Querétaro is a small state with a lot packed into it. Its capital, Santiago de Querétaro, is one of Mexico’s best-kept colonial cities; an hour away, vineyards and cheese farms surround the Peña de Bernal, and in the north the mountains of the Sierra Gorda hide richly carved mission churches. It is an easy trip from Mexico City.
Why visit Querétaro
For a relaxed mix of culture, food and countryside: pedestrian streets and plazas, a wine and cheese route with tastings, small Pueblos Mágicos and green mountains, all within a few hours’ drive.
Top places to visit in Querétaro
Santiago de Querétaro
The UNESCO-listed historic centre has plazas, baroque churches and convents, and the 18th-century aqueduct with its long line of tall arches. The Plaza de Armas and Jardín Zenea are lively in the evening.
Peña de Bernal
A huge rock monolith rising behind the village of Bernal, a Pueblo Mágico of cobbled streets and sweet shops. A path climbs part of the way up for wide views.
Tequisquiapan
A peaceful town of flowered plazas, craft markets and thermal water pools, at the centre of the wine and cheese route.
The wine and cheese route
Wineries around Ezequiel Montes, Bernal and Tequisquiapan offer tours and tastings of sparkling and still wines, alongside local cheese makers.
Sierra Gorda missions
Five Franciscan missions with brightly carved façades – Jalpan, Concá, Landa, Tilaco and Tancoyol – stand in the mountains of the north. The road is long and winding but beautiful.
Best time to visit Querétaro
October to May is dry and sunny, with cool mornings. The wine and cheese fair in Tequisquiapan is held around late May and June, and the grape harvest festivals follow in summer. June to September brings afternoon rain and green landscapes.
Getting to and around Querétaro
Querétaro International Airport (QRO) has domestic and some US flights. The city is about 220 km (2.5–3 hours) from Mexico City by motorway, with frequent first-class buses. A car is the easiest way to explore the wine route, Bernal and the Sierra Gorda.
What to eat in Querétaro
Enchiladas queretanas, gorditas de migajas, fresh and aged local cheeses, nopal dishes and the region’s sparkling wines.
Querétaro travel tips
- Avoid the weekend crowds at Bernal if you can: go early or on a weekday.
- Choose a driver if you plan several wine tastings.
- Allow two days if you want to see the Sierra Gorda missions.
Querétaro FAQ
How far is Querétaro from Mexico City?
About 220 km, or 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus.
Can you climb the Peña de Bernal?
A marked path goes part of the way up; the summit is only for experienced climbers with equipment and a guide.
