Mexico › Tulum › Cancun to Tulum
Updated: March 1, 2022
How to get from the Cancun International Airport to Tulum?
The Cancun Airport Transportation Company is the best way to get to Tulum from the Cancun airport. Drivers will meet you at the arrivals area of the airport with a sign. They’ll offer you free water and drinks for the 90-minute drive to Tulum (I’ve even been given beer – though this will depend on the driver). It’s a well-run service and the only way to go. They’ll drop you at any hotel on the Tulum beach or in the town center.
Cancun To Tulum Map
Cancun Airport to Tulum
Buying bus tickets to Tulum in Cancun airport. Buses depart a short walk from the arrivals area.
Rental Car Companies at Cancun Airport – located in arrivals as you leave immigration.
Taxis, shuttle, and transfer pick up area at the Cancun airport. Just keep walking as you leave immigration and you’ll go straight outside to the pickup area for hotel transfers and taxis.
Meeting point at Cancun airport for hotel pick up. (Most hotels will do airport pick up for a fee but it will be more expensive than booking through Cancun Airport Transportation.)
If you book a private transfer with the Cancun Airport Transportation company (link below) they’ll have signs and meet you just out the main Arrivals door by the Grab And Go snack shop. You can’t miss it.
Private transfer van from Cancun to Tulum. Seat belts will always work and there’s plenty of room for a baby seat.
The vans are large with lots of seating and room for luggage.
Uber operates out of Cancun, and it is not illegal, despite all the warnings you’ll see painted on taxi cab windows. Aside from busing, Uber is by far the cheapest way to get around; unlike Cancun taxis, rates are based on mileage and time. Uber is creating serious competition in the area, and the taxi union is not having it. There have been multiple incidents of taxi drivers violently attacking Uber drivers, so Uber drivers are understandably very cautious. To hire an Uber in Cancun, there are a few rules to follow to keep the process safe for the driver. First, move to an area where there are no taxis in sight, then call your ride on the app; if you are surrounded by taxis when the driver arrives, they will cancel the ride. Once your car is on its way, stop looking at your phone; only check it occasionally in case the driver calls or texts you. When the car arrives, greet your driver by name. Treat them like an old friend; at least one person from your group needs to sit in the front passenger seat. The driver may request a high five or a hug; oblige them. It needs to look like your buddy is giving you a lift. At the end of the ride, if you choose to tip, be discreet and don’t flash your cash.
If you prefer to take a taxi, you will find them waiting in front of every resort, attraction, and shopping center along the Hotel Zone. Taxis in Cancun do not use meters; the charged rate is entirely up to the driver, and always too high. The Cancun Hotel Zone is the most expensive place to catch a taxi to or from in all of Mexico. Always settle on a price before you get in the taxi, and do not hesitate to haggle. Tipping is not customary for taxis unless the driver helps you with your luggage. Pay in pesos whenever possible. Though drivers accept US dollars, rates are much lower if you pay in pesos, as drivers do not use a currency converter and will just make up a number that is always higher than the exchange rate. One way to save a little cash for a downtown trip is to take the bus from the hotel into downtown, then hail a taxi to your final destination. (You can do the same thing on the way back.) Taxi rates in Downtown are typically much lower than in the Hotel Zone, and you can easily save $10-$15 each way ($20-$30 round trip) by taking the bus partway.
Finally, if you opt to rent a car to explore on your own, you’ll find that driving is very easy. Rules of the road are similar to the U.S. Highways are well-maintained, and streets are well-mapped and easy to follow via GPS. Two things that are different are topes and left turns. Topes (pronounced TOH-pays) are speed bumps, but there are no regulations on their height, steepness, or visibility; some are nearly impossible to see until it’s too late. Drive slowly in downtown, and keep an eye out for these. Standard left turns are usually OK in downtown but not on highways. To make a left, drivers will often need to use a retorno, which is a U-turn overpass. To use a retorno, drive past the road you want to make a left onto, get into the far right lane to take the retorno exit, make the left onto the overpass, and finally merge with traffic going the opposite direction. You can then make a right at the desired street or destination.
Guanajuato is the capital of its own state in a central region of Mexico known as the Bajío, around 360km northwest of Mexico City. Its central location makes Guanajuato a great jumping-off point for trips to the historic silver towns of Mexico, from San Miguel de Allende to Querétaro. The population of Guanajuato is around 172,000.
What is Guanajuato famous for?
Guanajuato is famous for gold and especially silver: in the colonial period the mines of Guanajuato made it one of the wealthiest cities in the world. It’s also famous in Mexico for its role in the War of Independence, when national hero Miguel Hidalgo stormed the Spanish-held Alhóndiga de Granaditas with the help of the legendary “El Pípila”, a local miner. For travelers, Guanajuato is most famous for its sensational location, crammed into a narrow ravine, and its gorgeous colonial architecture. Guanajuato is also known for its enticing restaurants and bars, historic churches, theaters, and mine museums, but one of the best things to do in Guanajuato is to just wander the streets and squares, enjoying the scene. Its also a popular destination for travelers seeking to study Spanish, with a handful of excellent language schools.
What is the best month to go to Guanajuato?
Guanajuato boasts a year-round temperate climate, with the driest and sunniest months Nov–April. Rain is heaviest July to August, though temperatures rarely rise above 30°C (84°F) in summer. The best time to visit Guanajuato is February through early through March when the weather is warm but not overly hot, the days generally dry, and crowds are at a minimum.
Downtown is filled with outdoor cafes and vibrant pedestrian only streets.
Is Guanajuato safe?
In a word, yes, Guanajuato is safe. The drug-related violence that has blighted some parts of Mexico has largely skipped Guanajuato city itself, and it remains a relatively safe, family-friendly university town. Travelers to Guanajuato, including solo female travelers, will feel safe as long as normal precautions are taken. US State Department travel advisories apply to the southern parts of Guanajuato State only, where cartels do operate.
Where to stay in Guanajuato?
Guanajuato is best explored on foot so staying in the historic center of the city makes the most sense – and is far more atmospheric than lodging in the outskirts. Our favorites include the colonial-style Edelmira Hotel Boutique, El Mesón de los Poetas, and Hotel San Diego, overlooking central Jardín de la Unión. For stellar views consider Casa Zuniga, high above the city next to the funicular.
Planning a Guanajuato Itinerary
The famous Juarez Theater, a landmark building in downtown.
One Day in Guanajuato
Hike or take the funicular up to the Pípila Monument, then stroll through the old city, from the Jardín de la Unión to Mercado Hidalgo. Make time for the Teatro Juárez and Museo Regional de Guanajuato.
• Airport: Guanajuato’s airport – aka Bajío International Airport – lies 30km west of Guanajuato city. Typically there are direct flights to/from several North American cities including Chicago (5 hours), Dallas (2 hours), Houston (two hours), and Los Angeles (three hours), as well as numerous flights to Mexico City (1hr).
• Taxis: From the airport, taxis operate a fixed-rate fare system, with rides direct to central Guanajuato (45min) around 485 pesos.
• Buses: Comfortable, first-class buses link Guanajuato with Guadalajara (4 hours), Mexico City (5 hours), Querétaro (2hr 30min), and San Luis Potosí (3 hours) throughout the day. The main bus station (“Central de Autobuses”) is 6km west of the center – buses can be a hassle with luggage and the easiest option is to take a taxi. Set the price before getting in (around 60 pesos to the center).
• TIP: Taking a callejóneada is one of the most fun things to do in Guanajuato. Groups of students and musicians – dressed like medieval minstrels, playing guitars – lead groups through the historic alleys of the city, singing and joking. Tours last around 1 hour 30 minutes, and include a ceramic “porrón” (traditional drinking vessel) filled with orange or apple juice (booze is discouraged nowadays). Spanish-speakers will get the most out of the jokes and the history, but the music works in any language.
Beneath the city is a unique subterranean system of tunnels for pedestrians and vehicles, originally created to service the gold and silver mines.
The 20 Best Things to do in Guanajuato
1. Take the Funicular up to the Pípila Monument
The best way to start a visit to Guanajuato is by soaking up the mesmerizing views from the Monumento al Pípila, high on the hillside above the old town’s colorful blend of colonial houses and churches. The monument commemorates local miner and independence hero Juán José Martínez, aka “El Pípila”. Getting up here is half the fun – the steep climb up takes about 20 minutes, or there’s the funicular, a simple two-car cliff railway (one-up, one-down) that glides up the slope in a few minutes.
2. Drinks at Jardín de la Unión
Jardín de la Unión, Guanajuato’s historic plaza, is a charming space shaded with trees. Lined by cafés and bars such as popular Luna, it’s the perfect spot for an early evening drink – local bands and musicians often play outdoors here at dusk.
It’s not for everyone, but the Museo de las Momias – “Museum of the Mummies” – is Guanajuato’s kookiest sight. The museum holds a macabre collection of mummified human corpses, displayed in glass cases. The withered remains are remarkably well preserved, despite many of them being over 100 years old, and many retain original clothing. The mummies come from a local cemetery, where space constraints mean that bodies are removed from crypts after five years if annual payments are not made (they are usually cremated or transferred to a common grave thereafter).
Mexico’s most celebrated muralist was born in this house in Guanajuato in 1886, now preserved as a fascinating museum. Diego Rivera only lived here until the age of six, but the museum makes the most of the connection, with the lower floor furnished in a period 19th-century style, and the upper floors displaying Rivera’s works, mostly sketches and early paintings.
Hidalgo Market, a vibrant spot for handicrafts and food.
5. Eating at Mercado Hidalgo
Guanajuato’s historic indoor market was built in 1910 and is still packed with all sorts of stalls, from fresh fruit to local crafts and cheap garments. Along with the adjacent Mercado de Gavira, it’s also a tasty, cheap place to eat, with everything from tacos and tortas to locally celebrated “enchiladas mineras” and birria (goat or mutton stew) on offer.
Guanajuato’s grandest building is Teatro Juárez, a Neoclassical theater completed in 1903, fronted by slim Doric columns and topped with bronze statues of the Greek muses. It still hosts performances, but it’s also possible to take a tour of its lavish interior, the main auditorium decked out in a rich Neo-Mudejar (Moorish) style (commentary is likely to be in Spanish).
For many Mexicans, this museum is the most significant in all Guanajuato thanks to its role in the Mexican War of Independence. It was here in 1810 that Miguel Hidalgo – aided by local hero “El Pípila” – vanquished the pro-Spanish garrison. Back then the building was used a grain warehouse and part-time prison. After a short siege, all the defenders (some 300 men) were slaughtered. Today the museum chronicles the history of Guanajuato from pre-Columbian times to the 1910 Revolution, while the stairwells are decorated in murals created by local artist José Chávez Morado in the 1950s and 1960s, depicting scenes from Mexican history.
Chef Jesús Cárdenas helms one of the region’s best restaurants, with a menu of high-quality dishes inspired by his childhood in Guanajuato. Casa Mercedes is perfect for a last night splurge in the city, though it’s essential to make reservations.
9. La Valenciana
For an easy break from the city, take a taxi or bus over the hills north of Guanajuato to the colonial village of La Valenciana. The local church is a gorgeous example of 18th-century Mexican Churrigueresque style – every inch is covered in gilded sculpture, painting, or ornate plasterwork. But the main attraction here is the chance to venture into Guanajuato’s historic silver and gold mines. The hills were once honeycombed with tunnels and there are several privately run ventures offering a peek underground. The best are the Bocamina San Cayetano, which offers thirty-minute tours of the tunnels, and Bocamina San Ramón, featuring a small museum and tours into another mineshaft, some 50 meters into the hill.
10. Callejón del Beso
Guanajuato’s most romantic sight is the Callejón del Beso (“Alley of the Kiss”), so-named because it’s supposedly narrow enough (just 69cm/27 inches at one point) for residents to lean out of their windows and kiss each other. The alley has a tragic legend attached to it: Doña Ana and Don Carlos were in love but forbidden to see other by zealous parents. Doña Ana’s family lived in the Callejón del Beso, and the story goes that Don Carlos bought the house opposite so the two could secretly hold hands at night. However, one evening Ana’s father caught them and was so angry he murdered his daughter on the spot – Carlos was left grasping her dead hand. Couples who kiss while standing on the third step of the alley are supposedly guaranteed seven years of happiness together.
A couple of kilometers west of the center lies one of Guanajuato’s grandest colonial mansions, built for the wealthy Barrera family in the late 17th century. The family chapel and house interiors have been restored in period style, but the blossom-filled gardens, designed in a number of international styles, are just as enticing. It’s best to take a taxi here.
12. Museo Palacio de los Poderes
It’s well worth touring the old Guanajuato state legislature building – the Palacio Legislativo – now converted into the “Museum of the Powers”. Completed in 1908 in a grand Neoclassical style, all its official chambers and rooms have been beautifully restored with original wooden furniture, mosaics, paintings, and heaps of marble. The lower floors act as space for temporary art exhibitions and the Guanajuato Library.
Next door to the Museo Palacio de los Poderes, the similarly ornate Casa del Conde Rul y Valenciana was once a lavish mansion, built for wealthy mine owner Don Diego Rul in 1802. Today it’s a museum hosting travelling exhibitions of mainly Mexican and Latin American art, though the carefully restored interiors are well worth a peek in their own right.
14. Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato
The city’s premier church lies on central Plaza de la Paz, a large red and tangerine-colored edifice dedicated to the patroness of the city (the Virgin Mary, here in her incarnation as Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato). Completed in 1796, the most sacred object inside is the central wooden statue of the Virgin, a 16th-century gift to the city from the Spanish monarchs.
This quirky little museum is dedicated to Don Quixote, the iconic Spanish literary character created by Miguel de Cervantes in the 17th century. The collection includes an array of paintings (including an original a Dalí print), murals, tapestries, sculptures, ceramics, glassware, chess pieces, playing cards, and tobacco pipes adorned with images of the hapless knight errant.
The gorgeous interior of the Church of Belen, outside of the popular Hidalgo Market.
16. Templo de San Diego
This ornately decorated 18th-century church faces the Jardín de la Unión, notable for its pink sandstone Churrigueresque-style façade and collection of oil paintings inside. It’s dedicated to San Diego de Alcántara, aka Didacus of Alcalá, a 15th-century Spanish missionary to the Canary Islands.
This absorbing museum of local art and historical artifacts stands next to the main Guanajuato university building. It was once another posh mansion, this one built for the Marqués de San Juan de Rayas in the 18th century, but enhanced with murals by José Chávez Morado in the 20th century.
The former home of Mexican muralist José Chávez Morado and his German painter wife Olga Costa is now a beautifully maintained museum filled with art objects collected by the couple (there are only a few items by the artists themselves). Everything from majolica ceramics, and seventeenth-century French furniture, to Persian rugs and tapestries. Take a taxi or walk from the Jardín de la Unión (30 min).
19. Templo de La Compañía
Guanajuato is crammed with elegant colonial churches, but this is one of the best, built by the Jesuits and consecrated in 1765 (the Jesuits were kicked out of Mexico just two years later). Today the façade is a highly ornate example of the Churrigueresque style, while the clear glass in the dome was added in 1884.
20. Cristo Rey
The Cristo Rey – a 20m-tall bronze statue of Jesus, a bit like the famous one in Rio – tops the 2661m-high Cerro de Cubilete, 20km west of the city. It dominates the surrounding hills and plains, and provides sensational, albeit hazy views. Tours to the statue are offered all over Guanajuato, but there are also public buses from the central bus station for independent trips.
The iconic Guadalajara Cathedral with its unique 2 spires sits in the main plaza in downtown.
Where is Guadalajara?
Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco, in western Mexico. It is located in the central part of the state, in the Atemajac Valley, at an altitude of 5150 ft. (1570 meters). Eight municipalities make up its metropolitan area, which is the second-largest in the country, right after Mexico City.
How big is Guadalajara?
The population of Guadalajara is around 4,500,000 inhabitants, including its metropolitan area, distributed in an area of 1698 square miles (2734 square kilometers). Without counting the other seven municipalities, Guadalajara measures 94 square miles (151 square kilometers) and its population exceeds 1,500,000 inhabitants.
What is the history of Guadalajara?
In 1530, the Spanish Conquistador Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán decided to conquer the region of Guadalajara. Once he achieved this, he named it Guadalajara in honor of the Spanish city where he was born. The colonization process was long and complex due to the indigenous resistance and it wasn’t until 1542 that the new settlement finally took hold of the place it now occupies in the Atemajac Valley. In 1560, it became the capital of Nueva Galicia, now called Jalisco.
Mariachi music originated in the region around Guadalajara, and is one of 7 Mexican cultural traditions recognized by UNESCO.
How do I get to Guadalajara?
Guadalajara has an international airport located 10 miles (16 kilometers) away from the city center. It’s the third airport with the most air traffic in the country (after Mexico City and Cancun). There are daily flights from various parts of Mexico, the United States, and Central America. Transfer time from the airport to the city center by taxi is around 35 minutes.
When is the best time to go to Guadalajara?
Guadalajara has a privileged climate. The average maximum temperature in the year is 80°F (27°C) and the minimum is 51°F (11°C). The rainy season begins in late June and ends in early October. Even though the city’s tabachines and jacaranda trees aren’t in full bloom in the winter, this is a good time to explore the city on foot without worrying about rain or excessive heat.
What neighborhoods should I visit in Guadalajara?
Tlaquepaque is a popular neighborhood for both locals and tourists, filled with restaurants and art galleries, and a pedestrian only central area.
Guadalajara exemplifies tradition and modern-day life at the same time. There are neighborhoods where visitors can feel the timeless flavor of tequila and mariachi music, and others where they can breathe avant-garde through art, design, and gastronomy. ‘Musts’ include visiting the buildings in the historic center, the markets in Mexicaltzingo and Santa Tere, the galleries and bars in the Americana neighborhood, as well as strolling through Tonala and Tlaquepaque, two traditional neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city.
Where should I stay in Guadalajara?
The historic center of Guadalajara combines iconic buildings, good nightlife, and access routes to the rest of the city. Travelers looking for luxury and exclusivity will find that Puerta de Hierro, home to the business district, is the right choice. Host to renowned events like the International Book Fair, Expo Guadalajara —the city’s main convention center— is a magnet for visitors. There are plenty of accommodation options for all budgets in its surrounding area, known as Zona Expo. The Americana neighborhood has an appealing hipster vibe where younger, or young at heart, visitors might feel right at home staying at Airbnbs.
How do I get around in Guadalajara?
Guadalajara has several main roads that cross the city. Transportation options include light rail, minibus, buses, bicycle rental, and taxis. It’s best to request taxis through hotel concierges or restaurant reception staff. Transport companies also operate in the city through apps such as Uber and Cabify.
What are the best things to do in Guadalajara?
Visiting the agave fields and distilleries in Tequila on the outskirts of Guadalajara is a popular day trip.
Guadalajara has many interesting buildings worth visiting but some unmissable ones are Hospicio Cabañas, Degollado Theater, and the Expiatory Temple. The town’s culinary offer is impressive and Chapultepec Avenue is a good example of it. With bars lining both sides of the street, visitors can breathe in its enchanting atmosphere, even late at night. And to fully experience this thoroughly Mexican city, visitors would do well to sit in a bar in Tlaquepaque and listen to live mariachi music while sipping a jarrito with tequila.
How many days should I spend in Guadalajara?
Guadalajara is a great city in every sense, and its essence can’t be absorbed in less than four days. One or two days should be allocated to go sightseeing around the historic center, another one to explore iconic places such as Tlaquepaque, and one more to discover its artistic side by popping into galleries, designer shops, and restaurants in the Americana neighborhood. Travelers wishing to visit tourist attractions in the surrounding areas, such as Tequila or Chapala, will need to allocate at least a week to the trip.
What currency is used in Guadalajara?
In Guadalajara, as in the rest of the country, the currency is the Mexican peso. In 2020 the average exchange rate has been about 20 pesos per US dollar. There are foreign currency exchange agencies in the airport but the best rate is usually offered by the bank, so it’s advisable to pay with a credit card whenever possible and withdraw cash from an ATM. Carrying small bills is useful because many smaller establishments don’t accept cards. The same is true for markets, taxis, and street vendors.
Should I tip in Guadalajara?
In Guadalajara, as all over Mexico, waiters’ salaries are generally low, so tips are a fundamental part of the hospitality industry. The usual range is between 10 and 15%, but if service has been extraordinary, that percentage can be increased. In hotels, it’s also common to leave some bills to the housekeeping staff at the end of the stay. Unlike in the United States, it is not customary to tip taxi drivers in Mexico.
San Juan de Dios market in downtown is the largest indoor market in Latin America, covering 40,000 sq meters, filled with endless clothing stalls and a huge interior food court.
Is Guadalajara expensive?
Being the second-largest city in the country, Guadalajara’s prices are above those of the rest of Mexico, but also due to its size, it adapts to all budgets. As in all large cities, prices fluctuate from one area of the city to another, so it will not cost the same to buy handicrafts in Zapopan as in less touristy Juanacatlán. For travelers arriving from the United States, Europe, or Australia, it will not feel like an expensive city.
Is Guadalajara safe?
Like any great metropolis, Guadalajara is a city where crime is present. It’s best to carry money in a front pocket or crossbody bag, and going into sketchy neighborhoods should be completely avoided. To travel long journeys, especially at night, it’s best to call a taxi or Uber instead of walking back to the hotel or Airbnb.
What should I eat in Guadalajara?
Guadalajara has a culinary offer that will make the most demanding palates fall in love. Foodies will revel in the signature cuisine at Alcalde and D’Franck, the interesting fusions at Anita Li and Bruna, and local food staples such as tortas ahogadas (drowned sandwiches) and carnes en su jugo (meats in their juice). Karne Garibaldi, a restaurant that serves this specialty, holds the Guinness Record for the fastest service in the world.
El Tajín is the most spectacular archeological site on Mexico’s Gulf Coast, and one of our favorites. It’s best known for its unique “niche” pyramids and flying voladores.
Amazing stone work on the pyramids of El Tajín.
Visiting El Tajín – Tips & Info
Allow around 3 hours to visit the ruins
The ruins are open daily 9am to 5pm and cost 80 pesos to visit
Hire an official guide (once inside the entrance), or obtain a comprehensive written guide before touring the site, as there are very few signs in English.
Guides charge around 400 to 500 pesos depending on the length of the tour – non-Spanish speakers should make sure their English is good before paying.
The pyramids and ruined structures are all off-limits – it’s only possible to walk around them, not on or up them
Local vendors sell snacks, drinks and handicrafts outside and inside the site – bring peso cash for snacks and drinks, but skip local specialties such as vanilla and honey and buy far better quality items in the main market back in Papantla.
Visit the museum at the El Tajín entrance first to see carvings, murals and bits of pottery and statues salvaged from the ruins.
Visits to the site itself begin at the Plaza del Arroyo, once the city’s market square, surrounded by four pyramids (Buildings 16, 18, 19 and 20), which were once topped by temples. Building 16 features El Tajín’s distinctive style, its tiers filled with regularly spaced niches, like a giant stepped cabinet. Just to the north, the Central Zone features the wide avenue of the South Ball Court (“Juego de Pelota Sur”), smothered with bas-relief sculptures, and the famous Pyramid of the Niches (“Pirámide de los Nichos”), its six primary receding tiers punctuated with 365 mysterious niches. Nearby is the Building of the Paintings (“Edificio de las Pinturas”), a palapa roof sheltering its relief carvings and painted murals.
Beyond here lies the raised Tajín Chico area, once the home of the city’s elite, though only parts of the once grand structures survive. Buildings B and C are the most impressive and probably served as palaces. The Building of the Columns (“Edificio de las Columnas”) stands on a rise above Tajín Chico, with more bas-reliefs on its pillars.
From Tajín Chico you can walk down to the Great Xicalcoluihqui complex, still mostly smothered in jungle but with its immense walls giving a sense of its vast size.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Tajín
The site is surrounded by a lush green landscape.
Where is El Tajín?
El Tajín is a pre-Hispanic archeological site in the central Mexican state of Veracruz, 50km inland from the Gulf of Mexico. El Tajín lies around 10 km west from the city of Papantla, 255 km northwest from the city of Veracruz, and around 285 km northeast of Mexico City (by road).
How big is El Tajín?
The core site of El Tajín covers around 10 square kilometers (4 square miles), though smaller houses (as yet unexcavated) may have existed far beyond these boundaries. The area open to tourists today is around 146 acres. At its peak some 20,000 people would have lived here, but the site is uninhabited today.
What is the history of El Tajín?
El Tajín was founded in the 1st century AD by a civilization known as “Classic Veracruz”, though little is known about the people who built it; most theories point to the Huastecs or the Totonacs. The city flourished between 600 and 1200 AD, ruling much of the current state of Veracruz. El Tajín is thought to have been destroyed in the 13th century by fire, likely the result of an attack by the Chichimecs. Papantla was established by the Totonacs soon after, and El Tajín was gradually abandoned to the jungle. The Spanish “rediscovered” the ruins in 1785, but large-scale excavation and jungle clearance only began in the 1930s.
How do I get to El Tajín?
Most tourists visit El Tajín from the laid back city of Papantla, 10 km west – it’s a smaller but far more pleasant place to stay than industrial Poza Rica, which is 18 km northwest of El Tajín. Minibuses run between Papantla and the ruins (around 15 pesos) from Septiembre 16, behind Hotel Tajín. Taxis are also plentiful in Papantla and will wait at the ruins for an extra fee.
Unique pyramid details.
There is a small airport at Poza Rica, 30 km north of El Tajín, which in the past has been served by Aeromar with one daily flight to and from Mexico City – with the likely bankruptcy of Aeromar there are no plans for flights in the near future. Taxis from the airport will charge at least 350 pesos just to get into Poza Rica, and a lot more to El Tajín. Otherwise the nearest airports are at Veracruz and Mexico City – take a bus from either of these to Papantla. First-class buses from Mexico City take around 5 hours; from Veracruz it’s around 4 hours.
Taking an organized tour (with transport by bus included) is possible from Veracruz, but given the driving time, not recommended. It’s far better to travel independently and stay over night in Papantla.
What about Uber?
Uber is unavailable in the El Tajín and Papantla area – negotiate with regular taxi drivers instead.
Can I drive to El Tajín?
Driving from the US is possible – it’s a straightforward 460-mile (740 km) journey from Brownsville, Texas. However, care should be taken choosing a route, as the Mexican border states suffer from high levels of drug violence – driving at night should definitely be avoided. Foreign vehicles also need a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit”, arranged at the border. It’s also possible to rent a car in Veracruz, and drive up from there (around 4 hours non-stop). Veracruz state is generally safe for tourists, but renting a car is not recommended for first-time Mexico drivers.
Do I need a car in El Tajín?
No. The site itself is pedestrian only and small enough to explore on foot.
The Pyramid De Los Nidos, with 365 windows, serves as a sun calendar with a temple on the top.
When is the best time to go to El Tajín?
December to April, when the weather is warm and relatively dry. El Tajín has a tropical climate – it’s very hot March to May, and humid and rainy June to October. The site can be busy during Mexican holidays or over the winter months – especially on Sundays – but this is still one of the least visited Mesoamerican sites in the country.
Where should I stay in El Tajín?
There is no accommodation in or around El Tajín itself, so staying in Papantla makes the most sense, in order to get an early start and have the site to yourself. There’s not a lot of choice however, with the best option Hotel Tajín (hoteltajin.mx/en), with city views, a small pool and decent restaurant. The Provincia Express (at Juan Enríquez 103-A) is a cheaper and convenient, if a little basic, alternative, right on the main plaza with a/c and wi-fi.
What are the best things to do in El Tajín?
There’s one main reason to come here – the ancient Maya ruins of El Tajín (officially “Zona Arqueológica El Tajín”), some of the most pristine in Mexico, though you can also check out the famous “voladores” just outside the main entrance. These “flying men” climb to a small platform atop a 30m-high pole before four of them spiral back down to earth on ropes while the fifth plays a flute and drum. It’s an ancient Mesoamerican ritual that’s well worth watching – the shows are free but expect to give a 20 peso tip.
What are the facilities like?
The main entrance to the site features an avenue of souvenir and handicraft shops, as well as plenty of places to eat and drink (vendors also roam the main site, but stock up on water before entering, just in case). The toilets are also here – there are no other restrooms in the site itself.
What currency is used in El Tajín?
The Mexican peso (often pre-fixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico and used in El Tajín – vendors in and around the site may accept US dollars (albeit at poor exchange rates), though entry to the site itself will be paid in pesos.
Bring lots of peso cash for small purchases like bottled water and snacks.
Is El Tajín safe?
Yes. Veracruz state and El Tajín itself has avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico, and is generally free of petty crime.
Chihuahua is one of our favorite provincial Mexican cities, with a wealth of historic attractions, grand 19th-century mansions, and the former home of Pancho Villa. This is also Mexico’s cowboy heartland, its markets crammed with vaquero boots and bargain leather gear.
The Cathedral of Chihuahua.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chihuahua
Where is Chihuahua?
Chihuahua is a city in Mexico, the capital of the northern state of Chihuahua. The largest Mexican state, Chihuahua comprises vast areas of desert and mountainous terrain and runs along the US border. Chihuahua City lies around 155 miles (250 km) west of Presidio, Texas, and 240 miles (386 km) south of El Paso, Texas. The city is 1425 km northwest of Mexico City.
Non-stop flights to Chihuahua take 1 hour 25 minutes from Monterrey, 1 hour 45 minutes from Tijuana and Guadalajara, 2 hours from Dallas and Denver, and 2 hours 5 minutes from Mexico City.
How big is Chihuahua?
Chihuahua has a greater metro population of just over 1 million. The main city is hemmed in between mountains along the valley of the River Chuviscar.
The gorgeous Basaseachi Waterfall in the famous Copper Canyon.
What is the history of Chihuahua?
The Spanish largely ignored the harsh deserts of Chihuahua, home to nomadic peoples such as the Chichimeca. The city was officially founded by Spanish captain Antonio Deza y Ulloa in 1709, though it was originally dubbed “Real de Minas de San Francisco de Cuellar” after nearby silver mines. It remained small and largely unimportant well into the 19th century, though the Spanish imprisoned and later executed Independence hero Miguel Hidalgo here in 1811. The city received a boost when President Benito Juárez made Chihuahua his capital-in-exile during the French Intervention of the 1860s, and its growing importance led to Pancho Villa establishing his base here during the Mexican Revolution. Thanks to booming cross-border trade with the US, Chihuahua has since blossomed into one of Mexico’s richest cities.
How do I get to Chihuahua?
Chihuahua is connected to the US and cities throughout Mexico by numerous non-stop flights; Dallas, Houston, and Denver, as well as Mexico City, Tijuana, Guadalajara, and Cancún. Flights from Canada and Europe route through the US or Mexico City.
Within Mexico, first-class long-distance buses are an economical and comfortable alternative to flying – buses to Ciudad Juárez (5–6hr), just across the border from El Paso, Texas, run hourly to and from Chihuahua. Chihuahua’s Terminal Central de Autobuses (main bus station) is an inconvenient 10km east of the city center; local buses run from right outside to and from downtown, but arriving here it’s far easier and quicker to take a taxi – taxis should have meters (Uber is also available).
The Santa Teresa border crossing from the U.S. state of New Mexico into the Mexican State of Chihuahua.
What are the options for Chihuahua airport transportation?
Taxis are the best option for getting to and from Chihuahua airport. Chihuahua’s airport is 18km northeast of the city, and a fixed-fare taxi system operates – buy a voucher before leaving the terminal (around M$350 for downtown; the trip takes around 30 minutes).
Can I use Uber in Chihuahua?
Uber does operate in Chihuahua (assuming your phone has roaming, and the app works), but drivers are usually reluctant to pick-up from the airport due to hostility from the airport taxi union. However, Uber should be available heading back to the airport for as low as 115 pesos. Once in the city, getting an Uber should be no problem, and can be cheaper than regular taxis.
Various other ride-sharing apps operate in Chihuahua, with Chinese-owned DiDi offering slightly cheaper rates, but we’d recommend sticking with Uber for first-time visitors.
Can I drive to Chihuahua?
Driving down to Chihuahua from the US border is relatively straightforward – the main highway is well-maintained and fast. It takes around 4 hours to drive to central Chihuahua from the border city of Ciudad Juárez, and just 2 hours 40 minutes from Ojinaga, across from Presidio, Texas. However, parts of Chihuahua state have been affected by drug cartel violence – driving at night is definitely a bad idea. Check the latest travel advisories at travel.state.gov or ask the hotel. Drivers also need a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit”.
Renting a car is much easier to do on the Mexican side of the border, as taking US rental vehicles into Mexico comes with all sorts of restrictions.
An old aqueduct runs through the city.
Do I need a car in Chihuahua?
It’s relatively easy and cheap to get around Chihuahua on foot, by bus, or taxi/Uber – most taxi trips in the city should be 50 to 80 pesos. Local buses are cheap but are unlikely to be needed.
When is the best time to go to Chihuahua?
Chihuahua has a mild, dry climate, with the wettest months July through September. There’s no real “bad” time to visit, though it can actually get chilly from November to February. March through June, and October, are probably best when the weather is pleasantly warm, the days are dry, and crowds low-key.
Where should I stay in Chihuahua?
Aim to stay in the atmospheric center of old Chihuahua, close to all the sights, best restaurants, and attractions. Modern hotels and motel chains have sprung up around the city, near the major highways, and can offer good rates, but these are all a long way from the action and it can be hassle shuttling back and forwards. We love the stylish and modern Hotel Plaza Chihuahua, and the atmospheric San Felipe El Real, set in a fabulous adobe mansion built in 1882.
What are the best things to do in Chihuahua?
Chihuahua is an incredibly historic city, and anyone interested in Mexico’s past is in for a treat – though with so many vaqueros around it’s also the best place in Mexico to buy authentic cowboy boots.
Start exploring on Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, dominated by the Chihuahua’s fine 18th-century cathedral. Pedestrianized Libertad street runs from here up to Playa Mayor (another large square), but it’s worth detouring to the Museo Casa de Juárez (Juárez 321), a museum housed in Benito Juárez’s base during the French Intervention. Plaza Mayor itself is home to Casa Chihuahua, the former federal government building and now a museum that preserves “Hidalgo’s dungeon” and has exhibits on the history of the city. It’s also worth popping into Chihuahua’s Palacio de Gobierno across the street to view the florid murals by Aarón Piña Mora.
For many Mexican tourists, the Museo Histórico de la Revolución (aka Casa de Villa at Calle 10 no. 3010) is the city’s premier site, the lavish mansion and former home of Pancho Villa himself (though he didn’t spend as much time here as his “official” widow Doña Luz Corral). The collection inside includes the bullet-spattered limousine in which Villa was assassinated in 1923. An even more ostentatious mansion has been preserved as the Centro Cultural Universitario Quinta Gameros (Paseo Bolivar 401), briefly the home of ex-president Venustiano Carranza.
An old aqueduct runs through the city.
What are the restaurants like in Chihuahua?
Chihuahua’s restaurants are surprisingly varied. Our favorites include the Casa de los Milagros at Victoria 812, set inside a pretty colonial courtyard, and offering an eclectic menu of Mexican and international dishes.
For a splurge, book a table at La Casona (Aldama 430), which offers contemporary Mexican and Argentine cuisine in a grand colonial-style mansion. For good coffee and excellent value breakfasts, it’s hard to beat El Hojaldre at Allende 200. Be sure also to visit legendary local taco chain Chih’ua Tacos y Cortes.
What currency is used in Chihuahua?
The Mexican peso (often prefixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico and Chihuahua. Most major shops and restaurants in Chihuahua accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some peso cash on hand for museum entry and small purchases like bottled water and snacks. ATMs are easy to find in Chihuahua around Plaza de Armas.
Is Chihuahua expensive?
It’s easy to visit Chihuahua on a modest budget. To save cash, stay in the cheaper B&Bs (budget Airbnb deals are also a viable option), and eat at local restaurants and taco stalls. Buses and taxis are cheap, and museum entry is rarely more than US$2–3.
Is Chihuahua safe?
Though drug cartels do operate in Chihuahua state, the historic heart of Chihuahua city has generally avoided the violence. Take the usual precautions, especially at night, and keep valuables in room safes.
Do Chihuahua dogs really come from here?
The tiny bug-eyed dog was really named after Chihuahua state, but they are not especially common in the city today. They likely did originate somewhere in Mexico, back in pre-Hispanic times, but their modern history isn’t well known and the current breed emerged relatively recently. In recent years Chihuahua City has sponsored a “dog parade” each summer, where multicolored Chihuahua sculptures are dotted around town.
Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most spectacular archeological sites in Mexico, and also one of the most easily accessible.
El Castillo (The Castle), known as the Temple of Kukulcán is the main pyramid at the center of Chichen Itza.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chichén Itzá
Where is Chichén Itzá?
Chichén Itzá is a Maya archeological site, located in the Mexican state of Yucatán, in the northern part of the Yucatán Peninsula. Chichén Itzá lies around 120 km east of Yucatán state capital Mérida, 200 km west of Cancún, and around 1420 km northeast of Mexico City (by road).
How big is Chichén Itzá?
The core site of Chichén Itzá covers around 5 square kilometers (1.9 square miles), though smaller houses (as yet unexcavated) are thought to have existed far beyond these boundaries (at least 10 square kilometers or 4 square miles). The area open to tourists today is around 100 acres. At its peak some 35,000 people would have lived here, but the nearest settlement today is the village of Pisté, 2 km to the northwest.
What is the history of Chichén Itzá?
Chichén Itzá was one of the last great Maya cities to develop, founded around 300 AD and flourishing from the early 10th century. It began to decline sometime in the 11th century for reasons that are still unknown, though a sizeable Maya community was still living in or around the city when the Spanish arrived in the 1520s. Conquistador Francisco de Montejo the Younger briefly conquered the land around Chichén Itzá in 1532, and renamed the city “Ciudad Real”, but was driven out by the Maya in 1535 – his conquest wasn’t complete until the late 1540s. Thereafter Chichén Itzá was completely abandoned, the land around it given up to cattle ranches. American explorer John Lloyd Stephens visited Chichén Itzá in the early 1840s and wrote about the ruins, initiating modern interest in the site. Large-scale excavation and restoration began in the 1920s, and the site was opened to tourists.
How do I get to Chichén Itzá?
Most tourists visit Chichén Itzá from Cancún (which has numerous flights to the US and Canada), or the nearby resorts of the “Riviera Maya”, though the airport at Mérida is closer (flights to Mérida take just 1 hour 45 minutes from Mexico City).
Taking a organized tour (with transport by bus included) is the most convenient option and is easy to arrange at hotels in the region, but this will entail an early start, several hours on the bus, and will mean arriving at Chichén Itzá at the same time as potentially many other tour groups.
It’s also relatively straightforward to visit independently – allowing more flexibility and more time at Chichén Itzá. Taxis to Chichén Itzá from Mérida Airport cost around 1500 pesos or US$75 one way, and take just 1.5 hours. From Cancún taxis take at least 2 hours 30 minutes, and will charge much more – US$250 one-way. It’s much cheaper to rent a car (see below) or take a public bus.
It’s possible to take first-class buses direct to the ruins at Chichén Itzá – much cheaper than taking a guided tour. Buses from Cancún take just over 3 hours.
Remember that Cancún and the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán is one hour ahead (EST) of Chichén Itzá (CST).
How much does the Chichen Itza entrance ticket cost?
The entrance fee at Chichen Itza is: $481 Pesos per adult. Kids under 13 years are admitted free.
What about Uber?
Uber is available in Mérida and Cancún but the app won’t allow trips as far as Chichén Itzá – negotiate with regular taxi drivers instead.
Can I drive to Chichén Itzá?
Driving from the Caribbean coast resorts such as Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum or from Mérida, is straightforward and safe – the toll roads are well-maintained and not especially busy. We recommend RentalCars.com which helps you to locate a rental near to where you’re staying.
Driving all the way from the US is possible but not recommended. It’s over 1300 miles (2092 km) from Brownsville, Texas – it makes much more sense to fly to Cancún or Mérida and rent a car at either airport.
Do I need a car in Chichén Itzá?
No, but a car will provide more freedom. The site itself is pedestrian only and small enough to explore on foot, but renting a car will allow exploration of the surrounding countryside, and will make travelling to Chichén Itzá much easier (see above). Combining a visit to some of the amazing nearby cenotes is a great choice to fill out a day trip to Chichen Itza (see below).
When is the best time to go to Chichén Itzá?
November to February, when the weather is warm and relatively dry. Chichén Itzá has a tropical climate – it’s very hot March to May, and humid and rainy June to October. However, this means the site can be very busy over the winter months – visiting in November or March will reduce the chance of crowds (avoid Sundays, which tend to be popular year-round).
Where should I stay in Chichén Itzá?
The tower at the ball court, one of the main areas of the Chichen Itza archaeological zone.
Most people visit Chichén Itzá on a day-trip from somewhere else, but staying near the site is possible, and recommended in order to see the ruins with as few people as possible. The ruins usually open at 8am, and tour groups rarely arrive until 10am (similarly, the site closes at 5pm, but almost everyone leaves by 3pm).
The hotels right next to the ruins tend to be relatively expensive, but cheaper, no-frills accommodation is available in the village of Pisté, 3km west.
The two most luxurious options are Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows, and Hacienda Chichén Resort, which is colonial-style and is a bit more atmospheric. It also has a private entrance direct to the ruins, with the possibility of visiting at 6am, two hours before general opening. For much cheaper rates, try the Doralba Inn Chichen, which has basic rooms and a pool, 2 km east of the Chichén Itzá east entrance.
What are the best things to do in Chichén Itzá?
There’s only one reason to come here – the ancient Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá (officially “Zona Arqueológica de Chichén Itzá”), some of the most pristine in Mexico. The ruins are open daily 8am to 5pm (last entry 4pm), and the entrance fee is currently 497 pesos (around US$25). If not on a guided tour, we recommended hiring a local guide once inside the park (they all have official ID and are usually very informative, rates from 600 to 900 pesos depending on time), or at least invest in a decent guidebook or on-line guide.
Allow at least three hours to see the site. Assuming an early start, head straight for the primary structures of Chichén Nuevo (New Chichén) to the north, then tackle Chichén Viejo to the south when the site starts to get busy (the southern ruins usually attract fewer visitors). Leave the museum (located back at the main entrance) till last, when the main site has filled with visitors. Chichén Nuevo comprises several iconic buildings: El Castillo (aka the Pyramid of Kukulcán), dominates the main plaza, while the richly decorated Templo de los Guerreros (Temple of the Warriors), lined by the Toltec-style “Thousand Columns”, forms the plaza’s eastern side. On the west side of the plaza lies the “Gran Juego de Pelota”, Chichén Itzá’s ball-court, one of the largest ever found. Try to visit also the Cenote Sagrado, the sacred cenote (water hole) that lies via a well-marked path some 300m north of the plaza. The Maya considered this perfectly circular pool a gateway to the underworld. A short trail leads from the south side of El Castillo to the older structures of Chichén Viejo, beginning with the pyramid known as “El Osario” (the Ossuary). Further south is El Caracol, the ruins of an ancient Maya observatory, and Las Monjas (“The Nunnery”), a grand palace complex.
What are the facilities like?
The main entrance to the site features a large, modern visitor center with an absorbing museum charting the history of Chichén Itzá, as well as a restaurant, Mexican fast-food joint and souvenir shops. The toilets are also here – there are no other restrooms in the site itself.
What are the best things to do around Chichén Itzá?
Cenote Xkeken. The countryside around Chichen Itza is full of amazing cenotes to explore and swim in.
With your own transport there are several sights worth checking out nearby. The Balankanche Caves (Grutas de Balancanché) are just 5 km down the road from Chichén Itzá, a fascinating underground maze of sacred Maya pools, stalagmites and stalactites. Some 20 km west of Chichén Itzá, Cenote Yokdzonot is one of the most beautiful swimming holes in the region, with excellent facilities (showers, toilets, restaurant, snorkel gear). There’s also plenty to explore around the nearby city of Valladolid (40 km east), including the incredibly photogenic Cenote X’keken and Cenote Samula, and the rarely busy Maya ruins of Ek-Balam, where it’s possible to climb the main pyramid (pyramids are off-limits at Chichén Itzá).
What currency is used in Chichén Itzá?
The Mexican peso (often pre-fixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico and used in Chichén Itzá – vendors in and around the site will often accept US dollars (albeit at poor exchange rates), though entry to the site itself will be paid in pesos.
Bring lots of peso cash for small purchases like bottled water and snacks.
Is Chichén Itzá safe?
Yes. Chichén Itzá itself has avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico, and is generally free of petty crime.
The godfather of Mexican border towns, Tijuana has been undergoing something of a renaissance in the last ten years. Cutting-edge art galleries, museums, and dynamic culinary and craft beers scenes – in addition to the old-fashioned fun and bars offered on Avenida Revolución – make this one of our favorite cities for a short-break or day-trip south of the US border.
The Millennial Arch on Avenida Revolucion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tijuana
Where is Tijuana?
Tijuana is the largest city in the Mexican state of Baja California, set on the Pacific Ocean and right on the border with the US state of California. Tijuana is just 20 miles (32 km) south of central San Diego, 105 km north of Ensenada and around 2780 km by road from Mexico City.
Non-stop flights to Tijuana take 2 hours 50 minutes from Monterrey, 2 hours 40 minutes from Puerto Vallarta, 2 hours 55 minutes from Guadalajara, 3 hours 15 minutes from Mexico City, and 4 hours 40 minutes from Cancún.
How big is Tijuana?
Tijuana has a greater metro population of just over two million and covers an area of around 637 square kilometers. The city lines the US border from the Pacific coast inland for almost 30km.
What is the history of Tijuana?
Tijuana was officially founded in 1889 on land previously inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Kumeyaay, and Spanish cattle ranches. It really owes its existence to the US border – the city’s founders intended to profit from cross-border trade and day-tripping Americans. The city’s first racecourse opened in 1916, and Tijuana flourished after US prohibition in 1920 turned it into a party town for alcohol-starved Americans, Al Capone among them (drinking and gambling were permitted in Tijuana). Since the 1960s the city’s economy has diversified considerably, its maquiladoras (factories) receiving a boost from NAFTA in the 1990s. Though Mexico’s drug wars have taken a heavy toll in terms of tourism since 2008, today the city is far safer, with one of the most dynamic local economies in Mexico.
The border fence goes directly into the ocean, with the San Diego skyline visible in the distance.
How do I get to Tijuana?
Tijuana Airport serves almost every major city in Mexico, though it currently hosts no international flights. From Tijuana airport, taxis charge around 250 pesos into the city – Uber drivers will charge less but are usually reluctant to pick-up (see below).
San Diego Airport is just 34km and a short taxi ride (around US$60 on the meter) from the US-Mexican border at Tijuana, making San Diego the main entry point for visitors from the US, Canada, and Europe.
Can I walk or drive across the US-Mexico border?
It’s possible to walk or drive across the US-Mexico border in Tijuana, but we recommend walking across rather than driving (see below). Walk across the US-Mexico border at San Ysidro (“PedEast”), which is conveniently connected to the San Diego Trolley system (45 minutes and just US$2.50 from downtown San Diego), making day-trips possible. Leaving the US side there is no US immigration/customs check and relatively swift Mexican checks for pedestrians – there is no paperwork if going no further than Tijuana or Ensenada. Once across take a taxi (always waiting; should be US$5–6) or a 20-minute walk to Avenida Revolución, the main drag; it’s a well-signposted route via the footbridge over the Tijuana River. It’s safe during the day, but take a taxi at night. Allow more time heading back into the US, especially during morning and evening rush hours, when the wait can take several hours (there are always stringent immigration and customs checks re-entering the US, even for US citizens). The main border crossings are open 24 hours. Don’t forget a passport!
The San Ysidro border crossing station between Tijuana, Mexico and San Diego, United States is one of the busiest in the world.
Can I use Uber in Tijuana?
Uber does operate in Tijuana (assuming phones have roaming, and the app works), but drivers are usually reluctant to pick-up from Tijuana Airport due to hostility from the airport taxi union. However, an Uber can be taken back to the airport. Once in the city, getting an Uber should be no problem, and can be cheaper than regular taxis.
Can I take Uber across the US-Mexico border?
It’s generally not possible to take an Uber all the way from the US side to the Mexico side, though some drivers may agree to make the trip (it’s definitely not permitted to take an Uber from Tijuana to the US side). Instead, just take an Uber to the border, walk across, and order another one on the other side. Heading to the more central “Zona Río” section of Tijuana, it can be much faster (but not cheaper) to take an Uber to the pedestrian sky bridge dubbed Cross-Border Xpress or “CBX” that crosses the US-Mexico border at Tijuana Airport. Walk across (it costs US$16) and then order an Uber on the other side outside the passenger terminal – crossing here is much faster than at San Ysidro.
Can I drive to Tijuana?
It’s possible to drive to Tijuana, but it’s not recommended if only going to Tijuana. Driving across the border (and especially back into the US) can take several hours thanks to comprehensive customs checks, and once in Tijuana the roads can be congested and confusing to navigate. Try leaving the car at Border Station Parking, 4570 Camino de la Plaza (Mon–Thurs US$9 per 10 hours; Fri–Sun US$18 per 10 hours) in San Ysidro, and just walk across the border.
Tijuana is just 20 miles (32 km) south of central San Diego, 130 miles south of Los Angeles, 360 miles west of Phoenix, Arizona, and 500 miles south of San Francisco.
Pedestrians walking near Plaza Santa Cecilia, a historic Mexican square in the heart of the city.
Do I need a car in Tijuana?
It’s relatively easy and cheap to get around Tijuana by bus or taxi so a car is not necessary. It can be useful to have a vehicle to explore the coastline beyond the city – to Rosario and Ensenada for example – but these are also well-served by bus. Driving rental cars is not a great idea as these are sometimes targeted by thieves, and getting into even a minor road accident can result in protracted encounters with non-English speaking police.
How do I get around Tijuana without a vehicle?
It’s easy to explore the Zona Centro in Tijuana on foot, but to go any further (to the Zona Río, for example), take taxis or buses – buses are cheap but taxis are much more convenient in Tijuana, and much safer at night. Yellow taxis (“taxi económico”) don’t use meters and follow a fixed-rate fare system, while “taxis libres” (white color) use meters – to be avoid being overcharged, try to use taxi libres (always insist drivers turn on the meter). Fares within central Tijuana shouldn’t be more than 100 pesos. Uber charges slightly cheaper rates. Shared taxis (“colectivos” or “taxi de ruta”) are even cheaper, but not recommended for first-time visitors (or non-Spanish speakers).
When is the best time to go to Tijuana?
The summer months (June to October) are warm and dry, and are generally the best times to visit, though as a big city Tijuana is essentially an all-year destination. Winter is usually cooler, slightly wetter, and cloudier. It’s best to avoid Christmas and Easter when locals and domestic tourists fill the streets.
Where should I stay in Tijuana?
First-timers to Tijuana should aim for the “Zona Centro” anchored by Avenida Revolución, the main tourist drag. The city’s modern downtown, known as the Zona Río, has less character and less choice when it comes to hotels. The motels on the outskirts are only an option if driving a car. We recommend the centrally located Hotel Ticuán and Alou Hotel Boutique, or the Lucerna if preference is for the Zona Río.
The iconic dome of the Centro Cultural Tijuana which features art, an IMAX theater, a botanical garden, and an aquarium.
What are the best things to do in Tijuana?
The heart of Tijuana is Avenida Revolución, aka La Revo, the celebrated main tourist street. It’s lined with bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Stroll the busiest stretch from the Monumental Arch at Plaza Santa Cecilia south for eight blocks or so to take in the scene, including Tijuana’s “famous” donkeys – painted to look like zebras. Here also is Caesar’s, where Caesar Cardini supposedly invented Caesar salad in 1924 (still prepared tableside).
A few kilometers to the east, the Zona Río is home to gourmet restaurants, clubs, and modern buildings, as well as the city’s colorful traditional market, Mercado Hidalgo. Also here is the Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT), housing theaters, art exhibitions, and an IMAX movie theater known as “La Bola”. It also contains the Museo de las Californias, a museum that charts the history of Baja California. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the city for first-time visitors – we recommend Tijuana Walking Tour, especially the taco tours. Locally-operated Turista Libre is another favorite.
What are the restaurants like in Tijuana?
The restaurants in Tijuana are extremely varied, ranging from classic Mexican street food to some of the best gourmet restaurants in the country. Tijuana is famed nationally for its taco stalls; “Tacos Las 24 Hours”, a tiny no-frills (and unmarked) stand at Niños Héroes 588; Tacos Salceados (Ermita Nte 30-A), which knocks out the best carne asada (grilled steak) tacos in the city; and sit down restaurant Tacos El Franc (Gral Rodolfo Sánchez Taboada 9257).
Over in the Zona Río is the highly acclaimed food court Telefonica Gastro Park, as well as posh Mexican restaurants such as La Diferencia, Chef Miguel Guerrero’s La Querencía, and Misión 19, celebrity chef Javier Plascencia’s showcase for “Baja Med” cuisine (Mexican-Mediterranean fusion).
What is the nightlife like in Tijuana?
Avenida Revolución is the traditional hub of Tijuana’s legendary nightlife, with “La Sexta” (Calle 6, just off Revolución, aka Flores Magón) home to hip jukebox bar El Dandy Del Sur (no. 2030) and mescal specialist La Mezcalera (no. 8267). A few minutes’ south of La Revo by taxi lies Cervecería Tijuana (Fundadores 2951), one of the city’s acclaimed microbreweries with an excellent on-site tap house. Tijuana has experienced a boom in craft brewing in the last two decades, with Plaza Fiesta (a collection of bars and restaurants conveniently located in the same open mall) at Paseo de los Héroes 1001 in the Zona Río a good place to start for aficionados.
Look out also for Cervecería Insurgente, which has taproom on Revolución (no. 933), and nearby Mamut Brewery, around the corner at Carrillo Puerto y o Tercera 8161. Highly-recommended Norte Brewing is at Salvador Díaz Mirón 8178, also off Revolución.
Welcome to Downtown Tijuana.
What currency is used in Tijuana?
The Mexican peso (often prefixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico and Tijuana – though most places will accept US dollars a better rate of exchange (and therefore cheaper deals) are in pesos. Most major shops and restaurants in Tijuana accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some peso cash on hand for entry fees and small purchases like bottled water and snacks. ATMs are easy to find in Tijuana, on and just off Revolución (especially Av Constitución, running parallel one block west).
Is Tijuana expensive?
It’s easy to visit Tijuana on a modest budget. Unless it’s a public holiday, hotels are relatively good value, museums are free or charge nominal fees, and most restaurants are cheap – a filling meal of street tacos costs just a handful of dollars.
Is Tijuana safe?
Tijuana is safe for tourists – Revolución and the Zona Río are well policed night and day. Tijuana is a big city, and does suffer from crime, some of it drug-related – take the usual precautions, especially at night (get hotels and restaurants to order taxis), and keep valuables in room safes.
Ensenada is one of Mexico’s most atmospheric ports, a laid-back, historic city on the western, Pacific coast, and one of our favorite places to go for superb seafood, wine, and whale-watching.
Sail boats in the marina with a cruise ship in the port of Ensenada, Baja Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ensenada
Where is Ensenada?
Ensenada is a city in Mexico, on the northwestern, Pacific coast of the country in the state of Baja California. Ensenada is just 110 km south of the US border at Tijuana, and 135 km (84 miles) south of central San Diego in California. Ensenada is over 2825 km from Mexico City – at least 36 hours by road. The nearest major airport is at Tijuana (a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Downtown Ensenada).
How big is Ensenada?
Ensenada has a greater metro population of almost 525,000, though it’s central core is relatively compact. Downtown or “Zona Centro” is focused on the busy waterfront and harbor, where the fishing fleet and cruise ships dock, and runs inland for several blocks. Although there are no beaches in the center, a long strip of sand runs along the wide Bahía de Todos Santos (Bay of All Saints) for almost 20km, beginning with Playa Hermosa just to the south.
What is the history of Ensenada?
Ensenada was officially “founded” in 1542, but this really denotes when the area was discovered by the Spanish (Quechan- or Yuman-speaking peoples had lived here for thousands of years). It remained little more than a village until gold was discovered nearby in 1872. Ensenada was then developed as a mining port, and was designated capital of Baja California in 1882 – the modern city was planned and developed by the British-owned Mexican Land & Colonization Co in subsequent decades. Devastated by the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920), Ensenada lost its capital status in 1915 and remained a backwater until tourism took off in the 1950s. The annual Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race began in 1948 (Humphrey Bogart took part in the first race), while the famous Baja 1000 motor race started in Ensenada in 1962 (the Baja 500 followed in 1969).
How do I get to Ensenada?
Ensenada does have a tiny airport, but this only serves a couple of locations in Baja California. The nearest major airport is at Tijuana, which is connected to numerous destinations within Mexico by non-stop flights, though there are at present no international flights. Most European flights to Tijuana will route through Mexico City. Buses run from Tijuana airport direct to Ensenada; taxis can also be taken, but these are expensive (at least US$80), though a lot more convenient.
In practice, most US and Canadian visitors come to Ensenada by cruise ship or by car (see below), though it’s relatively straightforward to visit by bus. These shuttle back and forth between the US border at Tijuana and Ensenada bus station every hour or so and take around 1 hour 30 minutes.
Ensenada is well known for the excellent wineries in the area.
Can I use Uber in Ensenada?
Uber is available and cheap in Tijuana, though not usually for airport pick-ups, where a local taxi monopoly operates – use official airport taxis or buses instead from Tijuana airport. Uber drivers in the US cannot take passengers across the Mexican border – walk across the border and order another Uber on the Mexican side, and vice versa.
Once in Ensenada (assuming phones have the app and has roaming in Mexico), Uber can offer convenience and cheaper rates over traditional taxis. In addition, a service dubbed “uberVALLE” offers day-long, round-trip rides to the Valle de Guadalupe wine region from Ensenada – just select “valleX” in the Uber app (the driver will wait at the various vineyards).
Can I drive to Ensenada?
Driving down to Ensenada from the US border is easy and straightforward – the main four-lane Highway-1D is in good condition all the way (allow 1 hour 30 minutes), though we’d advise leaving Tijuana as quickly as possible if that’s the point of entry. There are three tolls coming south from Tijuana (around US$5 total in peso) on Hwy-1D (“cuota” means toll), but the original two-lane Hwy-1 can also be taken, which is free (allow at least 2 hours on this road). The drive should also take around 1 hour 30 minutes from Tecate, and just over 3 hours from Mexicali.
Another plus: foreign vehicles do not need a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit”, as long as they stay on the Baja peninsular.
If are renting a vehicle, it’s much easier to do this once across the Mexican border, as taking US rental vehicles into Mexico comes with all sorts of restrictions.
Tourists enjoying the splash of the waterfront geyser.
Do I need a car in Ensenada?
A car isn’t really needed in Ensenda. Most of what there is to see and do lies within Downtown, which is easily explored on foot. Local buses, taxis, and Uber cars can be taken to destinations outside the city relatively cheaply. To do exploring in the surrounding countryside, including the Valle de Guadalupe, having a vehicle can be more convenient. It’s also possible to arrange car rental on arrival in Ensenada; Alamo, Enterprise, and Hertz operate in the city, along with several cheap Mexican rental outfits.
How do I get around Ensenada without a vehicle?
Walking is the best way to see Ensenada, but it’s relatively easy to find taxis (or arrange an Uber) for longer trips to the beaches, or to La Bufadora.
When is the best time to go to Ensenada?
Ensenada has a mild, Mediterranean-like climate – it stays relatively dry year-round (though it’s slighter wetter in the winter than the summer) and experiences surprisingly cool weather December to March. In general, the summer months – June through September – are the best times to visit, as the weather is hot but not unbearable, and the beaches are therefore a lot more appealing. It also doesn’t rain much. However, visiting in October/November or April/May will still mean warm weather without the crowds (and cruise ship visitors). Whale-watching is also best December to April.
Where should I stay in Ensenada?
Most tourists in Ensenada stay in Centro (Downtown), where there’s a wide range of accommodation – the cheapest places lie further inland from the seafront and along Avenida López Mateos. The bigger and posher resorts tend to be located along the coast to the north and south – a pricey taxi ride from Downtown. These are recommended primarily for travelers with their own vehicles.
What are the best beaches in Ensenada?
The best beaches in Ensenada lie beyond Downtown. Our favorite is Estero Beach, a relatively tranquil spot with soft sand some 13 km south of the city. Day passes that provide access to pools, restaurants, and activities are usually available at the posh Estero Beach Hotel here (the hotel takes up much of the seafront but the public section is known as El Faro Beach). Otherwise, Playa Hermosa just south of the port is pretty good, with locals keeping the sand clean and umbrellas available to rent for a few pesos. For experienced surfers, the best spot is Playa San Miguel, 13 km north of Downtown.
Tourists enjoying the beautiful waterfront.
Where to change money in Ensenada?
Though the Mexican peso is the official currency in Ensenada (often prefixed with a “$” sign), many hotels, restaurants, and vendors will accept US or Canadian dollars (especially when cruise ships are in town). However, change will often be given in pesos, and US/Canadian dollar prices invariably work out to be higher than peso prices because of inflated exchange rates.
Try to use ATMs to withdraw peso cash in Ensenada if possible (check with the bank before leaving to confirm it’s possible to use a debit card and how much they will charge – using credit cards can incur interest or foreign transaction fees). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is needed for buses, most taxis, and small purchases.
What are the best things to do in Ensenada?
In Ensenada itself it’s fun to visit the Riviera del Pacifico, a Spanish Revival-style casino and hotel completed in 1930 and now a cultural center. Inside there’s a small but absorbing history museum and Bar Andaluz, an atmospheric spot for a drink. Across the street, the Caracol Museo de Ciencias is a new-ish science museum that’s primarily aimed at kids. Stroll along the waterfront from here, up to the Mercado de Mariscos, the traditional fish market, which is always crammed with fresh seafood. This is a great place to sample Baja’s legendary fish tacos – said to have been invented in Ensenada. Wine lovers should check out the Bodegas de Santo Tomás, one of Baja California’s largest and oldest wineries – it’s also easy to arrange tours of the nearby Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s up-and-coming wine region. And don’t forget Hussong’s Cantina – this spit-and-sawdust bar was established way back in 1892 by German immigrant Johann Hussong and is one of several spots to claim the invention of the margarita. Whale-watching tours (from mid-December to mid-April), to view the grey whale migration, are easily arranged from the harbor – contact Sergio’s Sportfishing Center in advance.
What are the restaurants in Ensenada like?
Restaurants are pretty good, though street food is where Ensenada really excels. This is the home of the fish taco, and numerous places complete for the title of “best in Baja” beginning with venerable stall Tacos Fenix (Espinosa at Juárez). There’s also La Guerrerense, a food stall beloved of the late Anthony Bourdain that serves fresh shellfish tostadas and ceviche. Bronco’s is the place for steak, while Chef Benito Molina’s Manzanilla Restaurante is our favorite place for gourmet Mexican seafood. Cervecería Wendlandt is the best of a growing number of Baja craft breweries.
Souvenirs for sale along the waterfront.
Is Ensenada expensive?
Ensendada is not really expensive. Everything is relative of course, but hotels in Ensenada – especially inland from the seafront – tend to be reasonably priced, and public transport and the city’s famous street food is very cheap – almost everything is priced in pesos, not US dollars, though services targeted specifically at cruise ship passengers always cost more.
Is Ensenada safe?
Yes. Ensenada has generally avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico. Take the usual precautions, especially at night, and keep valuables in room safes. Theft of personal items from beaches does happen – never leave anything of value unattended, even on seemingly empty stretches of sand.
Álamos is one of Mexico’s lesser-visited gems, an enchanting colonial town on the southern fringe of the Sonoran desert. It’s best known for its atmospheric boutique hotels, colonial architecture, and laid-back lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Álamos
Where is Álamos?
Álamos is a small town in the Mexican state of Sonora, some 80 km inland from the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California). Álamos lies around 1600 km northwest of Mexico City, 1060 km northwest of Guadalajara, and 396 km southeast from state capital Hermosillo.
How big is Álamos?
Álamos has a population of around 25,000, and covers a relatively compact area in the southeastern part of Sonora, covering some 4 km on the plains below the Sierra Madre Occidental.
What is the history of Álamos?
Once inhabited by indigenous Yoreme and Yaqui, Álamos was founded by the Spanish around 1685, primarily as service camp for nearby silver mines. Within a century it was a substantial settlement with its own mint, and the most prosperous town north of Guadalajara. Following Mexican independence, the area fell into decline. The mint closed in 1896, and the Mexican Revolution finished off the economy – the population dropped dramatically. Álamos remained a backwater until the 1940s, when an American businessman, William Levant Alcorn, bought numerous houses here and encouraged many of his compatriots to do the same – the paved road from Navojoa was finished in 1960. In 2005 Álamos was added to Mexico’s “Pueblo Mágico” program, and tourism is now a key money-earner.
How do I get to Álamos?
The only way to reach Álamos is by bus or by car. The nearest airports are at Ciudad Obregón (96 km) and Los Mochis (150 km), both with frequent connections to Mexico City.
By bus, Álamos is accessible from the city of Navojoa, some 50 km to the west. Navojoa lies on Hwy-15, the main north-south route, with buses frequently zipping up and down to Ciudad Obregón (1 hour), Los Mochis (2 hours), and beyond. Once in Navojoa, buses shuttle back and forth to Álamos every hour – the trip takes around 1 hour and ends at central Plaza Alameda.
Can I use Uber in Álamos?
Uber does not operate in Álamos. The service is available in Navajoa, but drivers are usually reluctant to make a one-way trip to Álamos – it’s possible to negotiate a fare independent of the Uber app.
Can I drive to Álamos?
It’s possible to drive to Álamos. Driving down from the US border is relatively straightforward. However, parts of the state of Sonora, particularly in remote areas and near the border, have been badly affected by drug cartel violence – driving at night is definitely a bad idea. Check the latest travel advisories at travel.state.gov or ask at the hotel.
The drive from Nogales on the Arizona border is around 660 km (410 miles) and takes around 8 hours non-stop (the highways are fast). From Tijuana, the drive is around 1250 km. Unfortunately, foreign vehicles do require a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit” (Álamos falls outside the “Sonora Free Zone”).
If renting a vehicle, it’s much easier to do this once across the Mexican border, as taking US rental vehicles into Mexico comes with all sorts of restrictions. Car rentals are easily arranged at Ciudad Obregón or Los Mochis airports.
Do I need a car in Álamos?
The town center of Álamos is very small and easy to explore on foot so a car is not needed.
When is the best time to go to Álamos?
Álamos is at its best during the warm and generally dry winter months (Nov–March) – this is also the best time for bird-watching. The weather remains dry April to June, though it can get uncomfortably hot – July to October is mostly hot and humid. Hotels tend to be more expensive during the Christmas and Easter periods, as well as during the week-long Ortiz Tirado music festival, usually held in January. Advance reservations are a must at this time.
Where should I stay in Álamos?
Right in the historic center of town is the best place to stay in Álamos. Hotels in Álamos are a real delight, mostly boutique-style, set in historic, colonial properties with heaps of character. Our favorite is Hacienda de los Santos, which occupies three lavish mansions and an 18th-century sugar mill. Almost as good is Luz del Sol, a colonial-style B&B.
What are the best things to do in Álamos?
The best thing to do in Álamos is to simply wander the historic streets and plazas, have a drink in Plaza de Armas, and just soak up the languid local scene. The small Museo Costumbrista de Sonora is worth a look for its exhibits on local history and is also the place to enquire about regular guided tours of the town’s old Andalucian-style mansions. For stellar views of Álamos, hike up the Loma de Guadalupe, the small hill behind the Plaza de Armas, to El Cárcel, the old stone jail on top.
What are the restaurants like in Álamos?
Restaurants are basic but good in Álamos, specializing in home-cooked food from northern Mexico. Doña Lola’s (on Volantín, off Juárez) serves some of the best value meals in town (especially cazuela, beef stew), while Café Luz del Sol is a great place for coffee and breakfast. Antojitos Don Neto on Amado Nervo is celebrated for its vegetarian tostadas, crispy tortillas crammed with beans, potatoes, veggies, and cheese.
What currency is used in Álamos?
The Mexican peso (often prefixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico, though many hotels in Álamos will quote rates in US dollars. Some restaurants accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have peso cash on hand for local meals and small purchases like bottled water and snacks. Banorte (open Mon–Fri 9 am–4 pm) is the only bank with an ATM, at Madero 27 (near the bus station). Most businesses are unlikely to accept payment in US dollars cash.
Is Álamos expensive?
Álamos is not expensive. Even the best hotels are reasonably priced, and unless it’s a public holiday in Mexico, there are plenty of cheap options. Eating in local restaurants is generally inexpensive.
Is Álamos safe?
Yes. Though the state of Sonora has a bad reputation for crime related to drug gangs, Álamos itself has largely avoided the violence and remains a safe, friendly place to visit. Take the usual precautions, especially at night, and keep valuables in room safes.
Aguascalientes is one of Mexico’s most dynamic modern cities, with a booming economy and a rich artistic history. We love its pristine colonial center, absorbing museums and its tasty street food.
The Government Palace of the State of Aguascalientes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aguascalientes
Where is Aguascalientes?
Aguascalientes is the capital of the state of Aguascalientes, in the region of central Mexico known as the Bajío. Aguascalientes lies about 490 km northwest of Mexico City, 220 km northeast of Guadalajara, and 165 km west of San Luis Potosí. Non-stop flights to Aguascalientes take less than 4 hours from Chicago, 3 hours from Los Angeles, 2 hours from Dallas or Houston, and 1.5 hours from Mexico City.
How big is Aguascalientes?
Aguascalientes has a greater metro population of just under 1 million. The main city covers some 385 square kilometers.
What is the history of Aguascalientes?
Once the home of the Chichimeca people, Aguascalientes was officially founded in 1575 by Spanish captain Juan de Montoro Rodríguez, though it was little more than a pit-stop between Mexico City and the silver mines further north. Development remained sluggish and the city only started to grow in the 19th century, when several nearby villages merged together. The state of Aguascalientes was formally created in 1857 (before that the city had been tied to Zacatecas), and the 1914 Convention of Aguascalientes saw revolutionary leaders Francisco Villa, Emiliano Zapata and Venustiano Carranza meet for the first time. In the last fifty years Aguascalientes has morphed into one of Mexico’s richest cities, home to two large Nissan manufacturing plants, as well as hubs for Texas Instruments and Coca-Cola.
How do I get to Aguascalientes?
Aguascalientes is connected to the US by convenient non-stop flights from Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston, and frequent shuttles from Mexico City. Flights from Canada and Europe usually route through Mexico City or the US. The airport is 16 km south of the city; taxis charge around 300 pesos into the center (prices are fixed according to a zone system). With luggage, this is the best option.
Within Mexico, first-class long-distance buses are an economical and comfortable alternative to flying – buses to Aguascalientes from Guadalajara (3 hours) and Mexico City (6 hours) operate hourly. Aguascalientes’s Central de Autobuses (bus station) is just 2 km south of the center on Avenida de la Convención. There is a frequent bus service (9.50 pesos) from here to Plaza de la Patria (“Centro”), at the heart of town. With luggage it’s best to take a taxi to the hotel – these should use the meter, with fares unlikely to be more than 50 pesos.
Catedral Basilica De Nuestra Senora De La Asuncion, in the Plaza de la Patria.
Can I use Uber in Aguascalientes?
Uber does operate in Aguascalientes (assuming phones have roaming, and the app works), but drivers are usually reluctant to pick-up from the airport due to hostility from the airport taxi union. However, Uber can be used to return to the airport for as low as 145 pesos. Once in the city, getting an Uber should be no problem, and can be cheaper than regular taxis.
Can I drive to Aguascalientes?
Driving down from the US border to Aguascalientes is relatively straightforward; the main highways are good, and virtually empty outside the towns. However, the Mexican border states of Nuevo León, Sonora, and Tamaulipas have been affected by drug cartel violence – driving at night is definitely a bad idea. Check the latest travel advisories at travel.state.gov or ask at the hotel. Cars also need a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit”.
From Laredo, Texas the drive is around 490 miles (790 km) and takes around 9 hours non-stop. Aguascalientes is 830 miles (1335 km) from El Paso, Texas (16 hours), and 1430 miles (2300 km) from San Diego, California.
If renting a vehicle, it’s much easier to do this once across the Mexican border, as taking US rental vehicles into Mexico comes with all sorts of restrictions.
Do I need a car in Aguascalientes?
Most of the city center of Aguascalientes can be explored on foot making a car unnecessary. However, Ubers or local taxis (the meter starts at 13.50 pesos and most trips should be under 50 pesos) are available for those who prefer not to walk. Local buses charge a flat fare of 13.50 pesos but are unlikely to be needed.
Estadio Victoria football stadium, home to the Mexican football team Necaxa.
When is the best time to go to Aguascalientes?
Aguascalientes boasts a year-round temperate climate, with the driest and sunniest months November to April. Rain is most common June to September. There’s no real “bad” time to visit, though it can actually get chilly December to January. March through May is probably best, when the weather is pleasantly warm, the days dry, and crowds low-key.
Where should I stay in Aguascalientes?
The best place to stay is right in the historic heart of Aguascalientes (the centro histórico), close to all the sights, best restaurants, and attractions. Motel chains have sprung up around the city, near the major highways, and can offer good rates, but these are all a long way from the action and it can be a hassle getting in and out of the center. Note that during the Feria de San Marcos mid-April to mid-May, rooms are usually booked solid and cost over 50 percent extra. We like the Francia, an updated but atmospheric hotel from 1915, and the magnificent Quinta Real, which was designed to look like a Spanish monastery. The best budget option is the El Giro Hostal (Allende 341).
What are the best things to do in Aguascalientes?
The best thing to do in Aguascalientes is to soak up the city’s colonial charm and history, and take in some of its excellent art museums. Start by sipping coffee at an outdoor café and taking in the scene on Aguascalientes’s main square, the Plaza de la Patria, also the location of the city’s impressive 18th-century cathedral, the Teatro Morelos (location of the famous convention between Zapata, Villa and Carranza in 1914), and the mural-smothered Palacio de Gobierno.
The Museo José Guadalupe Posada (Trujillo 222) is one of the highlights of Aguascalientes, dedicated to the macabre lithographs of the eponymous artist (Posada was famous for using skulls in his illustrations). The bold naturalistic work of local artist Saturnino Herrán is the focus at the Museo de Aguascalientes (Zaragoza 505), while the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo No. 8 (Primo Verdad, at Morelos) showcases contemporary art from the region, as well as the work of local painter Enrique Guzmán. It’s also worth checking out the Museo Nacional de la Muerte (Jardín del Estudiante, Rivero y Gutiérrez), dedicated to Mexico’s death rituals and folk images of death, including ornately decorated skulls (calaveras). The Museo Regional de Historia (Carranza 118) chronicles local history.
Be sure also to visit the Santuario Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Nájera 213), one of the most stunning churches in Mexico, as well as the Templo del Señor del Encino (Jardín del Encino), another gorgeous 18th-century church built from pink sandstone.
The town of Real de Asientos, a ‘Pueblo Magico‘ or magic town, a title given to particularly beautiful romantic towns in Mexico.
What are the best things to do around Aguascalientes?
Aguascalientes makes a good base to explore the surrounding area. Highlights include the hot spring baths that give the city its name (literally “hot waters”), the Baños Termales de Ojocaliente, some 4 km east of the center (take a taxi or “Ruta 12” bus along López Mateos).
What are the restaurants in Aguascalientes like?
The restaurants in Aguascalientes are excellent. The city is known for bírria (slow-roasted barbecued lamb, shredded and served with a bowl of piquant broth), best experienced at Mercado Juárez (aka Mercado de la Bírria), at Victoria and Unión, crammed with cheap food stalls. Other specialties include lechón al horno (roast suckling pig), served at no-frills joints such as Lechón Pascualito (Jesús Díaz de León 101), atole (a sweet corn- and chocolate-based drink), and addictive desserts made with guava (guayaba). Our other favorites in Aguascalientes include Cenaduría Farolito (Moctezuma 105), an old-fashioned café open since 1922 right on the plaza; Durería El Rey del Duro (Matamoros Nte 207) which knocks out tacos and crispy pork rinds (chicharrón or “duro” in Aguascalientes); Mitla Restaurante (Madero 222), another old-fashioned Mexican buffet restaurant operating since 1938; and La Saturnina (Carranza 110), a lovely courtyard café.
What currency is used in Aguascalientes?
The Mexican peso (often pre-fixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico. Most major shops and restaurants in Aguascalientes accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some peso cash on hand for museum entry and small purchases like bottled water and snacks. ATMs and banks are easy to find in central Aguascalientes (a couple of banks with 24hr ATMs are on the north side of Plaza de la Patria) – a better rate of exchange can be found at ATMs than at casas de cambio.
Is Aguascalientes expensive?
It’s easy to visit Aguascalientes on a modest budget. To save cash, stay in the cheaper B&Bs or hostels (budget Airbnb deals are also a viable option), and eat at local restaurants and taco stalls. Buses and taxis are cheap, and museum entry is rarely more than US$2–3.
Is Aguascalientes safe?
Aguascalientes has generally avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico. Take the usual precautions, especially at night, and keep valuables in room safes.
