Discover Guanajuato: A Guide to the City's Top Attractions
Nestled in the heart of Mexico, the enchanting city of Guanajuato is a magnet for tourists and expatriates alike. Its valley setting gives rise to a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, many pedestrian-only due to their size and stairways, with some even tucked underground.
Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts quaint plazas, colonial mansions, churches of pink and green sandstone, and a plethora of museums and galleries. It's also the stage for the renowned Festival Internacional Cervantino, drawing global artists each fall.
Just a four-hour drive from Mexico City, Guanajuato is perfect for day trips or longer stays. Explore the city's highlights with our top things to do guide.
1. Jardin de la Union and Kissing Lane
The Jardin de la Union is the vibrant heart of Guanajuato, surrounded by hotels and restaurants. Architectural treasures here include the Baroque San Diego Church and the grand Juárez Theater. Don't miss the famed Callejón del Beso, where couples kiss across the narrow alley to seal their love.
2. Going Underground: Guanajuato's Tunnels
Explore Guanajuato's unique subterranean streets, originally built to divert the flood-prone Guanajuato River. Now repurposed as roads, these tunnels offer a fascinating walk and a shortcut across the city.
What to see and do in Guanajuato
3. Teatro Juárez
The neoclassical Juárez Theater, with its Doric columns and Art Nouveau interior, is a cultural hub for music and dance performances.
4. The Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato
Visit the Basilica housing the revered statue of the Virgin of Guanajuato, a gift from King Philip II of Spain. The church's grandeur is a testament to the city's mining heritage.
5. Alhóndiga de Granaditas
The Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a granary turned fortress, is now the Guanajuato Regional Museum, showcasing the city's revolutionary history and pre-Columbian artifacts.
6. The Mummies of Guanajuato
The Mummies Museum displays naturally mummified bodies from a 19th-century cholera outbreak, offering a macabre yet fascinating glimpse into local history.
7. Museo Iconográfico Del Quijote
This museum celebrates Cervantes' Don Quixote with artwork and artifacts, and is a centerpiece of the International Cervantino Festival each October.
8. The University of Guanajuato
The historic University of Guanajuato, with its iconic staircase, is a must-visit for its museum and architectural beauty.
9. Silver City: La Valenciana Mine
Explore the La Valenciana Mine to understand Guanajuato's silver mining past and visit the opulent San Cayetano Church nearby.
10. El Cervantino: The International Cervantino Festival
The city comes alive during the International Cervantino Festival, celebrating the arts with performances and exhibits throughout Guanajuato.
11. Cristo Rey and Cerro del Cubilete
Visit the Cristo Rey statue atop Cerro del Cubilete, a significant religious site offering panoramic views of the countryside.
12. The Diego Rivera House and Museum
Explore the birthplace of Diego Rivera, now a museum showcasing his life and works, including pieces related to Frida Kahlo.
13. The Guanajuato Funicular
Ride the funicular for stunning views over Guanajuato's colorful cityscape.
14. Mercado Hidalgo
Experience local life at Mercado Hidalgo, a bustling market offering a variety of goods and a glimpse into the city's history.
Where to Stay in Guanajuato for Sightseeing
For a comfortable stay, consider these centrally-located hotels:
- Hotel Boutique 1850
- Edelmira Hotel Boutique
- Posada Santa Fe
- El Meson de los Poetas
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Places to Visit near Guanajuato: Venture out to Guadalajara or Mexico City for more architectural and cultural wonders.
Explore Mexico's Rich History: Don't miss the Teotihuacán ruins or the ancient city of Oaxaca.
Mexican Vacation Ideas: Consider visiting the beaches of Cancún and the Mayan Riviera or the colonial city of Mérida.
