Best Places to Visit in Guanajuato | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Guanajuato Travel Guide
Quick overview of Guanajuato with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Guanajuato, Mexico! Nestled in the heart of the country, this charming colonial city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its colorful streets, rich history, and vibrant culture, Guanajuato offers a unique travel experience like no other. As you wander through its narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets, you'll be captivated by the stunning architecture, from the grand Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato to the iconic Teatro Juarez. Don't forget to visit the famous Callejon del Beso, or Alley of the Kiss, where legend has it that couples who kiss on the third step will be granted seven years of happiness. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, Guanajuato has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this enchanting city.
Guanajuato Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Guanajuato videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Guanajuato in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![GUANAJUATO - Undiscovered and AUTHENTIC MEXICO [TRAVEL GUIDE]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/W_eFF8nzO14/hqdefault.jpg)
Plan Guanajuato Trip
Prepare for your Guanajuato trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Best Places To Visit in Guanajuato
1. Guanajuato, Mexico : This charming colonial city is a must-visit destination in Mexico. Its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and stunning architecture make it a photographer's dream. The city is also known for its rich history and culture, with numerous museums and cultural events throughout the year. Don't miss the famous Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), a narrow alleyway where legend has it that couples who kiss on the third step will have seven years of good luck.
2. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico : Another colonial gem in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant art scene, and lively festivals. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning buildings and churches dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors can also enjoy the city's many galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, as well as its famous hot springs.
3. Oaxaca, Mexico : Oaxaca is a city rich in culture and history, with a vibrant arts scene and delicious cuisine. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with beautiful colonial buildings and churches. Visitors can also explore the nearby ruins of Monte Alban, a pre-Columbian archaeological site, or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Oaxacan dishes like mole.
4. Mexico City, Mexico : The capital of Mexico is a bustling metropolis with something for everyone. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, including the famous National Museum of Anthropology, or take a stroll through the historic center to see the stunning architecture and beautiful plazas. Foodies will love the city's street food scene, which offers everything from tacos to tamales to churros.
5. Puebla, Mexico : Puebla is a colonial city known for its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and rich history. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning buildings and churches dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can also explore the nearby ruins of Cholula, an ancient Mesoamerican city, or sample the city's famous mole poblano.
6. Tulum, Mexico : Tulum is a beautiful beach town on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Visitors can enjoy the town's stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibe. The town is also home to the famous Tulum ruins, a pre-Columbian archaeological site overlooking the sea.
7. Merida, Mexico : Merida is a colonial city in the Yucatan Peninsula known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the city's many museums and galleries, or take a stroll through the historic center to see the stunning buildings and plazas. The city is also a great base for exploring the nearby Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal.
8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico : Puerto Vallarta is a popular beach destination on Mexico's Pacific coast. Visitors can enjoy the town's beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and delicious seafood. The town is also home to the famous Malecon, a seaside promenade lined with sculptures and street performers.
9. Cancun, Mexico : Cancun is a popular beach destination on Mexico's Caribbean coast. Visitors can enjoy the town's stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza.
10. Playa del Carmen, Mexico : Playa del Carmen is a popular beach town on Mexico's Caribbean coast. Visitors can enjoy the town's beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby Mayan ruins of Tulum and Coba.
Hotels Map Of Guanajuato
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Guanajuato.
Tours And Activities In Guanajuato
Check out these Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Guanajuato. Read real reviews and highlights.
Food & Drinks To Try In Guanajuato
1. Enchiladas mineras: This traditional dish from Guanajuato consists of tortillas filled with shredded chicken or cheese, topped with a rich tomato sauce, and garnished with onions, cheese, and sour cream. It is a must-try when visiting the region.
2. Pozole: A hearty and flavorful soup made with hominy corn and meat (usually pork or chicken). It is seasoned with various spices and served with toppings such as lettuce, radishes, avocado, and lime. Pozole is a popular dish in Guanajuato and is often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions.
3. Chiles en nogada: This iconic Mexican dish is a true culinary masterpiece. It consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, and then covered in a creamy walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds. The combination of flavors and colors makes it a visually stunning and delicious dish.
4. Cajeta: A sweet treat that originated in Guanajuato, cajeta is a thick and creamy caramel sauce made from goat's milk. It is often used as a topping for desserts like ice cream, churros, or pancakes. The rich and velvety texture of cajeta is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
5. Tequila: No visit to Mexico is complete without trying its famous spirit, tequila. Guanajuato is home to several tequila distilleries, where you can learn about the production process and sample different varieties of this iconic drink. Whether enjoyed straight, in a margarita, or as part of a traditional Mexican cocktail, tequila is a must-try in Guanajuato.
6. Aguas frescas: These refreshing fruit-based beverages are perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day in Guanajuato. Aguas frescas come in a variety of flavors, such as horchata (rice-based), jamaica (hibiscus flower), tamarind, and watermelon. They are typically made by blending fresh fruits or ingredients with water and sugar, resulting in a delicious and hydrating drink.
7. Tacos al pastor: A popular street food in Mexico, tacos al pastor are a must-try in Guanajuato. They consist of thinly sliced marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma or gyros. The meat is then served on small corn tortillas and topped with onions, cilantro, pineapple, and a squeeze of lime. The combination of flavors and textures in these tacos is simply irresistible.
8. Pan de Acambaro: This traditional bread from the town of Acambaro in Guanajuato is a local favorite. It is a sweet and fluffy bread made with ingredients like eggs, sugar, and butter, and often flavored with cinnamon or vanilla. Pan de Acambaro is perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of coffee.
9. Pulque: A traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage, pulque is made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant. It has a slightly sour taste and a thick, milky texture. Pulque has been consumed in Mexico for centuries and is often enjoyed in traditional pulquerias (pulque bars). It is an acquired taste but worth trying for a unique cultural experience.
10. **
Best Time To Visit Guanajuato
The best time to visit Guanajuato, Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasantly warm with little rainfall. The main attractions in Guanajuato, such as the historic city center and the famous Callejon del Beso, can be explored comfortably without the disruption of heavy rain. Additionally, the annual International Cervantino Festival, a celebration of arts and culture, takes place in October, making it another popular time to visit. However, it is important to note that Guanajuato can get crowded during this festival, so if you prefer a quieter experience, it is advisable to visit during the shoulder seasons of November to April or May to October.
Flight Calendar For Guanajuato
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Guanajuato.
Transportation To Guanajuato
There are several transportation options to Guanajuato, Mexico.
1. Flight: The nearest airport to Guanajuato is the Del Bajio International Airport (BJX), located in Silao, approximately 30 minutes away from Guanajuato. There are direct flights to BJX from major cities in Mexico, as well as international flights from the United States and Canada.
2. Bus: Guanajuato is well-connected by bus services from various cities in Mexico. There are several bus companies that operate routes to Guanajuato, including Primera Plus, ETN, and Omnibus de Mexico. The bus journey can vary in duration depending on the departure location.
3. Car: If you prefer to drive, Guanajuato is accessible by car via the Mexican Federal Highway 45. The city is approximately a 4-hour drive from Mexico City and a 2-hour drive from Guadalajara. It is important to note that Guanajuato's historic center is pedestrian-only, so parking may be limited.
4. Train: While there is no direct train service to Guanajuato, you can take a train to nearby cities such as Leon or Queretaro and then continue your journey to Guanajuato by bus or taxi.
Once in Guanajuato, the city is relatively small and can be explored on foot. Taxis and local buses are also available for transportation within the city.