Travel to Guanajuato, Mexico

Travel to Guanajuato

Guanajuato is quite an easy place to get to. It's near the geographic center of Mexico, however that was calculated. About 10 miles west of the city is a mountain called Cubilete which is said to be the very center and is a pilgrimage spot, with a statue of Christ atop it. But I'd better help you get to Guanajuato before telling you about the things to do there!

If you are flying in, the international airport at Leon is only about 17 miles away, with taxis your best bet for getting to and from Guanajuato.(Intrepid penny-pinchers without too much luggage can ask about buses between the road by airport and the city.)You can fly from anywhere in Mexico, as well as from U.S. cities such as Houston, Dallas, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

If you are driving, that geographic center aspect comes in handy. If you are anywhere in the central highlands of Mexico, Guanajuato won't be too far away.

The Mexican bus system is incredible, with buses of all classes frequently going between cities. You can pop over from San Miguel de Allende in about an hour and a half-- be aware that the shorter route goes "via la presa" (via the dam) rather than through Dolores Hidalgo. Nonstop buses from Mexico City take about 5 hours, while buses from Guadalajara are about 4 hours. The first class and -- even better, the deluxe -- buses are well worth the amount more that you pay for them.

Around Guanajuato Itself

With a map that resembles the human brain, Guanajuato is a city you can get lost in. But it isn't hard to find yourself again. You'll turn a corner and recognize a place you've been before -- even though you didn't realize you were anywhere near it!

Speaking of maps, you can get a free one at the Tourist Information Center on the side of Plaza de la Paz, or at one of the many tourist information kiosks around the city. It's fine for just the downtown area. But we found a much better map for 20 pesos (under $2 US), which is available at many of the newsstand and stationery stores around the city. Just ask for a "mapa de Guanajuato."

This is a city for walkers. Much of the downtown area is pedestrian-only, as are many of the little walkways that go uphill.

If you get tired of walking, there are many taxis and a number of bus routes. It's a good town to leave your car parked in, though. It's quite confusing to drive in. I've heard the tale of a motorhome getting stuck in one of the tunnels.

For what to do once you get there (and why to go), see our related pages: