Guanajuato Getaway: 5 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun

Discover the charm of Guanajuato on a budget, where culture meets affordability.

02 July 2023

Guanajuato, Mexico offers an incredible experience for travelers on a limited budget. From its charming cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings to its rich cultural heritage, there are plenty of affordable attractions to explore. Enjoy visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, exploring underground tunnels, and attending street performances, all while immersing yourself in the vibrant Mexican culture without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Guanajuato

  • Check-in at Hotel Estrella to experience a budget-friendly stay with colorful, bohemian vibes.
  • Dive into the bustling Mercado Hidalgo for a sensory overload of vibrant stalls and mouthwatering street food.
  • Meander through the winding alleyways of Callejón del Beso, where romance is thick in the air.
  • Climb up to the iconic Mirador de la Presa for jaw-dropping views of the city and its patchwork of colonial buildings.
  • Unleash your inner art lover at the Diego Rivera House Museum, filled with whimsical murals depicting Mexico's history and culture.
Day 2

Guanajuato's Hidden Treasures

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Tal for a taste of traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist.
  • Embark on a guided tour of the fantastical Cervantes Tunnel, a labyrinthine network that weaves under Guanajuato.
  • Explore the enigmatic mummies at Museo de las Momias, where you'll discover eerie stories of the afterlife.
  • Spend the afternoon strolling along the serene Jardín de la Unión, a charming square pulsating with live music and street performers.
  • Indulge in an authentic Mexican dinner at Truco 7, a hidden gem known for its delicious tamales and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 3

Cultural Immersion in Guanajuato

  • Immerse yourself in Guanajuato's rich culture by attending a traditional Mexican folk dance performance at Teatro Juárez.
  • Discover the secrets of Mexican silvermithing at the Museo de las Leyendas, featuring an extensive collection of intricately designed jewelry.
  • Take a leisurely afternoon walk along Paseo de la Presa, where you'll encounter vibrant street art and statuesque sculptures.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Guanajuato by sampling mezcal and dancing the night away at Cantina la Fama.
  • Savor the flavors of homemade Mexican cuisine at La Viga, a cozy restaurant offering delectable seafood dishes.
Day 4

Day Tripping to San Miguel de Allende

  • Take a scenic bus ride to the picturesque town of San Miguel de Allende, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant art scene.
  • Explore the colorful streets of San Miguel, admiring the charming facades and stunning courtyards of Casa de Allende.
  • Visit the awe-inspiring Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a neo-Gothic church that will leave you breathless.
  • Browse the artisanal markets of Mercado de Artesanías, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Indulge in a delicious pastry at Cumpanio, a local bakery known for its mouthwatering bread and sweet treats.
Day 5

Farewell to Guanajuato

  • Bid farewell to Guanajuato with a final breakfast at Café Tal, reminiscing about the past few days' adventures.
  • Wander through the enchanting Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a historic building that once housed revolutionary battles.
  • Visit the serene and picturesque San Francisco Church, with its beautiful bell tower and intriguing catacombs.
  • Treat yourself to a traditional Mexican lunch at La Capellina, where you can savor homemade mole and refreshing agua frescas.
  • As the sun sets over Guanajuato, head to Kiosco for a final evening of live music and dancing, celebrating the vibrant spirit of this enchanting city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Guanajuato, Mexico by plane is to fly into the Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) which is located near the city of Leon. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to reach Guanajuato, approximately a 30-minute drive away.

Car

To get to Guanajuato, Mexico by car, you can drive on major highways such as the Mexico 45 and Mexico 110. If coming from Mexico City, take the Mexico 57 highway north towards Queretaro, then follow signs to Guanajuato. The journey usually takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic and your starting point.

Train

There is no direct train service to Guanajuato, Mexico. However, you can take a train to Leon, Mexico which is the nearest city with a train station. From Leon, you can then continue your journey to Guanajuato by bus or taxi, which takes around 30 minutes.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Guanajuato, Mexico as it is a landlocked region. Being located in the central part of the country, Guanajuato does not have any coastal areas or ports. Therefore, traveling by boat would not be a viable option to reach Guanajuato.

Bus

The best way to reach Guanajuato, Mexico by bus is to take a bus to the Guanajuato Bus Station, also known as Central de Autobuses de Guanajuato. Many major cities in Mexico have direct bus routes to Guanajuato. Once you arrive at the bus station, you can easily take a taxi or use local transportation to reach your final destination.

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