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Not every exciting trip to Mexico needs to be anchored by a picture-perfect beach and luxury resorts. Many of Mexico’s historic cities can be the trip of a lifetime.
Whether you’re a foodie, a budget traveler, a history buff or just want to learn more about this fascinating country, crowded beaches are not the place.
Certainly, it’s fair to wonder whether Mexico’s major cities are safe, given the common mainstream narrative that Mexico is dangerous.
Any seasoned traveler will tell you that this is not the case, as millions and millions of Western tourists visit Mexico and return home unscathed.
There’s one timeless city that’s perfect for a summer vacation. Easy to reach, affordable, safe and with a European atmosphere: it’s time to plan your next holiday Guanajuato.
The anti-Mexico city
Mexico’s most popular destinations aren’t all beach vacations. Cancun is always at the top, but Mexico City is consistently in the top five.
While there’s no place quite like Mexico’s largest metropolis, there are certainly some frustrations and claustrophobia-inducing crowds to deal with.
Guanajuato is the anti-Mexico city, where traffic, crowds and Americanized chain restaurants are nowhere to be seen.
Okay, there is one Starbucks, but with all the local, cozy cafes in this city it’s easy to turn a blind eye.
Guanajuato is no longer a secret, but certainly one of a kind. Its history dates back to 1554 and is still best reflected today in its endless cobbled streets, dazzling architecture and fascinating traditions.
No skyscrapers, no name brand hotels, or inauthentic chain restaurants – not even a Chili’s at the airport.
Guanajuato is timeless. It’s possible are old, but never gets old to visit.
Budget-friendly and easy to explore
There are so many affordable getaways in Mexico, but not all of them are culturally compelling.
And there is undoubtedly no other place in Mexico with such a European flair.
Walking down certain streets you feel like you are in Spain, rather than the country that is often considered a danger zone outside of Cancun.
The streets of Guanajuato are very beautiful and you can wander around the city for hours without feeling like you’ve had enough.
There are a lot of hills here, but that’s really the only downside. Although it looks like it has been in a time capsule, Guanajuato does have some modern amenities for tourists, such as Uber.
This makes it easier to get around the city, especially when the hills get too tough. But one thing you don’t have to worry about is traffic. It’s easy to get lost with all the winding roads, but there’s a surprisingly effective tunnel system that eases the headache of traffic.
Less time on the road and more time enjoying your trip. Guanajuato is not only easy to explore, it is also very affordable.
What if you were told you were in a castle for less than $50 per night? Well, think about that at that moment…
There are some great places to stay, from cheap Airbnbs to local boutique hotels like Hotel San Diego, but Hotel Castillo Santa Cecilia surpasses them all.
Tucked away from the city center but still very convenient, this century-old historic building is Guanajuato’s greatest hidden gem.
I’ve personally stayed here twice and this unique stay will always be at the top of my list when I go back.
A solo traveler’s dream
Although solo travelers have the whole world at their fingertips, choosing the right place can be a daunting task.
The good news is that we solved your problem: go to Guanajuato!
With multiple direct flights to Leon, a 30-minute Uber* from Guanajuato, getting here is a lot easier than you might expect.
When you arrive, there are plenty of cheap places to stay, especially if you want some extra space instead of hostels.
It’s easy to find Airbnbs and boutique hotels on a budget and you won’t break the bank visiting the top sights, like the Museo de Mumias, and great restaurants.
Guanajuato is highly underrated for its old-fashioned, traditional cuisine and there may not be a more picturesque city in Mexico where you can enjoy a rooftop bar, and there are plenty!
*Side note for Uber pick-ups at Leon Airport: You will need to walk to the Oxxo store just outside the airport for a safe pick-up due to Uber/taxi conflicts.
Guanajuato city is very safe
Don’t let the news headlines scare you; Guanajuato City is much safer than the state of Guanajuato, where the US Department of State classifies it as ‘Level 3’.
Once you’re within the city limits, you’ll find yourself in a safe haven that both domestic and international tourists love to visit.
No matter how nice the weather is year-round, you’ll want to spend most of your time exploring.
I was only there in February and never felt an ounce of discomfort walking the streets late at night, going to bars and joining in the fun of the Estudiantinaa long tradition of storytelling and singing in the streets.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
