Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Daniel Fabian, Pexels
Guanajuato, Mexico, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and distinctive colonial architecture. The city's colorful buildings and winding cobblestone streets create a unique and unforgettable atmosphere to explore.
The city's lively plazas, museums, and art galleries provide ample opportunities to immerse oneself in local talent and traditions. Visitors can also experience unique cultural events like a callejoneada, a walk through the charming streets with musicians, or attend local festivals, fostering a lively social environment.
Top 7 Things to do in Guanajuato
Guanajuato offers a range of activities focused on historical exploration, cultural immersion, and scenic viewpoints.
1. Visit Monumento al Pípila
Ascend to the Monumento al Pípila for a breathtaking panoramic view of Guanajuato's colorful cityscape, especially enchanting at sunset when the city lights begin to sparkle. This monument honors Juan José Martínez Amaro, a hero of the Mexican War of Independence. It offers an ideal vantage point for photography and appreciating the city's unique layout.
Cost: The funicular ride costs 35 MXN one-way or 70 MXN for a round trip per adult. Walking up is free.
Transport: The funicular station is conveniently located behind the Teatro Juárez. Alternatively, local buses with 'Pipila' written on the front can take you directly to the monument for approximately 7 MXN. Walking up is also an option, though it is a steep climb.
2. Experience a Callejoneada
Participate in a Callejoneada, a traditional nocturnal walking tour through the city's narrow alleyways led by an 'estudiantina' (student musical group). These tours involve singing, dancing, and listening to local legends, including the tragic love story of the Alley of the Kiss, making for a lively and culturally immersive experience.
Cost: Prices for a Callejoneada typically range from 130 MXN to 280 MXN per person.
Transport: Callejoneadas generally depart from central locations, often near the Teatro Juárez or San Diego Church, and are walking tours.
3. Explore the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum)
Visit the unique and intriguing Mummy Museum, which houses a collection of naturally mummified bodies discovered in the local cemetery. While some find it disturbing, it offers a distinct glimpse into a unique aspect of Guanajuato's history and the natural mummification process in the region.
Cost: Entrance costs 85-101 MXN. An additional fee of approximately 36 MXN (around $2 USD) is charged for taking photos or videos inside.
Transport: The museum is located slightly outside the city center. A taxi ride from downtown takes about 15 minutes and costs approximately 39-50 MXN. Local buses also serve the area for about 5-15 MXN.
4. Tour Teatro Juárez
Step inside the grand Teatro Juárez, an architectural marvel from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its opulent red-and-gold interior with Moorish influences and the facade adorned with muses reflect a bygone era of lavish taste. It remains an important venue for performances, especially during the Festival Internacional Cervantino.
Cost: Admission to view the interior is around 30 MXN. Tickets for performances typically range from 50 MXN to 100 MXN.
Transport: Located centrally, the Teatro Juárez is within easy walking distance from most parts of the historic center.
5. Discover the Diego Rivera House-Museum
Visit the birthplace and childhood home of the renowned Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. This museum offers insights into Rivera's early life and artistic development, displaying a collection of his lesser-known early works alongside personal belongings and period recreations of the home.
Cost: General admission is 30 MXN. Discounts are available for children and Mexican students with valid ID (10 MXN).
Transport: The museum is situated in the city center and is easily accessible on foot.
6. Wander through the Underground Tunnels and Alleyways
Experience Guanajuato's unique urban planning by exploring its network of underground tunnels, originally built for flood control, and its countless narrow, winding cobblestone alleyways. This provides a distinctive perspective of the city's engineering ingenuity and historical layers, with hidden plazas and passages to discover.
Cost: Exploring the tunnels and alleyways on your own is free. Guided tours may be available at varying costs.
Transport: The tunnels and alleyways are an integral part of the city's pedestrian and vehicular routes, accessible by walking from anywhere in the city center.
7. Visit a Silver Mine
Delve into Guanajuato's rich silver mining heritage by visiting one of the historic mines, such as the La Valenciana Mine. This offers insight into the industry that once made Guanajuato a global leader in silver production, shaping its wealth and architecture.
Cost: Specific mine entrance fees were not readily available in recent articles, but tours often include mine visits. Expect a nominal entrance fee if visiting independently.
Transport: La Valenciana can be reached by a local bus departing from in front of the Alhóndiga, specifically looking for a bus that indicates 'La Valenciana'. Taxis are also an option.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
