Most people who visit Mexico don't venture away from the coast, which is a shame. This country has so much to offer travelers inland, and especially in the mountains. Guanajuato is the capital city of the state with the same name. Located at 2,017 meters above sea level, this city enjoys comfortable temperatures year round. With so many sights to see and a great climate, this UNESCO listed pueblo should display prominently on your travel itinerary.
Here are the top 5 things to do in Guanajuato:
1. Visit the Museo De Las Mommia (Mummy Museum)
This famous museum has to be one of the most bizarre in the world. Over 100 mummified bodies are on display here, all of which are very well-preserved. In 1865, these bodies were dug up in order to make room in the cemetery for more bodies. What they found weren't skeletons as predicted, but mummified remains. Due to the high levels of lime and clay in the soil, the bodies never fully decomposed. The smallest mummy in the world is also located here. Whether you think it's sad, creepy or fascinating, every Mexican will recommend you visit this museum.
2. Go on a Food Tour
There is only one food tour company in Guanajuato, Mexico Street Food Tours, and it's a must-do on your trip there. The guide, Tim, will not only show you the great street stalls to eat and drink at, but he has lived in the city for 2.5 years and has lots of information and tid-bits to share. You'll sample baked goods, fresh juice, local coffee, gorditas, tamales, sopes, tacos and ice cream. On top of eating your way around the town, you'll take a ride up the Funicular for spectacular views across the city, visit two markets and see the Alley Of The Kiss. This is a highly recommended tour.
3. See the Alhondiga De Granaditas (History and Art Museum)
This was once a massive grain and seed storehouse, which was built between 1798 and 1808. However, during the War of Independence in 1810, the Spanish used it as a fortress. The rebel leader from Mexico, Hidalgo, attempted to take the city of Guanajuato from the Spaniards, and even though the 20,000 or so Spanish people seemed safe in the fort, they couldn't win this battle.
A man named Juan José de los Reyes Martínez Amaro (who is now a local hero), set the door on fire and stormed the fort, while using a large stone slab strapped to his back as a guard from Spanish bullets. For a while this building was used as a prison, but it became a museum in 1967. This is a must-see to learn more about the history of Guanajuato and the War of Independence.
4. Go to the Symphony
The Teatro Principal offers shows each week, usually on Fridays. The theatre isn't as big as the nearby Teatro Juarez, but it has a balcony level and the performance here is spectacular. A symphony of violins, cellos, drums, trumpets, saxophones, flutes, clarinets and even a solo guitar make up the performance here. The music is spectacular and tickets are very affordable at around 80 pesos each.
5. Get Lost
Wandering around the numerous alleyways, streets, plazas and squares is the best part about a trip to Guanajuato. Colorful buildings and homes line the narrow streets, while beautiful plazas seem to pop up as is out of nowhere. You never know what you'll find from wandering around this gorgeous city. We highly suggest getting lost for a bit and seeing areas of the city that most tourists would not.
Have you ever been to inland Mexico? Where? Share with us below.
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