Guanajuato City travel guide

Guanajuato City travel guide

National Airports

The state of Guanajuato has two main airports that serve the area:

Guanajuato International Airport (BJX): This is the main airport in the state and is located in the city of Silao, approximately 30 minutes from the city of Guanajuato. It serves both domestic and international flights, with direct flights to several cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Del Bajío International Airport (LEN): This airport is also located in the city of Silao and serves domestic and international flights. However, it is smaller than the Guanajuato International Airport and has fewer direct flights.

Both airports offer transportation options to get to the city of Guanajuato, including shuttle services, taxis, and rental cars.

Trains in Guanajuato City

Unfortunately, there are no trains that operate within the city of Guanajuato. However, the Mexican government has announced plans to build a high-speed train system that will connect several cities in the Bajio region, including Guanajuato, Leon, and Queretaro. This project is still in the planning stages and it is unclear when it will be completed.

In the meantime, visitors can still travel to and from Guanajuato by bus or private car. The city has a modern bus terminal with frequent bus connections to other cities in Mexico, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, and San Miguel de Allende. The bus terminal is located on the outskirts of the city, but there are taxis and local buses available to take you to the city center.

Buses in Guanajuato City

Guanajuato has a well-developed bus system that serves the city and its surroundings. The buses are operated by different companies and offer different routes, but they are all relatively cheap and a convenient way to get around the city.

The main bus terminal in Guanajuato is located on the outskirts of the city, but there are also several bus stops in the city center. The most popular bus routes for tourists include those that go to the nearby towns of San Miguel de Allende and Dolores Hidalgo, as well as to the city of Leon.

It’s important to note that some of the buses in Guanajuato are small and narrow, which can be uncomfortable for some passengers. Additionally, the streets in the historic center of Guanajuato are narrow and winding, which can make it difficult for larger buses to navigate. As a result, it’s recommended that visitors explore the city on foot or by taking a taxi or local bus, which are more convenient for short trips within the city center.

How to get to Guanajuato City

Guanajuato is located in central Mexico and is well-connected to other cities in the country by road, air, and bus. Here are some of the ways to get to Guanajuato:

By plane: The nearest airport to Guanajuato is the Guanajuato International Airport (BJX), which is located about 30 minutes from the city center. It has direct flights to several cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to get to the city center.

By bus: Guanajuato has a modern bus terminal that serves several bus companies with connections to other cities in Mexico, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, and San Miguel de Allende. The bus terminal is located on the outskirts of the city, but there are taxis and local buses available to take you to the city center.

By car: Guanajuato is located about 4 hours north of Mexico City and can be reached via several highways. Visitors can rent a car in Mexico City or in Guanajuato and drive to the city.

Once you arrive in Guanajuato, you can explore the city by foot, taxi, or local bus. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, with many of the main attractions within walking distance of each other.

What is the best time to travel to Guanajuato City

The best time to travel to Guanajuato is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is also the high season for tourism in Guanajuato, so visitors can expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don’t mind cooler temperatures, the shoulder season of May to October can also be a good time to visit Guanajuato. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, but there may be occasional rain showers in the afternoons. Prices for accommodations may also be lower during this time.

It’s worth noting that Guanajuato hosts several popular festivals throughout the year, including the Festival Internacional Cervantino in October, which can attract large crowds and higher prices for accommodations. If you plan to visit during a festival, it’s recommended to book your accommodations well in advance.

How to get around Guanajuato City

Guanajuato City is a historic city with narrow streets and many pedestrian-only areas. As a result, the best way to get around the city is on foot. The city center is relatively small, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

If you prefer not to walk, there are several other options for getting around the city:

Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Guanajuato and are relatively cheap. They are a good option for longer trips or for getting to areas outside of the city center.

Local buses: Guanajuato has a well-developed bus system that serves the city and its surroundings. The buses are operated by different companies and offer different routes, but they are all relatively cheap and a convenient way to get around the city. It’s important to note that some of the buses in Guanajuato are small and narrow, which can be uncomfortable for some passengers.

Funicular: Guanajuato has a funicular that runs from the city center to the top of a nearby hill, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The funicular runs every day and is a fun and unique way to see the city from above.

Private cars: If you prefer to have more flexibility and independence, you can rent a car in Guanajuato or use a ride-sharing app. However, keep in mind that the streets in the historic center of Guanajuato are narrow and winding, which can make driving challenging for some visitors.

Accommodations in Guanajuato City

Guanajuato City offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

Hotels: Guanajuato has many hotels located in and around the city center, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Guanajuato are the historic center, San Javier, and Marfil. It’s recommended to book your hotel in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or during a festival.

Hostels: Guanajuato has several hostels that offer affordable accommodation options for travelers on a budget. Hostels are a great way to meet other travelers and often offer social events and activities.

Vacation rentals: Guanajuato has many vacation rentals available, including apartments, houses, and villas. These can be a good option for families or larger groups who prefer to have more space and privacy.

Bed and breakfasts: Guanajuato also has several bed and breakfasts that offer a more personalized experience. These are often located in historic buildings and offer a unique way to experience the city’s culture and history.

When choosing accommodations in Guanajuato, it’s important to consider the location and the amenities offered. Some accommodations may have steep stairs or narrow streets nearby, which can be difficult for some visitors to navigate. Additionally, some accommodations may not have air conditioning or heating, which can be important depending on the time of year you plan to visit.