Best 29 Things to Do in Guanajuato Mexico + Tips from a Local
Planning a trip to Guanajuato, Mexico? I’m here to help.
This colorful colonial city is full of culture, history, and surprises waiting around every corner—from hidden alleyways and vibrant markets to rooftop cafés and underground tunnels.
Hi, I’m Isabella. I’ve been living in Mexico since 2010, and I’ve explored Guanajuato more times than I can count—walking its steep streets, joining traditional callejoneadas, hopping on quirky tours, and tasting my way through its best restaurants (vegan-friendly spots included).
In this guide, I’m sharing my personal tips and favorite things to do in Guanajuato, plus local insights you won’t find in most travel guides. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, you’ll find plenty of ideas to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Facts about Guanajuato City
- Guanajuato City – Capital City of the State of Guanajuato
- Population: 250.000
- Area: Km2 72.54
- Elevation: 2000mt
- Foundation year: 1548
- Official language: Spanish
- English is widely spoken
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Looking for the best local tour? this is my favorite⤵️
Private Historical Tour in Guanajuato
130 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews | 2-3 hrs
I took this walking tour of the city by Cacomixtle, a family-owned local company. The guide is Susanna, who manages the company with her dad. They both are very knowledgeable about their surroundings and will fill you in with a lot of interesting information about the city.
Best things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico
1. Kiss in the Callejon del Beso
The city of Guanajuato is full of narrow streets and lanes called “callejones”. One of them is called Callejon del Beso, and it’s definitely one of the most visited streets in the city. It’s so narrow that two opposite balconies almost touch.
Here is the short story of the local legend attached to it.
Here we are in the 18th century, when a poor miner and a girl from a wealthy family of silver mine owners fell in love with each other and used to meet on the balconies and share words of love, dreams, and kisses.
When the girl’s father found out, in a fit of rage, he stabbed her. Needless to say, the young lover couldn’t take the pain and killed himself as well.
Despite the tragic ending, it is a tradition now that if you kiss your sweetheart on those stairs below the balconies, you gain 7 years of love and luck.
Apparently, to have your luck renewed after 7 years, you would need to go back to Guanajuato and kiss each other (or somebody else) again. 😉
2. Get lost in the historical city center
I always love to wander around without a specific itinerary and just go with the flow. You will be surprised by the amazing hidden gems you can discover.
I usually find amazing corners, beautiful old doors, interesting old buildings and churches, and cute little cafes. Or maybe nothing, but it just makes me feel like a local.
Guanajuato is the perfect place for that, especially for its typical narrow alleyways, full of art galleries, colonial buildings, street artists, markets, and street food.
You never know what you will encounter in your wandering.
Also, I love to take locally guided walking tours to learn about all the secret spots of the city. I took this tour with Susanna a young local guide, very passionate about her city and sharing all she knows with visitors. She speaks very good English. ▻ BOOK IT HERE
3. Visit Diego Rivera Museum
Diego Rivera is one of Mexico’s most prominent artists, especially known for his spectacular murals, but also for being the most significant man in Frida Kahlo’s life.
Although his art has been talked about as quite controversial, he’s now considered one of the greatest artists in Latin America.
The building that was his birthplace and home has now been converted into a museum displaying his less popular works and, on the ground floor, a recreation of what was his house at the time of his birth.
The visit doesn’t require a long time, but if you like art and culture this is a very interesting visit.
Cost 30 MXN (2 USD)
In the museum, you can also find a lovely bookshop specializing in Mexican history and literature. They also have nice mini-guides of Guanajuato and an entire room with kids’ books.
Right in front of the Museum, there is my favorite vegan-friendly restaurant in Guanajuato, Escarola.
4. Hike to el Pípila Statue
You should go up to the statue to watch the sun setting beyond the multicolored city from the giant Pipila monument that watches over the city.
The Pipila statue has been built in memory of a brave miner who, despite his fragile health conditions, set Guanajuato free from the Spaniards, while they were finding refuge in the Alhóndiga de Granaditas. Historians don’t know yet if this is a legend or a true story, but it’s a lovely tale.
The news of his brave action spread quickly all around Mexico, and it was one of the first battles of the Mexican Revolution and one of the triggers. You can read the full story here.
You can also get a ride with the funicular for 70 mxn (return ticket) if you don’t feel like walking. Below are the opening hours and prices
5. Walk around Mercado Hidalgo
Going to markets is one of my favorite things to do in a city. Mercado Hidalgo in Guanajuato is definitely one of the best places to hang out and mingle with locals.
Not only can you find great fresh fruit and veggies, local food, and all sorts of objects, but it is also an example of the architecture of the industrial times.
The building is, in fact, a mixture of different styles and ideas, and rumor has it that it was originally constructed to become a major central station. But I just learned from my recent visit that this is not accurate, just like the fact that Alexandre Gustave Eiffel was also involved in the project.
According to the majority of Mexican historians, the present market was built to serve as both a market and a venue for Independence Day celebrations. It was designed by two architects, Antonio Riva Mercado and Hernesto Brunel.
Miguel Hidalgo was, in fact, a Mexican priest who, together with a few others, instigated the first victory of the Mexican revolution, the storming of the “Alhóndiga de Granaditas”, right a few blocks from the market.
Mercado Hidalgo Guanajuato
Inside the building, the market is made of three levels and hosts small restaurants with local dishes at a very cheap price, great for breakfast or a quick lunch.
Other stalls sell clothes, local arts, and many other items; it’s a great place to shop for your Mexican souvenirs or just browse and watch the local life going by.
6. Visit the Alhondiga de Granaditas Museum
Even if you are not fond of museums and prefer open-air activities, I believe that Alhóndiga de Granaditas is still worth visiting.
It’s a regional museum where you can learn about the local history and the different phases of the Mexican revolution, besides the historical events that took place in the Guanajuato region.
The building in itself has historical importance because it is where the locals used to store their grains to supply the population in less productive seasons.
However, the most significant use of the building was in 1810 when the Spaniards were hiding while waiting for reinforcement.
It was there when the inhabitants of Guanajuato, enhanced by the local hero El Pipila (see above story) raised up against the Spaniards.
That’s where the first battle of the war of independence took place. Needless to say, it was the first Mexican victory and the Spaniards were defeated.
The Regional Museum of Guanajuato is open Tuesday to Saturday (between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm), Sunday (between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm), and it’s closed on Mondays.
The entrance fee is $30.00 pesos.
Unfortunately, there is no English translation of the Exhibits.
I would suggest paying a visit anyway as the interior of the building in itself makes it worth the 30 pesos (1,5 USD)
The exterior and the famous door can be viewed at any time from the main street. It’s located right above Miguel Hidalgo Market.
7. Visit the Mummy Museum (Museo de las Momias)
To be honest, I don’t really understand what’s so interesting in watching creepy mummified bodies, which are a little over 100 years old, and most of the time with gruesome and horrifying expressions on their face.
I don’t see the attraction in it, but apparently, the Mummy Museum of Guanajuato is one of the most visited museums in Guanajuato, and I felt like I should put it on the list of things you could do, just for the sake of information. I didn’t go there, though.
I intentionally avoid a more detailed description and the creepy pictures, as it doesn’t really make me feel good about it.
I am sure if you are interested in this kind of thing, you will find all the information about the history and the installation within the premises of the museum.
The entrance costs $95.00 peso,s and the museum is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm daily.
8. Pay a visit to the Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato
In Guanajuato, there are more than 20 Churches, and the Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato, or simply called the Guanajuato Basilica, is the most significant for the history of the beautiful colonial city.
The exterior walls are painted yellow and red, just like the main colors in the entire historical center.
A decorative pink sandstone formation of stepped layers with carvings of the saints surrounds the main portal.
The peculiar location of the Basilica is also part of its charm as it’s right in the middle of the city on the main square, in between two main streets converging into Plaza La Paz.
The building is also on a slight hill, so that when you see it from a distance, it appears to tower over the other beautiful surrounding buildings.
The basilica was initially constructed in 1671 but was remodeled at the demand of the leading silver Baron after the independence of Mexico from Spain, as a demonstration of wealth.
The Basilica was named after the patron saint and protector of the city, Our Lady of Guanajuato (Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato).
9. Walk by the Jardín de la Union
Jardin de la Union is a triangle-shaped Plaza (square) right in the middle of town, behind the Basilica and in front of the Teatro Juarez.
Its main features are the perfectly square-shaped trees, wonderfully trimmed to form a square box running around the entire perimeter of the Jardin Union.
These trees were originally planted in 1836, and by 1860, they had become the most popular feature of the square.
Below their shade, you can find a comfortable and stylish French iron bench for you to take a peaceful rest from your walks.
Or you could dine or have a drink in one of the fancy restaurants located around the plaza.
They are, of course, a little touristic and overpriced, while not necessarily the best restaurants in town.
At night, this is one of the most popular places where students gather to offer their callejoneadas, painters display their works, musicians play, and other artists come out there in search of temporary fame.
The area is very safe at any time of the day or night.
10. Visit Plaza San Fernando
Located in the heart of town, even though a little off from the busier roads, this is a lovely, peaceful corner where to hang out and relax, go for dinner, lunch, or a coffee.
It’s the typical square, made of cobblestones and a fountain in the middle, surrounded by lovely bars, restaurants, and coffee shops in a bohemian atmosphere.
Local artists occasionally play or sell their works. I particularly loved this spot.
Additionally, I suggest exploring the roads around the plaza, as they will lead you to other special corners of the city.
11. Admire the Teatro Juárez architecture
Inaugurated in 1903 by President Porfirio Diaz, it was considered one of the most prestigious theatres of all of Mexico, and it’s now the main focus of the International Festival Cervantino – Festival Internacional Cervantino – where all the activities converge.
Beyond the historical significance and quality of the performance, the Theatre definitely catches your eye with the stunning building that reminds you of ancient Roman architecture.
It was designed by the architect Jose’ Noriega inspired by the stories of ancient Rome and Greece. The glorious entrance resembles, in fact, the Pantheon of Rome while on the rooftop 8 bronze statues are inspired by Greek mythology.
Certainly a unique building in Guanajuato, massive and majestic.
Teatro Juarez is also a delightful point of reunion where tourists and students gather during the day to rest from their city walks on its stairs.
You can also appreciate street vendors and performers in the nearby square.
Here is also the meeting point of the callejoneadas. (more about it later)
12. Take a walk around the University of Guanajuato
Guanajuato is definitely a University town. The University of Guanajuato attracts students from all over the Republic and plays an important role in the cultural life of the city, full of events, like festivals, art, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
The main campus building of Guanajuato University is located right in the heart of the city, just a block from the Basilica of Guanajuato.
The beautiful white building is one of the most photographed constructions in Guanajuato, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
The origins of the university are related to the Jesuits, who were all over Mexico during the Spanish colonization, building beautiful churches and organizing education.
In fact, the building incorporates an important church, Templo de los Hospitales, which caused a little controversy when it was built.
Curious fact – The University of Guanajuato was founded in 1945 and one of the promoters of its foundation was Armando Olivares, a literate who played an important role in the cultural growth of Guanajuato.
The house where he lived has now become one of my favorite luxury hotels in Guanajuato (Casa del Rector), just a few steps from the University.
13. Participate in a Callejoneada
If you speak Spanish, you should not miss the Callejoneada Cervantina .
Guanajuato is a University city full of traditions, legends, and culture.
The callejoneada is one of those traditions, where very well-prepared students, dressed in historical, elegant clothes, will take you around the most historic corners of the city while telling stories, singing songs, and telling jokes.
They make you interact and participate in singing and playing if you want. It costs about 200 pesos, and it’s all worth it. Better if you speak Spanish; otherwise, you can just enjoy the music.
The guys are really great performers, and they put a lot of work and time into this show. It’s also a nice way to support their studies.
14. Walk around the Guanajuato Tunnels
Initially engineered to protect the city from frequent flooding, the Guanajuato tunnels have evolved into an essential part of its infrastructure, serving as underground roads.
This network of tunnels, some of which are old mine shafts repurposed in the 20th century, helps in managing the city’s traffic and preserving its historic surface streets.
You can explore these tunnels by car or on foot at certain sections, offering a unique way to navigate and understand the city’s layout.
These tunnels highlight Guanajuato’s innovative approach to urban challenges, blending historical elements with functional modern use, and are a testament to the city’s rich mining history and adaptive urban planning.
Walk around the Guanajuato historical center
15. Go to Guanajuato during the International Festival Cervantino
The first time I went to Guanajuato was 15 years ago I was traveling on a budget and I couldn’t find a place where to stay.
I couldn’t understand why. How is it possible? Then I found a bed in the aisle of a random house, and the owner explained what was going on.
(The Internet was not so accessible at that time, and smartphones were just starting to appear. Yes, I am that old!)
Those were hot dates due to the Festival Cervantino and I didn’t know. I was excited. How lucky I was to be there right for those dates without even knowing it.
The whole town was a big cultural party. Music, poetry, paintings, and food are all over the city. It was a joy, even for somebody like me who doesn’t love crowds.
Walking around those same streets I have walked after 15 years, just full of people playing, singing, and lecturing, it was just a huge cultural show with the beautiful colonial city as the open-air theatre.
The tradition started in 1953, and it is continuing so far, every year richer and better. More international artists, more venues and events, and more days.
It’s normally in October so if you are around I wouldn’t miss it. You can check out Festival Cervantino to see the updated news.
Top tours in Guanajuato
16. Cerro del Cubilete Cristo Rey Guanajuato
While walking around the beautiful streets of the historic city of Guanajuato, you will find a few stands selling tours. Those are legit, and I recommend booking one of the tours to the Cerro del Cubilete and Cristo Rey.
It’s only 30 minutes from there and I believe it costs between 200 and 300 pesos. While the guide will share interesting facts about Guanajuato and its surroundings, the views from the Christo Rey hill are spectacular.
17. Explore Cerro de La Bufa with a local
If the steep narrow streets in Guanajuato are not enough, this beautiful hike up to the Cerro de la Bufa will keep you entertained and fit.
Worry not it/s, not a long hike. But the meeting point is either at the front door of your hotel or at the offices of the tour operator.
You will start by knowing the famous dam “de la Olla”, where we will learn about the history of Guanajuato, always accompanied by a guide.
You will continue with the route to the “Lighthouse” to see one of the best panoramic views of the city and its old buildings.
You will begin to enter the hill to change the panorama and enjoy the endemic flora and fauna of the area.
The hike lasts in its entirety 4 hours with approximately 14 km in total.
► Book your tour to Cerro de la Bufa
18. Premium Guanajuato Historic Tour
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 104 Reviews
Tim will take you through 4 hours of a historical tour of the city while walking through the numerous back alleys of Guanajuato.
The tour also includes a visit to two museums of your choice along the way, including the boyhood home of Diego Rivera or the grand Teatro Juarez.
It ends at a rooftop bar or plaza cafe to see the city from a different angle.
All admissions and expenses are included.
Since the tour lasts 4 hours, make sure you fuel up with a good breakfast and you may want to wear some sunscreen, bring drinking water, and wear good walking shoes!
► Book your walking tour to Guanajuato city in advance on VIATOR
Day trips from Guanajuato
19. Pay a visit at the old Hacienda San Gabriel de Barrera
Located just a few km from Guanajuato city center, this spectacular estate is a unique place that you must visit both for its extended manicured gardens and for the interesting history of the luxury building.
The San Gabriel de Barrera hacienda was first built in the late 1600s by a descendant of one of the wealthy silver mine owners of Guanajuato.
The beautiful colonial home is now a museum where you can appreciate beautiful pieces of furniture from that era.
It’s located at about 30 minutes drive from the city. Check it on Google Map!
Or you can book this tour that includes the Hacienda among other interesting historical sites.
20. Take a day trip to San Miguel de Allende
Among the best places to visit in Guanajuato, the elegant colonial town of San Miguel de Allende stands out big time. The pretty city has been nominated as one of the most beautiful cities in the world several times.
Walking around the pretty historical center, you will be mesmerized by the spectacular colonial buildings, art shops, and galleries.
It’s one of my favorite cities in Mexico. If you don’t have time to include it in your Mexican itinerary you could still take a day trip from Guanajuato.
But I do recommend saving a few days to enjoy the city fully and check out some of its hot springs.
You can also join a guided tour and cover San Miguel de Allende and the historical town of Dolores Hidalgo.
21. Take a day trip to the Valenciana mines
Unfortunately, I didn’t go and visit this time. However, it must have been a lovely day tour of the town, and I believe it is a great thing to do if you have extra time in Guanajuato.
You can go on an organized tour or on your own. Buses leave from town, right behind the Alondhiga, close to the Miguel Hidalgo Market.
Or there is a little tour Kiosk just outside Mercado Hidalgo where you can buy a tour for about 300 pesos. It’s about 30 minutes drive.
As I was mentioning before, Guanajuato built its fortunes with the mining industry when the Spanish discovered that underneath the city and on the surrounding hills, there was a silver fortune.
(There are still underground tunnels below the city)
The Valenciana Mines were the biggest, deepest, and most extensive mining network in the region that extracted vast amounts of silver.
The buildings of the main mining area were restored, mimicking the old construction and structure of the 17th century, and visitors can descend the first 60 meters of the mineshaft.
The visit is not recommended if you are claustrophobic or if you suffer from heart/back conditions. Some of the tunnels to access the mine are in fact very tiny and obscure and in some parts, it is required to crawl down.
The visit takes just about 30 minutes to 1 hour and can be combined with a stop at the church “Templo La Valenciana” (Valenciana Temple).
You can also visit a small exhibition of tools and equipment that were being used at the time. Also, a mummified body of a miner is displayed there, which can be a disturbing sight for many (me included). Unfortunately, the descriptions are not in English.
In our history, where there was wealth, there was also exploitation. And that was the case also for the mining industry, as you can imagine.
La Valenciana Mine was one of the most important silver mines in Mexico and in the World as it provided 30% of the world’s total yearly silver production.
However, somebody had to pay for this fortune.
Underneath the surface, up to 3,300 indigenous people were enslaved and forced to work for rich landowners and ultimately for the Spanish Crown. The only consolation was La Valenciana Temple, which was built for them to pray in their newly converted religion.
Although after the independence of Mexico in 1821, miners started to get paid minimum wages, the mines became even more dangerous as they had to dig deeper and deeper to find more silver, and the security measures were not ideal.
There is a small figure of Mary carved into the stone on the way down. The miners used to pray before descending and thank God upon a safe return.
You can see the statue at the bottom of the first flight of stairs on the right side.
For sure, if you take the visit and descend the mine even a few meters, you will have the feeling of depth and obscurity.
I can’t even imagine being there for the entire day not knowing if you would make it out alive.
22. Private Historical Tour in the Sierra Santa Rosa by Bicycle
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ 11 Reviews
Duration: 3 hrs 30 min approx.
This unique bike ride will take you on a historical journey through the mountain of the Sierra of Santa Rosa while you learn about the past and present mining of the city of Guanajuato, as well as the importance of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro.
The guide will also explain the diversity of the Sierra de Santa Rosa, the people, the local flora, and fauna.
One of the Guest reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Historic ride to Sombrero Mt.
Susana and Antonio were fantastic ‘bike guides’, well-informed about local history (including prehistory), plants and fauna. And they were very patient with folks who haven’t been on a bicycle for a while. We rode through Puentecillas and up to Sombrero Pt. which gave us a beautiful view of the reservoir and surrounding landscape of Guanajuato. It was my favorite activity in the city. Will definitely do it again.
A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Aug 2022
► Book your bike tour in the Sierra Santa Rosa on VIATOR
23. Hiking through Guanajuato
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ 7 Reviews
If you love outdoor activities this short hike is for you. Your local guide will take you on a walk around the hills that surrounds the city of Guanajuato all the way up to the top of Cerro de la Bufa while enjoying the spectacular views.
► Book your Hiking through Guanajuato on VIATOR
24. Private tour of Guanajuato, Dolores Hidalgo, Atotonilco, and San Miguel de Allende route
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
This full-day tour will take you through the most important sanctuaries and historical sites of Guanajuato state from the iconic Dolores Hidalgo, to the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, named the Sistine Chapel of Mexico, to the Gothic church of San Miguel de Allende, called La Parroquia, and the nearby Jardin where you will have time to take a walk around and have lunch in one of the cozy restaurants.
This tour is perfect for those who have limited time and want to see as much as possible in a few hours.
► Book your day tour to Dolores Hidalgo, Atotonilco and San Miguel de Allende VIATOR
25. ATVs through the mountains and city of Guanajuato
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 47 Reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
For all the adventures here, this ATV tour will take you through the old mining towns hidden among the mountains that surround Guanajuato.
The itinerary includes, the underground streets, the monument to Pípila, the viewpoint of the Rayas mine, the panoramic road that surrounds the city over the hills, the viewpoint of the hill of Las Comadres, the Monte de San Nicolas, La Fragua, the Sierra de Santa Rosa de Lima, the dam of Mata, Valenciana, among many other places.
► Book your ATVs through the mountains and city of Guanajuato on VIATOR
26. Private Horseback Ride on El Camino Real in Guanajuato
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 12 Reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
This fun horseback ride will take you to experience a full immersion in the local culture while enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of Guanajuato.
You will learn a lot about the work of soil restoration, reforestation and forest care in general with the help of a local guide from the community.
I have taken other tours from this familiar company by Sunsanna and Antonio and I cannot recommend them enough.
► Book your horseback ride tour VIATOR
27. Presa La Purisima Park Kayak Tour
This is a unique tour on a kayak in La Purisima Dam, where you will paddle among the ruins of a submerged church.
Presa de la Purísima is a popular tourist destination in Guanajuato due to its natural beauty and recreational activities.
The dam has hiking and mountain biking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites. The total duration of the tour is 4 hours, while the time in the kayak is approximately 1.5 hours.
Check rates and availability for the kayaking tour here
Grutas de Tolantongo
28. Visit the spectacular Grutas de Tolantongo
I do believe that Las Grutas de Tolantongo is an experience that requires more time and it’s not to be rushed. It’s located about 5 5-hour drive from Guanajuato, meaning you will be 10 hours on the bus. However,5-hour since the tour is available I thought I would let you know in case you want to squeeze it into your schedule.
The departure time is 5 am (just saying) –
You can book your tour here, but I would recommend reading my dedicated post first before booking.
29. Private Tour to Mineral de Pozos from Guanajuato City
Take a private tour of the Pueblo Magico of Mineral de Pozos. The guide will take you through the mining history and the spectacular colonial architecture. The tour includes visits to the town’s abandoned mines, where you can witness the tools and equipment used to extract minerals from the earth.
In addition to exploring the town’s mining history, you will also enjoy the town’s natural beauty, with its stunning landscapes and rugged terrain.
The tour includes a visit to one of the town’s scenic viewpoints, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
🍽️ Best restaurants in Guanajuato
If you’re looking for great vegetarian or vegan restaurants, I can suggest a few that I’ve tried.
1. Escarola
Located in a lovely garden right in front of the house-museum of Diego Rivera, they not only offer a variety of healthy meals but also organize and promote cultural and art events. Escarola is a great place to check out.
2. Habibti Falafel
This Middle Eastern cuisine offers delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. It used to be a tiny restaurant with a long waiting line.
But now they have changed location and they can welcome more people so you can have a relaxed healthy email in a cozy environment.
Estacion Gelato
Stop by Estacion Gelado for delicious, refreshing ice cream after walking around the steep callejones of Guanajuato, you will appreciate it. But they also have a delicious tiramisù.
3. Costal Cultura Cafetera
One of the most interesting representations of contemporary Mexican cuisine, with an incredible presentation, great service, and ambiance.
4. Santo Cafe
Santo Cafe’ is a must, very popular for their burgers and fries, but most of all for their seating on the iconic bridge over the Callejon del Campanero. I have never made it but you should try it. There are only two or three tables outside, though.
Enjoy the views from some of the best rooftop terraces in Guanajuato
6. Nigromante Rooftop
Right in the heart of Guanajuato, you can enjoy an incredible sunset from Nigromante Rooftop while sipping delicious cocktails end eating a tasty meal.
7. La Notaria Terraza y Bar
A stylish rooftop bar and restaurant to watch the spectacular views and city lights, have a drink and eat delicious tacos or a hamburger (their specialty). During winter, it can get cold, but they offer blankets, and they have heaters. A cute place to spend the evening.
8. Casa Del Rector Sky Bar
The exclusive rooftop terrace of this luxury hotel is a must if you are in Guanajuato. Sip your expensive drink, have a snack, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere with stunning views.
On a different note, I also enjoyed a delicious breakfast in the hotel’s internal courtyard.
Cafes in Guanajuato where to work remotely
9. Vivo Cafe
Cute little cafe with great interior design and beautiful art work on the walls. They are open all day from 8 am to 10 pm. It’s a great place to get work done or just have a coffee and relax after a day exploring.
10. Cafe Tal
This is the place where university students tend to go to gather or get some work done. It can be busy at times. I found it has a very bohemien atmosphere somehow.
Great WIFI and delicious bakery and healthy dishes.
🏨 Where to stay in Guanajuato
Guanajuato is filled with charming boutique hotels to suit every budget and style. I would suggest you stay within the historical center so that you can make the best of your visit.
Here are my top favorite hotels. For a longer list, check out my post on where to stay in Guanajuato.
1. La Casa del Rector – Luxury Hotel
Casa del Rector is a luxury hotel in Guanajuato that blends modern elegance with historical charm. Offering exquisite rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, and top-notch amenities, it provides an unparalleled stay for those seeking comfort and sophistication in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city. If you are not staying there it’s worth trying their delicious breakfast served in the patio.
2. Hotel El Meson de Los Poetas – Mid-range Hotel
Hotel Mesón de los Poetas, nestled in the heart of Guanajuato, Mexico, offers guests a charming retreat amidst the city’s vibrant history and culture. With its cozy, poet-inspired rooms, close proximity to major attractions, and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect base for exploring the enchanting streets of Guanajuato.
3. Casa de Pita – Budget hotel
Casa de Pita is the hotel where I have stayed on my latest visit to Guanajuato. The hotel looks like a home with many rooms. It’s very nicely decorated with local pieces of art and it has a rooftop terrace with spectacular views over the city.
The hotel is located in the heart of Guanajuato’s historical center at a walking distance to all the major attractions, plazas, and restaurants.
Map of Guanajuato
How to get to Guanajuato
As one of the most popular cities among local and international tourists, Guanajuato is very well connected to the most important cities and bus routes. Depending on where you are coming from, here are the most convenient ways to get to Guanajuato
Getting to Guanajuato by plane
If you are not in the area the most convenient option to get to Guanajuato is to fly to Leon airport, most commonly known as El Bajìo International Airport. (Airport Code BJX) It’s located 40 minutes drive from the city, and you can find both shared and private transportation to your hotel in Guanajuato.
The area is not one of the safest in Mexico, and I would recommend booking a reputable service in advance to get to your hotel from the Leon airport.
Getting to Guanajuato by bus
Mexico City to Guanajuato by bus (5 hrs)
Wherever you are in Mexico City you will need to head to Mexico Norte Bus Terminal. I suggest you should UBER in Mexico City as it’s a safer and faster way to get where you want.
From Mexico Norte, you can choose from different bus companies to get to Guanajuato. My favorite is ETN, the most expensive but the most comfortable. You will feel like you are on an airplane in first class.
Otherwise, you can also find Primera Plus which offers good service as well. Futura is the cheapest bus company among the three.
Whatever you choose, make sure you travel during the day.
While Guanajuato city is a safe place, the bus will go through less safe cities, such as Celaya. Therefor,e traveling during the day makes it safer.
Queretaro to Guanajuato by bus (2hrs 30 m)
If you are traveling from Queretaro, Primera Plus has two trips to Guanajuato every day and it takes 2 hours and 30 minutes
ETN has one bus per day at 7 pm.
San Miguel De Allende to Guanajuato 1h 30 m
ETN bus has different schedules from San Miguel de Allende to Guanajuato throughout the day.
You can now get from Mexico City to San Miguel De Allende directly, in case you were wondering. It will stop in Queretaro.
Getting from Mexico City to Guanajuato by car
You could also rent a car in Mexico City and drive to Guanajuato. However, I would just be careful about the route you choose, and I would avoid driving at night.
Avoid Chelaya and Irapuato for a start. Also, check out apps such as IOverland, where other travelers on the road will share their experiences. It’s very useful.
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Guanajuato Mexico: A Brief History
The capital city of the tiny homonymous state, Guanajuato, was founded by the Spanish in 1548 as Real de Minas de Guanajuato.
It became the world’s leading silver extraction center in the 18th century. Its captivating colonial architecture in the colorful historical center makes it one of the most interesting cities to visit in Mexico.
The city was, in fact, made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988, and it is one of the most visited cities in Mexico, both by local and international tourists.
The majestic churches, beautiful examples of Baroque architecture, and neoclassical buildings are a witness to the glorious past of the mining industry.
Glorious for the mines and landowners, less glorious for the enslaved miners who were forced to work in very poor and dangerous conditions.
This is part of Mexican history; we should not forget it while enjoying our strolls on narrow roads through the beautiful colonial buildings.
Guanajuato has also been home to important events in the history and culture of Mexico, including being the hometown of the famous artist Diego Rivera, one of the best internationally recognized Mexican muralists.
But let’s check out all the things you can do in Guanajuato.
Things to do in Guanajuato: Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Guanajuato?
Although you can visit the most interesting spots in Guanajuato in two days, I would recommend spending more time in the city so that you can experience more of all the incredible experiences and historical sites it has to offer.
What does Guanajuato mean in Spanish?
The name Guanajuato comes from its original name Kuanasïuatuthe, in Purepecha language, which means “Hilly place of many frogs”. It was founded in the XVI century by the Spaniards which made the city one of the most important mine settlements of New Spain.
Is Guanajuato safe?
Although Guanajuato state is not one of the safest states in Mexico due to the strong presence of drug cartels, the city of Guanajuato itself and its surroundings are pretty safe, and so are San Miguel de Allende and the other Pueblos Mágicos of Dolores Hidalgo and Mineral de Pozos.
Other than that, just please be as aware of your surroundings as you would be anywhere.
Don’t leave your belongings unattended, don’t get wasted, and don’t walk around alone in the middle of the night in isolated streets.
Also, if you are renting a car, avoid driving at night. Avoid driving through cities such as Celaya and Irapuato.
What to pack for Guanajuato
I would recommend dressing in layers, and even when it appears to be hot, bring a jacket with you just in case.
Guanajuato has a mild climate all year round. In fac,t the coldest month is January with an average high temperature of 68 F and an average low temperature of 39 F.
The hottest month is May with he highest average temperature of 81F, so all the other months range in between.
Things to do in Guanajuato, Mexico: Final thoughts
As you can see, there is so much to do and see in Guanajuato in the city and its surroundings.
I hope this post helped you figure out what to do and what to leave for the next time. Or maybe you decided to stay longer and do as much as possible.
No matter how many days you choose to stay, you are going to love this city.
