Monterrey on a Budget: History, Art, Food & Fun!

Discover the magic of Monterrey, Mexico without breaking the bank.

02 July 2023

Monterrey, Mexico offers plenty of opportunities for a budget-friendly trip. Start by exploring the free attractions such as the Macroplaza, a spacious park with stunning monuments and fountains. Opt for affordable street food and local markets to try delicious Mexican cuisine while saving money, and consider staying at budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Historic Monterrey

  • Start your day at the Macroplaza, the heart of Monterrey, with its stunning Fountain of Life and iconic Faro del Comercio.
  • Fuel up on chiles rellenos and tortas de tamal at El Rey del Cabrito, a local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Visit the incredible Museo del Noreste to learn about the history and culture of Nuevo Leon through interactive exhibits.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Santa Lucía Riverwalk, admiring the sculptures and water features along the way.
  • Catch a sunset ride on the Paseo Santa Lucia riverboat, enjoying live music and sipping on a refreshing michelada.
Day 2

Nature's Wonders and Eclectic Art

  • Head to the stunning Parque Fundidora, a former steelworks turned urban oasis, for a morning run or bike ride.
  • Visit the MARCO Museum, housing an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art from both local and international artists.
  • Satisfy your hunger at La Nacional, a quaint eatery serving mouthwatering cabrito (roasted goat) tacos.
  • Take a short trip to Grutas de García, ancient caves with impressive rock formations that will transport you to another world.
  • Catch a breathtaking sunset view from the top of the iconic Cerro de la Silla, a must-see natural landmark.
Day 3

Foodie Adventure and City Views

  • Start your day at Barrio Antiguo, the city's historic district, and feast on a hearty Mexican breakfast at Café Iguana.
  • Meander through the colorful Barrio Antiguo streets, discovering hidden art galleries and quirky vintage shops.
  • Head to the Museo del Vidrio for a unique experience exploring the world of glass, from ancient artifacts to stunning modern installations.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at La Reyna del Cabrito with their delicious chicharrón de guisado, a local delicacy of crispy pork rinds.
  • End your trip on a high note by riding the Santa Catarina Cable Car to Cerro del Obispado, offering panoramic views of Monterrey's skyline.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Monterrey, Mexico by plane is to fly into Monterrey International Airport (MTY), which is the main airport serving the city. There are numerous daily flights from major cities in Mexico and various international destinations.

Car

To reach Monterrey, Mexico by car, you can take different routes depending on your starting point. From the United States, you can drive south along Interstate 35 and cross the border at Laredo, Texas. From other parts of Mexico, there are several highways that connect to the city.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Monterrey, Mexico.

Boat

Monterrey, Mexico is an inland city and does not have direct access to the sea, so there are no boat services available.

Bus

A popular way to get to Monterrey, Mexico is by bus. From major cities in Mexico, you can take a bus to the Central de Autobuses de Monterrey, which is the main bus station in the city.

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