Guanajuato is the heart of Mexico’s colonial highlands. Silver made this central state rich in the 17th and 18th centuries, and the wealth built baroque churches, mansions and two towns that UNESCO now protects: Guanajuato city and San Miguel de Allende. It is also where the War of Independence began in 1810.
Why visit Guanajuato
For walkable colonial towns, colourful streets, a lively arts scene, good food and wine, and a mild highland climate. Distances are short, so it is easy to combine two or three towns in one trip.
Top places to visit in Guanajuato
San Miguel de Allende
A town of cobbled lanes, courtyards and galleries around the pink neo-Gothic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Nearby, the Sanctuary of Atotonilco is covered in painted murals.
Guanajuato city
The state capital fills a narrow ravine: tunnels carry traffic under the centre, alleys such as the Callejón del Beso climb the hills, and the Teatro Juárez and the Alhóndiga de Granaditas recall its history. The Pípila viewpoint looks over it all.
Dolores Hidalgo
Where Miguel Hidalgo called for independence in 1810. Today it is known for its Talavera-style ceramics and its ice creams in unusual flavours.
León
Mexico’s leather and shoe capital, with shopping streets and a large balloon festival in November.
Best time to visit Guanajuato
October to April is dry and sunny, with cool nights at about 2,000 metres. October brings the Festival Internacional Cervantino, and Day of the Dead and Holy Week are colourful in San Miguel. Summer has afternoon showers.
Getting to and around Guanajuato
Bajío International Airport (BJX), near León and Silao, is the main airport; Querétaro is another option for San Miguel. Comfortable first-class buses link the towns and Mexico City, and shuttles run from the airports.
What to eat in Guanajuato
Enchiladas mineras with potatoes and carrots, guacamayas (pork-crackling rolls) in León, cajeta caramel from Celaya, strawberries from Irapuato and wines from the vineyards around San Miguel and Dolores.
Guanajuato travel tips
- Wear comfortable shoes: streets are steep and cobbled.
- Book early for the Cervantino, Day of the Dead and Holy Week.
- Pack a jacket: nights can be cool in winter.
Guanajuato FAQ
Is San Miguel de Allende in Guanajuato?
Yes. San Miguel de Allende is in the state of Guanajuato, about 95 km from Guanajuato city.
How many days do you need?
Four or five days for San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato city and Dolores Hidalgo.
