What comes to mind when you think of Guanajuato? Unfortunately, I am sad to say (excuse my ignorance), but I couldn’t answer this question had you asked me a week ago. The same can be said for many places in Mexico, which is sad as it is our southern neighbor. But, on a more positive note, this allows me to go out and make my own judgement and then can recommend to others a place, much like I am about to do now. So let’s get it.
We arrived in San Miguel de Allende for a month-long dog-sit, which had turned out to be much longer than we would’ve wanted. We have truly been isolated in a retirement community geared towards retirees, in which we are literally half-a-century younger than each and every person we see on a daily basis. It doesn’t help that we hear American English every day in a country whose national language is Spanish. So naturally, we jumped at the idea when the owners of the dog we were sitting for offered to put the dog in a dog camp for a few days, allowing us to explore. After conferring with a map and seeing some beautiful pictures online, we were off to the San Miguel de Allende bus station to hop on a 1.5 hour bus up north to the capital of the Mexican state that shares its name – Guanajuato.
After our bus was delayed, we arrived in a dark city that we really couldn’t make out much through the windows of our taxi to our AirBnB. It was a rather uneventful night, in which we weaved through the narrow streets as required to reach our AirBnB. Luckily, we had a balcony and were on a hill, so we could see the glistening city below us. We knew, at that point, that it would be an epic view come sunrise. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. WORD OF ADVICE: Head to our AirBnB for views for dayzzzzz.
So, let’s get to the part you are waiting for: What to do in Guanajuato!
On our walk from our Airbnb to Mercado Hidalgo
Alhóndiga de Granaditas
A former granary turned into a fortress during the Mexican War of Independence, this site played a crucial role in the city’s history. Today, it’s a museum featuring exhibits on Mexican history, including artifacts from the independence movement. While we didn’t make it here because of time constraints, everyone told us its a must for next time.
Mercado Hidalgo
A must when visiting Guanajuato! Visiting the city’s largest indoor market where you can find just about anything – cooked to order food, fresh fruits, butchers with tons of meats, and even souvenirs and other items to commemorate your time in Guanajuato. As you might experience sensory overload with all of the food options (tacos, tortas, burritos…the list goes on), I recommend doing what we did – buy one small dish and then head to the next stall. We started with $2 tostadas topped with chopped octopus and ceviche, which really had a kick to them. We then perused the area and decided to fire up some yummy $2.50 tortas (little sandwiches) filled with chuleta (pork chops) and milanesa de pollo (breaded, fried chicken cutlets). We were tapped out after these two dishes, spending a whopping $4.50 per person. The idea was there, but we couldn’t hang for more food… but you should follow in our footsteps! The Mercado offers cheap local eats truly worth at least an hour of your time in Guanajuato.
El Pípila Monument
No matter where you are in Guanajuato, you can make out an enormous statue at the top of the hill. El Pípila is a significant landmark that honers a miner from Guanajuato, Juan José de los Reyes Martínez Amaro (El Pípila), who fought valiantly against the Spanish in the War for Independence. Inaugurated in 1939, the monument comes in at 28 meters tall and represents the bravery and sacrifice of Guanjuato’s citizens.
While it may look like very low, let me tell you it is a hike to get to the top. But, damn, when I say it’s a view…I mean it. Well no, actually it is the view. After weaving through the windy roads of the neighborhoods dotting the side of the mountain, it may feel that you aren’t making any progress. But, trust me, keep persevering and after about a 20-minute walk (or hike), you will have reached the top of the hill and are greeted by a massive statue of a man holding a rock, which is quite a greeting after your somewhat strenuous walk. You walk towards the edge and are welcomed by one of the most epic sights – a true panorama of the colorful city below. You have the perfect view of the University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara Cathedral, Templo Expiatorio del Santísmo Sacramento, and the Hospicio Cabañas. There will be many tour guides at the top trying to get you to pay for their services – just kindly say no and observe the beauty of Guanajuato at your leisure. There is a cafe right next to the overlook with an incredible terrace if you are fancying a drink to quench your thirst or treat yourself to a savory snack after your steep ascension.
Pro tip: If you don’t fancy a hike to the top of the hill, you can easily catch and Uber or taxi that will drop you off next to the statue but hey, what’s the fun in not sweating a little while you locate your view?
El Centro
Much like many other Latin American, or European for that matter, cities, the layout is generally the same – a centre complete with a major church, a square, and other historical buildings. Well, Guanajuato is no different. My recommendation to you would be to hit the centre both during the day and night to see how the views compare. Yet, there is a constant when you visit the centre at whatever time: it is beautiful. It almost has the feeling of being in Madrid’s Plaza del Sol complete with the surrounding stunning architecture. At night, the centre comes alive with several groups of mariachi eager to serenade you – of course, for a price.
Universidad de Guanajuato
Founded in 1732, the University of Guanajuato is one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in Mexico. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with grand staircases and intricate stonework
Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss)
One of the most famous spots in Guanajuato, this narrow alley has a romantic legend associated with it. Visitors often come here to hear the tale and take photos on the iconic balconies that are close enough for lovers to kiss across.
Teatro Juárez
This grand, neoclassical theater is one of the most beautiful buildings in Guanajuato. Completed in 1903, the interior is just as stunning as the exterior, with rich décor and a sense of old-world elegance. It regularly hosts performances and events. Much like other places on this list, I recommend going both during the day and at night to see the contrasts!
Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato
A stunning baroque-style basilica in the heart of the city, this church is home to an ancient statue of the Virgin Mary, which was a gift from King Charles I of Spain. Its bright yellow façade makes it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
All in all, Guanajuato is well-worth a visit. Don’t be like us and only spend a day here. Guanajuato really deserves at least three days to make the most of all the sights and museums. No matter how much time you spend in Guanajuato, the result is the same: you will not be disappointed!
