Guanajuato is a stunning, colourful city built within a valley connected by charming streets and historical tunnels.
The narrow, winding alleyways, vibrant houses perched on the hillside, and a history as rich as its silver mines, make it a place that leaves a lasting impression.
If you’ve only got 2 days to explore this gem of a city, don’t worry – you can still experience the best it has to offer.
Here’s a list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Guanajuato in Just 2 Days.
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in History and Culture
1. Visit the Alhóndiga de Granaditas
Kick off your day by diving into Guanajuato’s history at the Alhóndiga de Granaditas. The museum was once a grain storage building, and it played a key role during Mexico’s War of Independence in the 19th century.
The museum inside offers a brilliant insight into Mexico’s fight for freedom, with artwork and artefacts that bring the city’s past to life.
Tip: Get there early to avoid the crowds and really soak in the history.
2. Explore the Mummies Museum (Museo de las Momias)
For something a bit different (and definitely a little eerie), head to the Mummies Museum.
The museum is home to naturally mummified bodies that were discovered in the local cemetery.
It’s one of Guanajuato’s most famous attractions and allows you to learn a little about the city’s fascinating burial customs.
3. Stroll Through Mercado Hidalgo
You’ll find everything from traditional crafts to delicious street food in this massive market hall.
Wander through and pick up a souvenir, sample some enchiladas mineras, or just soak up the lively atmosphere.
Tip: Try the aguas frescas (refreshing fruit drinks) – they’re the perfect way to cool off after a morning of sightseeing.
4. Take a Photo at Callejón del Beso (Kissing Alley)
This is one of the most iconic spots in Guanajuato – a tiny alleyway (which measures just 168cm/66 inches wide) so narrow that lovers can lean across balconies for a kiss.
The Callejón del Beso (Alley of the Kiss) comes with its own local legend of a tragic, forbidden love between a daughter, Ana, and a humble miner, Carlos:
Ana and Carlos fell in love, despite her father’s orders that she marry a wealthy man. When her father found out, he locked her away, after which Carlos bought the adjacent house with a balcony facing her window, allowing the lovers to meet secretly across the narrow alley. But one night, Ana’s father caught them kissing and, in a rage, killed her. Heartbroken, Carlos is said to have died soon after.
It’s a lovely, romantic spot to snap a picture (or to have a little laugh at the nearby shops selling posters on how to kiss!) while you wander and soak in the city’s charm.
5. Enjoy the View from El Pípila Monument
To wrap up your first day, take a short hike (or a quick funicular ride) up to the El Pípila Monument.
From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the entire city – the perfect way to end a busy day of exploring.
The sight of the colourful buildings sprawled across the hills is absolutely beautiful, especially as the sun sets.
| Single Ticket Cost | Return Ticket Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | MX $35 | MX $70 |
| Children (aged 4 to 11) and Older Adults (with INAPAM ID) | MX $15 | MX $30 |
| Children (aged 3 and under) | Free | |
Tip: You can always ride the funicular one direction and walk the other for a change of pace and to save a few pennies!
Day 2: Dive Into Art, Architecture, and Local Flavours
6. Wander Around the Jardín de la Unión
Start day two with a leisurely stroll around the Jardín de la Unión, Guanajuato’s main square.
It’s lined with beautiful trees, cafés, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab breakfast or a coffee and watch the world pass you by – it’s a great spot if you love people-watching!
7. Tour the Teatro Juárez
Just around the corner from the Jardín de la Unión is the Teatro Juárez, one of the most stunning theatres in Mexico.
Even if you’re not planning to catch a show, the building itself is very impressive. The architecture is a mix of neoclassical and Moorish styles, and the interior is just as good!
Tip: You can take a guided tour to learn about its history and get a closer look at the intricate details. Tours are in Spanish only, and take place at regular intervals throughout the day.
8. Visit the Diego Rivera Museum
Diego Rivera, one of Mexico’s most famous artists (and Frida Kahlo’s husband), was born right here in Guanajuato.
His childhood home has been turned into a museum showcasing his early works, sketches, and personal artefacts.
We personally preferred Diego Rivera’s museum to Frida Kahlo’s museum. Both are very similar, in the way that they are their old homes turned into a museum/gallery. However, for us, Diego’s was the better choice. It’s more interesting, bigger, hosts other artist exhibitions and is a FRACTION of the cost (30 MXN / £1.20 each compared to 320 MXN / £12.50 for Frida Kahlo’s house).
It’s a fantastic stop for anyone interested in Mexican art and history.
9. Get Lost in the Callejones (Alleys)
One of the best things to do in Guanajuato is simply wandering through its seemingly-endless maze of narrow alleyways. You don’t even need to follow a map or specific route. Just follow your feet and see what you come across!
You’ll discover charming hidden corners, street art, and maybe even a mariachi band playing in a plaza.
We particularly liked the area around the Diego Rivera Museum (Positos Street), up the hill, as it’s a little quieter than the main street down below.
Another favourite of ours was the Plaza de San Fernando, which had loads of restaurants and bars with a lovely atmosphere!
Tip: If you’re visiting in the evening, keep an ear out for the Callejoneadas, which are traditional musical tours where locals dressed as troubadours lead you through the alleys telling stories via songs. It’s a fun and unique experience!
10. Sample Traditional Guanajuato Cuisine
End your trip with a true taste of Guanajuato. Head to a local restaurant and try enchiladas mineras, a local dish made with tortillas filled with chicken or cheese, covered in a rich red sauce and topped with cheese, lettuce, and onion.
Pair it with a mezcal or a cold cerveza, and you’ve got the perfect (and VERY Mexican) final meal for your two-day adventure.
Two days in Guanajuato might not feel like enough, but it’s actually plenty enough to see the best of what this lovely city has to offer!
Make sure you’ve got a good pair of walking shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking here!
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