Share the article
Last updated
If you visit certain cultural Mexican cities, you will forget the beaches of Cancun, Cabo and Puerto Vallarta.
One of these is Guanajuato, an enchanting city that feels like a time capsule of Europe.
But Travel and leisure has revealed another little-known gem in the neighborhood, a place that few Americans go and may never have heard of.
Cheap, authentic and far fewer tourists than any other worthwhile Mexican getaway, those with wanderlust running through their veins will love discovering Jalisco’s timeless hidden gem.
From preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites, dazzling cathedrals to mouth-watering cuisine, the affordable city Lagos de Moreno is ready for stardom.
The best of both worlds: the hidden treasure of Jalisco near Guanajuato
Lagos de Moreno may be in Jalisco, but it is actually closer to Guanajuato, allowing travelers to enjoy two of Mexico’s most cultural states.
American travelers can fly non-stop to Leon (BJX)the largest city in Guanajuato, with several airlines, including budget airlines:
- Dallas (American, Viva Aerobus)
- Houston (United, Viva Aerobus)
- San Antonio (Viva Aerobus)
- Fresno (Volaris)
- Oakland (Volaris)
- San José (Volaris)
- Los Angeles (Volaris)
- Chicago (Viva Aerobus, Volaris)
In other words, Lagos de Moreno is just as easy to reach the charming cities of Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende.
The latter and Lagos de Moreno are both 90 minutes from BJX compared to over 2 hours from Guadalajara.
Instead of heading east from BJX, it’s time to head west to Lagos de Moreno. As a multiple BJX pilot, here are 2 valuable tips to know:
- Due to Uber taxi conflicts, Uber passengers must book rides from the OXXO store just outside the airport grounds
- BJX is the only one airport lounge is worth the splurge! For approx. $35, enjoy endless drinks and food in a clean environment
A journey back in time, virtually without tourists
Your BJX Uber driver will assume you’re heading to Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende, but once you turn a U-ey east, you’re on your way to an unspoiled gem, at least from a tourist perspective.
But don’t be put off by the lack of tourists: it is well equipped for visitors. The city has over 100,000 inhabitants, with beautiful cobbled streets to explore and cozy boutique hotels as a base.
Order a local cup of coffee Joe at the top-rated Corbu Café to start your day and spend countless hours wandering the historic streets.
Relax as cheap stays like Meson del Alcalde less than $50 per night or one level higher Hotel Lagos Inn for less than $100.
The location just can’t be beat!
Lagos de Moreno is a renowned one Pueblo Magico, and the beautiful historic center is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The exact type of destination, perfect for exploring on foot to absorb all the historical sights, but especially the Parroquia de La Asuncióndating from the 16th century.
This unmissable wonder highlights the city center, along with other valuable sights such as the 18th century church, Templo del Calvarioand lives up to the nickname of this city: the ‘Athens of Jalisco’.
While you won’t find savory gyros and ancient relics of the Greek Empire, do tacos ever disappoint?
Jaliscos Underrated foodie destination
Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara top Jalisco’s tourism figures, but Lagos de Moreno could easily be the third most popular if only travelers knew this place.
From Tijuana to Chetumal, tourists enjoy Mexico’s extensive, flavorful cuisine, with each region offering its own unique offering.
And let’s say Jalisco has a town called Tequila…
Lagos de Moreno is best known for these 3 dishes:
- Birria Tatemada: slowly cooked meat dish, usually marinated in a spice mix and then smoked over a wood fire
- Rice Mole: their own twist on a complex dish made with a mix of peppers, spices and chocolate, served with rice
- Pacholas: small savory pastries filled with ground beef and herbs, typically served by street vendors
No frills Restaurant Santo Remedio is the ideal place to enjoy the taste of local cuisine on a budget.
✈️Join our Travel Off Path community forum: Where travelers come together, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel companions!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
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.
