Guanajuato is a beautiful city in central Mexico. Known for its colonial architecture, winding streets, and colorful atmosphere. It’s a popular tourist destination, thanks to its many attractions and friendly locals.
Is Guanajuato safe?
Generally speaking, Guanajuato is a safe city to visit. The crime rate is low, especially compared to other parts of Mexico. According to one of the tour guides I had, it is the safest city in the entire country of Mexico. I was there in December, during peak tourist season. There were many police officers on patrol in the city center, making me feel extra safe to walk around the city.
What is the best time to visit Guanajuato?
The best time to visit Guanajuato is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with less humidity and fewer chances of rain. The city is also less crowded during this time, making it easier to explore and enjoy its attractions. But December becomes packed with local tourists celebrating the holidays.
How long should you stay in Guanajuato?
You might be wondering how long you should stay to get the most out of your visit. The answer depends on your interests and itinerary. I would recommend staying for at least 3 days to experience all that this city has to offer.
Guanajuato has many museums and historical sites you can explore. Wander the winding streets and alleyways to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Besides exploring Guanajuato, you can also take a day trip to nearby San Miguel de Allende. A picturesque Pueblo Magico that is a short drive away. Visit the stunning Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel or wander the colorful streets. This town has an Instagram photo op in every corner! Take some time to browse the many art galleries and boutiques as well.
Of course, if you have more time, you can always extend your stay in Guanajuato and explore more of the region. The state of Guanajuato is home to many other beautiful cities and towns. Each with its own unique charm and attractions.
Some popular options include:
- Dolores Hidalgo, a historic town famous its ceramics.
- Leon, a bustling city known for its shoe industry and lively nightlife.
What can I do in Guanajuato?
There are many things to do in Guanajuato, including:
- Explore the city’s winding streets and alleyways. One of its more popular spots is El Callejón del Beso. A narrow street known as the “kissing alley.” It is a popular spot for couples to take photos.
- Visiting the city’s many museums and historical sites. Popular museums are the Museo Casa Diego Rivera and Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato. You can also visit the Museo Minero La Valenciana, a museum located in a former silver mine. A cool monument dedicated to a war hero, El Pipila, is set on a hill with panoramic views.
- Attend one of the many festivals! The most popular being the Cervantino Festival. This festival is a celebration of the life and work of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote. The festival features a variety of events, including dance performances and theatrical productions.
You can either do a little planning or do what I did and see where the city takes you. There were so many tour guides in the square offering 4 different trips to top attractions. You’ll have a fantastic time exploring all that this charming city has to offer.
What is the best way to get to Guanajuato?
Well this depends on where you are located. Flying into the city’s airport would be the easiest and more efficient way to get there. The Bajío International Airport (BJX) is about 25 minutes from Guanajuato’s city center. It’s relatively inexpensive to take a taxi to the city.
Travel hack – I booked a domestic Mexico flight which was so much cheaper than flying out of the US. But this is only because I’m based out of California so getting to the Tijuana Airport is relatively easy. The Tijuana Airport has a bridge that allows travelers to cross the border between Mexico and the United States.
What is the best way to get around Guanajuato?
The best way to get around Guanajuato is by walking or taking a taxi. The city is very walkable, with most of its attractions located within the city center. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and widely available. Making them a convenient option for longer distances or when traveling at night.
Where to Stay in Guanajuato
There are plenty of great hotels to choose from in the Zona Centro. Staying there allows you to be within walking distance of most tourist places. The Jardin de la Union is where you can find all the guides offering different tours.
- Posada Santa Fe is one of my personal favorite places to stay. This 4-star hotel is located steps away from the Jardín de la Unión. It offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing and soaking in the local ambiance.
- Hotel San Diego is also a 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city. You can easily walk to many of the major attractions. The hotel has an on-site restaurant with a terrace offering stunning views of the park.
- Hotel Real Guanajuato is another 4 star hotel in the Zona Centro. They offer a more traditional Mexican style rooms. Decorated with colorful tile floors and hand-carved furniture. This hotel will give you an authentic experience while you stay in Guanajuato.
- El Meson de los Poetas is another fantastic option in the Zona Centro. It’s a beautiful colonial-style building with cozy rooms. It’s located near the Teatro Juarez, a popular landmark in the city.
- Hotel Hacienda Marques Guanajuato is perfect if you’re looking for a more secluded experience. Located 30 minutes outside of the city. This 3-star hotel offers complimentary continental breakfast. It has an onsite a restaurant and a bar/lounge. You can also take a dip in the outdoor pool or play a round of tennis at the tennis court. Sticking to your fitness routine will be a breeze here as they have an on-site fitness center as well.
Travels with RJ 