The city of Querétaro has a wealth of historical and cultural sites to explore. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with charming plazas, centuries-old churches and magnificently preserved colonial buildings. The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the city and a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll. The imposing Cathedral of Queretaro is one of the main attractions and well worth a visit.
In addition to its architectural beauty, QuerĂ©taro is an important cultural and educational center. It has a large number of museums, theaters and cultural spaces where exhibitions, plays and concerts are held. The Teatro de la RepĂºblica, famous for being the place where the Mexican Constitution was promulgated, is an iconic symbol of the city.
Queretaro’s gastronomy is also outstanding, with a wide variety of traditional dishes and restaurants that offer delicious options. You can’t miss the enchiladas queretanas, zacahuil and gorditas de queso.
QuerĂ©taro is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, such as the Sierra Gorda and the region’s vineyards. These places offer opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and wine tasting.
Temperatures vary throughout the year, but in general, average temperatures range between 17 °C and 23 °C. However, during the summer (May to September) temperatures can reach 30 °C or more.
You will discover a city full of history, culture, gastronomy and nature, with a welcoming atmosphere that will make you want to come back again and again. Here are some tourist activities to do in the city of Queretaro:
- Explore the historic center (take a tour): Walk its cobblestone streets, visit the Plaza de Armas and admire the colonial architecture of the city. Discover the majesty of these buildings located in the heart of the city.
- Visit the Teatro de la RepĂºblica: Explore the place where the Mexican Constitution was promulgated in 1917 and marvel at its architectural beauty.
- Tour the Querétaro Aqueduct: Admire this impressive 18th century engineering work that has become a symbol of the city.
- Visit the city’s museums: Enjoy the exhibitions at the Regional Museum, the Art Museum of Queretaro and the City Museum.
- Discover the Casa de la Zacatecana: Visit this elegant colonial palace converted into a museum that exhibits art and period furniture.
- Explore the Convent Route: Visit the beautiful convents and churches of the Sierra Gorda, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
- Go wine tasting: Queretaro is known for its vineyards, so take the opportunity to enjoy a tasting experience at one of the local wineries.
- Visit El Cimatario National Park: Enjoy nature and outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching in this natural park.
- Enjoy the gastronomy of Queretaro: Try the typical dishes of the region such as gorditas, enchiladas queretanas and zacahuil.
- Tour the Zenea Garden: Relax in this beautiful garden located in the center of the city, surrounded by restaurants and cafes.
- Stroll through the Guerrero Garden: Enjoy its green areas, sculptures and central fountain. It is a perfect place to rest and take pictures.
- Visit Mercado La Cruz: Explore this lively market, where you will find local products, handicrafts and fresh food.
Queretaro is famous for its unique and delicious gastronomy. You can enjoy traditional Queretaro dishes such as the asado de boda, zacahuil and enchilada queretana. In addition, you will find a wide variety of regional products such as cheeses, wines and craft beers that will delight your palate.
Here are a few expamples of where you can enjoy those delicacies:
- El RincĂ³n Gourmet: It is a small but cozy place that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and offers delicious dishes with fresh ingredients.
- Pangea: With an elegant and distinguished atmosphere, this restaurant stands out for its signature cuisine and its careful presentation of creative dishes.
- Kumo Sushi & Lounge: Serves high-quality sushi and Japanese cuisine, with both traditional and innovative options.
- Don Artemio: Specializing in typical Mexican food, this restaurant offers authentic flavors and traditional dishes with fresh ingredients.
- El Itacate: A cozy and casual place that serves Mexican food and traditional antojitos with a homemade touch.
- La Biznaga: This restaurant offers a fusion gastronomic proposal with Mexican and Mediterranean influences, highlighting local ingredients.
- Mestizo Restaurant: Offers a mix of Mexican cuisine and Argentine style meats, with a rustic and comfortable atmosphere.
- Casa de Marquesa: Located in a beautiful boutique hotel, this restaurant serves contemporary Mexican cuisine in an elegant and tranquil setting.
- La Antigua Hacienda de Chipinque: Offers typical Mexican food and has a beautiful outdoor patio to enjoy the food and the surroundings.
Querétaro is known for its active cultural agenda, with music, theater, dance and art festivals throughout the year. You can enjoy events such as the Santiago de Querétaro Festival, the International Jazz and Blues Festival, and the International Livestock Fair, among many others.
- Querétaro International Film Festival: This festival shows a selection of independent and auteur films from different parts of the world.
- Querétaro Chamber Music Festival: Outstanding national and international musicians come together to present classical and chamber music concerts.
- Santiago de QuerĂ©taro Festival: It is celebrated in honor of the city’s patron saint, Santiago Apostle, and features parades, music, dances and religious activities.
- Querétaro Jazz Festival: Offers a variety of concerts and performances by local and international jazz artists.
- International Contemporary Dance Festival of Querétaro: Presents contemporary dance performances by national and international companies.
- International Cheese and Wine Fair: Held in the region of Tequisquiapan, it is a gastronomic festival that offers a wide variety of cheeses and wines from the region.
- Tequisquiapan Hot Air Balloon Festival: During this festival, the skies are filled with color with the presence of numerous hot air balloons.
- Cheese and Mezcal Festival in Bernal: In this festival you can enjoy a varied sample of artisanal cheeses and mezcals from the region.
- National Cheese and Wine Fair: It is held in Tequisquiapan and offers the opportunity to taste a variety of Mexican cheeses and wines.
- Cheese Bread Festival: A celebration that pays homage to this traditional product from Querétaro, with tastings, contests and cultural events.
- Mexican Wine Festival: It takes place in the vineyards and wineries of Queretaro, offering tastings, pairings and events related to wine culture.
- Day of the Dead Festival: Traditional celebration throughout the region, with altars, parades, catrinas contests and art exhibits related to the holiday.
- Querétaro Regional Theater Festival: Offers a diverse theatrical program with the participation of different theater companies and groups.
Despite being a city, Querétaro has a wide variety of stunning natural landscapes in its surroundings. Queretarans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. They will welcome you with open arms and make you feel at home. In addition, Queretaro is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico, which will allow you to enjoy your tourist activities with peace of mind.
- Bernal, Querétaro: Famous for its imposing monolith, it is a perfect place to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful panoramic views.
- Tequisquiapan, Querétaro: Known for its vineyards and incredible handicrafts market, it is ideal for tasting local wines and relaxing in its spas.
- Cadereyta de Montes, Querétaro: Surrounded by incredible natural landscapes, this town offers the opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
- Amealco de Bonfil, Querétaro: Renowned for its handcrafted pottery production and colorful festivities, it is a charming place to get to know the local culture.
- Jalpan de Serra, Querétaro: Located in the Sierra Gorda, this town stands out for its colonial architecture and its Franciscan missions, declared a World Heritage Site.
- Mineral del Chico, Hidalgo: Surrounded by forests and mountains, it is a perfect destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and climbing.
- Huichapan, Hidalgo: With its colonial architecture, botanical gardens and springs, this town transports you through time with its tranquil atmosphere.
- Real del Monte, Hidalgo: Famous for its mining history and English influence, this town is perfect for learning about mining in the region and tasting its famous pastes.
- Mineral de Pozos, Guanajuato: A former mining town that has been restored, it is now a picturesque place with art galleries and a bohemian atmosphere.
- San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato: Internationally recognized, this town enjoys beautiful architecture, art, gastronomy and a lively cultural life.
- Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato: Known as the place where Mexico’s Independence began, it is a town with a rich history and ceramic tradition.
- QuerĂ©taro, QuerĂ©taro: Although it is not a Pueblo MĂ¡gico, the state capital is a city full of history, culture and baroque architecture.
- TepotzotlĂ¡n, State of Mexico: It stands out for its former convent, now the National Museum of the Viceroyalty, and its impressive colonial architecture.
- Tula de Allende, Hidalgo: Famous for its pre-Hispanic constructions, such as the imposing sculptures of the Atlanteans.