living there who has not encounter violence.

That’s strange you feel that way. We didn’t feel unsafe at all and our friends lived there for six months with no problems.

This is a slanderous and completely inaccurate review of Guanajuato! I came here on a regular basis for 3 to 6 months a year starting in 1999 and going to 2007, when I bought and remodeled a house and I’ve lived here full time since then. Let me state that I am a woman and that I live alone and have never, in 15 years, had any problem. I do have friends who have had some problems, usually after midnight and when alone. I NEVER walk about alone in any city in the world after dark. I’ve traveled to more than 90 countries and sampled many of there cities and it is important to follow common sense rules of precaution. Most travelers leave their brains at home and expect the country to which they travel to be free of the problems that they have at home (though many of them deny ANY crime in their home town — what a crock!) There are some dangerous areas of G’to, as there are in EVERY city/town/village in the world and, as in any city, there is pickpocketing in the areas frequented by tourists who often have expensive toys and no caution. Please do not be swayed by this one rant. Come and enjoy by beautiful and historic city.

I completely agree with Kay. Guanajuato is a safe place to visit and to live. Just like anywhere in the world, you have to make sensible decisions in order to be safe…. all the obvious things that an experienced traveller should already know….don’t walk down dark alleyways late at night alone…know how to call a reliable taxi should you need one…don’t be overtly flashy with expensive items such as jewelry, cameras…don’t leave your belongings unattended. It is not rocket science. I am sorry the earlier contributor had a negative experience and I do not know the circumstances so I cannot comment on what happened to her. However, Guanajuato is a charming and safe place to visit.

Hi Kay, I’ve enjoyed learning about Guanajuato from your perspective here. It’s definitely been on my list of places to visit. I currently spend winters in Puerto Vallarta (I’m there now) but love old colonial cities. How do I contact you about couch surfing with you?

Well I know dozens who live in GTO that have never been victims of violence. I stayed 2 months this Season never feeling even remotely in danger & explored virtually every street in town. I hung with local resident most days, became a member of a local group as well as volunteered at the English Language Library. Not a word from anyone being a victim of violence!

I studied in Guanajuato during the summer of ’89 and loved every minute of it! I stayed with the Santoscoy family in the Plaza de la Paz….Great people and wonderful memories :)

I will be arriving in Mexico City and taking the first bus to Guanajuato and spending a few days there before I continue to San Miguel de Allende. Again, I would love to meet up with any other fellow travelers. I will be there the 26 of December and stay for about 3 to 4 days. Any suggestions for places to stay that are reasonably priced? thanks Phil for your suggestions as well.

Guanajuato is really beautiful both of my parents are from there. I’ve been there like 5 times and there is so much to do and many places to visit. The food is great! You can’t leave that place without going to Tarimoro a little town and having some of there ice cream seriously the best!

I’ll be there starting January 5 for two months. If you would be interested in having lunch or coffee with this 72 YO guy let me know. I’ve been traveling Mexico from almost 30 years, alone much of the time & this will be my third trip to Guanajuato so be happy to give you my input. [email protected]

Hi, I am planning a trip to Guanajuato and San Miguel. I have wanted to go for so long so I am going. The problem is that I may end up going alone. Will leave right after Christmas for two weeks. I would love to meet up with others traveling there during that time. I haven’t travel alone in years, so I am a bit nervous, but nevertheless exited. Is it safe for a woman to travel alone and is there a gathering place to make friends? Any thoughts will be appreciated.

Hi, Cecilia. Speaking from experience, I can tell you that it is fairly easy to meet up with other travelers in Guanajuato so that you’ll have some company while you explore the city. A few places where you’ll find English-speaking staff and travelers hanging out are Café Tal (a coffee shop), Bar Ocho (which has decent food as well as drinks), Café Carcamanes and Santo Café (which recently closed, but will probably reopen soon; addresses and maps for these places can be found with a quick Google search). I don’t remember that any female acquaintances had serious problems visiting Guanajuato solo, but you’ll find that the level of attention from men on the street is sometimes more intense than in many parts of the English-speaking world. Like anywhere else, take basic safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings and you’ll probably be OK. As others have mentioned, one area you should be aware of is the Pípila monument overlooking the city center and the side streets near it – thefts seem to be more common there than in other places, so it’s probably best to avoid it at night and go there with a group. If you’ll be in Guanajuato on a Monday through a Friday, an excellent way to meet other people, learn about the city and learn some Spanish at a low price is to take a class or two at Falcón language school. (I have no business relationship with Falcón other than having been a student there years ago and also being enrolled for classes starting next month.) There are other Spanish schools in Guanajuato, as well – Adelita is one, as is Don Quijote, but Falcón has turned out to have the best balance of quality, price and flexibility for me. It just so happens I’ll be in Guanajuato during the time frame when you’ll be visiting, so post a comment in reply here if you have any more questions. Enjoy the beautiful city!

Here’s a excellent web site along with a listing of weekly get togethers in Guanajuato. http://gtolist.com/forum/

Sarah – check out http://www.internations.org They are a global expat organization to connect expats all around the world. I’m sure they have a group/chapter in Guanajuato.

the closest chapter is Guadalajara about 4 hours drive to the west

Hi, I’m looking to move from San Miguel to Guanajuato but would like to be in contact with the expats that do live in town before amking any firm plans. Any idea how to find the local (small) expat community so that I can find out more about living in Guanajuato? Thanks Sarah

I’m not sure but you could see if there is a couchsurfing group that arranges meetups.

Thank you Erin for the effort in commenting to so many postings, its encouraging especially for newbies like me who’s never been to Mexico before, to find personal info on places one wishes to visit. Have learnt about the area from Santa Fe Workshops who travel to SMA with their students. Will visit it, but too touristy for my liking. The images on your post make me itch to get there, mid March, 2015. I’m a retired educator/photographer who is attracted to places like Guanjuato and surrounding towns. Am particularly interested in learning about the hikes you guys took around Guanajuato, I love the people and the culture, but just as much the wild character of a place. I’ve been a trekker all my life. Any assistance would be greatly apppreciated.

Sign onto gtolist.com and watch for posts for SunBrunch.

After 26 years of Mexican travel I do find Guanajuato the most lovely of those I have visited. After 3 nights in 2012 I spent a month in 2013, then a month in Oaxaca in 2014 & I have booked an apartment for 2 months starting on January 5th, 2015 back in Guanajuato. I like it. Smile

I am also looking for an apartment for January and February 2016. Have you any suggestions for how to find a place? Thank you!

I am from Peru and it is amazing how beautiful this place is… I will be traveling this coming Sunday.. looking forward to it… thank you for the great pictures…. Orlando

We are planning to visit Guananjunta for Thanksgiving. We have 2 small kids – 5 and 1. We really like the place but wondering if it is safe with kids. How did you travel to all the places around Guananjunta? Did you drive? Were there any tours available? Are there any places nearby to see? If so, how did you get there?

Thank you, Gaurab Hazarika

Most definitely a walking city. Forget the car in town with narrow, narrow streets. There is a trolley tour in Spanish & lots of local guides but I have never used one.

PS Cabs are cheap. 35 pesos for any place in town. Bus locally are I beleive 6 pesos & reasonable to the surrounding towns. Lovely ride to Delores Hidalgo a most lovely town. The kids will love the ice cream sold on every corner of the plaza.

We felt safe in Guanajuato. We stayed in the city but you could also get the bus or hire a car to visit places like San Miguel de Allende, another beautiful town.

Guanajuato is a great destinations, you can travel using something like BestMex car insurance, and have an amazing time, specially in these days because Cervantino’s festival is just around the corner.

I’m from Texas and my husband is from acambaro, guanajuato. I’ve heard so many good things about his city. Can’t wait to visit.

I have spent the past 5 summers in Guanajuato studying at the Language School, Universidad de Guanajuato in a masters program. This city is my favorite in all of Mexico. The food is delicious, the people are friendly, the music and street performers are entertaining, the arts are vibrant, and there are so many things to do in the surrounding towns. Day trips to Delores, Leon, or San Miguel will satisfy your tourist shopping needs, but Guanajuato feels more like home. Great place to relax or be as busy as you wish. Like all large cities it is not always safe to be out after midnight, but I have never had a problem. My 14 yo, non-Spanish speaking, spent 3 weeks there basically on his own while I was in classes, with no problems other than being offered a beer at a pizza place. Plan on returning next year even though I have finished school. No desire to do the beaches or towns with nearly 40% foreigners.

I am planning a trip to Guanajuato right after Christmas and will be there for about two weeks. I am not sure if I can get someone to come with me, so my question is how safe is it for a woman to go there alone and is it easy to make friends? I usually travel with my husband, but he can’t take time off work, but I am still going! any tips?

I’ve lived here alone for 9 years, no problem. However, I don’t walk around any city in the world alone after dark.

Yes and there is a museum showing the mummies. The nearest airport is Leon. There is good bus service to/from the airport.

Isn’t Guanajuato known as a “garden” state? And known for it’s”mummies?” Burried under ground? Is there an airport there I can actually fly into?

The airport is BJX and is about half way between Leon and Guanajuato City — about 30 minutes drive. There is no bus service (I’ve lived here 9 years and I wish there were!) and a taxi usually costs 350 to 400 pesos.

We recently met a family from that city and they said so much about it we had to look it up. Thank you for not only the great variety of photos, but also the descriptive wording that helped us to capture what a person may feel when there. We want to go there. Nice job.

I stayed in Guanajuato for 21/2 months this past winter and studied Spanish at Escuela Falcon. The town is every bit as beautiful, safe and comfortable as other posters are saying. If you would like to study Spanish for a few hours each day I highly recommend Escuela Falcon.

Thanks for the tip Jim.

Can you recommend a place to stay for two months this winter? Thanks for any suggestions!

We’ve been here on two previous occasions and looking forward to visiting again soon.

Such a contrast from New Zealand where we live.

hi there – trying to work out my 18 days in mexico and leaving a space for Guanajuato! This was recommended by friends last year and now i’ve found your site – I am an Australian female solo traveller who doesnt speak any Spanish other than a smile and hello. I was going to travel from Bucerias (near Puerta Vallerta) by bus mid October for 3 days in Guanajuato. Whilst it looks lovely – how does basically no Spanish go? Any advice?? thanks for the great pics

I think your enjoyment will be reduced if you do not understand Spanish. Reading up on the history ahead of time will help. I would consider traveling with a bilingual person. But you will get by in all the tourist sites. And it is a university town so most young people (they are everywhere) understand English. Service people can get by in English.

I’m sure you’ll be fine. Pick up a phrasebook or Spanish app and make an effort with the basics. We travel to many countries where we don’t speak the language and even if people don’t speak English we always manage somehow. There will definitely be some people who speak English too. Have a great trip!

I went there when i was a child like about 13 years, and planning to go mid july, any suggestions? Which places to visit? Is there many tourists? Love your post very nice!!!

Hello and thank you for posting this. My family goes back generation to Guanajuato! One day I would love to take my family to see where we come from.

We just got back from a week in Guanajuato. Our first visit. We have been regulars in Mexico for decades and we currently own in Puerto Vallarta. We were very impressed with the city. We will return for an extended stay. May is the hottest month but the dryness makes it very bearable. Also at 6600 feet above sea level, it was very different than living at the sea.

Thanks for your thorough review. The other must do is to visit El Pipila and take a taxi along Panoramica which encircles the city along the mountains. We stayed out by the dam in the La Quinta and it was also a fabulous neighbourhood just 10 minutes by bus from downtown. We recommend that hotel which we found online heavily discounted ($130 a night for their finest suite). We selected that because they welcomed our pet.

Visiting for several weeks this summer – 2014 – cannot wait. Any suggestions for Manuel Doblado must see/places to visit while there? Thanks.

Hi , my husband and I will be visiting Guanajuato June 21, 2014 for just a few short days ;( but would like to fit a couple of day tours in 2 at least.. What would you recommend (4 days to be exact)… Thanks so much for your help…. Mary

I live in Guanajuato, and I’m glad to see you enjoyed your stay. I will say that while your experience might not have demonstrated this, the city IS popular with short stay foreign tourists (European and American especially) and in the nearly two years and counting that I’ve lived here I continue to see those numbers rise as awareness of the city continues to grow. At any moment tourists from abroad can be found here in droves. It may still lag slightly behind San Miguel de Allende as you say in terms of numbers of such visits (which, for the life of me I can’t understand… For my money SMA has nothing you can’t find in GTO and the same cannot be said the other way around) but if you’d been here different dates you’d have found yourselves among plenty of other foreigners only here for a few days. I will also recommend to any first time visitors who may only know GTO for the Cervantino Festival, if you’re interested in getting to know and enjoy the city, Cervantino is perhaps the worst time to come. The city’s streets and all its attractions are overrun with crowds (as well as a disproportionately and unpleasantly high number of police brought in to patrol constantly and attempt to maintain order), the events are expensive, and the businesses, especially bars and restaurants, hit you with covers and other extra charges not present any other time of the year, simply because there’s nothing to stop them from gouging. If it’s your first time, don’t come during Cervantino!!

Thank you for this beautiful post. I am planning to spend three weeks in Guanajuato in November and now I can point people to this post so they can see why I picked Guanajuato. I am going to study Spanish but have not decided on the school. Right now, I am looking at Escuela Falcon and Adelito – any thoughts? They both seem quite good. ¡Gracias!

I attended Adelita for one week only, and liked their informality–and the teachers were excellent. Small classes and great location near the Embajadoras Park. I would visit both schools and pick the one you feel suits you best. They can register you once you compare and decide. I met a nice woman “Lourdes” who owns a little place called “Que Gorditas!” on the Embajadoras Park–you can grab a quick desayuno (breakfast) with fresh orange juice before class!

We are going to Gaunajuato tomorrow, we are currently in Celaya. And have ridden a motorcycle from Seattle, WA, to this point. I have found that the diversity of Mexico is so amazing and the people have been so welcoming as we travel through cities, desserts, towns, and mountains. Thanks for your site Im excited about Gaunajuato !

I’ve only just seen this post. I live in G’to and accept CouchSurfers. I don’t have my ‘available’ sign up at the moment because I’ve been away and will leave again soon but I’m here fora few days. Contact me if you are interested.

Hi ! Are you still accepting couch surfers? I am gonna come to guanajuato at the end of April to learn Mexican cooking and I am looking for a place to stay. Thank you for your answer. Regards, Clara

Check out https://www.couchsurfing.com At the moment I’m out of town so my ‘sigh’ is temporarily up for ‘not accepting guests.

I saw your post and would love to talk with you. I’m planning on moving from the states within the next few months (thank you, Donald Trump) and really don’t know where to begin. Most importantly, I need to learn Spanish and before I come there I’d like to find a good DVD program to study with. I hope you’ll respond. Sheila Cook P.S. I’m a very young senior (not in years, but in spirit.)

Your post made us smile, as my wife and I are in a very similar predicament. We are young-ish seniors and are wondering where to move (our plans greatly accelerated by the election). Guanajuato looks wonderful. Our concern is safety. Living with bars on the windows and passport in a safe is not our ideal. But perhaps we worry too much. Our research continues! Good luck to you!

Thanks for the post. I really enjoyed it- especially the photos! I completely agree with you- one of my favorite activities is also aimless wandering! Actually while studying abroad here two years ago, my friends and I gave it a name- urban hiking! I never get bored of it and even two years later, it is still one of my favorite activities here. I hope you don’t mind that I shared your blog on the facebook page of the language school where I work ( http://escuelafalcon.com/ ). I think our students will really enjoy it. Thanks so much for a great post!

We just returned from visiting Guanajuato (along with the other Mexican colonial towns of San Miguel de Allende and Morelia). And it is beautiful! We just wish we could have stayed longer in Guanajuato than the few days we did. And we would have liked to have done some hiking, as you did :-). Maybe we’ll just have to go back?

I love Guanajuato!! My husband or kids had never visited Mexico outside of Tijuana :) and I am lucky to have family in Leon Guanajuato. We went to Guanajuato and they fell in love with it, so much that my husband wants us to eventually retire there! We visited El Callejon del Beso (alley of the kiss) and strolled through the beautiful streets, visited the Momias and ate the best tortas ever! My kids loved it as well…they came home back sharing everthing detail to Grandparents, family and friends. I encourange everyone to visit at least once in their life. Thanks for sharing your pics. My husband and I are going back next month…without kids :)

Hi…I am travelling to Guanajuato for my first time in March. Thank you for your beautiful website…I can hardly wait to get there. One question I have is when the locals are selling crafts etc in the market places, is it common practice to barter as in many of the beach resorts? I would not want to insult anyone and would like to be prepared. Gracias !

I’m afraid I don’t know for sure as we didn’t do any shopping but I’m sure no one would be offended it you are polite about it.

@Katie – I can confirm, polite bargaining in Spanish is normally well received…especially in the street markets.

Hi! I live in Mexico. If you liked Guanajuato you should also visit San Cristobal de las Casas if you haven’t, it’s beautiful.

Hola Anna, yo nunca he estado en Guanajuato, pero si en San Cristobal y me encanto el lugar, pero sinceramente esta lleno de turistas y eso es algo que en lo particular no me gusta. Es Guanajuato tan lleno de turistas como San Cristobal? Espero Me puedas responer. :)

Hola Hill, vivo en Guanajuato y te puedo decir que sólo en temporadas altas y fines de semana (sobre todo cuando hay puentes) la ciudad está llena de turistas, te puedo decir que el exceso de turistas no es el problema en la ciudad, si algún día llegas a venir, permíteme hacerte las siguientes recomendaciones: ten mucho cuidado con los “guías de turistas” son un monserga, muchos de ellos no tienen autorización del municipio y lo que hacen es estafar a los turistas, engañarlos y llevarlos sólo a esos lugares en donde les dan comisión. La ciudad aunque de apariencia tranquila, tiene puntos muy conflictivos, por ejemplo los callejones que llevan al monumento del pípila, hay mucho vándalo. Asegúrate de conseguir un hotel con estacionamiento, es poco seguro dejar el coche en la calle, verifica antes de venir los precios y paquetes que te ofrecen los hoteles, que dicho sea de paso son carísimos. La ciudad es hermosa si, pero si te aturden las multitudes, mejor no lo visites durante el festival cervantino que es cuando más afluencia de turistas tiene la ciudad.

I absolutely adore Mexico, my husband happens to be from the state of Guanajuato. So, two years ago, almost three now, we also visited during Semana Santa. We stayed at a hacienda turned hotel named Hotel Real de Mina. It was amazing! We actually drive from Idaho, through San Antonio, Texas, and into the heart of Mexico. It was an amazing and wonderful adventure. The streets are very narrow in Guanajuato, we drive a suburban and add you climb the hills towards the Museo de Mumeo, it becomes a but tricky to navigate yourself around. So, we opted to take a bus with a guide. They drive us through all of the city and tunnels and told us about the amazing cities history with multiple stops at too many amazing attractions to even begin with. After visiting Guanajuato, we took a short drive to Leon. Leon was also amazing. We went to the zona de piel, or the leather district. The pieces were absolutely amazing and the prices shoo cheap, that bartering didn’t even cross your mind! Not to forget that also close by is Silao with their denim… But outside of doing, the culture, history, ambiance, and energy of Guanajuato is amazing. I am blessed to have safely driven through Mexico, visited and stayed in many beautiful cities, and came back with an even greater appreciation than the one I had already garnered through visiting the beach resort towns up and down the coasts a half a dozen times. As far as safety goes, I took my one year old, and my in-laws as well. Never once did we ever come up against any uncomfortable situations. If anything, being a guera with a guerito baby (white lady with a white, although he is half Mexican, son) was an honor for them to us host us in their country, states, cities, and homes… Although I am the one that is truly honored to have walked with, mingled with, observed, and fallen in love with a very kind, caring, beautiful, and humble race. The Mexican race is absolutely amazing! I am truly honored to have been accepted by then so lovingly. I long desperately to go back, as Mexico as a whole has captured my heart and soul!

I have tears in my eyes from reading what you feel about Mexico…. I was born in Argentina but I feel Mexico is the home of my soul, the humbleness and warmth of the people is a feeling you can’t forget or find in many other places. Thank you for posting it in such beautiful way!

Mexican RACE??

I rented a home in Guanajuato for 1 month back in July 2010 for my family and loved it. Your beautiful photos capture many of the sights we remember and hope to return to someday again. The summer weather is very enjoyable and the city depends upon the rains to fill the local reservoirs at this time of year. I really enjoyed hiking and mountain biking the back hills surrounding the city and wandering through the endless alleys and side streets each day to find another hidden plaza with a fountain. I hope to return again soon.

i really enjoyed all the great photos in your collection. i personally know how special Guanajuato is and i also know how almost impossible it is to explain and describe to others that haven’t been there how truly unique and extraordinary it is. they just all give me that same slightly puzzled and agreeable expression on there faces when i attempt to explain. i’ve spent some time there off and on since 1997 . my parents purchased a home there in the housing community known as Noria Alta. Sadly i havent been able to visit the home for the last 6 years because of so many family matters directly involving the passing of my parents as well others. i look forward to visiting soon with a close friend and plan to do some much needed maintenance on the home while im there and also have some dental work performed which alone will pay for the entire trip there in the amount of savings i’ll earn. i hope you enjoy your next visit. mario depalma sacramento california u.s.a.

guanajuato es muy bonito un lugar con mucha magia

Great photo story. I can’t wait to visit again. I only had one day there 10 years ago!

Enjoying your blog, thankyou. My husband and I plan to spend six weeks in Guanajuato this summer. We avoid resorts because we like to enjoy the local color and practice speaking Spanish. I thought I would try to volunteering a school to keep myself busy. Any ideas? Also, I am. Hoping that we will be safe. We are looking at a place on the San Fernando Plaza.

Thanks for this wonderful photo compilation about Guanajuato! I’ve been looking into Guanajuato a lot, and this is one of the most helpful posts I’ve seen. Hopefully, I will be study abroad there next school year.

I was just wondering what your opinion on living there for a month would be. I have the choice of Guanajuato or Galway, Ireland. I don’t know which to choose!

It’d be great to live there for a month and the weather would be better than Ireland :)

I lived in gto for 2 years back in the late 80s . I was a student in the universidad de gto. At the time I didn’t realize how beautiful the city is. But now I do.. I was there a few months ago .. Go a little nostalgic …

I was in Guanajuato about 10 years ago for one day. I’ve always wanted to go back and am planning to do so next month! Just saw your post while doing some research. Glad to see it’s as I remember it. :)

Gorgeous city!! One of three places I’m looking to retire in a few years…

Guanajuato is incredible! I noticed you missed a couple of places in your commentary. The indoor market is a great place for fuit, crafts and people watching. The “Mummy Museum” is a bit of a tourist trap, but an interesting place to visit if you don’t mind a long winding drive up the hillside to reach it. It has an amazing story and the displays are respectfully presented.

The mix of colours is very eye-catching! Coming from Canada where everything is a “shade of beige” this was a refreshing find. This palce is on my list to visit again if the opportunity presents itself! Great article :-)

What is summer weather like there? I live in the yucatan and need.a place to escape the heat !

I’m sure it’s cooler than the Yucatan but I don’t know how bad the rain is.

I spent a month in GTO in 2006. I’ve never enjoyed a city as much. I did plenty of walking in the hills but probably walked half of the callejones as well. A beautiful, safe, city with much to see. I could easily spend another month there. January was cool in the evenings but warmed into the 70’s during the day; perfect in my estimation. It was low season, so fairly quiet.

Glad you enjoyed it Steve. It’s definitely a place we could spend longer in too.

This city looks amazing and I plan to visit it on my next trip to Mexico. I was wondering if there are any beautiful lakes or rivers for swimming?

I’m not sure as when we were there in March the rivers were dried up. It might be different at other times of the year (during/after the summer rainy season).

Even in the rainy season (Jul>Sep) the rivers are to small and, sadly, too polluted for swimming. There is both mining and agricultural run-off. There are several very nice public pools, though, and a large Olympic pool at the UnG’to sports complex.

Yes, Guanajuato is a very beautiful city. I personally think that it has a lot more energy than San Miguel, especially at night. I think it has to do with the all the young students attending the nearby university. My best advice is to befriend some of the local students so they can show you the best hang outs. Worked great for my wife and I. Very friendly there.

Just got back from Playa de Carmen and was thinking about you, even though I don’t know you. Kept thinking I might run into you on the streets. :)

Man, I love Mexico. If you are looking for another cool place to visit I would suggest Veracruz “El Puerto”. Things have calmed down now (some drug violence). This is a beautiful city with a rich culture and wonderful food!

I can totally understand why you fell in love with it – it’s absolutely GORGEOUS! That first overhead shot especially… wow.

These photos are amazing. I’ve never considered visiting Mexico before you started posting about it! Seems like the country have lots of amazing things to see and experience! :)

I am surprised that why I did not hear about Guanajuato City before?? This city looks like a riot of colors being thrown into a valley. And its houses, streets and sculptures carry that old world Spanish colonial charm.

Those pictures are absolutely stunning. I’m surprised Guanajuato City isn’t more popular with tourists

Had never heard of Guanajuato, but it looks great! I love seeing all the colorful houses!

Guanajuato looks seriously beautiful, which is saying something since you didn’t even include food photos in this post! ;) I love the riot of colors that seem to infect Spanish-speaking countries and cities, though I admit my experience with them is limited to Puerto Rico at this point. It’s pretty magical how all of those hues don’t seem to clash but rather create an idyllic little place where it seems impossible to be sad. One day we’ll make it to Mexico, and Guanajuato will certainly be getting a visit from us! :D

I know, I seriously slacked on the food photography! I do love the colours in Latin America too – hope you make it to Guanajuato!

Looks like such a cute little town. Do you know any good Spanish schools there by any chance?

Our friends recommend Adelita and Falcon.

The University of Guanajuato has a department of languages​​, registrations are every six months, is very professional and dedicated teachers, I recommend you to go, and learn or improve your Spanish, meet people from almost every continent. Here the link: http://www.dcsh.ugto.mx/index.php/educacion-continua/cursosidiomas/43-cursos/cursos/117-cursoespanol

There are many interesting towns nearby Guanajuato City, along with archeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage City: San Miguel Allende. Check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Y6C6UBC27U

Great post and wonderful pictures! You have me aching to go back. We ate or sat at the lively, yet peaceful Plaza San Fernando many times, but we never could remember the name of it to share. Thanks for that! It’s neat to hear that it was one of your favorite spots too. We can’t say enough about Guanajuato and appreciated the quick trip through memory lane today!

We didn’t know the name either – I had to do a google image search :) Glad you enjoyed your time there too.

We love Guanajuato and have visited many times. We never get tired of the place. Just walking the streets – especially in the central district – is fun as you never know what you will run across. We haven’t been everywhere in Mexico either, but this is our favorite city so far. We look forward to visiting during the Cervantes Festival.

I’m sure it’d be crazy but so much fun to visit during the festival. I entirely agree that just walking the streets is enough entertainment there.

I posted a similar comment below but just to reiterate as it’s relevant here, for a first time visitor who wants to get to know Guanajuato, I recommend coming anytime OTHER than the Cervantino Festival. The city’s streets and all its attractions are overrun with crowds (as well as a disproportionately and unpleasantly high number of police brought in to patrol constantly and attempt to maintain order), the events are expensive, and the businesses, especially bars and restaurants, hit you with covers and other extra charges not present any other time of the year, simply because there’s nothing to stop them from gouging. If it’s your first time, don’t come during Cervantino!!

I have about 10-14 days for my first trip to Guanajuato with my adult daughter. To really get to know the place, would you suggest we stay the whole time there. I am still a little reluctant of travel in Mexico so I thought better to stay there. Also, IS the bus safe to travel with from the airport in Mexico City?

Thank you for these wonderful posts. I am happy to have found your website. I also do like to incorporate a little bit of swimming/water in vacations. Are there any swimming pools you suggest? I believe there are some hot springs near by? Has anyone visited them?

I really appreciate your answers.

You definitely could spend the whole time there and use it as a base for day trips to places like San Miguel de Allende (where I think there are hot springs). The buses are actually really nice in Mexico and we felt very safe. Have a great trip!

You will not go wrong wiht this one on where to stay! Hands down Casa Zuniga! Rick and his Wife Carmen will take very good care of you!

first of all, buses in México are very safe, specially in Guanajuato state, also there is an airport less than an hour away from Guanajuato city, this part of the country is very peaceful and has been almost immune to violence related to drug wars and such, so you will be very safe here. Actually Guanajuato has many other cities nearby, like San Miguel de Allende (a similar city to Guanajuato, but this one is very populated by foreigners), Dolores Hidalgo (another nice, small city), Silao, (about a 20 minutes drive away, but this is an industrial city, don’t go there), León (your average big city, has a little of everything), so if you get bored of Guanajuato you can easily go to another town, all of these are an hour away or less.

I love this part of Mexico. To sit an afternoon in the Jardin de la Union and listen to the music — a brass band, the mariachis or estudiantinas…it’s a lovely place. And your pictures are stunning! Also, the hot springs near San Miguel are pretty and relaxing. There are several, but my favorite is La Gruta.

I just saw a post about Guanajuato and I saw your name….my daughter’s name is Kate Fawcett!!!! I don’t see many people with the last name Fawcett let alone the first name like my daughter’s!

Wow, these pictures are absolutely amazing! We just added Guanajuato to our bucket list – thanks guys!

Thanks Irene, it’s a photogenic city. Hope you make it there one day.

I’m from Guanajuato but outside of the city .

Is it beautiful at night?

I’d never heard of this place before reading your post. Now I definitely want to visit! Great photos.

It is strange that it isn’t better known amongst foreign tourists. I guess it just doesn’t have as many big name attractions or beaches of other places. Hope you make it there!

Hi I’m married to a Norwegian man( I’m mexican myself) but believe it or not I’ve never been to Guanajuato :/. I saw your pictures and the place looks beautiful!!!! And since right now we are traveling around Mexico I thought that Guanajuato could be the perfect place to visit next, but I was just wondering if you think there are many tourist in the area. My husband loves the real Mexico he is not so fan of the touristic places. Do you think that place would be cool for him? I’m sure that it is perfect for me :) looks great!

There aren’t that many tourists in Guanajuato. We were there at Easter and there were quite a few Mexican tourists but not many foreigners at all. I think it’d be great for you.

We are Canadians and visited the city by bus from Puerto Vallarta as part of our trip to see the monarch butterflies near Morelia. We’re loved it, and there were few tourists. We walked around by ourselves and walked around —just the two of us–with a very knowledgeable guide one day. I recommend a visit!

Guanajuato is great. Lots of foreigners study Spanish there because of the university– but it’s no where near as bad as san miguel de allende. Young vibe in this town with plenty of free spirits and artists.

There are quite a lot of Mexican tourists because of the many connections to the revolution. It is like Philadelphia is a local city in the USA with a lot of US citizens coming to see where their history happened. But, it is also very much a working Mexican city of about 150,000 and is the capital of the state and a university city with a symphony and a LOT of cultural venues and museums. Leon, an hour away, is an industrial city of 1.3 million and leather capital of Mexico. This is in no sense, resortsville.

There is a city name San Miguel de Allende it’s a tourist city very pretty I’ve been there yet many years ago also Dolores Hidalgo it’s right before you get to San Miguel very pretty and I think guanajuato the capital has the mummies very pretty but have not been there in years

There are TONS&TONS of tourists in G’to but they are Mexican tourists seeking to see the heritage places of their history. In the USA people go to Philadelphia to see Constitution Hall and the Liberty Bell. In Mexico thousands of Mexican tourists come to see the Alhondiga and the statue of El Pipila.It is charming and invigorating. I’ve lived here 11 years and the foreigners never outnumber the locals.

Most foreigners just want beach&booz from Mexico —— that is SO very sad!

It’s looks great. I am an American tourist. What about the water…can you drink it or is there plenty of bottled available. Thx!Jean and Lou

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Must-see attractions in Guanajuato

guanajuato tourist places

Museo y Casa de Diego Rivera

Diego Rivera's birthplace is now an excellent museum honoring the famous artist, who was persona non grata here for years. Rivera and his twin brother…

guanajuato tourist places

Teatro Juárez

Don’t leave Guanajuato without visiting the magnificent Teatro Juárez. It was built between 1873 and 1903 and inaugurated by the dictator Porfirio Díaz,…

MEXICO-Guanajuato State-Guanajuato: Templo de San Cayetano de la Valenciana Church- (b.1788) Church by the famous Valenciana Silver Mine- Exterior

Templo La Valenciana

On a hill overlooking Guanajuato, 5km north of the center, is the magnificent Templo La Valenciana. Its facade is spectacular and its interior dazzles…

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Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato

The attractive orange-yellow Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato contains a jewel-covered image of the Virgin, patron of Guanajuato. The wooden…

Guanajuato City, Guanajuato, Mexico

Museo de las Momias

This famous museum is one of the most bizarre (some might say distasteful) sights in Mexico. The popular attraction is a quintessential example of Mexico…

guanajuato tourist places

Monumento a El Pípila

The monument to El Pípila honors the hero who torched the Alhóndiga gates on September 28, 1810, enabling Hidalgo's forces to win the first victory of the…

guanajuato tourist places

Bocamina de San Ramón & Bocamina de San Cayetano

These neighboring mines are part of the famous Valenciana mining district. Silver was discovered here in 1548. At San Ramón you can descend via steps into…

guanajuato tourist places

Museo del Pueblo de Guanajuato

Located beside the university, this fascinating art museum displays an exquisite collection of Mexican miniatures, and 18th- and 19th-century artworks by…

guanajuato tourist places

Templo de San Diego

Built in 1663 by members of St Diego of Alcántara, the facade – carved pink quarry stone – exemplifies Mexican Churriqueresque and is quite lovely.

guanajuato tourist places

Casa de Arte Olga Costa & José Chávez Morado

In 1966 artists José Chávez Morado and Olga Costa converted a massive old well into their home and studio; before their deaths, they donated their home…

Templo de la Compañía de Jesús

Believed to be one of the largest constructions completed by the Jesuits in Mexico, this church was built between 1746 and 1765. However, just two years…

Parador Turístico Sangre de Cristo

Three museums are sited in one impressively designed complex in the hills above Guanajuato. One collection explores the mining history of the region. The…

Cristo Rey (Christ the King) is a 20m bronze statue of Jesus erected in 1950 on the summit of the Cerro de Cubilete, 15km west of Guanajuato. The location…

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Museo Regional de Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas

Built between 1798 and 1808 as a grain storehouse, the Alhóndiga became a fortress in 1810 when 300 Spanish troops and loyalist leaders barricaded…

guanajuato tourist places

Callejón del Beso

Narrowest of the many alleyways in Guanajuato's streets is this callejón, where the balconies of two houses practically touch. In a local legend, a fine…

guanajuato tourist places

Universidad de Guanajuato

The main building of this university, whose ramparts are visible above much of the city, is one block up the hill from the basilica. The distinctive…

guanajuato tourist places

Templo de San Francisco

Templo de San Francisco was built in 1741 in a late baroque style, as noted in its decorative motifs and stone entrance, though neoclassical features were…

Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera

To escape Guanajuato's narrow streets, head to this magnificent colonial home that is now a museum with tranquil and attractive gardens. Built at the end…

Museo Iconográfico del Quijote

This surprisingly interesting museum is worth half-hour of your time. Every exhibit relates to Spain's Don Quixote de la Mancha, Cervantes' classic…

Jardín de la Reforma

This attractive cafe-lined and shady square is Guanajuato's social hub and is packed full of locals, mariachis and tourists throughout the day.

Jardín de la Unión

This triangular plaza is lined by cafes, bars and restaurants and full of shade-giving trees in a neatly maintained garden.

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Janine In the World

17 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico

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17 Things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico

Planning a trip to Guanajuato, Mexico? In this Guanajuato travel guide, I’ll help you make the most of your visit by sharing some of my favorite things to do in Guanajuato and tips on where to eat, drink, and sleep!

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Guanajuato’s meandering callejones , cheerfully painted buildings, and lively yet easygoing atmosphere regularly draw travelers from all over the world. 

In fact, Guanajuato is so pleasant that people commonly visit Guanajuato for extended periods, taking Spanish classes and trying out life in Mexico.

The city is located in a region of the central Mexico plateau known as El Bajío , a temperate agricultural area.

17 Things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico

One of the most delightful things about Guanajuato is that, while it’s a very comfortable and traveler-friendly destination, it doesn’t feel like a “tourist trap.” Sure, some activities cater heavily to tourists (the Callejón del Beso being a big one), but overall everything feels genuine.

The city was once a major mining center, exporting silver, gold, and other minerals found in the surrounding mountains. The wealth that once flowed from the mines is apparent in Guanajuato’s elaborate architecture and emphasis on cultural institutions, such as the Teatro Juarez.

These days, Guanajuato is still known as a center of arts and culture, largely thanks to the Cervantino Festival, a two-week international arts festival that takes place every October.

Of course, you don’t have to visit during Cervantino to experience the city’s art culture. Performances, exhibits, craft fairs, and small festivals occur throughout the year, meaning it’s always a great time to visit this beautiful city! 

Traveling soon? Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Mexico. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you can get the help you need if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is the provider that I recommend.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Guanajuato

If you’re wondering what to do in Guanajuato, look no further! Below are a few suggestions to help get you started.

1. See the sights on a tram tour

Departing from the Plaza de la Paz, directly in front of the main cathedral, these tram tours take you on a one-hour sightseeing expedition through Guanajuato. Along the way, the tour guide will share anecdotes from Guanajuato’s history and point out notable landmarks and buildings. 

For just $100 MXN, this is a fantastic way to scout out the sights when you first arrive. The tour will give you ideas of attractions you may like to visit (many of which I’ve listed below). I really enjoyed hearing the “cliff’s notes” of Guanajuato’s history as we took in the sights! 

There is one caveat, however: the tour is offered only in Spanish. I will say, though, even if you can’t understand the majority of what is shared, it’s still a great way to get to know the city! 

Guanajuto's callejones are lined with colorful houses.

2. Wander the callejones

Guanajuato is known for its extensive network of narrow callejones. A callejón is basically an alley, but instead of being full of stray cats and smelly dumpsters, they are just narrow pathways lined with colorful houses. 

Part of the fun of Guanajuato is exploring these pedestrian streets, marveling in the charm, and pondering questions like “how would one move furniture into one of these houses?” Maybe that last one is just me…

Sometimes callejones lead to bars, restaurants, or even plazas, and some of them provide lovely, traffic-free shortcuts throughout the city.

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato

3. Photograph the yellow cathedral

The Parroquia de Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato is one of the main images associated with Guanajuato City. It’s stunning in photos and trust me, it’s even more striking in person.

Whether you stop to simply snap the obligatory photo or actually take the time to appreciate the architecture, this cathedral deserves a spot in your itinerary. 

I recommend wandering over to the entrance on the right-hand side to get a fresh perspective and a glimpse at the colorful sidestreet below!

4. Trek up to the Cristo Rey

The Cristo Rey is an enormous (the second largest in the world, in fact) statue of Christ the King, which resides on the top of a mountain just outside Guanajuato. The figure stands 22 meters tall and is said to sit on the exact geographic center of Mexico.

Even if you’re not interested in religious monuments, the site offers a panoramic view of Guanajuato and the surrounding areas. 

The University of Guanajuato is a great place for a photo op in Guanajuato, Mexico!

5. Admire the architecture of the University of Guanajuato

If you’re interested in architecture, you can’t miss the University of Guanajuato. This building is another obligatory photo opp within the city, and for good reason. The university steps (and the building behind them) are a striking backdrop for your photos. 

The University was first constructed in the 1700s (though it has been added to over the years), using locally sourced quarry stone. The green stones provide a compelling contrast to the pink and red stones used to construct many of the other buildings in the area. 

The steps are a fun place to do some people-watching, snap some photos, and marvel at the incredible architecture.

Mural at the Alhondiga de Granaditas in Guanajuato, Mexico

6. Visit the Alhondiga de Granaditas, Guanajuato

This grain storage building-turned-museum is an iconic landmark in Guanajuato’s (and Mexico’s) history. The building was the site of a bloody battle during the Mexican War of Independence and now serves as the Regional Museum of Guanajuato . 

The museum features art and artifacts from throughout Guanajuato’s history. The articles inside include murals, textiles, furniture, paintings, and more! You will also find a monument commemorating the War of Independence and an exhibit highlighting the events leading up to and following the war.

If you’re interested in history, this is one of the best places to visit in Guanajuato. I recommend spending an hour or two exploring the exhibits and admiring the building’s neoclassical architecture.

I loved seeing the textiles and artifacts on display in this museum. When I visited, there was also an art exhibit highlighting the history of Mexico. The exhibition held a model train, and each train car was a diorama depicting an important event from Mexican history. It was cool to see the different artistic styles employed on each train car, and it was a fun way to learn about Mexican history!

7. Join a Callejoneada

One of the most typical Guanajuatense experiences you could take part in would be a callejoneada. These are essentially history tours that take you through Guanajuato’s streets and alleys while sharing historical anecdotes and legends through song and dance.

The following video is in Spanish, but it still gives you a good sense of what the callejoneada will be like.

As you wander the streets of Guanajuato, you will encounter individuals dressed in what I would describe as “court jester attire” (if you have a better description, please enlighten me). These men are the ones that lead the callejoneadas, and they will be happy to sell you a ticket to join one.

The callejoneadas take place at night (usually around 5 or 7 pm) when the sun starts to go down. They are led by a group of young musicians and last about two hours. The tours are conducted in Spanish, but even if you don’t understand what they’re saying, you’re sure to enjoy the music and the lively atmosphere. 

Panoramic view of Guanajuato, Mexico

8. Enjoy the panoramic view from El Pípila

El Pípila is a hillside statue commemorating a local Guanajuato miner who was instrumental in the battle of the Alhóndiga de Granaditas during the War of Independence. 

According to legend, the man (nicknamed El Pípila) strapped a slab of stone on his back to protect against arrows and musket fire during the battle. 

He then ran to the door of the Alhóndiga and set it on fire, granting entry to the Insurgent army. The Insurgents then proceeded to win the battle against the Spaniards, who had sheltered inside the building.

While the Pípila statue may not mean much to you, it is worth making the trek up the hill to take in a stunning panoramic view of the city. 

I walked up to the statue through the callejones, but you can take a cable car to the top of the hill. The walk is pretty, but quite steep and can be punishing on a hot day. If you’re not feeling the trek, the cable car is undoubtedly a great alternative. You can always walk back down if you want a different perspective.

The Callejon del Beso is one of the most popular things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico

9. Callejón del Beso 

The Callejón del Beso in Guanajuato (or, “alley of the kiss”) is one of the city’s narrowest callejones. It was also the setting of a tragic tale of star-crossed lovers.

According to legend, a wealthy young girl lived across the alley from the object of her affections, a poor miner boy. The girl’s father had forbidden their love, but at night she would meet her lover on their opposite balconies, and they would lean over the railings and share besos.

One fateful night, the girl’s father caught them, and in his rage, he stabbed her through the heart, and she died. (Why are the men in these stories always SO dramatic?!). The miner boy, unable to imagine life without his love, then took his own life by flinging himself down a mineshaft.

Naturally, the callejón is now a popular tourist spot and photo op. Whether or not you buy into the tale of the lovers, the setting is quite visually charming. It is a fun spot for a quick visit, but expect crowds.

Take note: Visiting couples are supposed to share a kiss on the 3rd step to ensure their love will last forever!

Visiting Teatro Juarez is one of the best things to do in Guanajuato!

10. Tour Teatro Juarez

Guanajuato’s Teatro Juarez is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. The ornate, neoclassical building is sure to catch your eye. Be sure to snap a few photos of the beautiful façade. 

If you’re curious to see the inside, purchase a ticket for $25 MXN, or to get the full experience, attend an event!  

11. Wander around the Presa de la Olla

La Presa de la Olla is a dammed section of the Guanajuato river (presa is Spanish for “dam”) surrounded by a park. It’s a popular spot for locals to go on the weekends (especially couples) to enjoy some time outdoors and snack on elote (corn on the cob). It’s certainly a scene on the weekend, but I think that’s what makes it fun!

You can rent pedal boats to go out on the water, or simply stroll the paths surrounding the presa. The walk to the park is quite pleasant as it will take you through a beautiful section of the city, lined with 19th-century mansions built in various architectural styles.

There are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants around the presa as well, so plan to spend a leisurely afternoon in the area. 

The Guanajuato tunnels give the city a medieval vibe!

12. Scope out the network of tunnels

While the center of Guanajuato is relatively compact, the rest of the city is connected through a network of tunnels. The tunnels were originally built to help divert water from the Guanajuato River away from the town to prevent flooding, but now they serve to redirect traffic away from the city center. 

They may not sound intriguing on paper (computer screen??), but they add a sort of medieval vibe to the city. If you take a trolley tour, you’ll have a chance to drive through a few of the tunnels, but you can also explore them on foot (don’t worry, there are sidewalks!). 

I wouldn’t spend a ton of time scouting them out, but they are a fun photography subject for sure! 

13. Visit the Diego Rivera House

By now, you’re probably aware the Diego Rivera is one of Mexico’s most famous painters, but did you know he was born in Guanajuato?

His childhood home has been transformed into a museum featuring a range of his work. Some of the rooms are staged with period furniture, while others are arranged gallery-style. 

You’ll see a collection of artwork that highlights how Rivera’s style evolved throughout his career. 

Ex Hacienda San Gabriel Barrera, Guanajuato

14. Explore the gardens of the Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel Barrera, Guanajuato

If you’re ready for a change of pace, this gorgeous ex-Hacienda is a beautiful place to spend a few peaceful hours. If you’re a fan of hacienda-style architecture, have an interest in horticulture, or simply enjoy green spaces, this excursion deserves a spot on your itinerary. 

Wander through the different styles of gardens, including the English garden, Roman garden, and Mexican garden. 

Then explore the rooms of Barrera’s former home and marvel at the architecture and the tile work!  

15. Catch a Performance or Attend an Event

Guanajuato’s arts scene is one of its biggest claims to fame, largely thanks to the Cervantino Festival, an international celebration of art that occurs in Guanajuato every October. 

But you don’t have to visit during Cervantino to experience Guanajuato’s strong artistic culture. You may stumble across a film festival, a craft fair, or a performance art spectacle on any given day. 

Be sure to scope out some local events during your visit. The Guana What Facebook group is a great place to start. Many of the members are fluent in both Spanish and English, so don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.

Related Reading: Mexican Holidays, Events, and Traditions You Should Know

16. Shop for Souvenirs at the Hidalgo Market

Mercado Hidalgo is the main market in Guanajuato’s Centro Historico. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs or stop for fresh juice and a bite to eat. 

Inside, you’ll find everything from baskets, pottery, clothing, and textiles to fresh fruits, vegetables, and food stands.

If you’ve never visited a Mexican market before, this is a friendly place to start.

The building is quite impressive in its own right, but you’ll need to cross the street to fully appreciate its grandeur.

17. Cringe at the Mummy Museum

The Museum of the Mummies of Guanajuato is a super popular tourist attraction in the city… 

Confession : I’ve never been here because it seems morbid to me, but I do seem to be in the minority. 

I can tell you from experience that one of the first questions people will ask you about your trip to Guanajuato is “did you go to the mummy museum?” 

As you can see, there are TONS of other things to do in the city, so don’t feel obligated to stare at mummified corpses… unless, of course, you want to. To each their own, after all.

So what’s the deal with the mummy museum?

Basically, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, a grave tax was implemented in Guanajuato, and many people neglected to pay on behalf of their deceased family members. These bodies were then “evicted” from the graveyard and held in an ossuary, which, as I understand, is now the museum.

If you’re into weird or eerie macabre attractions, this might be for you. Otherwise, allow me to redirect your attention to the suggestions listed above!

Colorful streets leading to the basilica in San Miguel De Allende, Guanajuato

Day Trips from Guanajuato

While there is certainly no shortage of activities in Guanajuato, there are a couple of fun day trips that may be of interest to you as well. 

Tour La Ruta de la Independencia

The Mexican Independence movement originated in the town of Dolores Hidalgo, about an hour and a half from Guanajuato City. From there, the revolters, led by Miguel Hidalgo and Ignacio Allende, moved to San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato City. 

A daily tour of the Independence Route leaves from in front of the yellow cathedral in Guanajuato. For $250 MXN, a guide leads a small group from Guanajuato to Dolores Hidalgo and then on to Atotolnilco and, finally, San Miguel de Allende, before returning to Guanajuato in the evening. 

Along the way, your guide will make stops at notable sites related to the independence movement. In Dolores Hidalgo, there is also a detour to the grave of famous Mexican composer Jose Alfredo, and then to his house (now a museum). While unrelated to the War of Independence, I did find this to be an interesting element of the tour! 

This tour is conducted in Spanish. If you don’t understand Spanish you’ll still enjoy the sites, but the tour is pretty fast-paced, so you won’t have a ton of time to appreciate them fully. You’d probably be better off hiring a private tour guide who speaks English to help you understand the context of what you’re seeing. 

Alternatively, you can retrace the Independence Route on your own terms, using this article for guidance.

Explore San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in Mexico. It’s kind of like an up-scale version of Guanajuato City. 

There are tons of boutiques where you can buy high-quality clothing, textiles, and decorations. You’ll also find endless cafes and art galleries to poke around in. And of course, you will be in awe of the architecture.

San Miguel is only about an hour away from Guanajuato by bus, so it makes an easy day trip. A bus ticket will cost you about $160 MXN, and there are numerous buses each day. Book your ticket with Busbud !

Related Reading: 23 Unmissable Places to Visit in Central Mexico

Beautifully styled table in La Vie En Rose restaurant, Guanajuato

Best Restaurants in Guanajuato

There are tons of great restaurants in Guanajuato. I highly encourage you to scout out new ones on your own, but the following are a few that stood out during my last visit.

La Cocina de Laura

La Cocina de Laura is a simple, family-run breakfast and lunch spot serving up traditional Mexican eats. The juice is fresh, the cafe de Olla (sweet, cinnamon-infused coffee) is some of the best I’ve ever had, and the eggs were fantastic. It’s the perfect place to fuel up for a day of exploring! It is located a little bit off the tourist path, but it’s well worth the detour. 

La Vie En Rose

If you’re looking for a boujie brunch spot, La Vie En Rose is the perfect place. It’s photogenic and central, and the food is delicious. Grab a seat next to the balcony (you’ll have to arrive early to score one) and sip mimosas and nibble on delectable pastries as you watch the world go by below. 

I stopped at Truco 7 for breakfast one morning. While my eggs were delicious, I think their lunch and dinner items are probably even better. This restaurant serves traditional Mexican fare in large portions at reasonable prices. The service was also exceptional during my visit. 

I popped into La Erre on a whim for a mid-afternoon snack. I ordered the aguachile, which, for those unfamiliar, is a spicy shrimp ceviche. It was fantastic. This restaurant has more of a trendy, upscale atmosphere than the others on this list, but the prices are reasonable. They have a mixture of Mexican and American fare, like hamburgers, and the service was fantastic.

Click here for more restaurant recommendations in Guanajuato! (coming soon)

The colorful streets of Guanajuato, Mexico

Where to Stay in Guanajuato

During my most recent visit to Guanajuato, I was house-sitting for a friend, so I didn’t stay in paid accommodation. 

To help you with your trip planning, I’ve listed a few promising options for where to stay below. However, I don’t have personal experience with the accommodations myself.

Instead, I’m basing my recommendations on what I know of the neighborhoods where they’re located and the reviews. I would feel comfortable booking any of the following options.

Gorgeous Mexican Style Studio

This spacious studio is centrally located and beautifully decorated in a traditional style. It features a full kitchen, two beds, a bathroom, and a patio with city views. Multiple reviewers praised the convenient location, the decor, and the attentive hosts. Based on my experience in this neighborhood, along with the positive reviews, this seems like a fantastic place to stay!

Apartment La Ceiba

This traditional apartment is located a 10 to 15-minute walk from the city center, in a peaceful residential neighborhood. I stayed in this area during my last visit to Guanajuato and absolutely loved it. It is safe, quiet, and has plenty of shops for picking up necessities. 

This 2-bedroom apartment happens to have a patio, which sounds perfect for sipping coffee in the morning. Many reviewers praised the host and the location, stating it is very convenient for taking classes at the La Hacienda Spanish School. This BnB seems like it would be a comfortable option for both short and long-term visits.

Casa Corazones 

This three-bedroom house might seem like overkill for just one or two people, but the affordable price and the view from the terrace will justify it for you. The historic home is decorated in an artistic style, with brightly colored accents that add plenty of personality to the space.

The house is centrally located, near Teatro Juarez, meaning you’ll be able to walk to most attractions within 10 minutes. You’ll also find a range of restaurants and convenience stores within the immediate vicinity. Reviewers consistently praise the location, the value for the price, and the communicative hosts. It sounds like you can’t go wrong with Casa Corazones!

Click here for more places to stay in Guanajuato! (Coming Soon)

Getting Around in Guanajuato

Guanajuato is very walkable, especially if you stay somewhere near the center of town. If you do find yourself needing additional transportation, taxis and buses are the standard options. 

If you choose to take a taxi, be sure to settle on a price to your destination before getting in the car. This will help you avoid unfortunate surprises upon arrival. 

I did not take the bus during my last visit to Guanajuato, but they typically cost about 10 MXN. Usually, the main stops on the bus route are written on the windshield, so it’s easy to figure out which one to take, but don’t be afraid to ask fellow passengers for clarification. 

Getting to and From Guanajuato

The two main ways you are likely to arrive in Guanajuato are by air or by bus. For your planning purposes, I’ve broken down what those journeys will look like below.

The closest airport to Guanajuato City is just outside the city of Silao, Guanajuato. It is known as the Bajio International Airport or the Guanajuato International Airport (BJX). There are frequent flights to Guanajuato from Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Chicago, as well as many major cities within Mexico. 

The airport is about 40 minutes from Guanajuato City by car. 

The only way to get between the city and the airport directly is by taxi, airport shuttle , or rental car. Since you won’t need a rental car once you get to Guanajuato City, I recommend taking an airport shuttle.

Bus from Mexico City to Guanajuato 

You will most likely be arriving to Guanajuato from Mexico City . In this case, you will need to depart from Mexico City’s “Central del Norte” bus station.

From Central del Norte you will be able to choose between a few different bus lines that service Guanajuato. These include:

  • Primera Plus

Take whichever one is leaving at the most convenient time. Though for the sake of comparison, I will say that ETN is the most deluxe of the three choices, followed by Primera Plus, and then Futura. 

Most bus websites won’t allow you to pay for a ticket with a foreign credit card, so purchase your bus ticket with Busbud or in person at the bus station. 

Check out my detailed guide on how to get from Mexico City to Guanajuato!

Mexico Travel Planning Resources

🌡️ Do I need travel insurance?

Yes! Healthcare in Mexico is affordable for minor ailments, but travel insurance will give you peace of mind if an emergency arises. Plus, you can add coverage for trip interruption, theft, etc. Get a quote from SafetyWing . 

🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

I use a mix of Booking, Airbnb, and Hostelworld. 

Booking.com  is awesome for booking hotels and resorts,  Hostelworld  is great for hostels, and  Airbnb  specializes in apartment rentals, making it a great place to find long-term stays.

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Use local ATMS to withdraw cash. US travelers should open a Charles Schwab bank account because they’ll refund ATM fees at the end of the month.

Travelers from outside the US should open a Wise account to secure the best currency exchange rates. 

📱 Where can I buy a local SIM card in Mexico?

Pick up a Telcel SIM card at any convenience store. Or, buy an Airalo eSIM online so you’re connected as soon as you land. 

🗣️ Do I need to speak Spanish in Mexico?

No, but it definitely helps you feel more confident and connected. 

RocketSpanish is my favorite program for learning the foundations of the language. If you’re more focused on improving your conversation skills, hire a tutor through iTalki to prep for your trip. 

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

I use Skyscanner because it makes it easy to compare rates across different travel days. 

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetTransfer for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. 

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Discover Cars because they aggregate prices across rental car companies, making it easy to find competitive rates. 

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Plan your routes with Rome2Rio , and book your tickets with Busbud — the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards. (Read more here)

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

I recommend Viator and Get Your Guide . Viator usually has more options, but it’s worth comparing offerings across both platforms. 

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Solo female travelers can hire a local female guide through Greether . Greeters will tailor tours based on your interests— it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used this one from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group , a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!

Have you ever been to Guanajuato? Share your favorite part of your trip in the comments! 

Guanajuato Trave Guide

Janine is a full-time content writer and travel blogger. In 2017 she and her cat moved from Los Angeles to Mexico and never looked back. Now, she writes in-depth articles to help women travel Mexico safely and confidently. Connect with her on Instagram.

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Roaming Around the World

Travel Guides, Tips, and Tales

25 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico: Travel Guide & Tips

April 15, 2019 By John Widmer 63 Comments

Guanajuato is such an intriguing place to travel in Mexico with so many awesome things to do! Many people say that Guanajuato is the most beautiful city in Mexico. We can’t disagree. This colorful colonial city is simply stunning.

Guanajuato, Mexico location on a map

Guanajuato’s leafy plazas and opulent theaters often give visitors the feel of a quaint European town. But Guanajuato is oozing with unique Mexican culture and history. The tasty local cuisine found all over town will remind you that you are most definitely in Mexico!

🏙️ Intro to Guanajuato Mexico 🚶 15 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico 🌮 +10 Local Eating & Drinking Things to Do in Guanajuato 🏨 Best Places To Stay in Guanajuato for All Budgets 💡 Guanajuato Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Couple looking out a window gazing down at all the best things to do in Guanajuato Mexico

Get to Know Guanajuato, Mexico

For some background, Guanajuato came to prominence as a prosperous silver-mining town with origins that go back to the mid-1500s! As Guanajuato developed around the mines, the town wasn’t exactly planned. Instead, Guanajuato was haphazardly built into the mountainside as the town grew with the silver boom. This has lent to the unique and colorful Mexican-colonial architecture that forms Guanajuato today.

The centuries-old alleyways and Baroque buildings  remain as functional businesses and homes. This now makes for an extremely scenic setting to roam around, unlike any anywhere else in Mexico, or the world.

The historic town of Guanajuato and the adjacent mines are even listed as one of Mexico’s 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Guanajuato is recognized by UNESCO for its signature architecture, silver mines, and deep history. (Read the full UNESCO description .)

After four lengthy stays to investigate all the things to do in Guanajuato, this city has easily become one of our favorite places to travel in Mexico.

View of Guanajuato historic city center

Guanajuato is arguably under-appreciated in comparison to the likes of Cancun or Cabo. Yet this town in Mexico’s central highlands is not exactly an undiscovered destination either. Guanajuato is a hotspot for domestic tourism and is becoming more and more recognized by international travelers.

During our visits, we’ve noticed many Mexicans flocking here to experience the many things to do in Guanajuato. Yet with only a trickle of international travelers, it’s clear that Guanajuato is not yet firmly on the global tourist trail.

We find Guanajuato to be safe and the people here continually prove to be friendly and welcoming, as is the norm throughout the colonial highlands. Guanajuato is a university town , so it is full of young people. This youthful presence lends to the city’s fun and festive atmosphere.

Yet it’s all the fun things to do in Guanajuato that make the city such a worthwhile destination to travel to in Mexico. From sightseeing to museum-hopping, to hiking, to devouring Guanajuato’s local cuisine; there’s lots to enjoy here!

So without further ado, the following suggestions sum up what we’ve found to be the best things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico!

Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico

Below is a map to help visually show exactly where all these things to do in Guanajuato are. Some people find the town a bit difficult to navigate at first, so feel free to save this custom Google Map. Then once in Guanajuato, come back to it on your smartphone to use throughout your visit.

1) Explore the Alleyways & Tunnels of Guanajuato’s Historic Old Town

Let’s begin this list with what we argue to be the very best thing to do in Guanajuato: stroll along the historic pedestrian streets of the Old Town.

Colorful alleyway in centro Guanajuato

The center of Guanajuato is completely pedestrian-friendly with only a few streets where cars are permitted at all. Instead of car-clogged roads, visitors to Guanajuato are welcomed to a labyrinth of walkable streets and alleyways that meander through this stunning town.

Getting lost in this maze is definitely one of the best things you can do in Guanajuato. Doing so can act as a great introduction to the city. We recommend ditching the map while roaming around centro to instead visually explore the surroundings .  You’ll gain a sense of discovery as you stumble across charming surprises around each corner.

Pedestrian streets of Guanajuato

Also, be sure to wander into Guanajuato’s elaborate network of tunnels . These subterranean streets were initially built as a means to divert flooding. But today they are used to divert traffic out of the historic city center.

Most of Guanajuato’s tunnels do have sidewalks. Yet we’d only suggest poking into the shorter ones. Leave the longer tunnels for the cars!

Guanajuato tunnel

💲Cost : Free 📍 Where : Just start walking around! 🕒 When : Day and night. Guanajuato lights up many buildings at night. So it can be worthwhile to stroll around in both daylight and nighttime hours.

2) Experience this Creepy Mummy Museum in Guanajuato Mexico

Mummies aren’t only associated with ancient Egypt . One of the main attractions in Guanajuato is the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum). In the 1800s there was a cholera outbreak that led to an influx of deaths and hence burials. Decades later the cemetery enacted a tax that family members needed to pay to keep their loved ones in the ground.

Some didn’t pay and hence their relatives were dug up. It turns out that Guanajuato’s unique geology had created a natural mummification process. At some point, curious visitors wanted to see these mummies. So cemetery workers began charging for entry. They eventually built a museum to display the mummies, which is a top attraction in Guanajuato today.

It can be disturbing to see the 100+ mummies , many of which are so well preserved that you can still easily see their facial expressions. After all, Guanajuato’s mummies are only a little more than a century old. In fact, some of mummy’s family members still live in the area today.

As long as you’re not easily rattled, Guanajuato’s Mummy Museum is just one of those places you have to check out. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Guanajuato and there is often a line to get into the museum.

Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum) Guanajuato Mexico

💲Cost : $97 pesos. 📍 How to Get to the Mummy Museum : It’s an easy and safe 20-30 minute walk from the city center. Or take a quick and cheap taxi for about $40 pesos each way. Here is the exact location . 🕘 Mummy Museum Hours : 9:00-6:00 M-Th, 9:00-6:30 F-Su. 🔗 Website : See the Museo de las Momias website

3) Visit the Grand Basílica in Guanajuato Mexico

Known as the Basílica de Nuestra Señora , the tall & towering church was constructed way back in the late 1600s. If you’re properly dressed, pop inside this beautiful Baroque-style church to catch a glimpse of its infamous jewel-incrusted Virgin Mary.

For a real cultural experience, drop by on a Sunday and attend mass in this pretty yellow church that rises above the town.

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato

There’s no need to search for this grand cathedral. If walking around Guanajuato’s historic city center, you’ll undoubtedly stumble across the looming Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato.

It looks beautiful when it’s lit up at night too!

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato at night

💲Cost : Free, although there are donation boxes. 📍 How to Get To the Basilica : If walking around Guanajuato centro , you won’t miss it. Here’s the exact location . 🕖 Basilica Hours : Doors are open 7:00 am to 9:00 pm

4) Take a Ride Up the Guanajuato Funicular

You can’t spell funicular without “fun!”

Guanajuato’s dual red funicular system is indeed a fun way to get to the Pipila Monument lookout point. But the funicular also boasts some of the best views in Guanajuato during the steep ride up the 102-meter (335-foot) long track.

Guanajuato's red funicular to the Pipila Monument

💡 Travel Tip : When boarding the funicular, try to score a position at the back, facing downward toward the city. Then have your phone or camera ready to take some epic shots as the funicular rises. Better yet, put down the camera and just enjoy those sweet views as the funicular effortlessly lifts you up the hill.

There are a series of alleyways that can be used to walk up to the same point that the funicular goes to. But given the inexpensive funicular ticket and the steep incline of those alleyways, it’s very worthwhile to take a ride on the funicular instead. We suggest taking the funicular one-way (up, of course) to the Pipila Monument and then strolling down the maze of tight cobblestone alleyways.

If returning to Guanajuato centro on foot, just be sure to specify a one-way ticket (say “ sencillo “) when purchasing from the ticket booth. Then get ready to be swiftly lifted 76 meters (249 feet) in altitude up the 42-degree incline, all while taking in those awe-inspiring city views.

Guanajuato funicular

💲 Funicular Cost: $30 pesos, one way 🕗 Funicular Hours : 8:00 am -9:50 pm M-F, 9:00 am -9:50 pm Sat, 10:00 am – 8:50 pm Sun 📍 How to Get There : Walk. The funicular station can be found behind the Juarez Theatre. Exact location: here .

5) Soak in the Best Views of Guanajuato at the Pipila Monument

Pipila Monument Guanajuato

It’s here at the Pipila Monument, where visitors can get a birds-eye view of the entire historic city center. From this lookout point, there are some superb photography opportunities to capture wide shots of this colorful city.

The monument itself becomes somewhat of an afterthought once you see the sweeping views of Guanajuato. Yet the looming monument that honors a local independence hero is fairly impressive too.

Guanajuato viewpoint (mirador) from the Pipila monument

Come to the Pipila Mirador on a clear day and bring your camera to capture sprawling views of this colorful city. While perched above the center of Guanajuato, you can easily see all of the city’s most famous buildings. The basilica, the university, and the theatre are easily viewable down below.

With this downward-looking vantage point into Guanajuato, it’s also interesting to be able to see how even the rooftops are painted to color-coordinate with the structures they top.

View of Guanajuato Mexico from above

There are some drink and snack vendors up at the Pipila Monument. So this mirador can be a welcoming spot to give your feet a break. Relax on the steps or a bench while soaking in those sweeping views.

Whatever you do, just be sure to come here at some point during your visit. Gazing down from the Pipila Mirador is definitely one of the best things to do in Guanajuato.

💲 Pipila Monument Price : Visiting the Pipila mirador is free. It costs a few pesos if you want to climb inside the top of the Pipila Monument. 📍 How to Get To Pipila Monument : Take the funicular ($25-pesos, recommended). It is also possible to get to Pipila by taxi ($45-pesos, one way) which passes through a long and complex network of tunnels. Lastly, it is possible to walk up a steep series of alleyways. Yet we suggest using that for the way down. Here’s the exact location of Pipila Monument .

6) A Guanajuato Tradition: Share a Kiss in the Callejón del Beso

While Guanajuato has many narrow alleyways, this particular alley has a story behind it that is just as colorful as this city itself. A local legend tells of a young girl from a well-to-do family who fell in love with a poor miner boy the family did not approve of. The boy rented the room exactly across this narrow alley from the girl’s room. At night they would sneak out to their balconies to kiss across this little alleyway.

The boy would sometimes climb into the girl’s room and one night her father caught them in the act. In a fit of rage, the father stabbed and killed his daughter. Meanwhile, the boy tried to escape out the window but plunged to his death in the alleyway below.

Like most urban legends, there are a few variations of this tragic tale, but they all follow this same theme. Today a superstition lives on for visitors who come to the Callejón del Beso ( Alley of the Kiss). Couples who smooch here are said to be rewarded with seven years of good luck! If traveling to Guanajuato as a couple, give it a try! If not, stroll by the famed alley to witness other couples attempting to recreate this legend.

Guanajuato kiss alley Callejón del Beso

Many couples simply pass through the alley to pop a smooch. But for those who really want to live out this Guanajuato lore, you can pay a small fee to access the opposing balconies for a kiss between buildings, over this famous Guanajuato alleyway.

💲 Price : The alleyway itself is free. Balcony access costs a few pesos. 📍 How to Get to the Alleyway of Kiss : The alleyway is tucked away within Guanajuato centro , so you must know where to look. See the exact location here on Google Maps .

7) Go Deep into an Ancient Mine to Explore Guanajuato’s Mining Past

Guanajuato came about as a silver mining town. So one of the quintessential things to do in Guanajuato is to visit one of those silver mines that initially put the city on the map. Strap on a hard hat to be guided into the dark depths of these old mines.

El Nopal Mines Guanajuato (El Nopal Minas)

Two different mines provide tours to visitors of Guanajuato. El Nopal Mina (the Nopal Mine) is the closest mine to Guanajuato city center. Here, an engineering student will tour you around the old mine shaft.

A more popular mine to visit is the Valenciana mines, also known as Minas San Cayetano . Located five kilometers from the city center, it is a bit further to reach for those who need their own transport. Yet since it is more popular, the Valenciana mines tend to have more regularly departing tours, in which you likely won’t have to wait to join a short group tour of the mines.

We also favor the Valenciana mines because it can be paired with a visit to the adjacent Iglesia San Cayetano , a spectacular cathedral (more on that below).

Touring Valenciana mine Guanajuato

Whichever mine you choose, Guanajuato’s mining tours tend to be offered in Spanish only. So without a working knowledge of the language, you won’t be able to grasp the guide’s tales of Guanajuato’s mining history.

Yet we find it to still be worth following the guide underground for the 35-minute tour to be able to experience this signature feature of Guanajuato.

💲 El Nopal Mines Cost: $25 pesos 🕙 El Nopal Mines Hours : 10:00-6:00 📍 How to Get There : From the city center, El Nopal Mine is a fairly long (40-minute) uphill walk. To shorten the trip, catch one of the frequent buses that go to the Soreana supermarket. From there it’s only an extra 5-minute walk to the Nopal Mines. Alternatively, take a quick & inexpensive taxi. Here’s the exact location .

💲 Valenciana Mine Cost: $35 pesos 🕙 Valenciana Mine Hours : 10:00-6:00 📍 How to Get There : From the city center, the Valenciana Mines are 5-kilometers away from town. So it’s best reached by bus, taxi, or Uber. The exact location is here . Also, some of the tourist trolleys departing from the center of Guanajuato make stops at the Valenciana Mines, which could make for greater ease to visit.

8) Visit the Opulent Iglesia San Cayetano

If venturing to the Valenciana mines, it’s a must-do to also incorporate a stop at Iglesia San Cayetano .

Legend has it that the San Cayetano church was built in the late 1700s with the wealth from the adjacent Valenciana mines. Also known as the La Valenciana church, the ornate gold-laden altar of the church commands attention upon entering.

UNESCO cites this church as being among “the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Central and South America.”

Gold alter of Iglesia San Cayetano church Valenciana in Guanajuato Mexico

Combining a trip to the San Cayetano church with the aforementioned Valenciana mines can be a logical move to visit two Guanajuato attractions, located right next to each other.

💲 Valenciana Church: Donations accepted. 📍 How to Get There : The Valenciana Church is located here , right next to the mines of the same name. It’s 5 kilometers from Guanajuato centro. So come by bus, taxi, Uber, or as part of a tour.

9) Take a Hike in Guanajuato Mexico

While Guanajuato is most often recognized for its colorful architectural charms, there’s also loads of natural beauty that surrounds the pretty colonial town. It only takes a 20-minute walk through the city’s narrow alleyways to get to the rural edge of Guanajuato, where fantastic hiking opportunities await across the mountains!

Hiking to La Bufa Guanajuato

Despite the awesome scenery and fun trails, trekking around Guanajuato is typically not much of a popular pursuit.

We regularly only see cows and goats, rather than other people hiking, while scrambling up the rocky terrain. Perhaps it’s partly due to the completely nonexistent trail signage and lack of hiking info. It’s a bit disappointing, as many travelers are missing out on some spectacular vistas surrounding the town.

But we’re here to fill in any adventurous souls on where to go hiking in Guanajuato.

hiking past rock formations on trail to la bufa in Guanajuato Mexico

Our favorite hike in Guanajuato is on the trail to the Blue Cross at La Bufa .

Guanajuato’s La Bufa hike is a spectacular trek that takes about 3 hours roundtrip to pursue. The route passes by small waterfalls, big rock formations, and the Cueva de San Ignacio de Loyola , which is a cave steeped in legend. The final push towards the summit of La Bufa involves a fun rock scramble that should only be pursued by fit and experienced hikers.

La Bufa hike Guanajuato

For anyone who enjoys trekking, then hiking to La Bufa is a must for things to do in Guanajuato!

💲 Cost : Free 📍 How to Get to La Bufa : Here is a map with some rough directions to La Bufa from Guanajuato city center. Find the unmarked trailhead behind the Clinical Hospital ISSSTE . From this hospital, take the trail, rather than the road, uphill and towards the Cueva de San Ignacio de Loyola . That’s where the dirt road ends and you can continue on toward the final push up to the La Bufa . There are two unmarked routes to reach La Bufa. Both are steep. Use caution.

10) Check Out the Guanajuato University

Guanajuato is a university town and you’ll notice students while ambling about the colorful city. That’s because the University of Guanajuato boasts a massive attendance of over 30,000 students!

The campus is somewhat spread out across the city center. Yet there is a notable main building just a block away from the Basilica. To find it, keep an eye out for the iconic staircase.

University of Guanajuato stairs

It’s an interesting building to look at from below. But be sure to walk all the way up those stairs!

As a reward, you’ll receive a nice view of the city center.

Atop Guanajuato University stairs

💲 Cost : Free 📍 How to Get There : Find the main university building with the wide staircase here on Google Maps .

11) Visit the Many Art & History Museums of Guanajuato, Mexico

Guanajuato isn’t just the home to mining and colorful colonial buildings. There are over a dozen art and history museums that add to the city’s culture. In addition to the aforementioned mummy museum, here are the other three most popular museums in Guanajuato:

Diego Rivera Museum ($25 pesos, 10:00-6:30): Guanajuato was the birthplace and home to Mexico’s most famous artist, Diego Rivera. The Diego Rivera Museum shows off what the home was like at the time of Rivera’s infancy when he lived in Guanajuato. The museum also showcases some of his artwork, of course.

At the Regional Museum of Guanajuato (Alhóndiga de Granaditas) ($65 pesos, 10:00-5:30), visitors learn about Mexican history in the area, which particularly focuses on Mexico’s War of Independence, given this was the very site of the first rebel victory.

The Museo de Iconografico  ($30 pesos, 9:30-6:45) pays homage to the iconic Spanish literary hero.

Statue at entrance to Don Quixote Iconographic Museum Guanajuato

12) Admire the Teatro Juarez

You can’t come to Guanajuato without pausing to appreciate the famed Juarez Theatre, sprouting up from the center of town. Built in the late 1800s, the tall columns of the ornate structure help to give Guanajuato a European flair.

Today you can take a quick stroll to self-tour around the inside the theatre. But Teatro Juarez is an active theatre too. So if you happen to be in Guanajuato while a performance is taking place, consider getting actual concert tickets instead of self-tour entry tickets.

For tickets to a show, check the box office of the Juarez Theatre soon after arriving to Guanajuato.

Teatro Juarez Theatre in Guanajuato Mexico

💲 Cost : $35 pesos. Additional $30 pesos to take pictures. 🕙 Hours : 10:00-1:45 and 5:00-7:45. 📍 How to Get There : Walk. You can’t miss this prominent building in the historic center of town. Exact location: here .

13) Wander around the Sprawling Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera

This gorgeous 17th-century hacienda has some of the most spectacular gardens we’ve seen in Mexico. The vast grounds surrounding the ancient estate are so atmospheric and impressive. While passing through the many vine-covered walls, it feels like something straight out of a movie.

Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera Guanajuato

The San Gabriel de Barrera hacienda was built back in the late 1600s by a descendant of the owners of one of the major silver mining operations that Guanajuato was built on.

The colonial home is now a museum that showcases period furnishings from that era. Yet it’s the well-kept gardens that seem to go on forever all around the property that really impresses. That’s what really makes this atmospheric hacienda stand out.

Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera gardens Guanajuato

It’s easily possible to spend a few hours wandering around the estate, meandering between the lush interior courtyards and the many adjacent gardens. Even if you’re not really into museums, visiting this scenic hacienda is still a great thing to do in Guanajuato to wander the ultra-scenic grounds.

Any photographers may find themselves overwhelmed with opportunity. Yet the same could be said for most places around Guanajuato.

San Gabriel de Barrera hacienda

14) Join Guanajuato’s Famous Night Walks: Callejoneadas

Callejoneadas are a nighttime tradition in Guanajuato that’s been going on for over 50 years. These callejonedas are evening strolls through Guanajuato’s alleyways and plazas in which you’re accompanied by strolling musicians dressed in period costumes.

This night stroll through Guanajuato is equal parts comedy show, cultural tour, and musical performance, all while slowly ambling around town. It’s become a tradition among things to do in Guanajuato.

Do beware that these evening strolls are only in Spanish. It can still be enjoyable for the atmosphere, night sights, songs, and certain jokes that can be picked up by body language and social cues. But non-Spanish speakers will likely miss out on the storytelling and many of the punchlines. Guanajuato’s nightly strolls can be hit or miss too, as each tour is entirely different. Enjoyment can really depend on the personality of the guides.

Callejoneadas Guanajuato costumed night tour around Guanajuato

15) Go Rowboating around Presa de la Olla

A fun thing to do in Guanajuato on a nice day is to take a quick paddle on the boats around Presa de la Olla . Stroll a bit outside of the city center and you’ll eventually come across a park surrounding the presa (dam). It’s here that you can rent rowboats to paddle around the manmade lake.

There’s also a small tower you can climb up to get a birds-eye view of the area. Several eateries also line the lake serving basic local fare. So work up an appetite with oars, then pop in for a snack and reward your efforts with a cold cerveza.  

Rowboats on presa de la Olla Guanajuato Mexico

💲 Cost : The park itself and entrance to the tower are free. Rowboat rentals are $40 pesos. 📍 How to Get There : It’s a 30-40 minute walk from the center of Guanajuato. Or take a cheap & quick taxi for $40 pesos. Exact location: here .

16) Go to a Baseball Game with the Most Scenic Backdrop

Could Guanajuato’s unassuming Estadio Aguilar y Maya  have one of the most beautiful outfield backdrops of any baseball stadium?

We sure think so!

Estadio Aguilar y Maya baseball field in Guanajuato

While not as popular as fútbol (soccer), baseball does have a decent following in Mexico and even a 16-team professional league that plays in the country throughout the summer months. But here in Guanajuato, there’s a small municipal league that keeps the local crowd entertained . The bargain-priced $25-peso ticket provides access to seats right behind home plate to cheer on the home team amidst that colorful backdrop.

To find out Guanajuato’s baseball game times, simply walk by the stadium to have a look at the schedule that’s posted by the ticket booth. During our last visit, games were being held daily at a scheduled time of 4:00 pm. Although, we found they don’t actually start until closer to 5:00.

It’s a really fun and casual atmosphere. There tends to be plenty of seats and is not crowded at all. A sound guy sits in the stands and taunts the away team with sirens when the opposing team goes up to bat. Meanwhile, the scoreboard in the outfield is charmingly changed by hand.

Watching baseball in Guanajuato Mexico

During the last game we attended, the snack and drink lady didn’t arrive until the second inning. Players would visit her while waiting to bat to buy something to munch on. She doesn’t have cervezas , but can direct you to a friendly hombre who will make Coronas appear for $20-pesos a pop.

It’s all a great experience and such a fun thing to do in Guanajuato, even if you just drop by for a few innings to check out that stunning backfield.

💲 Cost : $25 pesos 🕔 Times : Check the schedule upon arriving to Guanajuato, although games tend to begin around 4:00-5:00. 📍 Where : The stadium, Estadio Aguilar y Maya, is located right on the edge of the historic centro: here .

17) Find the Frogs in Guanajuato!

We promised to sum up the 15 best things to do in Guanajuato, but we can’t help but add in one more. Go see the frogs!

Did you know that Guanajuato is named after frogs? The indigenous people here named the area Guanajuato, meaning “Land of Frogs .” There is some conflicting lore as to where the name originated from, but today Guanajuato embraces the frog theme. So be on the lookout for namesake sculptures found throughout town. Ribbit!

Guanajuato frogs

💲 Cost : Free 📍 Where to Find Guanajuato’s Frogs : You’ll see plenty at the Plaza de las Ranas (Frog Plaza), located here .

Eating & Drinking Things To Do in Guanajuato Mexico

Oh, we’re not done yet with recommendations for things to do in Guanajuato!

We find that eating and drinking can be as equally rewarding things to do as notable attractions . This can be particularly true in Mexico. On that note, this next section of things to do in Guanajuato is all about food & drink!

The following foodie recommendations are about the more unique and quintessential eating and drinking  experiences in Guanajuato, rather than attempting to note all the best restaurants in Guanajuato.

18) Eat Guanajuato’s Signature Dish: Miner’s Enchiladas

There are many regional Mexican dishes to try in Guanajuato, yet the food the city is most known for is enchiladas mineras , or miner’s enchiladas. As Guanajuato came to prominence as a silver mining town, this dish was created as a quick & easy lunch used to fuel up the miners for a hard day’s work.

Miner’s enchiladas are composed of day-old tortillas dipped in a red chili sauce, flash-fried, and then stuffed with ranchero cheese. Then the enchiladas are topped with onions, carrots, and potato along with even more sauce and cheese.

Today miner’s enchiladas are typically served alongside a piece of chicken, but traditionally this is a standalone dish. Miner’s enchiladas can be found on many menus throughout Guanajuato and even at street stalls.

enchiladas mineras (or miner’s enchiladas) is a typical cuisine and menu item in Guanajuato

19) Unwind with a Drink within Guanajuato’s Cafe-Lined Plazas

A favorite Guanajuato pastime of locals and visitors alike is chilling out in the city’s beautiful leafy plazas. Jardin de la Union is the most popular and centrally located, near the theatre. Go to any of the cafes lining the plaza, order a few drinks, and soak in the beautiful atmosphere. Solo street musicians and full mariachi bands will pass by with offers to serenade you.

Our favorite café at Jardin de la Union is . We find they have the best prices on drinks, including promotions with buckets of beer, or cubetas de cerveza . But the good value they offer also draws the most customers. As a result, their alluring patio often becomes completely full. So go to Bar Tradicional Luna  early in the afternoon to secure a table. Located: here .

Bar Tradicional Luna at Jardin de la Union Guanajuato

Plaza de San Fernando is another great plaza to relax at outdoor cafes. It tends to be less busy and frequented more by locals. La Inundacion de 1905 is a great spot to grab a beer there. That is, if you can snag one of the few plaza-facing tables which always seem to be taken. Located: here .

Yet one of our absolute favorite spots to grab a drink on the plaza is atop a balcony overlooking Plaza La Paz . It’s at a bar that’s hidden in plain sight. At the La Taberna de Sancho , there are only two coveted tables on the balcony. Yet during the afternoon, we regularly find them to be surprisingly vacant. If you notice this, then head upstairs to occupy those seats and enjoy the people-watching down below at this scenic location in front of the Basilica. Beers start at $25 pesos. Located: here .

Drinking a beer at La Taberna de Sancho on Plaza la Paz in front of the basilica in Guanajuato Mexico

20) Eat Sopa Azteca atop a Bridge Crossing an Alleyway

Sopa Azteca at Santo Cafe

There are only two tables on the bridge, so if they are both occupied, then you can take solace with a window table that overlooks the charming alley.

Santo Cafe is known for its Sopa Azteca. We can personally confirm it is, in fact, delicious; but do know they make some tasty crepes too, among many other dishes! Find Santo Cafe here .

Santo Cafe Guanajuato Mexico

21) Shop (and Eat) ’til You Drop at the Hidalgo Market

The Mercado Hidalgo is Guanajuato’s big indoor market. You can find loads of local specialties here, whether you’re coming here to eat or shop. You’ll encounter everything from fresh vegetables to handicrafts, meats, souvenirs, piñatas, clothes, and complete home-cooked meals. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s still a fun detour to wander around the market’s many stalls.

Mercado Hidalgo Guanajuato market

If you do stop into the market for a meal, consider going just outside the far end of the market. It’s there that the señoras will aggressively compete with one another while hanging off their balconies, trying to woo customers into their establishments. It can be a funny experience to take part in as you consider which one to eat at.

Guanajuato restaurants near market

22) Try Guanajauto’s Homemade Ice Cream: La Garrafa Nieves

This Guanajuato ice cream shop produces its own, fresh-churned nieve, “snow,” AKA ice cream. La Garrafa Nieves has dozens of unique local flavors too! You can taste everything from tequila ice cream to queso (cheese) ice cream. We didn’t care much for the tequila ice cream but the queso ice cream is surprisingly tasty!

Or try the kiss of the devil ice cream if you dare. They have a few locations around the city center.

La Garrafa Nieves ice cream Guanajuato

23) Go For A Pub Cantina Crawl in Guanajuato

Cantina culture is a fun aspect for any drinkers to experience when visiting Mexico. While traditionally these are places for men, Guanajuato is full of friendly cantinas that welcome chicas with a smile. So walk through the signature swinging doors, pony up to the bar, and order a shot of tequila with a cerveza.

There are many cantinas all around the city, so you can create a fun cantina crawl around town and duck into a few of them.

Just remember, these are beer and tequila type of places. Don’t come to these cantinas expecting to order a mixed drink or even a margarita.

Bar el Indendio cantina in Guanajuato

Most of Guanajuato’s cantinas in the historic center are indeed welcoming. But do beware some cantinas are more for hombres (men), particularly so later at night. Poke your head and gauge the vibe before ordering a drink. Expect to pay about $20-pesos for a cerveza.

🍺 La Norteña is a friendly cantina with a baseball theme, near the stadium. Located here .

🍺 Los Barilitos , near the market, is a cantina that’s best visited earlier and has an interesting urinal set-up for men. Located here .

🍺  Cantina La Cubana , dive bar of a cantina with jukebox and mezcal on offer. Can get rowdy. Located here .

24) Indulge in Endless Botanas at Clave Azul in Guanajauto

This legendary botanero is full of character and a friendly owner. Come here for drinks between 2:00 – 5:30 pm and you’ll be treated with complimentary botanas while sipping cervezas . Botanas are essentially the Mexican version of tapas, and Clave Azul does a great rendition of this tradition.

With each drink ordered, a mystery snack will appear alongside your beverage. These food items are generally very good and it can be a fun surprise to see what arrives. Have a few beers and make a meal out of it!

Some say that Clave Azul is hidden and difficult to locate. But the central location is really quite easy to find. Google Maps will lead you to the exact location , which is set only a few steps back from Plaza de San Fernando. We’ve never seen a menu at Clave Azul and not sure if one exists. Yet to provide some idea of pricing, we paid $45-pesos per beer and each came with a very generous botana.

Clave Azul botanas in Guanajuato

25) Gorge Yourself on Street Food in Guanajuato

There’s a great street food scene that occurs nightly in Guanajuato. You can find everything from tortas to miner’s enchiladas and everything in between. The food is priced well and made with love. Adventurous eaters will have some daring foods to seek out such as tacos loaded up with pig intestines. (We couldn’t do it!)

esquites (cups of corn) with cheese and creme in Guanajuato Mexico

💡 Guanajuato street food safety tips : We found the hygiene standards of the street stalls to be mostly very clean throughout the many vendors. But do take some modest precautions when eating Guanajuato’s street food.

  • If the person who prepares the food also does the money exchange, watch for gloves to handle the cash.
  • Also, look for flies around any open food containers. We avoid the fruit stalls throughout Guanajuato that tend to attract many flies.
  • Perhaps most importantly, look for a stall with a steady stream of local customers. If they’re willing to wait in line, it must be for something good. And with many customers, the food also stays hot and fresh!

A large assortment of street food vendors cluster around  Plaza de La Paz   in the evening. But you can find them throughout Guanajuato.

Street food in Guanajuato

26) Discover Guanajuato’s Finer Side

We love Guanajuato’s street food and its little taco joints, but sometimes it’s nice to splurge a bit too. And Guanajuato has a few great finer dining opportunities to do so. Some of these restaurants, like Mestizo, are on the pricier side. Others like, Los Campos, are surprisingly affordable. Consider making reservations, as these places do get booked up. Here are a few of the best in Guanajuato, but we’re only scratching the surface here:

🍽️  Casa Mercedes – The delicious dishes and reasonable prices lure people out of the city center to seek this otherwise secluded restaurant.

🍽️ Los Campos – Serving a gastronomic spin on local Mexican cuisine, this has become our absolute favorite restaurant in Guanajuato and among our favorites in all of Mexico. Los Campos wins us over not only by the excellent food, but the phenomenal value, great service, fantastic drinks, and excellent mescals. It’s a must. Most dishes are shareable, so it can be fun to order several plates for the table to be able to try multiple menu items. We suggest about three plates per couple, or four to depart uncomfortably stuffed. You can review their entire menu with prices: here . Consider making advanced reservations.

los campos menu items guanajuato restaurant

A Few More Food & Drink Things to Do In Guanajuato:

We wanted to keep these Guanajuato food & drink suggestions to 10 suggestions. But we can’t help but slide in just a few more.

While the state of Oaxaca is most famous for mezcal, Guanajuato is also one of the ten Mexican states that produce this delicious smokey agave liquor. You can find mescal on most restaurant drink menus in Guanajuato and in many bars. A few mezcal places to try in Guanajuato include: Macaria Mezcalaria & Cocina , Mezcalito , and Mezcal Bar El Fusilado .

🍺 Guanajuato Craft Beer

Somewhat surprising for this thriving college town, there are no craft brewpubs within the historic city center and Guanajuato’s two microbreweries on the outskirts of town have closed down. Thankfully Beer Company Guanajuato remains firmly in Guanajuato centro . This craft beer bar with rooftop patio also has a store sells a wide assortment of local brews from all over the region and beyond. Check the Beer Company Guanajuato FB page for the latest.

When traveling anywhere in Mexico, you must try the local tacos. There are many great taquerias  (casual taco joints) in Guanajuato, but we have two favorites in Guanajuato Centro. Try El Paisa , located here . Also try  El Trompo , located here . Let us know in the comments which one you like best!

When you’ve had too much mescal the night before, go to Cafe Tal to help wake up. For a real jolt, order the super-caffeinated, chocolatey rich espresso drink they call Parkinson . Just don’t say we didn’t warn you. Cafe Tal is  located here .

Collage: Tacos, Mescal, Coffee

Where to Stay in Guanajuato Mexico

There are many great places to stay in Guanajuato for all budgets. We suggest staying somewhere in Guanajuato that is either in the historic city center or within easy reach. The center of town is where all the action is, so it’s a wise idea to not stay too far away.

Advanced reservations can be a smart idea, as some of the best places do get booked up during high season and over weekends. Yet if coming in October during Cervantino Festival, advanced reservations are critical.

We’ve scouted out and have personally stayed at many different places throughout Guanajuato to make suggestions depending on travel style and budget.

Hostels in Guanajuato Mexico

Hostels in Guanajuato are a great option for solo travelers and anyone looking for more of a fun/social vibe. Yet, couple travelers and groups will likely find better value sharing a room in a budget-friendly hotel. Here are our hostel suggestions:

  • Casa de Dante   is often recognized as the best hostel option in Guanajuato. Clean & beautiful rooms, friendly staff, and even an amazing Mexican breakfast is included all for about $15-$20 USD per night depending on your room/bed preference. It’s no wonder the hostel has maintained a phenomenal reputation with its consistently great hostelworld reviews , despite being a hefty 15-minute walk from the city center.
  • If Casa de Dante is fully booked or you want to be more centrally located, instead try Corral D Comedias Hostel   located within the historic center. It’s also clean, well-priced (particularly for dorm beds), and includes a great breakfast.

View of colorful buildings in Guanajuato Mexico

Good Value Rooms in Guanajuato – Around $30 Per Night

These are some of the best private rooms you can find in Guanajuato. These are smaller-type accomodation, rather than large hotels. So you’ll receive a more personal touch in addition to great value at these cheap and cheerful places:

  • Casa de Pita : These comfy rooms are located right in the heart of Guanajuato. With prices starting at about $30 USD per night including breakfast, Pita’s House is among the very best hotel values in town.
  • Hotel Plaza Baratillo : We stayed in the basic-yet-comfortable rooms here in a fantastic location that is a bargain for around $30 USD. Ask for the room on the top floor to get a window with a view, as pictured below.

Window view of Guanajuato from Hotel Plaza Baritillo

Great Hotels with Great Prices in Guanajauto

For a more traditional hotel with a bit of elegance, try some of these fantastic options in Guanajuato that are under $100 per night!

  • El Meson de los Poetas : Each of the rooms at “The Poet’s Inn” has been inspired by a different poet. Plus it has a great location, situated in a historic building that dates back to the 1700’s!
  • Hotel de la Paz : If you want a hotel with the most central location in Guanajuato, this is it. The La Paz Plaza right outside the front door is always a happening scene right in the enter of Guanajuato. That and the big elegant rooms make this a smart choice.

Casa Lunatta hotel room in Guanajuato

Hotels Worth the Splurge in Guanajuato

If you’re visiting Guanajuato to celebrate something or just want to stay somewhere luxurious, there are some incredible high-class boutique hotels scattered throughout the colonial city to consider. Here are some of the best hotels for a bit of luxury:

  • Boutique 1850 : You can’t get a much better location in Guanajuato than right on the Jardin. Boutique 1850 has artistic and classy rooms, a beautiful spa, and a rooftop bar with killer views.
  • Alonso 10 Boutique : This well-situated hotel comes with an artist’s touch. The elegant rooms and lobby feature many artworks. Guests rave about the included breakfast.
  • Villa Maria Cristina : After a long day touring around Guanajuato, you can plop down into the hot tub on the beautiful patio or go for a swim in the indoor pool. Rooms here are as spacious as they are stylish to aid in your relaxation.

Guanajuato Mexico skyline

Guanajuato Apartment Rentals for Longer Stays

There are some great apartment rentals throughout Guanajuato found on Airbnb .

Whenever we stay somewhere for a week or longer, we always prefer to settle into an apartment. When we first came to Guanajuato for a monthlong stay that’s exactly what we did and we had a great experience in a local apartment.

We suggest limiting an apartment search to within Guanajuato’s historic city center or within walking distance. Gauge the distance before booking and remember the walk may have some steep hills.

bedroom of Airbnb apartment rental in Guanajuato Mexico

Guanajuato Travel Tips To Know Before You Go

Here are a few travel tips to keep in mind as you plan to roam around the colorful streets of Guanajuato:

🚕 Using Taxis and Ubers to Get Around Guanajuato .

Centro Guanajuato is very walkable. But to go further afield, up the city’s hills or through its tunnels, a taxi or Uber can be required. We find taxis to be easier, more frequent, and more convenient when traveling within a few kilometers. Yet if going further, such as to the bus station or airport, Ubers can prove cheaper. Using Uber can be particularly handy for those without a firm grasp of Spanish to explain directions, since using Uber allows passengers to simply input the destination in the app. The same Uber app used at home also works in Guanajuato. Just ensure you have a local or international data plan.

🚗 Important note about using Uber in Guanajuato:

Sit in the front seat. Taxis in Guanajuato aren’t too happy about the existence of Uber taking away their business. So Uber drivers operating in Guanajuato like to be discreet. Therefore, they prefer if you sit in the front seat.

💬 Be Prepared with Some Basic Spanish .

Guanajuato is not frequented by international travelers as much as some of Mexico’s other popular tourism destinations. As such, not much English is spoken here at all. If you don’t know any Spanish, be sure to brush up on some basics before you go. And before your trip, download the free Google Translate app to your phone. ( Android download here | iPhone download here )

🇲🇽 Learn Spanish

It can be a great idea to learn some basic Spanish before a trip to Guanajuato. It will make a trip to Guanajuato much easier and more enjoyable. Even learning a few simple pleasantries can go a long way with pointing and a smile. We also like to use Babbel as an easy, fun, and inexpensive way to learn Spanish. With each lesson just 10-15 minutes, it’s something we can always work into the day and the associated app even lets us use it on-the-go.

🎒 What to pack for Guanajuato Mexico :

Pack for a trip to Guanajuato like you would for any cool weather destination. Guanajuato is up in the highlands after all, so long sleeves and light jackets are recommended. The temperatures do become warm in the afternoon with highs ranging from about 70°F / 21°C in winter months and can exceed 85°F / 29°C during the warmest months of April-June.

It does cool off considerably at night though. Expect overnight low temperatures to range between 40°F / 4°C and 55°F / 13°C. So pack something to keep warm at night. Be sure to review our Ultimate Packing Checklist & Packing Tips to help ensure you’ll have everything you need.

📅 Best Time to Visit Guanajuato Mexico :

Any time of year can be a great time to visit Guanajuato!

  • December to January are traditionally the coolest months and it begins to gradually warm in February and March. Dry.
  • April and May, before the rains, tend to bring the warmest weather. It remains dry.
  • In June, once those occasional rains, it brings the trees back to life, as the dry surroundings become green again.
  • July to September, the rainy season continues to bring occasional showers and mild temperatures.
  • October and November bring a cooling and drying trend.

🎉 Fiestas in Guanajuato

In between all of the seasonal weather changes, Guanajuato hosts loads of fiestas throughout the year. Guanajuato can get busy and festive during traditional holidays in Mexico like Semana Santa and Day of the Dead . Yet Guanajuato’s biggest fiesta is the Cervantino Festival , in which the city swells to capacity with visitors during October. During this time, accommodation prices in Guanajuato rise and hotels get booked full, so advanced reservations are critical.

☔ Rainy Season in Guanajuato

The rains come June-September in Guanajuato. It doesn’t rain all day, every day during this time of year and it shouldn’t prevent a trip to Guanajuato. But do expect the potential for occasional showers during these months. And pack a travel umbrella like this , if arriving then.

☠️ Stay Safe in Guanajuato Mexico

Overall we’ve personally never had any safety concerns at all in Guanajuato Centro. We feel comfortable walking around at night, without issue. It’s a friendly town and we haven’t noticed any major danger threats. That said, there are some bad neighborhoods that locals have cautioned us to avoid in Guanajuato. But most visitors will not encounter these neighborhoods if staying within Centro and sticking to the locations listed within the travel guide.

🚱 Don’t drink the water in Guanajuato

The tap water in Guanajuato is generally is not safe to drink. Use bottled water only. There’s no need to worry about ice, as most establishments use packaged ice made from purified water. Also, consider traveling with this compact LifeStraw . We have one and it’s come in handy a few times during our travels when water wasn’t drinkable and stores were closed.

⚠️ Get Travel Insurance

You never know what may happen during a trip to Mexico. Usually, all will be fine, but possibilities can include getting sick, a flight gets canceled, car accidents, earthquakes, lost baggage, phone becomes lost or stolen, rental car damage, etc. Travel insurance will have you covered so that you don’t incur the high cost of these unfortunate possibilities. We never roam around Mexico without it. We use and have been happy with   World Nomads , with what we’ve found to have the best price and coverage combination.  Enter the dates for your trip   to get a quick estimate.

💡 75+ Practical Mexico Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Your Trip

While those aforementioned travel tips are specific to Guanajuato, we’ve published an in-depth article full of travel tips relevant to those traveling to Guanajuato and beyond throughout Mexico.

This detailed travel guide discusses cultural etiquette to follow in Mexico, provides tipping guidelines for who to tip (and how much), shows you how to use your mobile phone in Mexico, suggests money-saving tips for getting pesos, advice to stay safe and so much more.

Be sure to read (or bookmark): 75+ Mexico Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Your Trip

😄 Enjoy Guanajuato Mexico!

Enjoy the food, the culture, the people, the fiestas, and all the fun things to do in Guanajuato that make it such a great place to visit!

Best Things To Do in Guanajuato Mexico?

So those are all of our favorite things to do in Guanajuato, along with some travel tips to help pursue them. If you go or if you’ve been, please let us know in the comments what some of your favorite things to do in Guanajuato are. Also, don’t hesitate to comment with any questions you may have if planning a trip to Guanajuato, Mexico.

Guanajuato is such a fun city to roam around! We hope you think so too.

Happy travels! -John & Heather of Roaming Around the World

John & Heather at viewpoint in Guanajuato Mexico

Publishing note: This travel guide about the Best Things To Do in Guanajuato Mexico was initially published in July 2017, following our first visit. Most recently updated February 2024.

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December 23, 2023 at 4:04 PM

Great blog! Too bad I didn’t know about it before. Thank you. We loved GTO but wish I knew about some things you wrote about here.

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February 2, 2023 at 4:12 PM

Well-written and great resource! I wish I’d seen it before instead of after my recent trip to GTO!

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January 3, 2022 at 11:51 AM

Do you have any other recommendations for hikes around Guanajuato?

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January 4, 2022 at 2:47 PM

Sure, there is a trailhead at Presa de la Olla that gives access to two other hiking routes: Las Dos Comadres and Los Picachos (which includes La Bufa on the backend of that loop). Check AllTrails app or website for specifics and reviews on each of those hikes you can pursue directly from Guanajuato. There is also a wide loop trail northeast of centro that we’ve hiked on and notice others use for jogging and exercise. It’s pleasant, less strenuous and less scenic than La Bufa and the others on the SE side of town.

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September 6, 2020 at 1:47 PM

Do you both happen to know what the temple or church is that is up on the hill and can be viewed across the city from the monument? It is directly across way up on the hill and looks super interesting but can’t find anything on it. Was thinking it might be lglesia Valencia?

Thanks! Awesome article. Headed to the hacienda now.

September 8, 2020 at 6:19 PM

Could be lglesia Valencia. That’s up on a hill to the north of the Pipila monument. But there’s quite some distance, at least 2 miles (3+ km) as the crow flies. So not sure you would be able to view it clearly from the monument. Hope you enjoy Guanajuato!

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April 6, 2021 at 8:26 PM

That’s a little community called Mellado. The church is Templo de la Merced de Mellado.

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February 19, 2020 at 8:34 PM

Nice list. Thanks.

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January 23, 2020 at 8:06 PM

Thanks for every other excellent post. Where else could anybody get that type of info in such an ideal method of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I’m on the look for such information.

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January 23, 2020 at 12:29 PM

Great article, John! Perhaps the most complete Gto article I have read and spot on. I’d like to add there are a few great Facebook Groups serving the Guanajuato expat community. The first is geared for those visiting or living in Guanajuato – all sorts of conversations and questions asked and answered about everyday life. The other Group is a constantly updated list of activities and events in Guanajuato – art, music, food – mostly in Spanish but it has everything.

expat community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gtomx/

events and activities: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1587748181247376/

Saludos! John

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November 2, 2019 at 9:56 PM

This article is spot on. Our favorite experience was the Salmiana Agave Bar. Amazingly friendly bi lingual staff in a beautiful setting with great food and drink. The authors are right: just GO!

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June 29, 2019 at 3:07 PM

Great blog! I am in Guanajuato right now and was so glad to come across all this helpful info. Thinking of trying the hike to La Bufa with some friends from our group. Thanks for the suggestion and the directions!

July 1, 2019 at 10:12 AM

It’s a great hike that can be a bit challenging towards the end. But is ultimately very rewarding! Hope you and your amigos make it up there. Enjoy that beautiful city! 🙂

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July 26, 2019 at 4:11 PM

I am on my way to Guanajuato.. this travel info definitely help us.. thanks for the tips…. Want to know about SAN MIGUEL de Allende too..

July 27, 2019 at 11:27 AM

So glad this guide to Guanajuato helps! Only an hour or so away, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato make a great duo to visit both on the same trip. We haven’t yet written a guide to that city. We’ve visited a few times ourselves, yet we’re personally more drawn to Guanajuato, so we tend to spend more time here. But we can certainly offer a few recommendations for San Miguel too! 🙂 Of course, you’ll want to explore the historic centro. Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is not to be missed. The mirador (viewpoint) offers a beautiful view of the city. The Mercado de Artesanías sprawls on forever with some great craft offerings. La Gruta spa is one of our favorite day trips to relax out in the thermal pools. Hope that gives some ideas and you have a great trip!

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May 26, 2019 at 7:02 PM

Absolutely wonderful write up on the city I’ll live in for a few weeks this summer. Thank you! I’ll be checking your site for more info on nearby towns if you have it.

June 2, 2019 at 6:40 PM

So glad to hear you found our Guanajuato travel guide to be helpful! 🙂 Hope you have an awesome few weeks here over the summer. It really is a special city. Enjoy! As for nearby towns, you can check out our guide to Queretaro, which is about 2-hours by bus from Guanajauto: https://www.roamingaroundtheworld.com/best-things-to-do-in-queretaro-mexico-travel-guide/

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August 29, 2019 at 10:11 AM

What wonderful info and insight you’ve provided about Guanajuato and Queretaro – thank you so much! My husband and I are thinking about moving to one of those cities next year (we currently live in Puerto Vallarta), and would really appreciate any advice you can give about how to go about finding long-term rentals in both places. We’ve found limited resources in our search so far….

Thank you in advance!

August 29, 2019 at 11:58 AM

So glad to hear they’ve proven helpful! 🙂 For rentals, we usually stay in places for about a month or so at a time, in which Airbnb is very convenient, had some great listings, and works quite well for us. But if looking for a place longer than a month or so, it can be best to search on the ground. It can still be a good idea to simply get an Airbnb for a month and use that time to set off to explore, get to know the areas, and home-hunt. Often some of the best places can be identified by simply walking around a neighborhood you like and looking for “renta” signs, and asking around. In Guanajuato, there are loads of local places for rent, rented out by the shifting population of university students, simply advertised with a sign on the apartment. Also, be sure to try Facebook. For example in Guanajuato, search “Rentas Guanajuato” and you’ll find a few groups with loads of rental listings. Also, consider popping into a local real estate office once there. Hope that helps! 🙂

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March 16, 2019 at 1:48 AM

Oh my gosh! You’re a life saver. I was so overwhelmed about where to even start until I came across your blog. Yay. I am so excited now. You totally changed my mood. Thank you so much for doing this. 🙂 N

March 18, 2019 at 3:30 PM

Love hearing this! Hope you have an awesome trip to Guanajuato and so glad this post helped to sort things out. Thanks so much for stopping by to let us know and putting a smile on our faces. 🙂

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January 10, 2019 at 1:08 PM

Thanks for the great page! Just got back, and we did it all–save the hike and the baseball game. Can’t thank you enough. Very glad to have the references to Los Campos, Cafe Tal, and the Hacienda in particular. We wouldn’t have ended up in any of those places, but they were all great finds.

January 15, 2019 at 9:19 AM

So glad this helped! Thanks so much for stopping back by with the feedback! Love Los Campos – definitely one of our favorites in Mexico! And isn’t the hacienda grounds amazing? It took our third visit to Guanajuato to finally venture out there and we were so impressed!

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January 8, 2019 at 10:43 AM

I really enjoyed your post. And was surprised to see a photo of my bedroom, at the AirBnB. I really love staying at this place.

January 15, 2019 at 9:27 AM

Haha, that’s funny! I guess it’s a popular Airbnb. Good find for sure. We certainly enjoyed it there!

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December 29, 2018 at 5:19 AM

Wow, amazing post! So useful and detailed – tips & tricks. Me and my wife are going hiking 2 – 3 times in year. This will be our next destination!

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December 9, 2018 at 4:34 PM

I have loved Guanajuato for decades, but it has been way too long since my last visit. And I only live an hour away! Your wonderful and very detailed post has reminded me it’s past time for a visit. Heading to the Central Camionera to get on a bus! Thanks!

December 10, 2018 at 11:16 AM

Fantastic! Guanajuato is such a great place to pop into from San Miguel de Allende! 🙂 Hope you enjoy revisiting this special place and perhaps this guide gives you a few new spots to check out. ¡Buen viaje!

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December 5, 2018 at 10:34 PM

Oh, I love this! Your post really made me miss Mexico. It’s such a cool and colourful place. I lived there for three months when I first started traveling and haven’t been back since 2009. Definitely, need to make a visit happen sometime soon.

December 6, 2018 at 8:16 AM

Yes, we love it too, of course. Sounds like you may be overdue for a trip back to Guanajuato! Perhaps a 2019 trip may be in order to see how things have changed in the decade since you were last there. 🙂

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October 9, 2018 at 9:38 PM

We are arriving into GTO at midnight on a Monday is there anything open at that time to grab a quick bite?

October 23, 2018 at 8:55 PM

Sorry for the delayed response. Late on a Monday night may be scarce. I’d imagine you’d still be able to find some street food somewhere if you’re okay with that. There may be some bars open late (until 2), but they may or may not have proper snacks. Bar Tradicional Luna (which is more of a patio cafe, rather than a bar), right on the Jardin de la Union, is open ’til 2am. So that may be a good bet to try.

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May 24, 2018 at 2:30 PM

Thank you for this wonderfully detailed post on Guanajuato. I am visiting next month and would like to know where to find the best coffee and breakfast 🙂

Thanks in advance!

May 25, 2018 at 12:45 PM

For coffee – try Cafe Tal! 🙂 Quant little place, who roast their beans onsite and make some great coffee! They have breakfast snacks too, like pastries and such, but you go there for the coffee.

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January 9, 2018 at 1:54 PM

Great blog. Helped me so much in many ways. Thankyou.

January 15, 2018 at 7:50 PM

Always glad to help. Hope you enjoyed Guanajuato!

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September 9, 2017 at 2:03 PM

omg! I am currently staying in the same airbnb from the picture you posted! HAHA!!

September 11, 2017 at 12:19 PM

That is so funny! We liked that airbnb a lot. It was a little bit of a hike to centro, but it’s a nice walk. We hope you enjoy your time in Guanajuato as much as we did! 🙂

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August 31, 2017 at 4:49 AM

A strong and detailed report. What worries me in Mexico is security. Is the country safe from your point of view if you think about visiting Mexico?

August 31, 2017 at 7:57 AM

We spent nearly 6 months of the past 2 years traveling through various places in Mexico and never felt unsafe anywhere during that entire time. Security was never much of a concern for us in Guanajuato or any of the places we traveled to in Mexico. Just like most cities in the world, there are some rough neighborhoods to be avoided. Those places tend to be easy to avoid, because there’s nothing of interest in those areas unless you’re looking for trouble. We felt completely safe in Guanajuato and the places we traveled throughout Mexico.

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October 17, 2017 at 4:35 PM

Thank you for your clarification

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August 18, 2017 at 1:42 AM

I love how Mexico is in touch with its own indigenous and mestizo cultures whilst remaining so firmly modern and gracefully in the 21st Century. My travels around Latin America have opened up my eyes to a whole new world of beauty – and have left me keen to explore Mexico.

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August 5, 2017 at 12:29 AM

It sounds like Guanajuato has a lot going for it – thankyou for the introduction to a part of Mexico I hadn’t heard of before. I’m a big fan of historic towns, so I love that the historic center is preserved as a UNESCO Site, and I agree, I think the presence of domestic tourism over international tourism does make the atmosphere a special one, it makes it feel more authentic even though much of the Mexican population are technically visiting also!

The Mummy museum as piqued my interest and curiosity too – OMG definitely a creepy sight, but a really fascinating and interesting one!! Thanks for the list of great things to do 🙂

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August 2, 2017 at 11:53 AM

I enjoy visiting UNESCO sites and it’s great to learn about Guanajuato. A month exploring the city sounds fabulous. I’ve never been to Guanajuato or surrounding area, and I will definitely get in touch if I need any more information. Thank you!

August 2, 2017 at 8:08 PM

We do too and we found Guanajuato to be very worthy of the designation and well taken care of too. It’s a beautiful town! If you head that way, definitely feel free to get in touch! 🙂

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August 2, 2017 at 3:04 AM

Guanajuato looks like a great city! I love that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the colorful buildings are so pretty. We would love to explore old town and the microbreweries too!

August 2, 2017 at 8:10 PM

Right? Mexico is really a colorful country but we think Guanajuato may be the most colorful city in Mexico. They even paint the tops of the roofs for people looking down from the mountains above!

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August 2, 2017 at 2:56 AM

Guanajuato is indeed a revelation. I had not heard much about this place, but can see that it is a place throbbing with culture and history. The fact that it has a mining history makes it more fascinating to me. The Mummy museum is another source of morbid fascination too. Definitely, there will never be a boring moment in the city.

August 2, 2017 at 8:11 PM

Indeed! It’s really oozing full of culture and history! And there was never a boring moment during our visit. There seemed to always be something going on in that city. We never would know when or where, but always something… random parades, musicians, fiestas, fireworks. All part of the fun here!

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August 1, 2017 at 4:36 PM

Have heard of Guanajuato before but never really thought about visiting. But now after reading this, I think it could be my kind of favourite destination, what more with the World Heritage status. I’m especially intrigued to visit and see the mummies after having seen the Egyptian ones in Cairo as well as seeing human remains in Pompeii.

August 2, 2017 at 8:14 PM

Yeah, we obviously quite enjoyed it and felt it was a well-deserved World Heritage Site. We found the mummies to be a bit odd but definitely a curious sight to see. We’ve also visited the mummies in Cairo and this was quite different, but mummies nonetheless. Interesting place!

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August 1, 2017 at 9:25 AM

I had no idea there was so much to do here! I’d be all about wandering through old town, visiting the mummy museum, taking a hike and getting some cervevas! I seriously have to get back to Mexico!

August 2, 2017 at 8:15 PM

Neither did we! Initially we weren’t sure about spending an entire month here but there really was never a dull moment, lol. Hope you get back to Mexico!

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July 31, 2017 at 4:08 AM

I would definitely love to try the creepy mummy museum and the ancient mines. I just saved this cause we are planning to go to Mexico next year.

This would be really cool.

August 2, 2017 at 8:17 PM

Very cool! We hope you make it to Guanajuato to check it out while you’re in Mexico! Hope you have a great trip too!

guanajuato tourist places

July 30, 2017 at 9:07 PM

This is such a great guide with many tips on where to go. Also, I love the pictures with the colorful houses and I would definitly wanted to have a walk in the old town. However the mummy museum would be too creepy for me haha I already got freakted out by the pictures. Great article though!

August 2, 2017 at 8:18 PM

Yeah, we were a little creeped out by the mummy place too. But we just had to check it out! It is such a colorful city and walking through those brightly pained alleyways one most definitely one of our favorite aspects! 🙂

July 30, 2017 at 6:53 PM

Guanajuato seems like one of the most photogenic towns in Mexico. I love Latin America and have been to several countries in South America – Mexico is definitely on the bucket list though! I fell in love with the tapestry of landscapes that can be found in Ecuador, alongside the friendly people and amazing food.

August 2, 2017 at 8:20 PM

It really was such a photogenic place. Some people say that Guanajuato is the most beautiful town in Mexico and while that’s a bold claim, I’m not sure that we could disagree with anyone who claims that. If you loved Ecuador, I think you would really enjoy Mexico too. Hope you get a chance to explore it some time. We find everyone to be very friendly and the food… oh, the food, it maybe our favorite of any cuisine. Cheers!

guanajuato tourist places

July 30, 2017 at 2:41 PM

I think parts of Guanajuato looks very European-esque. The architecture is breathtaking as well. I have never heard about this Mexican city before, but your article covered everything I needed to know. There are so many gems like Guanajuato in Mexico.

August 2, 2017 at 8:22 PM

It definitely does have the European-esque vibe to it. The plazas, theaters, and churches really add to that. Definitely agree, Mexico is full of so many beautiful towns but we thought Guanajuato really stuck out.

guanajuato tourist places

July 30, 2017 at 5:10 AM

kinda look like italy. this place look amazing

July 30, 2017 at 11:59 AM

We thought so too! The theaters, plazas, and architecture definitely felt a bit Italian at times. Such a lovely town!

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25 Unforgettable Things To See & Do In Guanajuato, Mexico

Woman standing at an overlook of Guanajuato

Guanajuato is a popular Mexico city that’s known for its colorful streets, narrow alleys, and ornate historical buildings .

This was our first time visiting Guanajuato and upon arrival, we were mesmerized by the sights, colors, and vibrant atmosphere of the city. Guanajuato is also home to the University of Guanajuato so the downtown has a young crowd, lively restaurants & fun bars.  

If you’re planning a trip to this amazing Mexico city, we share 25 of the best things to do in Guanajuato!

Our travel guide covers popular sights, top museums, noteworthy buildings, standout Guanajuato restaurants , and a few hidden gems off the beaten path.

guanajuato tourist places

How Many Days Do You Need?

If it’s your first time visiting Guanajuato, I recommend setting aside around 3 days to explore the city . 3 full days was the ideal amount of time for us to see all of the top attractions and get to know the city pretty well.  

After a few days, we had already visited all of the main museums and restaurants in the city center. If you’re planning to take a longer vacation, you can easily combine a trip to San Miguel de Allende or La Huasteca Potosina which are located in the same region.

guanajuato tourist places

How To Get Around In Guanajuato?

If you’re flying into Guanajuato, I don’t recommend renting a car, unless you plan to explore other cities or regions nearby. All of the top attractions in Guanajuato’s historic zone are located within a walking distance so having a car is not necessary. Driving a car in the city center can be very challenging as the streets are very narrow and parking is limited.

The Guanajuato International Airport is located a 30-minute drive from downtown Guanajuato. After landing, we were able to get a cab to downtown from the airport for just 550 pesos (around 25 USD). 

guanajuato tourist places

Once we got to the downtown, we were able to walk just about everywhere, except for a few attractions and restaurants that we wanted to check out outside of the historic zone. Renting a car for the trip would have cost us a lot more than taking a few cabs here and there. Navigating Guanajuato on foot was easy and we felt safe doing so.

While Mexico does have Uber, personally when it comes to taking an Uber in Mexico we’ve had a few bad experiences. In Mexico, we typically choose taxis over Uber especially if we’re in a rush.

Travel Tip: Always be sure to share your travel itinerary with a family member or a friend before going on an international trip.

guanajuato tourist places

Where To Stay?

From sophisticated stays in historic buildings that date back hundreds of years to contemporary and modern lounging, there is a fabulous place to stay in Guanajuato for everyone! Most visitors choose to stay in the historic zone where all the top attractions are within a walking distance.

Here are some of the best hotels to stay in downtown Guanajuato:

  • Casa del Rector Hotel Boutique . This boutique hotel offers visitors a classy stay in the Old Town not far from the city’s historic attractions. Onsite amenities include a cozy courtyard restaurant, rooftop bar, infinity pool, and a coffee shop.

guanajuato tourist places

  • 1850 Hotel Boutique . This elegant boutique hotel is located in the heart of the city next to the Unión Garden. Each room features unique decorations in classic, French and contemporary styles. Starbucks is conveniently located next door for those who need to get a caffeine fix before heading out into the town. This hotel also features a trendy rooftop bar with some of the best views in the city!
  • El Viejo Zaguan by Lunian . This hotel is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts of the busy city center. The Old Zaguan is a great option for budget travelers or those seeking a smaller, laid-back hotel. Grab a morning cup of coffee at the onsite coffee shop or from the complimentary coffee stand in the lobby. Top-rated restaurants such as Mestizo and La Table de Andree are located nearby.

Read More: 12 Best Hotels In Guanajuato For An Incredible Travel Experience

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics, here are all of the best things to see & do in Guanajuato, Mexico!

1. Callejón del Beso / The Alley Of The Kiss

guanajuato tourist places

The Alley Of The Kiss is a popular tourist attraction that centers around a tragic love story . According to the legend, a rich family used to live in the house to the left including a young woman. She fell in love with a poor miner who started to rent a room in the building to the right to meet with her in the alley and kiss.   

The relationship was not approved by the woman’s father. When he caught them kissing, the father got enraged and tragically killed his daughter.

guanajuato tourist places

Now visitors can line up to take photos of where the lovers used to meet and kiss.

You also have an option to go up on a second story and kiss your partner across the two balconies.

This location is a bit commercialized, especially on the weekends. We stood in the line for about 30 minutes and paid 100 pesos to have a photographer take photos of us in both locations. If you pay extra, you can also get a printout to take home for memories.

Location: Callejón del Beso

2. Funicular

guanajuato tourist places

The Funicular is an air tram that you can take up to the top of a hill for incredible views of the city. This is the shortest air tram that we’ve ever taken, but it offers amazing vistas along the way .

To ride the Funicular you will need to purchase a ticket for 35 pesos each way ( or 70 pesos round trip ). As an option, you can take the air tram to the top of the hill and walk back down the 142 steps that lead to the bottom.  

guanajuato tourist places

After purchasing the ticket, you will need to wait in a short line. The air tram is pretty small so only a few people are allowed to board it per ride. Once the air tram stops at the summit, continue along the stairs to reach a viewing platform of the city .

The ride itself was only 5 minutes long but it was pretty fun! On the way back down we got to look out through an open window that felt like a roller coaster ride.

Location: Funicular

3. Monumento al Pípila / El Pipila Monument

guanajuato tourist places

Monumento al Pípila is a giant statue dedicated to a local hero who helped gain independence from Spanish colonization. This monument also marks the location of the best viewpoint in Guanajuato with panoramic views overlooking the city.

guanajuato tourist places

You can visit this monument and viewpoint all day long, but I recommend coming for sunset. Golden hour offers some of the best lighting for photography and if you’re lucky, you might also get to enjoy some stunning sunset colors.

Location: Monumento Al Pipila

4. Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato / Museum of the Mummies of Guanajuato

guanajuato tourist places

Visiting the Mummy Museum is one of the most popular, but strangest experiences you can have in Guanajuato .

The Mummy Museum is located on the outskirts of the city center so you will need to take a cab or an Uber to get there. This can be a busy location so try to come early in the morning or on a Monday which is typically the “ slow ” day of the week.

Tip: This is one of the few museums in Guanajuato that is open on Mondays!

The museum entrance costs 92 pesos. At the entrance, you can hire a guide to explain more about the mummies (unfortunately English guides were not available during our visit ). Within the museum, there are some signs in English, but the information was pretty limited.

guanajuato tourist places

The mummies displayed in this museum are up to 150 years old. These mummies are well preserved due to the lack of humidity & oxygen in the underground crypts . Some of the mummies are so well preserved that they are still fully clothed.

The Museum of Mummies is a sacred, cultural and educational place for the locals but it sure isn’t for everyone. With eerie music playing in the background, it can feel a bit uneasy and unsettling visiting it for the first time. My husband has been to this museum before and mentioned that you could touch the mummies in the past, but now they are safeguarded behind glass displays for preservation.

Location: Museum of the Mummies of Guanajuato

5. Mercado Hidalgo

guanajuato tourist places

Mercado Hidalgo is where you’ll want to head for shopping in Guanajuato. This is the largest market in the city where you can find a variety of items including the typical travel souvenirs to bring back home.

Mercado Hidalgo is located indoors and consists of two floors . The bottom floor has stands that mostly sell food, meats, fruits, and veggies. The second floor is dedicated to touristy gift items such as clothing, purses, magnets, keychains, ceramics, and more.

guanajuato tourist places

We were able to find many cute souvenirs at this market to bring back to our families. The prices at Mercado Hidalgo are pretty cheap compared to what you would find at gift stores in the historic center.

Location: Mercado Hidalgo

top-things-to-see-and-do-in-la-huasteca-potosina-mexico

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6. Tuneles Guanajuato / Guanajuato Tunnels

guanajuato tourist places

One of the most fascinating parts about Guanajuato that sets it apart from other towns are the underground tunnel systems that span beneath the city.

We learned from a local historian that originally Guanajuato was built in the 1600s on a much lower level than the current city. The city kept overflooding from the Guanajuato River so giant walls and tunnels were built to divert the river . The new city was built on top of the tunnels and the old city was buried underground.

guanajuato tourist places

A dam was eventually built to manage the floods and the tunnels were turned into car roads.

Instead of driving on narrow downtown streets, cars now can avoid the traffic by taking the tunnels all throughout the city.

The tunnels also have pedestrian sidewalks. We frequently walked through the tunnels during the day to take shortcuts around the city.

7. Rooftop Terraces

guanajuato tourist places

Guanajuato city was built in layers so rooftop terraces offer some of the best views of the city from up top . Finding a rooftop bar to enjoy a cocktail is a great way to relax and take a break in between sightseeing.

Most of the rooftop bars are located on top of hotels so you’ll need to go through hotel lobbies to reach the upstairs.

Here are a few of our favorite rooftop bars that we visited in Guanajuato:

  • Antigua Trece Hotel Fusión . This is a relaxing rooftop terrace that is part of the Antigua Trece hotel. The outdoor patio is very spacious and features plush lounge chairs & colorful furnishings. My favorite part about the Antigua Trece rooftop terrace was the views – which are some of the best in the city!
  • La Notaría Terraza Bar . This is a modern lounge with several floors and a laid-back ambiance on top of the La Notaría Hotel Boutique that serves excellent craft cocktails and food. I loved the Rosemary Hill cocktail which comes with champagne, vodka, lime juice, and rosemary honey with Jupiter – so refreshing and yummy!

guanajuato tourist places

  • Casa del Rector Hotel Boutique . Looking for a rooftop with an infinity pool? This spot is for you! Part of a small boutique hotel, this rooftop offers great views and an even more amazing pool next to its bar.
  • ONE BAR&LOUNGE . This outdoor bar is located on top of the 1850 Hotel Boutique , one of the best hotels in the city center. This bar feels more like a club so it’s perfect for a night out with friends or if you’re looking for something a bit more upbeat and lively.

8. Plaza De La Paz

guanajuato tourist places

Plaza De La Paz is the main visitor plaza in Guanajuato. This is where you’ll want to head for visitor information, restaurants, and historic attractions. Plaza De La Paz is located at the center of the city so you’ll pass through it many, many times during your stay.

All day long this plaza is brimming full with people and activity. My favorite part of the plaza is the giant G (Guanajuato) sign that looks so colorful! Be sure to set aside some time to roam around the plaza and snap a photo of the sign.

Location: Las letras de Guanajuato

9. Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato

guanajuato tourist places

If you are someone who loves to visit historic, ornate churches, Guanajuato has a few incredible basilicas to see in the downtown area.

Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato is one of the most recognizable churches in this city due to its tall yellow bell towers and the red roof that can be seen from afar.

guanajuato tourist places

This church was built between 1671 to 1696 and was financed by the local miners. This is known as one of the most ornate baroque and neoclassical style temples of its time. The Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato takes up a whole city block and still holds mass and worship to this date.

Location: Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato

10. Museo Casa Diego Rivera / Diego Rivera’s House Museum

guanajuato tourist places

While Mexico City is known for having the popular Frida Kahlo Museum, Guanajuato is home to Diego Rivera, Frida’s husband, and a famous Mexican artist.

In Guanajuato, you can visit the house where Diego Rivera was born and lived until he was 6 years old . In 1971 Diego Rivera’s daughter restored the building and turned it into an art museum.

guanajuato tourist places

On the first floor, you can walk through the restored living quarters that have been furnished with 19 th -century pieces to reflect the styles from his childhood. The second level features art pieces and the evolution of Diego Rivera’s artistic styles from his early years to Cubism and nudism.

Admission to Diego Rivera’s House Museum costs 30 pesos. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.

Location: Diego Rivera’s House Museum

11. Teatro Juárez

guanajuato tourist places

Teatro Juárez is another architectural wonder in the downtown area . Juárez Theatre has a large, grand entrance built in Neoclassical style that resembles something out of Europe. The main entrance consists of 12 pillars and giant statues situated above them.

During our visit, the front of the theatre was closed for construction. When the theatre is open, you can catch a performance there. In the fall it is also the main location of the cultural Festival Internacional Cervantino in Guanajuato.

Location: Teatro Juárez

Restaurants in Guanajuato

Related Post:

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12. Jardín de la Unión / Union Garden

guanajuato tourist places

Jardín de la Unión is a greenspace at the center of the city . This is a beautiful park created within the city boundaries for people to enjoy a relaxing escape outdoors.

All around the Union Garden you will find little food stands, street performers, hotels, cafes with patios, and top-rated restaurants. The park is small but lined with perfectly trimmed trees, a water fountain, and a small gazebo in the middle of it.

Location: Unión Garden

13. Museo Regional de Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas

guanajuato tourist places

The Regional Museum of Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas is a grand museum that you can visit in Guanajuato’s historic zone. This is an excellent place to explore for a few hours if you enjoy archeology and historic artifacts.

The inside of the museum consists of a large courtyard with pink-colored accents . The bottom floor houses an exhibit on “The Lost City” in Michoacán which was settled on volcanic land. Unfortunately, there were no signs in English, but you could get the overall idea by exploring the various exhibits.

guanajuato tourist places

The stairs that lead to the second-floor display impressive murals centering around religion, Spanish colonization, slavery, and gaining independence.

The museum is located a short walk outside of the main city center. We came here a couple of different times and it was closed so be sure to check the opening hours. It costs 65 pesos to enter the museum and explore its various exhibits.

Location: Regional Museum of Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas

14. Universidad de Guanajuato / University of Guanajuato

guanajuato tourist places

A trip to Guanajuato wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the University of Guanajuato, one of the most noteworthy buildings in the city .

This is an active university with over 33,000 students. As you walk around Guanajuato, you will see many of the students go about their day in the city.  

The origins of the university go back to 1732 . But it wasn’t until the last 30 years that the university has grown significantly in its size, staff, and the degrees that it offers.

Tourists are not allowed to enter the University of Guanajuato itself but you can marvel at the intricate architecture from the outside.

Location: Edificio Central de la Universidad de Guanajuato

15. Museo ex Convento Dieguino

guanajuato tourist places

Museo ex Convento Dieguino is an interesting but not a well-known museum in the historic zone. This museum marks the location where the old Guanajuato church was built in 1694 and stood for 100 years.

After major floods in the 1700’s parts of the original Guanajuato city were buried underground and new buildings were built above them. This church is one example of that.

guanajuato tourist places

A portion of the old underground church was excavated in 1992 and can be viewed at this museum for 16 pesos. This museum consists of a large room where you can see some of the original arches and coloring. The majority of the old church still stands buried under Juárez Theater.

Location: Museo ex Convento Dieguino

16. Walking Tour

guanajuato tourist places

Not sure where to start your visit? Consider signing up for a walking tour that will take you to all the top sights in the city! A walking tour is one of the best things to do in Guanajuato especially if you want to learn more about the city and its history.

This Guanajuato walking tour will take you to the top attractions in the city center such as the main plaza, University, Hidalgo Market, and local museums. On this tour can learn more about the tunnels that run underground or how Guanajuato became one of the richest and most powerful cities in Mexico during the colonial period.

Book the Guanajuato walking tour here!

17. Grab Drinks At Black Mamba 61

guanajuato tourist places

In the mood to grab a fancy cocktail? Head over to Black Mamba 61, a hip bar in the historic center that is known for interesting craft cocktails. They aren’t afraid to play around with flavor combinations to create something very unique like the Watermelon cocktail that comes with tequila, watermelon, elderflower liqueur, and lime juice.

The interior of Black Mamba 61 is very modern and has a great ambiance. If you’re hungry, they offer plenty of tapas to choose from including Brussel sprouts and Argentinian chorizo.

Location: Black Mamba 61 Guanajuato

18. Plaza de San Fernando

guanajuato tourist places

Plaza de San Fernando is a smaller plaza outside of the main tourist center . An ornate water fountain is located at the center of this plaza with trees, shops, and cafes lined all around it.

This plaza is a bit of a hidden gem and not as busy as the main historic zone. This is a great spot for grabbing relaxing lunch at one of the outdoor cafes and doing some people-watching.

Location: Plaza de San Fernando

19. Wander Through Colorful Streets & Narrow Alleyways

guanajuato tourist places

Guanajuato’s Old Town consists of a mix of colorful streets and narrow alleyways . Some of the alleyways were so narrow that we could barely squeeze through!

Walking is the best and quickest way to get around in Guanajuato and a great way to explore the city. You don’t need a specific itinerary to find picture-perfect streets – they can be found all throughout the downtown!

guanajuato tourist places

Calle Del Truco is one of the most beautiful streets in Guanajuato lined with vibrant buildings and decorative balconies.

20. Indulge In Kurtosh Ice Cream

guanajuato tourist places

Craving something sweet while roaming around? Satisfy your sweet tooth by indulging in an ice cream cone from the Kurtosh dessert stand.

Kurtosh puts a twist on classic Hungarian bread treats that come filled with ice cream, cream cheese, syrup, and various toppings. The bread is hand-made and baked fresh right there on the spot! If you’re not up for a sweet treat, they offer savory bread cones as well.

Location: Kurtosh

21. Templo de San Francisco

guanajuato tourist places

Templo de San Francisco is a magnificent church that was built in the 1750s in Baroque style. The façade of the church is very elaborate and features a clock that was added to the front much later.

Templo de San Francisco is easy to spot as it’s painted in a bright pink color. This church is located in a quiet plaza so it’s a great temple to visit away from the crowds.

After seeing the church be sure to stop by the Museo Iconográfico del Quijote next door which features artwork related to the Don Quixote novel.

Location: Templo de San Francisco

22. Relax In a Cozy Courtyard

guanajuato tourist places

The entire Guanajuato city is simply an architectural delight with so many amazing hidden walkways and courtyards. If you’re looking for a place to grab a cup of delicious coffee and take a relaxing break, stop by the Las Vieyras restaurant which has a charming courtyard located within the Casa del Rector Hotel Boutique .

With birds chirping in the lush trees, tranquil music playing in the background, and a chill vibe, Las Vieyras Restaurante feels like a hidden oasis within the noisy city center.

Location: Las Vieyras Restaurante

23. Templo de la Compania de Jesus Oratorio

guanajuato tourist places

Guanajuato has no shortage of incredible churches to visit. Built from 1734 to 1765 in gorgeous Churrigueresque architecture, the Templo de la Compania de Jesus Oratorio is a must-see when walking around the Old Town. This church is located near the University and takes up a whole city block .

The exterior of the church is colorful and ornate, but the interior is equally impressive. The inside of the church contains towering arches, a large dome, statues, and old crypts. There is a small museum in the back holding religious artwork as well.

Location: Templo de la Compañía de Jesús Oratorio de San Felipe Neri

24. Eat At Casa Valadez

guanajuato tourist places

Trying out different restaurants and eateries is one of our favorite ways to experience local cuisine and explore various parts of the city. Casa Valadez is a highly rated restaurant in Guanajuato at the heart of the historic zone where you can do just that.

This restaurant is located on the corner overlooking the Unión Garden and Teatro Juárez . The interior of the restaurant is very luxurious with leather seating and intricate chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. I highly recommend asking for a window seat so you can enjoy a nice breeze and stunning views during your meal!

Location: Casa Valadez · Anfitrión & Gourmet

25. Plaza Baratillo

guanajuato tourist places

I’m a big fan of the colorful plazas in downtown Guanajuato that you can visit throughout the city. Plaza Baratillo is a quiet plaza with a bronze water fountain at the center of it and boutique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops all around.

Grab a seat on one of the benches for some people watching or stop by for a quick photo – this hidden gem is a must-see!

Location: Plaza Baratillo

guanajuato tourist places

Excited to hop on a plane and head out to Mexico? With so many incredible things to do in this historic city, we don’t blame ya! The colorful streets, friendly locals and inviting atmosphere make this one of the best cities to visit in all of Mexico.

Can’t get enough of Mexico travel inspiration? Be sure to check out some of our other popular Mexico travel posts below:

  • The Ultimate Guanajuato Travel Guide
  • 10 Best Places To Stay In Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico
  • Guide To Visiting Bacalar Lagoon In Mexico
  • 11 Best Hotels In Tulum, Mexico For A Relaxing Getaway
  • 10 Unbelievable Places To Visit In Chiapas, Mexico
  • 10 Best Places To Stay In Cabo San Lucas For a Beach Vacation

S ome of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!

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México » States » Guanajuato

Tourism in GUANAJUATO

Guanajuato

Travel to Guanajuato is a fascinating experience, you can discover two World Heritage sites (Guanajuato and San Miguel Allende), three important archaeological sites, two picturesque Magic Towns (Dolores Hidalgo and Mineral de Pozos), exciting tourist routes and a calendar full of events. Undoubtedly, Guanajuato is one of the most complete and interesting states of Mexico.

Guanajuato, is the heart of Mexico, it is the perfect blend of history, culture, stunning architecture and friendly local people, this is the chance to have an unforgettable experience.

What was once an old mining town in central Mexico is now a thriving and charming tourist destination, with magical streets to stroll through, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and lots of fun.

Among the many attractions of Guanajuato are buildings that bear witness to the Mexican War of Independence, such as the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, fascinating corners such as Avenida de Miguel Hidalgo and its market, or the Callejones del Beso and de la Condesa, beautiful gardens, funiculars with exceptional views and even mines in which to evoke life in these workspaces, such as the experimental El Nopal and Rayas Mines.

The presence of attractive monuments and sculptures of illustrious people are included among the artistic treasures of Guanajuato, in whose streets tradition and modernity coexist, in a fascinating environment whose inhabitants stand out for their hospitality, animation and good atmosphere.

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Tourist Attractions in GUANAJUATO

San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende was founded in 1542, this is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico. San Miguel has meant the careful conservation of the town’s charming architecture and cobblestone streets, as well as its culture and traditions, and that is why it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site. Besides it offers the warm and friendliness of the people, the charming small cafes, bars, haute-cuisine restaurants and unique nightspots blend into the beautiful streets of this cosmopolitan town. San Miguel boasts more “fiestas” than any other Mexican town. There are religious, cultural or sports events; some of them include international performances like the International Jazz Festival and the Chamber Music Festival; and some others are traditional celebrations like the “Sanmiguelada” (Running of the Bulls), the National Brass and Wool Fair and the Holy Week, with a solemn procession of the Holy Burial, among others.… Read More

Magic Towns in Guanajuato

Magical Towns in Guanajuato

Guanajuato is one of the most picturesque and historic states in all of Mexico. If you are planning a visit in these directions, we recommend that you start with one of these Magical Towns. All of them will surprise you with their gastronomy, architecture and variety of cultural activities. It is not necessary to travel to another country to see a world completely different from yours. Proof of this are the Magic Towns of Guanajuato, they have everything, history, gastronomy, colors, folklore, but above all, human warmth that awaits you on your next visit.… Read More

Guanajuato City

Guanajuato City

Guanajuato, is the cradle of Independence, and invite us to stroll along the romantic cobblestone streets full of legends and history. The pied pipers call themselves estudiantinas. They wander the city, playing traditional music, singing old favorites, telling the city’s stories and giving this magic atmosphere of this unique place. Once one of the greatest mining cities in Mexico, Guanajuato has a rich history and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The setting of the city is very beautiful: it stands in a narrow gorge amid wild and striking scenery. The whimsical trace of its streets, its peaceful squares, gardens, “estudiantinas” (strolling student minstrels), and the beauty of its houses and buildings give to Guanajuato a magic ambiance and an evocative and romantic touch.… Read More

GASTRONOMY of GUANAJUATO

Since pre-Hispanic times, Guanajuato has distinguished itself in the culinary arts. The aromas, textures and flavors of their dishes are full of symbols and history. The state features a wide variety of flavors, each destination has a wide range of dining facilities that will impress even the most discerning palate. Some of these restaurants are located in unique and historic buildings immersed in the typically colonial atmosphere.

The roots, of this rich culinary tradition, come from the different cultures that once populated this region, mixed with new ingredients brought by the Spanish conquerors, transforming the regional dishes into some of the best in Mexico.

In any of the restaurants, in San Miguel de Allende you will find traditional dishes such as “pellizcadas de nata” (corn cake made with cornmeal and stuffed with cream), “fiambres estilo San Miguel de Allende” (a mixture of meats, fruits and vegetables topped with olive oil vinaigrette and apple vinegar). In Dolores Hidalgo, you can enjoy a concert of flavors that melt in your mouth with their unique exotic flavors of ice-cream such as mole, tequila, avocado, chicharron, beer, shrimp, rose petals, etc. In Atotonilco you can try the delicious “gorditas de chicharron en salsa” (a thick tortilla fried with different fillings).

Very traditional in Guanajuato are the “Enchiladas Mineras” (Miner’s Enchiladas with tortillas, cheese, carrots, potatoes and smooth guajillo chile sauce), “tamales guanajuatenses” (stuffed with pork or cheese), and of course the “Charamuscas” (a hard, caramel candy that is yellow in the shape of mummies). Celaya, famous for its sweets, most of which include milk, but the most famous is the “cajeta” (boiled goat milk, brown sugar and cinnamon) in its different flavors like wine-flavored cajeta, vanilla, nut, raisin, almond, strawberry, etc. And, in Irapuato, the delicious strawberries prepared in many different ways.

You cannot miss the chance to try the traditional beverages, such as beetroot juice, strawberry liquor, the famous “cebadina” (a carbonated beverage made of pineapple vinegar and steamed tamarind or Jamaica flower), or the unique “agua de mesquite” (beverage made from a leguminous plant with a sweet flavor).

In order to spread the traditional and the new culinary trends, Guanajuato celebrates several food festivals in different destinations. There are festivals to celebrate the typical food with international chefs and there are also wine circuits. Guanajuato, the gastronomic heart of Mexico, is recognized for its intense and variety of flavors and offers interesting culinary exploration tours.

Festival Internacional CERVANTINO

It is held annually in the City of Guanajuato and lasts approximately three weeks. In 1972 the festival became an annual event since then the number of participants and spectators has grown with each passing year, and has become the most important international artistic and cultural event in Mexico and Latin America.

The Festival attracts thousands of visitors interested in the intense cultural agenda. The events happen in the theatres, plazas and other venues in the city. During the celebration of the International Cervantes Festival a torrent of the most outstanding works in music, opera, theatre, dance, plastic arts, cinema and literature take over all of Guanajuato, this is a unique experience in a city full of legends.

The international aspect is to create a space for discovery and exchange. The event attracts artists from all over the world each year in order to present typical aspects of culture from each country.

Today the Cervantino Festival has become an internationally acclaimed event.

Map of GUANAJUATO

Guided Tours in GUANAJUATO

Flights & hotels in guanajuato, more tourist attractions in mexico.

Magical Towns in Mexico

  • Magical Towns

A Magical Town is a place with symbols and legends, towns with history that in many cases have been the scene of transcendent events for our country, they are places that show the national identity in each of its corners, with a magic that emanates from its attractions ; visiting them is an opportunity to discover the charm of Mexico. The Magical Towns Program contributes to revalue a set of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation and that represent fresh and varied alternatives for national and foreign visitors. A town that through time and in the face of modernity, has conserved, valued and defended its historical, cultural and natural heritage; and manifests it in various expressions through its tangible and intangible heritage. A Magical Town is a town that has unique, symbolic attributes, authentic stories, transcendent events, everyday life, which means a great opportunity for tourist use, taking into account the motivations and needs of travelers.… Read More

Archaeological Sites

  • Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Zones are the cultural past of every Mexican. You will be amazed at the ambient, nature and the environment that surrounds them. Climbing to the top or being around it will take us back in time to admire every detail. México is a country of culture and traditions, many of which we have inherited from the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of this vast territory, although it is true that there were more settlements in the central and southern part of the country, it is also possible to find some archaeological remains in the north. … Read More

Beaches in Mexico

On the Beaches of Mexico you can immerse yourself in the intense blue ocean of the Pacific bays, sunbathe on the shore of the warm and transparent waves of the Caribbean Sea in Quintana Roo or even rest on the beautiful coasts of the Gulf of Mexico. Mexican beaches hide wonderful secrets for the traveler. By visiting them, in addition to enjoying the excellent climate and water activities, you can discover splendid archaeological sites and interesting colonial cities without traveling long distances.… Read More

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States Of Mexico

Mexico has an incredible diversity of landscapes, where the beauty of its beaches, internationally recognized, stands out. In its vast territory of coasts, there are beaches of unparalleled beauty, and colorful landscapes. A large network of first-class hotels and tourist services is available to visitors to these beaches. Mexico is also mystical places, dotted with archaeological testimonies inherited from its original inhabitants. Monuments made by the Mayas, Aztecs and Toltecs are located in magical landscapes, like lighthouses in an ocean of natural beauty. They offer visitors buildings that tell their history, and museums that collect their cultural heritage. And that keep alive ancestral traditions, in ceremonies and festivals, where you can enjoy cultural activities and entertainment.… Read More

Ecotourism in Mexico

  • Ecotourism and Adventure

Mexico is one of the best countries for Ecotourism as it has a great variety of flora and fauna, as well as a large number of refuges for extraordinary species. You can enjoy recreational activities of appreciation and knowledge of nature through contact with it, such as: stargazing, observation of natural attractions, wildlife and bird watching. Throughout México there are more than 176 protected natural areas, 5 of them considered by UNESCO as Natural Heritage of Humanity. Just for this and much more, we believe that Mexico is a Paradise for Ecotourism.… Read More

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  • Capital Cities

Folklore, gastronomy, literary culture, art and exhibitions, is what you will find in the capitals of the states of Mexico. To the north, colonial Mexico, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, the Sonoran desert and the California peninsula. To the east Veracruz and the gulf. To the west Acapulco, Oaxaca and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. And to the south the Riviera Maya and the pyramids of Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm and Cobá in Yucatán, Palenque in Chiapas, the cenotes, and the Central American jungles.… Read More

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It is practically impossible to make a meticulous, and above all, accurate selection of the places to visit in Mexico. Each place that our country houses is unique and beautiful in its own way. Mexico, with its nearly 2 million km², has a large number of scenarios to offer, as well as endless activities to do. Do not lose your way and enter the places to visit in Mexico. In Mexico, apart from the beaches and its famous archaeological sites, there are many other really interesting sites and activities that you should know. In the surroundings of the main cities you will find places full of culture and tradition, where you can spend relaxing, interesting and fun vacations. On your trip through Mexico you cannot stop obtaining souvenirs, the crafts that are made here are of the highest quality and recognized worldwide. A shopping tour cannot be missed.… Read More

Gastronomy of Puebla

The Gastronomy of Mexico has a great diversity of typical dishes, which is why it was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The basic and representative ingredients of Mexican dishes are: corn, coriander, chili, beans, piloncillo, nopal and tomato. Mexican cuisine is also characterized by its sauces, which serve as an accompaniment to traditional dishes, prepared based on spices.… Read More

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Unearth The Voyage Adventure Travel Blog

31 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico in 2024

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In the core of Central Mexico lies Guanajuato City, a colonial city brimming with charm. Guanajuato is known for its maze of winding cobblestone streets, gorgeous mountain landscapes, vibrant colorful buildings, historical silver mines, and a captivating history that draws tourists from all over the world.

We recently spent 6 weeks living and working as digital nomads in Guanajuato City and absolutely loved our time there. From the delicious food to the gorgeous views from rooftop bars scattered across the city, there is no shortage of incredible things to do in Guanajuato City.

Trust us, you are going to love your trip here! So without further ado, here are the best things to do in Guanajuato City.

31 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato City , Mexico

1. hike or take the funicular to mirador panorámica (el pípila).

Seeing the view of all the colorful houses is one of the best things to do in Guanajuato City Mexico

Hiking or taking the funicular to this panoramic lookout is a must-do when visiting Guanajuato City. From up here you can have a bird’s eye view of all the colorful houses and churches as well as the mountains that surround the city.

At the top, there is also a statue of El Piplia who is a very famous character in Guanajuato’s history. El Piplia played a big part in sparking the Mexican Revolution and his statue commemorates his heroic actions.

To visit the El Piplia lookout you have two options , you can either take the funicular or you can walk.

  • The Funicular – The Funicular is a short ride on a tram straight up the mountain and costs 30 pesos for one way or 60 pesos for return.
  • Walk – If you’re in the mood for some exercise you can start at the El Callejón del Beso and follow the signs to the lookout.

2. See a Show at Teatro Juarez

The front of Teatro Juárez in Guanajuato City Mexico

When we were looking for things to do in Guanajuato City we stumbled upon the different theaters in town that hold concerts and other cultural events! Guanajuato is a University town and the students often put on different concerts, plays, and expos.

Check out the Teatro Principal during your stay to see if any symphonies are being held. We were lucky and while we were there Teatro Juarez (the big, gorgeous theater across from the Jardin) had a symphony that cost 100 pesos for us to attend.

Check out the university’s website for cultural events happening during your stay.

3. Visit Guanajuato’s Mummy Museum

Mummys inside a glass case at the Mummy Museum in Guanajuato City

No Guanajuato things to do guide would be complete without a visit to the Mummy Museum. In my opinion, it is quite a… different museum to say the least.

The bodies were thought to be disinterred during the late 1800s. During that time there was a tax that was required to be paid if you wanted your loved one to be buried forever.

If you couldn’t afford the tax, the bodies were dug up and placed in a nearby building waiting for someone to pay the tax. Due to Guanajuato’s climate, the bodies were still intact after being dug up and they remain this way where you can go see them now today.

Even though it can be quite a controversial topic and experience, we enjoyed our time spent at the mummy museum. You can see photos of Guanajuato in the period at which the people passed away and a lot of their clothes and shoes are still intact.

  • Price : $85 pesos
  • Hours : 9-6pm daily.

It is quite a walk from the town center and from where most people stay so we suggest getting a taxi there and walking back. Any taxi driver will know where you want to go if you say Museo De Los Momias and it should cost you no more than 100 pesos from anywhere in the city.

Money-saving tip : If you have a student ID, some places in Guanajuato will let you use it, while others will only accept it if you have a Mexican student ID.

4. Hike to La Buffa

Hiking to La Bufa is one of the best things to do in Guanajuato Mexico

If you’re looking to get away from the city and into nature, we would recommend a hike to La Buffa. You can see incredible views of the city and countryside on this hike.

La Buffa is famous for rock climbers, but there is an easier way up that does not require any rock climbing (only a bit of rock scrambling.)

Make sure you bring plenty of water and go with a group, as it can sometimes be dangerous to go alone. Download the app WikiLocs for a trail you can follow made by an avid Guanajuato hiker.

Alternatively, if you’d like to do this hike but aren’t quite sure about going on your own, you can go on this guided tour where your guide will teach you all about the history of the area and point out special things to see along the hike.

5. Go On A Walking Tour

Exploring the brightly colored streets is the best thing to do in Guanajuato City

One of the best things to do while visiting Guanajuato is to go on a walking tour. Walking tours are our favorite way to get to know a city and learn about its history.

There are two options when it comes to walking tours:

  • Book a Guided Walking Tour – On this incredible Guanajuato walking tour your guide Marianna will take you to all the best spots in the city and will teach you the cultural significance and history of each spot. You will also get to taste a traditional drink special to this region as well as get recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city.
  • Free Walking Tour in Guanajuato – Being somewhat budget travelers, we often opt for free walking tours when we visit places. We enjoyed our time on this Guanajuato Free Walking Tour . Please always keep in mind that these tours aren’t 100% free and it’s expected that you tip your guide!

6. Marvel at Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato

The view of the bright yellow basilica in Guanajuato City Mexico

It’s almost impossible to miss the gorgeous cathedrals that are sprinkled throughout the city.

The most famous one, Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato, is right in the middle of the city and totally worth a moment to go inside and marvel at the amazing architecture and paintings.

When we visited we were able to enter the Basilica for free. It was built in 1696 and features a Mexican baroque architectural style that is adorned with unqiue mining and silver details leftover from when Guanajuato was a hot spot for mining silver.

7. Sneak a Kiss at Callejon del Beso (Kissing Alley)

Two people kissing at the Callejon del Beso in Guanajuato

A trip to Guanajuato wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this fun tourist attraction. This famous walking tour will also take you to this spot if you plan to book this tour!

The story behind the Callejon del Beso is quite sad (and probably not true.) The legend goes there was a couple that lived across the alley from one another and would sneak kisses over the alley on their balcony each night.

One night the guy got a little frisky and snuck into the girl’s room. Soon after her father caught them and got so angry he stabbed his daughter and her lover. Once realizing what he did he then stabbed himself.

It is very common to go to this alley and take a picture of you and your significant other kissing. You can even pay extra to go up on the balconies and lean over to kiss. If you don’t want to pay- don’t worry- just snap a photo down below on your own.

8. Check out the University- and the view!

The view from the university steps on a free walking tour in Guanajuato

The University of Guanajuato is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city and deserves a stop when looking for things to do in the city.

The building dates back to the 1950s and the design is said to be controversial as it is very unusual compared to the rest of the colorful buildings you’ll find throughout the city.

You’ll find students eating lunch or just hanging out on the steps and if yo climb all the way t the top you can see a unique view of the city and buildings surrounding the Universidad de Guanajuato.

9. Explore El Mercado Hidalgo

Inside of Mercado Hildago with people and stalls everywhere

Visiting the market was one of our favorite things to do during the 6 weeks we spent living in Guanajuato. There is a commercial grocery store right across the street, but we loved buying all our produce from the local farmers who would come to the market daily with fruits and veggies.

The Hildago Market is located very centrally and used to be an old train station right in the middle of the city. The market is a great place to experience Mexican culture by shopping alongside the locals for your fruits and veggies and other food items.

Another fun thing to do is to have lunch at one of the stalls outside the market. There are a ton of vendors set up with a variety of Mexican dishes to choose from! Find a stall where lots of people are congregating and choose a stool.

You can try dishes such as enfrijoladas, tortas, tacos, or enchiladas here.

10. Wander the Streets

A beautiful street in Guanajuato City Mexico with brightly painted houses

Our absolute favorite thing to do when we lived in Guanajuato was to just wander the beautiful streets and enjoy the local life.

We find that just wandering around without an itinerary usually ends up being our favorite days when traveling. That way you can be spontaneous and pop in whatever shops look interesting and try the different street foods you stumble upon.

While you are wandering the streets don’t forget to try the ice cream and the tamales, these were our favorites that we stumbled upon!

11. Spend an Afternoon at Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel De Barrera

A beautiful wall with bright colors and stained glass at Ex Hacienda San Gabriel De Barrera

This was our absolute favorite thing to do in Guanajuato and should 100% go on your must-see list while exploring this incredible town. Join this tour to easily see the Ex-Hacienda plus a historical mine in the area.

Haciendas are common throughout Mexico and are large estates or plantations where super-rich people build their houses. When the hacienda becomes an ex-hacienda, the person has died and the estate is now public or private property where people can come visit and enjoy the gorgeous gardens and scenery.

Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera has some of the most gorgeous Mexican-style garden architecture I’ve ever seen. I couldn’t stop snapping pictures! If you are looking for a great place to have an Instagram photo shoot, look no further.

As you are walking through the ex-hacienda each garden has a different theme and a different feel. Bring your drinks and snacks to have a picnic surrounded by the lush gardens and pretty buildings.  

The Ex-Hacienda is located in Marfil and is not within walking distance from downtown Guanajuato. It costs $40 pesos to get in and it’s open daily from 9-6 pm.

Getting There : Any taxi driver will know where you want to go if you say Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera. When leaving, ask the person manning the front desk to call you a taxi. A taxi should cost no more than $70-100 pesos each way.

12. Visit the Museums in Guanajuato

A man sitting looking at paintings on a wall inside a museum in Guanajuato City Mexico

There are a ton of museums in Guanajuato and honestly, it could have taken us an entire month just to visit them all. We’ve listed the ones that stood out to us and we think are worth a visit below.

Museo Inconografico del Quijote

If you are a Don Quijote fan then this museum is for you. Ron started reading the Don Quijote book while we were in Guanajuato so he enjoyed the subtle salutes to him throughout the town. The museum has some gorgeous works of art as well as some large murals. I’m not much of a museum person and I enjoyed my time here. 

It cost $30 pesos to get into the Museo Inconografico del Quijote. There is also a nice coffee shop amidst the paintings and statues where you can relax while drinking a coffee if you’re not much of a museum person.  

Diego Rivera Museum/Home

The sign at Museum casa Diego Rivera

The Diego Rivera Museum is a museum of Diego Rivera’s works of art as well as his childhood home. The part that is his home, in my opinion, wasn’t very exciting but I did enjoy walking around this interesting museum.

It costs $55 pesos to get into both the Diego Rivera Museum and home. If you are looking to see a Diego Rivera mural, there is (just) one inside this museum!

Alhóndiga de Granaditas Museum

The Alhóndiga de Granaditas building is a museum in itself. The building used to be a grain storage building and was a pivotal place in the Mexican War of Independence. The museum has many different rooms where you can learn about Mexican history and the War of Independence. If you don’t read/speak Spanish we suggest using your phone to translate the signs so you can have a better understanding of the museum as a whole.

The Alhóndiga de Granaditas museum costs $50 pesos to get in and is open 10-6 pm every day but on Mondays.

13. Take a Tour of the Mines

Going inside a mine is one of the best things to do in Guanajuato Mexico

Guanajuato used to be a mining town in the 18th century and supplied 75% of the world’s silver for 50+ years! After the mines were shut down, Guanajuato became somewhat of a ghost town until the government decided to open the University of Guanajuato.

It is now a booming University town and a huge tourist destination because of its rich culture.

You can visit two different mines just outside of Guanajuato:

El Nopal Mines

El Nopal Mines are the closer but smaller of the two mines you can visit near Guanjuato.

It is possible to visit the mines on your own without a tour if you would like. Tour guides are local students who are studying in this field and will give you a tour of the mines in Spanish. We think it’s still worth it to go even if you don’t compeltely understand the language.

The cost is $25 pesos which includes entrance and a tour (tips are appreciated!)

Getting there : Any taxi driver will know where you want to go if you say El Nopal Mines and should not cost you any more than $100 pesos one way.

La Valenciana

This mine is much larger than El Nopal and was the deepest and most extensive mine back in the 17th century.

Visiting La Valenciana is not a super common thing to do while in Guanjuato, but we think it’s one of the best things you can do just outside of the city!

You will take an elevator 60m down into the mine where you can explore the laybrinth of tunnels and learn about the history of the mine and it’s significance back in the day.

We would recommend going on this awesome tour to see the mine that includes transportation, a guide and a stop at Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera (mentioned above!)

14. Attend a Cultural Event at Museo Iconografico Del Quijote

The events sign for Museo Iconografico del Quijote

Besides just being a museum, the Museo Inconograbidoc del Quijote holds concerts, shows movies, and has cultural events in the atrium at different times throughout the month.

When we were there, there was a schedule posted out front explaining the different cultural activities, times, and prices. 

We would recommend popping by the museum when you first arrive to see what the schedule is for the month and see if anything looks interesting to you!

15. Have a Drink in the Plazas

People sitting at tables in a cobblestone plaza with a fountain in the center

While you’re wandering around the gorgeous streets of Guanajuato, you will find yourself in these picturesque plazas with beautiful ornate fountains in the middle.

Each plaza is a bit different but they all have a European vibe with lush greenery and cobblestone streets.

Our favorite plaza to just chill out in and watch life go by while sipping a cerveza or michelada was Plaza De Fernando. For a secluded & secret rooftop with a view , go up the stairs in Tragaluz and head to the back.

16. Join a Callejoneada

Men dressed up and singing on a Callejoneada in Guanajuato City Mexico

When walking around Jardin de la Union and Teatro Juarez you’ll notice students everywhere dressed up in Spanish colonial outfits. They will most likely try and sell you tickets to join a Callejoneada.

A Callejoneada is an evening tour that takes you around the many alleyways all while entertaining you with traditional music and folk dance.

You’ll hear interesting stories, funny jokes, and traditional myths that have been told for hundreds of years in this area. (Tours take place in Spanish, but you can always ask if there is a student there who can translate for you. We still enjoyed the tour even though we didn’t understand all of it!)

You can catch the first part of the Callejoneada show right in front of the Museo ex Convento Dieguino (next to Teatro Juarez) where the men sing their hearts out and perform with their outfits on.

Buy tickets on the spot near Teatro Juarez for $90-120 pesos or pre-book your Callejonada tour here .

17. Go on a Street Food Walking Tour

A pan of street taquitos on a walking tour in Guanajuato City

Hands down one of the best things to do in Guanajuato is to go on a street food walking tour. Guanajuato has some delicious street food, but sometimes it can be overwhelming to find where the best places are to eat!

Go on this street food tour as soon as you get to Guanajuato and you can continue to visit the food stalls you went to the rest of the time you are in Guanajuato.

18. Try Different Mezcals

A line of mezcals bottles in a bar in Guanajuato

Guanajuato is a great place to sample different mezcal made throughout the region. If you have never tried mezcal, just know that the Mexican people sip it rather than taking it like a shot.

When it’s served, it usually comes with a variety of fruit, some chili powder, and maybe some salt. After you take a sip it is common to eat a bite of fruit dipped in chili powder to get rid of the bite.

A great place to try a variety of mezcal that also has an awesome outdoor garden area with really nice vibes is Café Carcamanes . If you are not such a fan of mezcal, Café Caramanes also has a great selection of craft beer made throughout Mexico!

19. See a Baseball Game

The view of the brightly colored houses at the baseball stadium in Guanajuato City

Besides soccer, baseball is super famous in Guanajuato. We lived close to the baseball stadium (Estadio Jose Aguilar y Maya) and found it a fun thing to do on Saturday or Sunday morning.

Stop by the stadium during the week to get the schedule for the weekend- games usually happen Friday-Sunday.

20. Row Your Boat at Presa De La Olla

The sign explaining renting a row boat in La Olla a great thing to do in Guanajuato City

The other direction from Guanajuato Centro is a section of Guanajuato called La Presa. It is worth the time spent walking there (~35 mins from Centro- I would suggest walking so you can take in the views and beautiful architecture along the way.)

Right before you near the Olla (reservoir), there is a beautiful park called Parque Florencio Antillon where you can take a stroll and step into nature for a bit.

Once you get to the reservoir you can rent a row boat for $40 pesos per person and enjoy a nice time on the water admiring the towering mountains and nature.

21. Salsa in the Jardin

The jardin in Guanajuato City with a large tree and people sitting at tables

Every Thursday around 5 pm, people gather in the Jardin to show off their salsa and rumba dance moves while also dancing the night away.

Even if you aren’t the best dancer, anyone wondering what to do in Guanajuato has got to check this out. Besides just watching the dancing, it’s great for relaxing in the gorgeous atrium-style garden and listening to some awesome mariachi music.

22. See the City from a Hot Air Balloon

A hot air balloon in the sky with the sun setting creating a bright orange color

There is no better way to enjoy a view over the city than on a hot air balloon ride! Enjoy seeing Guanajuato and neighboring cities as well as the gorgeous mountain peaks from high in the sky on this incredible hot air balloon tour .

This tour includes transportation from your hotel, a toast at the end of the flight, and is 4 hours long so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the views.

23. Enjoy a Coffee at Santo Cafe

A bridge at Santo Cafe connecting two buildings with people eating at tables on the bridge

If you’re walking around downtown Guanajuato and notice people eating on a bridge above you, that’s Santo Cafe!

Santo Cafe is one of the best places to enjoy a coffee or lunch in Guanajuato while also people-watching on the streets below.

Arrive early if you want a spot on the bridge. If you can’t get a spot on the bridge, don’t worry, the inside of the cafe is super cute and just as enjoyable as the outside.

24. Admire the Street Art

Street art on a red wall in Guanajuato City

There is a ton of amazing street art to find scattered all over the city. One of our favorite streets to see some beautiful murals is along Perros Muertos (I know, what a terrible name for a street.)

Our favorite part of finding street art is to just wander and see what we find. Guanajuato is covered in colorful buildings and paintings on the walls lining the streets, so you won’t have to go far to find something to admire.

25. Taste Craft Beer

The label of a craft beer in Guanajuato Mexico

Did you know that Guanajuato has an awesome craft beer scene? We love craft beer, so we couldn’t miss the opportunity to try out some of Guanajuato’s breweries.

Our favorite brewery in Guanajuato is The Beer Company Guanajuato. They have an amazing selection of all kinds of craft beer from all over Mexico. They also have a rooftop with an amazing view where you can enjoy your beer.

26. Sample Delicious Gelato

Eating gelato is a unique thing to Guanajuato City Mexico

You wouldn’t think Guanajuato was a place where you can find delicious Gelato, but you certainly can! Our friends at Estación Gelato y Café Truco take gelato so seriously that they went to Italy to learn how to perfect their gelato recipe.

We went to Estación Gelato one day looking for a nice rooftop to work from and ended up meeting the owner, Rodolfo, and becoming friends. Rodolfo and his wife are the sweetest people, their gelato is amazing, and the rooftop of their shop is spectacular!

We definitely recommend stopping by for a sweet treat while you’re wandering the streets in Guanajuato.

27. Grab a Drink at La Clave Azul

La Clave Azul is one of the most unique bars in Guanajuato. We ended up here by accident one night, but really enjoyed our time. The entrance to this bar is in the corner of a super picturesque street and the walls of the bar are lined with antiques and collections to look at.

The inside is cozy and feels like you’ve been transported back in time. We recommend stopping in for a cerveza or some mezcal!

28. Visit the Rooftops

A women sitting on a rooftop in Guanajuato City Mexico with a view of the colorful houses behind her

There is no shortage of amazing rooftops in Guanajuato to admire the view from. We are a bit of rooftop connoisseurs so we visited a bunch during our 6 weeks living in Guanajuato.

Here are some of our favorites that you should put on your list:

  • Estación Gelato y Café Truco
  • The Beer Company Guanajuato
  • La Notaría Terraza Bar
  • Condesa Rooftop

Alternatively, you can join this rooftop bars tour to have a guide take you to some of the best rooftop bars in the city complete with signature drinks at each bar.

29. Cristo Rey Statue

The cristo rey statue in Guanajuato City with a bright blue sky behind it

A bit outside of the city but still worth a visit is the Cristo Rey Statue. This is one of the ultimate views of the city where you can see views of the city, the countryside, and even the town next to Guanajuato, Leon.

The statue is supposedly located at the geographic center of Mexico, making it a fun tourist attraction to visit.

To get there, hop on the bus that says ‘Cristo Rey’ at the Alhóndiga Museum. Or you can book a guided tour with transportation .

30. Go Wine Tasting

A row of grapes growing in a vineyard

Another unique thing to do in Guanajuato is to go wine tasting. Guanajuato and San Miguel De Allende are surrounded by a lush wine country, and many people don’t know anything about it!

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a car to drive to the wineries yourself. Some of the best wineries to not miss are Tres Raices, Viñedo Toyan, and Santisima Trinidad.

Our favorite way to see the wineries is by going on this tour . That way you don’t have to worry about how much you drink and it includes a 5-course meal as well as a cheese board at one of the wineries.

31. Go ATVing

A man wearing a helmet on an ATV on a bright sunny day

Another fun must-do adventure is ATVing through the mountains surrounding Guanajuato!

On this ATV tour , you will discover the old mining towns that are hidden outside of the city as well as drive through the city to visit some of the most famous sites. This is a super unique way to see the city but not have to walk everywhere!

32. Take a Day Trip to San Miguel de Allende

The view of San Miguel de Allende and it's cathedral and bright colored houses

Last but not least is taking a day trip from Guanajuato to San Miguel de Allende. If you’re looking for other things to do during your stay, this day trip will not disappoint.

San Miguel de Allende is only a 1 hour and 20 minute drive away from Guanajuato and totally worth the day trip! This incredible city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial cities.

This city was actually voted on Travel and Leisure as one of the best 25 cities in the world – so you know that it’s going to be an amazing visit!

Getting there : You can easily take a bus from the Guanajuato Bus Station for around $18 USD. Or you can join this tour and get to visit Dolores Hildago as well. Or book a private transfer here and don’t worry about figuring out the bus.

Wrap-Up: Guanajuato Things to Do

There are so many unique things to do and places to visit in Guanajuato. From the winding maze of cobblestone streets to the vibrant colorful buildings, you could spend weeks here and not see it all!

We absolutely loved our 6 weeks living here and didn’t want to leave when it was time to move on. We hope this article has helped you discover how incredible this city is and you have a wonderful time visiting!

We hope this article about the best things to do in Guanajuato City, Mexico helps you plan your trip. We would love to connect with you! You can learn more about us here or read more of our recent blog posts here . Also, follow us on Instagram (@UnearthTheVoyage) and Facebook to see what we are up to next!

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Jess Drier is co-founder of Unearth The Voyage. She loves outdoor adventures, hiking, camping, going on float trips, and exploring new countries. She has explored more than 20 countries, taught English in South Korea, and visited 28 stunning National Parks while living in her RV. She loves sharing her knowledge here on Unearth The Voyage in detailed guides and helping others discover the great outdoors and their love for travel!

Places to visit

Places to visit in guanajuato, discover the best attractions and places to visit in the city and find what to do in them, museums, tradition, culture, landscapes, parks, city tours and places you can't miss.

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Alhondiga de Granaditas, Guanajuato

Alhondiga de Granaditas

The Alhondiga de Granaditas building that was built in the early nineteenth century, has formerly been a granary, ware

Alhondiga de Granaditas and Museum, Guanajuato

Alhondiga de Granaditas and Museum

This building of great historical value was formerly used as a grain warehouse for the city of Guanajuato. Today it

Opening of the Presa de la Olla Floodgates, Guanajuato

Opening of the Presa de la Olla Floodgates

The Dia de la Apertura de la Presa de la Olla or The Opening of the Floodgates, has its origins in the 18th century when

The Jose Martí Bust, Guanajuato

The Jose Martí Bust

Doing is the best way of saying so thought Jose Marti, a famous philosopher born in Habana, Cuba in 1853 and who die

Callejon del Beso - The Alley of the Kiss, Guanajuato

Callejon del Beso - The Alley of the Kiss

Legend has it that there lived two people in love called Carlos and Ana. Ana was a rich Spaniard who lived on the left

The Streets of Guanajuato, Guanajuato

The Streets of Guanajuato

You may feel that you’ve gotten lost in the streets of Guanajuato, but ... so what! It is delightful to enjoy th

Our Lady of Guanajuato Basilica , Guanajuato

Our Lady of Guanajuato Basilica

The construction of the Cathedral Basilica Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato began in 1671 and was completed 25 year

Basilica Our Lady of Guanajuato (interior), Guanajuato

Basilica Our Lady of Guanajuato (interior)

The building of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato Collegiate began in 1671 and was completed 25 years later, sponso

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The Verdict Is In: These Are the Best Places to Visit in Mexico

A s the 13th largest country in the world, Mexico has it all. Want to lie down on the sand or go surfing? You have both the Caribbean and the Pacific. Feeling like escaping to a mountain town where they distill tequila? No problem! Itching for culture in a city with millenary history? You'll find several. 

In truth, few places on Earth can compete with this incredibly beautiful, wonderfully friendly and unfailingly fun country. The biggest dilemma every traveler faces is choosing where to go. To help you out, U.S. News released its 2023 rankings of the best places to visit in Mexico. 

Try to go to each of these 15 amazing Mexican destinations at least once.

15. Punta Mita

Located in Mexico's Nayarit Riviera, Punta Mita is a wonderful gateway into the country's Pacific Coast. It's a quieter and more laid-back alternative to nearby Puerto Vallarta. 

The town is known for its luxurious spas and resorts, but there are also affordable and beautiful accommodations near the sea. Life here revolves around the water, so you'll definitely want to participate in watersports and indulge in fresh seafood. The absolute best thing to do, however, is to take a boat trip to the Marieta Islands, where you'll find the most beautiful beach in all of Mexico .

*Note: This list comes from  U.S. News and World Report's 2023-24 report .

14. Playa del Carmen

On the other side of the country, hugging the Caribbean Sea, you'll find Playa del Carmen. A popular destination for international tourists, this city is known for beaches, shopping and nightlife.

It's also close to some of the Yucatan Peninsula's coolest spots, like Xcaret's eco-parks and several cenotes.

Though it receives a healthy dose of national tourism, Puebla is still somewhat hidden from the international eye. That's all the better for those who make the three-hour drive from Mexico City to this colonial town.

Built around the Puebla Cathedral, the historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While walking around, try some of the city's famous foods, like mole poblano and cemitas. Also, set aside a day to visit the Pyramid of Cholula, whose base area is the largest in the world.

12. Mexico City

Even city haters can't resist the allure of Mexico City. Sure, it's loud, there's pollution, and the crowds are unbelievable. But none of that matters when you're walking around one of the most exciting places on the planet. 

Spend time in the large Chapultepec Park, an impressive urban green space that also hides several museums, including the world-renowned National Museum of Anthropology. Catch the Mexican Ballet at the Fine Arts Museum, see the works of Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera and other important Mexican artists, and spend time at the Zocalo, the heart of the city. 

The capital of the Mexican state of Yucatan, Merida might be one of the country's most neglected cities. People love its colorful streets and the buzz of urban life that brings with it chaos, diversity and excitement. 

But the best part about Merida is that you can easily escape to see ancient Maya ruins, cenotes and quiet fishing villages.

10. Guanajuato

Guanajuato is truly one of the prettiest colonial cities in the entire world. The hilly streets abound in color, and cars pass through small tunnels in order to get from one part of the city to another. In the backdrop, the imposing mountains provide scenic views. 

Its city center is another UNESCO site, housing landmarks like the Juarez Theater and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato. For an impressive panorama over Guanajuato, take the funicular up to Monumento al Pipila. And for something truly unique, go to the Mummy Museum, where you'll see local mummies that were naturally preserved by the geological conditions of the area.

Mexico's party town par excellence is not a place you'd go to for peace and quiet. The city is big, loud and rowdy, offering some of the best nightlife in the country. Expect over-the-top night shows, gigantic clubs and bars in every corner. 

But while you party your vacation away, don't neglect to enjoy Mexican culture. Within Cancun's Hotel Strip, you'll find El Rey, ancient Maya ruins as well as the Maya Museum. You'll also be close to some of the Yucatan Peninsula's most interesting spots (some of which also appear on this list). Break off an entire day to go to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World that's a must-visit archaeological treasure.

8. Manzanillo

With whitewashed houses piled on top of each other, Manzanillo looks as if it belongs on the Mediterranean. Instead, you'll find it on the Pacific, attracting people who want to see a less touristy side of Mexico. 

The vibe is laid back, the seafood is delicious, and the people are friendly. And if you love the world hidden underneath the ocean, you'll be delighted to find shipwrecks and coral reefs that welcome both snorkelers and divers. 

7. Sayulita

Located near Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, people come to Sayulita for its strong surfer culture. The high waves of this Pacific town bring in surfers from all over Mexico — as well as the world. Although the spot has become increasingly popular, it has managed to retain its chill atmosphere and stay true to what made it so charming in the first place.

You can also visit the magical Marieta Islands from here or (in the right season) do whale-watching tours. Outside of the water, you can learn about the Huichol people, who are native to the area and who sell their art around town.

6. Isla Holbox

If you want to see what the Yucatan Peninsula was like before it was overtaken by mass tourism, go to Holbox. About 2.5 hours away from Cancun, this island is cut off completely from the mainland, meaning that you have to take a ferry to get there. This guarantees that only dedicated travelers get here, which keeps it a true island paradise. 

Since Holox is part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, you'll have the chance to see some of the Gulf of Mexico's most magnificent wildlife, including sea turtles, flamingos and whale sharks, the largest fish in the entire world.

5. Isla Mujeres

Another one of Yucatan's treasures, Isla Mujeres is located right off Cancun and is accessible by ferry on a 20- to 40-minute ride. You'll find a completely different vibe from the city and a decidedly wealthier (and older) crowd. 

This is the best spot in the Mexican Caribbean for a luxury vacation, filled with time on gorgeous beaches and visits to the spa, just letting the hours melt away.

Ixtapa is Cancun's twin on the Pacific Coast. Although decidedly less rowdy, the city is marked by a string of large hotels, international restaurants and golf courses. Visitors love to take boats out onto the water or do extreme water sports like parasailing. 

If you're into diving, you absolutely have to book a tour to Los Morros de Potosí, where granite rocks make a habitat for various fishes. Of course, you'll also want to try to catch the sunset every single day.

Like Isla Mujeres, Cozumel is an island off the coast of Cancun. But because it is a very popular stop for Caribbean cruises, it tends to be much more crowded and busy. Not that that should deter you from visiting. After all, the island is popular for a reason. 

Whether you come on a day trip or stay longer, get out to the ocean, where you'll find coral reefs teeming with life. You can also take a jeep tour through the inland jungle or visit the Mayan Ruins of San Gervasio, dedicated to Ixchel, the Maya goddess of love and fertility.

Years ago, Tulum was the perfect foil to the buzz of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Today, the once-sleepy town has a boho-bougie vibe that attracts a young crowd with its green-and-beige palette. But despite its change, Tulum is an amazing destination, especially because of its seaside Maya ruins . 

While here, make sure you also explore the treasures of the area, particularly the cenotes (underground sinkholes) that were sacred to the Maya and that now provide incredible spots for swimming and diving.

1. Zihuatanejo

If Ixtapa is too busy for you, head a bit farther south to the fishing village of Zihuatanejo. This relaxed spot on the Pacific is known for its seafood, particularly its delicious fish tacos. In the city center, you'll find local markets where you can savor regional food and buy local art and crafts. 

The town's most popular beaches are Playa la Ropa and Playa las Gatas, but there are also smaller beaches where you can enjoy some sun and sand. As in most other places along the Pacific Coast, Zihuatanejo offers great spots for snorkeling, diving, kayaking and boating.

The Verdict Is In: These Are the Best Places to Visit in Mexico

What are the 4 levels of travel advisory? What to know about spring break trips to Mexico

guanajuato tourist places

The U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Mexico issued a spring break travel advisory on Feb. 26.

Violent crime is widespread and common in Mexico , according to the U.S. State Department . Crimes such as carjacking, homicide, kidnapping and robbery are prevalent.

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Here's what you need to know about U.S. State Department travel advisories:

Is Mexico safe 2024?

According to the spring break travel advisory , there is list of safety concerns to consider:

  • Arrests: Drunk and disorderly behavior, public urination, and open alcohol containers in vehicles are illegal in Mexico.  If you break Mexican law, you can be arrested.
  • Crime:  Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. See the  Mexico Travel Advisory   for specific information for each Mexican state. U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.
  • Drowning: Some beaches have strong undercurrents and rip tides. Beaches may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.
  • Drugs: Drug possession and use, including medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence. U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills.
  • Guns and Ammunition:  All guns and even small amounts of ammunition are illegal in Mexico.  Firearms and other weapons violations may result in lengthy jail time.
  • Immigration:   Violating the terms of your stay in Mexico can result in steep fines and detention.
  • Medical Emergencies: An illness or accident could result in the need to seek medical treatment or hospitalization in Mexico. Private hospital prices can be higher than those in the United States. Many facilities require payment (sometimes only in cash) either before providing treatment or before discharging a patient.
  • Pharmaceuticals:  Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.  Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
  • Sexual Assault: U.S. citizens have been victims of rape and sexual assault. Perpetrators may target inebriated or isolated individuals or may employ drugs that alter the victim’s physical or mental state.
  • Unregulated Alcohol: Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming alcohol that was possibly tainted.

Mexico spring break travel advisory 2024

According to the spring break travel advisory , there is a list of actions travelers should take:

  • Avoid strong currents and do not swim after drinking or when warning flags note unsafe conditions.
  • Be aware of your safety and protect your personal possessions when using public transportation. Use radio taxis or those from “sitio” taxi stands. Application-based car services such as Uber and Cabify are available in many Mexican cities, and generally offer another relatively safe alternative to taxis.
  • Call 911 in an emergency. Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.
  • Consider downloading the “Guest Assist” application on your smart phone if traveling to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, or other areas in the state of Quintana Roo. The Mexican government provides information on emergency services and assistance for tourists via the app and their  website .
  • Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you need assistance.
  • Drink responsibly and always watch your drink. If you begin to feel ill, seek medical attention immediately. Report cases of suspected unregulated or contaminated alcohol to the Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk (COFEPRIS) by  filing a report online   at the COFEPRIS website, call the COFEPRIS call center at +52 01-8—033-5050, or visit a COFEPRIS office.
  • Enroll in the State Department’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program   to receive up-to-date information on safety conditions in Mexico and to help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency.
  • Keep friends and family at home informed of your travel plans, especially if traveling alone.
  • Keep your passport and entry permit (FMM), if applicable, in a safe place. Confirm the date you must depart Mexico.
  • Know your drinking companions and stay in a group of friends who have your safety in mind when you are in clubs and bars, walking in dimly lit areas, or in a taxi at night. Obey Mexican law and remember Mexican laws may differ from U.S. laws.
  • Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage in Mexico, or purchase travel insurance that covers you in Mexico. Seek coverage that includes medical evacuation.  Confirm costs of medical treatment in advance, when possible.
  • Read the  Mexico Travel Advisory  and  Country Information Page  for details on travel throughout Mexico, including entry requirements.
  • Regularly monitor your credit or debit card accounts to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Limit the amount of cash you carry in public, exercise caution when withdrawing cash, and avoid ATMs in isolated or unlit areas.
  • See our  advice for cruise passengers  , particularly those with underlying health conditions.

U.S. State Department Travel Warnings for Mexico

Here are the travel warnins from the U.S. State Department :

Do Not Travel To In Mexico

  • Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Guerrero state  due to  crime .
  • Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Sinaloa state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping
  • Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
  • Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To in Mexico:

  • Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Durango state  due to  crime .
  • Guanajuato state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Morelos state  due to  crime .
  • Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To in Mexico

  • Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
  • Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
  • Chiapas state  due to  crime .
  • Coahuila state  due to  crime .
  • Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
  • Mexico City  due to  crime .
  • Mexico State  due to  crime .
  • Nayarit state  due to  crime.
  • Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
  • Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Queretaro state  due to  crime .
  • Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
  • San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
  • Tabasco state  due to  crime .
  • Tlaxcala state  due to  crime .
  • Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To In Mexico

  • Campeche state
  • Yucatan state

Is Cancun safe in Mexico?

The Quintana Roo state − where Cancun is located − is under a Level 2 travel advisory, warning travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime.

According to the State Department, criminal activity and violence may occur at any time in any location, including in popular tourist spots. Maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. 

Travel advisory tips for Mexico trips

According to the State Department, consider these things when traveling to Mexico:

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

  • Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
  • Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
  • Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Follow the U.S. Embassy on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
  • Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the  CDC page  for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

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What are the 4 levels of travel advisory?

Here are the four levels of travel advisory , according to the U.S. State Department:

Travel Advisory Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions

  • This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.

Travel Advisory Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution

  • Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Departments of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.

Travel Advisory Level 3 - Reconsider Travel

  • Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.

Travel Advisory Level 4 – Do Not Travel  

  • This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.

Cheap flights: The destinations that could see a drop in airfare prices this year

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

  • Afghanistan
  • Burkina Faso
  • Central African Republic
  • North Korea
  • South Sudan

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

  • El Salvador
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • Papau New Guinea
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Trinidad & Tobago

Travel advisory tips for high-risk areas

The State Department recommends three websites for information on travel safety tips :

  • Bureau of Consular Affairs  
  • The Overseas Security Advisory Council  
  • The Federal Bureau of Investigation

Chris Sims is a digital producer for Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:  @ChrisFSims .

THE 10 BEST Guanajuato Tours & Excursions

Guanajuato tours.

  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Cultural Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

guanajuato tourist places

1. Private walking tour in Guanajuato

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2. 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Guanajuato

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3. Private Tour in Guanajuato Capital Leaving San Miguel Allende

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4. Guanajuato City Tour

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5. ATVs through the mountains and city of Guanajuato

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6. Horseback Ride in Guanajuato with Live Music and Food

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7. Guanajuato Private Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Tour

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8. Private Cinematic Portraits in Guanajuato City

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9. Private Historical Tour in the Sierra Santa Rosa by Bicycle

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10. Private from Guanajuato City: Tunnels, and Mines Tour

guanajuato tourist places

11. Nature Walk - Bufa hill OR Santa Rosa Area

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12. Hiking through Guanajuato

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13. Private Guanajuato Mines Tour

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14. Private Guanajuato City Tour From San Miguel

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15. Make your own silver ring in a private jewelry workshop

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16. Mexican Equestrian Experience

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17. Mountain and city cycling.

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18. Private Walking Tour of Exclusive Terraces in Guanajuato

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19. Private History & City Walking Tour of Guanajuato

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20. San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato

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21. Bar Tour in Guanajuato

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22. Rappelling in hills of Guanajuato

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23. Private tour Guanajuato, Dolores Hidalgo, Atotonilco and San Miguel de Allende route

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24. Transfers To San Miguel de Allende

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25. Guanajuato Private City Tour

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26. Colonial Treasures: San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Zacatecas and Guadalajara

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27. One Painting in One Day, Doors of Mexico workshop Guanajuato

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28. We organize your marriage proposal tour in Guanajuato.

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29. Private Balloon Flight in Guanajuato with Pickup

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30. Private Walking Tour in Guanajuato City

What travelers are saying.

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  • Private walking tour in Guanajuato
  • 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Guanajuato
  • Private Tour in Guanajuato Capital Leaving San Miguel Allende
  • ATVs through the mountains and city of Guanajuato
  • Horseback Ride in Guanajuato with Live Music and Food
  • Mariana Castillo
  • Mexico Street Food Tours
  • Guanajuato Walking Tours
  • Estigo Tours
  • Professional Tours English
  • Turismo Alternativo En Guanajuato
  • Callejoneadas

Guanajuato: Tours Information

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5 key issues at stake in the upcoming 2024 Mexican elections

Presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum greets supporters upon her arrival to her opening campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2. (AP Photo/Aurea Del Rosario)

Presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum greets supporters upon her arrival to her opening campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2. (AP Photo/Aurea Del Rosario)

Presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum greets supporters upon her arrival to her opening campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2. (AP Photo/Aurea Del Rosario)

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Presidential candidate Xóchitl Galvez waves during her opening campaign rally in Irapuato, Mexico, Friday, March 1, 2024. At right is Libia Dennise García, who is running as candidate for Governor of Guanajuato state. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Supporters of presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum attend her opening campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

Supooterts of Presidential candidate Xóchitl Galvez attend her opening campaign rally in Irapuato, Mexico, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2.(AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador gives his daily, morning press conference at the National Palace in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico is almost certainly about to get its first woman president.

Ruling-party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum leads in polls on the race leading to the June 2 vote . The second-place candidate is also a woman. A man running for a small third party essentially has no chance of winning.

Popular President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is barred by law from running for another six-year term, and Sheinbaum is running for his Morena party. Businesswoman, senator and Indigenous Affairs official Xóchitl Gálvez has an uphill battle, backed by a coalition of all the main opposition parties.

Sheinbaum, Mexico City’s former mayor, has a doctorate in energy engineering and a long career in leftist politics. Gálvez helped her family by selling tamales in the street as a girl. She went on to earn a degree in computer engineering and start her own tech companies.

Whoever wins, here are the issues and stakes.

HOW COULD MEXICO’S ELECTION AFFECT MIGRATION?

Most migrants to the United States come over the border with Mexico to Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. Mexico has agreed to some things that it isn’t legally obligated to do, such as deploying its National Guard to arrest migrants, and accepting the return of non-Mexicans who pass through on their way to the U.S.

FILE - In this courtroom sketch from federal court in New York, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, seated center at the defense table, turns to looks at prospective jurors during the jury selection process at the start of his trial. Hernández took the witness stand in his defense at his New York trial on Tuesday, March 5, denying that he teamed up with drug dealers to protect them in return for millions of dollars in bribes. (Elizabeth Williams via AP, File)

Migration isn’t much of an issue in Mexico, outside of calls for the fair treatment of Mexicans in the U.S. Mexico’s next president will almost certainly have latitude in deciding either to stop cooperating with the United States, or crack down harder on migrants heading north. Either would be a big change and migration is already certain to be a key issue for whoever wins the White House in November.

COULD MEXICO’S VOTE AFFECT THE FLOW OF DRUGS?

Supporters of presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum attend her opening campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

Supporters of presidential candidate Claudia Sheinbaum attend her opening campaign rally at the Zocalo in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

Instead of confronting the drug cartels, López Obrador has adopted what is for him the pragmatic policy of increasing government hand-outs to drain the pool of recruits for cartels seeking gunmen. But many poor, addicted or neglected youths can still be convinced to pick up a gun.

Under López Obrador, anti-drug cooperation has been limited by nationalism; he doesn’t like the DEA in his country and denies that Mexico produces fentanyl, the opioid that kills over 70,000 Americans each year.

The next president could take that view to an even greater extreme or decide to cooperate more as evidence mounts that drug cartels are incompatible with domestic peace .

HOW WILL MEXICO’S VOTE AFFECT ITS ECONOMY?

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador gives his daily, morning press conference at the National Palace in Mexico City, Friday, March 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

In the 1980s, the United States could threaten to close the border any time the Mexican government displeased Washington. Those days are over. U.S. appliance, auto-parts and automotive factories have moved to Mexico, and they need daily shipments of parts.

As López Obrador put it, “they couldn’t last, maybe a day, but not a week” with a closed border. Mexico — not China — is now the United States’ biggest trading partner, and U.S. markets rely on Mexico for fresh produce and many other things. The economic relationship may now simply be “too big to fail.”

Over 50 countries go to the polls in 2024

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  • Keep track of the latest AP elections coverage from around the world here.

Mexico also depends on the money sent home by citizens living abroad — mostly in the United States. Last year, Mexican migrants sent home a record $63.3 billion . Income from remittances surpasses what Mexico earns from tourism and exports of oil and most manufactured goods.

WILL MEXICO’S VOTE SHOW A NEW LATIN POPULISM?

Presidential candidate Xóchitl Galvez waves during her opening campaign rally in Irapuato, Mexico, Friday, March 1, 2024. At right is Libia Dennise García, who is running as candidate for Governor of Guanajuato state. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Latin America has seen periodic swings from left to right for decades. Free-spending presidents friendly to Iran or Russia have been quickly replaced by neoconservatives, and vice versa.

A populist wave appears to have interrupted the region’s normal pendulum swings with two key events in recent months — the overwhelming reelection of El Salvador’s hardline president Nayib Bukele, and the victory for libertarian firebrand Javier Milei in Argentina.

A victory for Morena on June 2 could entrench populism for 12 years in Mexico, essentially reviving the old idea of a charismatic, nationalist, hand-out regime as the perennial party in power.

Hungary has kept its populist president in power for nearly 15 years, but the world record is held by Mexico’s old ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party, or PRI, which held the presidency for — wait for it — 71 uninterrupted years.

WILL MEXICAN DEMOCRACY SURVIVE?

Supooterts of Presidential candidate Xóchitl Galvez attend her opening campaign rally in Irapuato, Mexico, Friday, March 1, 2024. General Elections are set for June 2.(AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

López Obrador has tried mightily to eliminate checks and balances, regulatory oversight and the role of non-governmental organizations. He has accumulated more centralized power than any president since the heyday of the PRI in the 1970s, an era for which he expresses open nostalgia.

His main tool of governance has been the army, which has built a portfolio of railways, an airline, airports and hotels. Mexico’s army, unlike many other Latin American nations’, has not become involved in politics through coups or candidacies since the 1940s. But many worry that the Morena party’s continued dominance might endanger that old arrangement .

Whoever wins, the outgoing president is leaving a pile of ambitious, unfinished projects, obligations and debt. López Obrador has pledged to retire entirely from politics after he leaves office, but few people believe that a man who has basically spent every waking minute for the last 30 years driving toward his political goals will give that up so easily.

Follow AP’s Latin-America coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america

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  2. 25 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico: Travel Guide & Tips

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COMMENTS

  1. 14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Guanajuato

    Places to Visit near Guanajuato: As difficult as it may be to pull yourself away from beautiful Guanajuato, try to find at least a little time to explore some of the nearby cities with their many points of interest. Great day trips include Guadalajara's many tourist attractions. This city is popular for its distinctive European flavor seen ...

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Guanajuato

    This 17th-century cathedral holds a wooden image of the Nuestra Senora de Guanajuato that is thought be the oldest piece of Christian art in Mexico. See full details. See ways to experience (6) 8. Museo Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera. 452. History Museums. The origin of the Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera corresponds to the stage of mining ...

  3. 25 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico in 2024

    The Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico. 1. Alley of the Kiss. Visit the Callejón del Beso Guanajuato, one of the must see Guanajuato City landmarks. (Photo: Gilles Frechette via Flickr) El Callejon del Beso (The Alley of the Kiss) is located on a narrow, winding alleyway.

  4. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Guanajuato (UPDATED March 2024)

    This early 20th-century building is part Moorish, part Roman and part Greek and is one of the city's more noticeable landmarks. 4. Museo Regional de Guanajuato Alhóndiga de Granaditas. This huge stone granary was the site of the first major Mexican victory against the Spanish in the War of Independence.

  5. Guanajuato: A Travel Guide To The Most Beautiful City in Mexico

    Bus. We arrived and left on very comfortable Primera Plus buses. From Mexico City (Mexico Norte station) to Guanajuato it takes five hours and costs 680 pesos/ $32 with online discounts available. To Puerto Vallarta on the coast, the overnight bus takes nine hours and costs 1187 pesos/$62.

  6. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Guanajuato

    See ways to experience (2) 2023. 8. El Charco del Ingenio. 937. Parks. El Charco del Ingenio is a botanical garden and nature preserve just a few minutes from the historical city of San Miguel de Allende. The name comes from a spring-fed pool nestled in an impressive canyon. With great biodiversity, many different species of native plants and ...

  7. Guanajuato travel

    Guanajuato. Mexico, North America. The extraordinary Unesco World Heritage city of Guanajuato was founded in 1559 due to the region's rich silver and gold deposits. Opulent colonial buildings, stunning tree-filled plazas and brightly colored houses are crammed together on to the steep slopes of a narrow ravine where excellent museums, handsome ...

  8. 15 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico

    12. Guanajuato Basilica. You can't visit Guanajuato without visiting a church, because within the tight confines of the small city center, there are 20-plus churches and other places of worship within walking distance of each other. If you only visit one church, though, make it Guanajuato Basilica - otherwise known as Nuestra Señora de ...

  9. Must-see attractions Guanajuato, Guanajuato State

    Discover the best attractions in Guanajuato including Museo y Casa de Diego Rivera, Teatro Juárez, and Templo La Valenciana. ... To escape Guanajuato's narrow streets, head to this magnificent colonial home that is now a museum with tranquil and attractive gardens. Built at the end…

  10. 15 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico, in 2023

    13. Visit the Wineries. 14. Go for a Hike. 15. Enjoy the Saturday Market. FAQs About Visiting Guanajuato. Now You Know What to Do in Guanajuato. The temperature is perfect, the people are friendly and there are endless amounts of things to do in Guanajuato City, making it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

  11. 23 Amazing Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico (+ Travel Tips!)

    23. Visit San Miguel de Allende. If you don't have an extended trip planned to the impossibly beautiful colonial city of San Miguel de Allende, then, at the very least, take a day trip there. After Oaxaca City, this is my favorite place in all of Mexico. Located just 1.5 hours from Guanajuato, it's an easy trip!

  12. 17 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico

    4. Trek up to the Cristo Rey. The Cristo Rey is an enormous (the second largest in the world, in fact) statue of Christ the King, which resides on the top of a mountain just outside Guanajuato. The figure stands 22 meters tall and is said to sit on the exact geographic center of Mexico.

  13. Guanajuato, Mexico 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Discover the colorful and charming city of Guanajuato, Mexico, with Tripadvisor's guide to the best places to visit, stay, and eat. Guanajuato is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its colonial architecture, cultural festivals, and underground tunnels. Whether you want to explore the historic center, admire the views from the cable car, or enjoy the local cuisine, Guanajuato has something ...

  14. 25 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico: Travel Guide & Tips

    2) Experience this Creepy Mummy Museum in Guanajuato Mexico. Mummies aren't only associated with ancient Egypt.One of the main attractions in Guanajuato is the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum). In the 1800s there was a cholera outbreak that led to an influx of deaths and hence burials.

  15. Top 14 Things to Do in Enchanting Guanajuato City, Mexico

    K.C. was a featured writer for Yahoo! Travel before joining trips to discover in 2013. She is the author of Best Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to Ireland, an Amazon bestseller every year between 2013 and 2016. She has been a featured expert on Newsweek, Travel + Leisure, Travelocity, among others. Read full bio

  16. 25 Unforgettable Things To See & Do In Guanajuato, Mexico

    1. Callejón del Beso / The Alley Of The Kiss. The narrow and colorful "Alley Of The Kiss" in Guanajuato. The Alley Of The Kiss is a popular tourist attraction that centers around a tragic love story. According to the legend, a rich family used to live in the house to the left including a young woman.

  17. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Guanajuato (Updated 2024)

    See ways to experience (6) 8. Museo Ex-Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera. 452. History Museums. The origin of the Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera corresponds to the stage of mining exploitation at the end of the XVII, stage focused on the discoveries of rich betas of gold and silver. At the beginning of the 19th century, with the arrival of ...

  18. 3 Days in Guanajuato: The Perfect Guanajuato Itinerary

    There are accommodation options for every budget, be it backpacker or luxury, and you'll be within easy walking distance of Guanajuato's best tourist attractions and best places to eat. For budget travelers, Hostel Casa de Dante is located 165 steep steps above the city but has some of the best views in Guanajuato.

  19. Guanajuato, Mexico

    Tourist Attractions in GUANAJUATO. Interesting Sites. San Miguel de Allende . San Miguel de Allende was founded in 1542, this is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico. San Miguel has meant the careful conservation of the town's charming architecture and cobblestone streets, as well as its culture and traditions, and that is why ...

  20. 31 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico in 2024

    So without further ado, here are the best things to do in Guanajuato City. Table of Contents hide. 31 Best Things to Do in Guanajuato City, Mexico. 1. Hike or Take the Funicular to Mirador Panorámica (El Pípila) 2. See a Show at Teatro Juarez. 3. Visit Guanajuato's Mummy Museum.

  21. Places to Visit in Guanajuato

    Basilica Our Lady of Guanajuato (interior) The building of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato Collegiate began in 1671 and was completed 25 years later, sponso. Next. Attraction. travelbymexico.com. Destinations. Guanajuato. Places to Visit.

  22. Things to do in Guanajuato and its tourist places ZonaTuristica

    Simply the Best things to do in Guanajuato. Discover all the great places to visit in Guanajuato and find what to do in them. We have local travel tips so that you get to know Museums, Tradition, Culture, Landscapes, Parks, City Tours and places you can´t miss. We are Experts in Mexico and your Best tourist guide in Guanajuato.

  23. The Verdict Is In: These Are the Best Places to Visit in Mexico

    To help you out, U.S. News released its 2023 rankings of the best places to visit in Mexico. ... Guanajuato is truly one of the prettiest colonial cities in the entire world. The hilly streets ...

  24. Travel advisory 2024: What to know on U.S. spring break ...

    The U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Mexico issued a spring break travel advisory on Feb. 26. Violent crime is widespread and common in Mexico, according to the U.S. State Department. Crimes such as ...

  25. THE 10 BEST Guanajuato Tours & Excursions

    Guanajuato is a fantastic place to visit, so rich in history and so full of nightlife. It's really a must-do in Mexico. ... Which places provide the best tours in Guanajuato for travelers on a budget? These are the best places for budget-friendly tours in Guanajuato: Mexico Street Food Tours;

  26. 5 key issues at stake in the upcoming 2024 Mexican elections

    Take a look at the 25 places where a change ... Last year, Mexican migrants sent home a record $63.3 billion. Income from remittances surpasses what Mexico earns from tourism and exports of oil and most manufactured goods. ... Mexico, Friday, March 1, 2024. At right is Libia Dennise García, who is running as candidate for Governor of ...