Zacatecas, Mexico on a Budget: A 5-Day Fiesta

Discover the beauty of Zacatecas, on a dime.

02 July 2023

Experience the vibrant culture of Zacatecas, Mexico without breaking the bank on a limited budget. Explore the city's rich history by visiting the stunning colonial architecture, such as the iconic pink-stoned Cathedral and the renowned Rafael Coronel Museum. Relish in the local cuisine by trying delicious street food and enjoying affordable family-owned restaurants serving traditional dishes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Zacatecas

  • Check into Hotel Posada del Carmen, a charming budget-friendly hotel with cozy rooms and a central location.
  • Stroll through the enchanting streets of Zacatecas and take in the vibrant colors and colonial architecture.
  • Visit the Museo Rafael Coronel, a delightfully eccentric museum filled with Mexican folk art and creepy miniatures.
  • Enjoy a traditional Mexican dinner at El Mesón de los Cómicos de la Legua, where the waiters act like clowns and the food is scrumptious.
  • End the day with a visit to Cerro de la Bufa, a majestic hill overlooking the city, where a cable car will take you to the breathtaking viewpoint.
Day 2

Discovering Zacatecas' History

  • Start the day with breakfast at Café El Grafico, a charming café with delicious coffee and a collection of vintage newspapers.
  • Explore the stunning Cathedral of Zacatecas, a masterpiece of Churrigueresque architecture that will leave you in awe.
  • Take a guided tour of the Mina El Edén, a once-operational silver mine that plunges deep into the earth and tells tales of Zacatecas' mining history.
  • Wander through the maze-like tunnels of Laberinto de las Ciudades Gemelas, an underground labyrinth where art and culture collide.
  • Treat yourself to an ice cream at Helados García, a local favorite that offers unique flavors like avocado and mole.
Day 3

A Day of Art and Culture

  • Visit the Pedro Coronel Museum, a treasure trove of contemporary art and pre-Hispanic artifacts collected by the artist himself.
  • Explore the Palacio de Gobierno, a stunning government building adorned with colorful murals by renowned painter Manuel Felguérez.
  • Attend a performance at the Teatro Calderón, a historic theater where world-class artists grace the stage.
  • Indulge in a decadent lunch at La Leyenda del Danzón, a restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes with a twist.
  • Spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful Jardín Juárez, a tranquil park perfect for people-watching and relaxation.
Day 4

Adventures in the Surrounding Nature

  • Embark on a day trip to Sierra de Órganos National Park, a surreal landscape of towering rock formations resembling organ pipes.
  • Hike the trails and marvel at the unique rock formations, keeping an eye out for rare flora and fauna.
  • Picnic amidst the natural beauty or enjoy a delicious meal at the park's on-site restaurant, Café del Mirador.
  • Take a leisurely horseback ride through the picturesque countryside, feeling like a true cowboy or cowgirl.
  • Capture stunning photographs of the mesmerizing sunset over the organ pipes, creating memories to cherish forever.
Day 5

Farewell, Zacatecas!

  • Visit the Museum of Zacatecas, housed in a former convent, to learn more about the region's history and artistic heritage.
  • Souvenir shopping! Explore the Mercado González Ortega, a vibrant market filled with local crafts, textiles, and traditional treats.
  • Savor one last meal at El Bajío, a delightful restaurant serving authentic Zacatecan cuisine bursting with flavor.
  • Take a picturesque stroll along the Alameda Trinidad García de la Cadena, a charming park lined with trees, flowers, and fountains.
  • Bid farewell to Zacatecas with a sunset rooftop cocktail at Hotel Emporio Zacatecas, enjoying panoramic views of the city before your departure.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Zacatecas, Mexico by plane is to fly into General Leobardo C. Ruiz International Airport, located in Zacatecas.

Car

The best way to get to Zacatecas, Mexico by car is to drive on Highway 45, which connects Zacatecas with other major cities in Mexico. You can rent a car from nearby airports or cities.

Train

There is no train station in Zacatecas, Mexico. Therefore, the best way to reach Zacatecas by train is to take a train to Aguascalientes and then take a bus or rent a car for the remaining journey.

Boat

Zacatecas, Mexico is a landlocked state so there are no boat services available to reach it.

Bus

To reach Zacatecas, Mexico by bus, you can take a bus to Zacatecas Central Bus Station from various cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey.

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Experience the vibrant culture of Zacatecas, Mexico without breaking the bank on a limited budget. Explore the city's rich history by visiting the stunning colonial architecture, such as the iconic pink-stoned Cathedral and the renowned Rafael Coronel Museum. Relish in the local cuisine by trying delicious street food and enjoying affordable family-owned restaurants serving traditional dishes.