Zona Centro Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural customs of Zona Centro in Tijuana, Mexico. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Zona Centro

Located in the heart of Tijuana in Baja California, Mexico, Zona Centro is one of the city’s most visited areas. This cultural hub is home to a diverse range of attractions including museums, historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or foodie, Zona Centro has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top places to visit, things to do, and local customs of Zona Centro.

List of Places to Visit in Zona Centro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Zona Centro is steeped in history and culture, with several museums and historical landmarks that are worth a visit. Some of the must-see attractions include:

  • Casa de la Cultura: A cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, concerts, dance performances, and literary events.
  • Museo de la Revolucion: This museum is dedicated to the Mexican Revolution and its heroes, with exhibits and artifacts showcasing the country’s struggle for independence.
  • Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT): A multifaceted cultural complex that houses a planetarium, art galleries, theaters, and a botanical garden.
  • Mercado Hidalgo: This traditional Mexican market sells a variety of foods, crafts, and souvenirs, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture.

Natural Attractions of Zona Centro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, Zona Centro provides several options. The most popular natural attractions in the area include:

  • Parque Morelos: A large park that features green spaces, playgrounds, and a lake where visitors can rent paddleboats and kayaks.
  • Parque de la Amistad: A beautiful park that offers hiking and jogging trails, an outdoor workout area, and stunning views of the city.
  • Tijuana River Estuary: A nature reserve that spans over 2,000 acres and is home to a variety of birds, plants, and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zona Centro

Zona Centro offers several hiking and biking routes, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the city’s natural landscapes. Some of the most popular hiking and biking trails include:

  • La Mision to Playas de Tijuana: A scenic coastal route that takes you through the heart of Zona Centro.
  • Tijuana to Rosarito: A challenging journey that takes you through the rugged terrain of the Baja Peninsula.
  • Las Canadas: A beautiful hike that leads you through forests and waterfalls, and offers stunning views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Zona Centro: Activities and Tours

In addition to the cultural attractions and natural landmarks, Zona Centro offers several activities and tours. Some of the most popular things to do in the area include:

  • Street food tour: Tijuana is known for its tasty street food, and a guided tour is the perfect way to sample some of the local delicacies.
  • Brewery tour: Tijuana’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, and a brewery tour is a great way to taste the local brews.
  • Shopping tour: Zona Centro is home to several shopping districts, including the famous Avenida Revolucion, where visitors can browse an array of shops, boutiques, and markets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zona Centro

If you’re planning to spend a week in Zona Centro, we’ve put together a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day 1: Explore Zona Centro’s museums and historical landmarks, including the Casa de la Cultura and Museo de la Revolucion. Day 2: Visit the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT) and take a stroll through the botanical garden. Day 3: Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes. Day 4: Hike or bike along one of Zona Centro’s scenic routes, such as La Mision to Playas de Tijuana. Day 5: Indulge in Tijuana’s street food scene and take a guided tour to sample the local delicacies. Day 6: Take a shopping tour of Avenida Revolución and browse the local markets and boutiques. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenery at one of Zona Centro’s parks or natural reserves, such as Parque Morelos or the Tijuana River Estuary.

Food and Drink Scene of Zona Centro

If you’re a foodie, Zona Centro won’t disappoint. The area boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with a variety of local dishes and drinks to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacos: Tijuana is famous for its street tacos, which come with a variety of fillings, including carne asada, al pastor, and fish.
  • Ceviche: A seafood dish that consists of raw fish marinated in citrus juice and spices.
  • Chiles Rellenos: A traditional Mexican dish made with stuffed peppers, usually filled with cheese or meat.

Local Beverages

  • Cerveza: Tijuana has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing some of the best beer in Mexico.
  • Tequila: Mexico’s national drink, tequila is produced in the state of Jalisco but is enjoyed throughout the country.
  • Margarita: A classic cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, the margarita is a popular drink in Tijuana’s bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Zona Centro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zona Centro offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the top lodging options in the area include:

  • Hyatt Place Tijuana: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and amenities such as a fitness center and outdoor pool.
  • Hostel California: A budget-friendly hostel with dorm rooms and private rooms, located near Tijuana’s main shopping district.
  • La Villa de Zaragoza: A traditional Mexican-style guesthouse with spacious rooms and a central location in Zona Centro.

What to Buy in Zona Centro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home some souvenirs or local products, Zona Centro has several options. Some of the best things to buy in the area include:

  • Mexican crafts: Zona Centro is home to several markets and boutiques that sell handmade crafts such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Tequila: If you’re a fan of tequila, you can bring home a bottle as a souvenir.
  • Tijuana t-shirts: Show your love for Tijuana by purchasing a t-shirt with the city’s name or logo.

Local Culture and Customs of Zona Centro

Mexico has a rich cultural heritage, and Tijuana’s customs and traditions are heavily influenced by its proximity to the United States. Some of the local customs and traditions of Zona Centro include:

  • Dia de los Muertos: A Mexican holiday that celebrates and honors deceased loved ones. Zona Centro hosts several events and celebrations during this time.
  • Mariachi music: Traditional Mexican music that is often played during weddings, festivals, and other celebrations.
  • Bullfighting: A controversial sport that is popular in some parts of Mexico, including Tijuana. The season runs from March to October, and several events are held at the Plaza de Toros Monumental.

Best Time to Visit Zona Centro

The best time to visit Zona Centro is from October to May, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. June to September is peak tourist season, with high temperatures and large crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zona Centro

When visiting Zona Centro, there are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

  • Try the food: Tijuana is known for its street food scene, so be sure to try some of the local delicacies during your stay.
  • Respect the culture: Mexico has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect locals’ customs and traditions.
  • Learn some Spanish: While many locals speak English, it’s always helpful to know a few key Spanish phrases to help you get around.

Don’t:

  • Flash your valuables: Like any other urban area, Zona Centro has its share of crime. Keep your valuables out of sight and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Take drugs: Despite the lenient drug laws in Mexico, it’s important to note that drugs are still illegal and can carry severe consequences.
  • Drink tap water: Stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick from the tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zona Centro

While Zona Centro is generally a safe area to visit, travelers should take precautions to stay safe.

  • Keep an eye on your belongings: Petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep your valuables safe.
  • Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit areas and use common sense when walking around at night.
  • Use official taxis: To avoid scams and getting ripped off, use licensed taxis or rideshare services.

Health in Zona Centro

Travelers to Zona Centro should be aware of the following health concerns:

  • Altitude sickness: Tijuana sits at an elevation of 130 meters, which can cause altitude sickness in some people.
  • Water quality: The tap water in Tijuana is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick.
  • Mosquito-borne illnesses: While rare, there have been cases of dengue fever and Zika virus in Mexico. Use mosquito repellent and cover exposed skin to avoid being bitten.

Getting to Zona Centro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Zona Centro is easily accessible from major cities in Mexico and the United States. The best ways to get to Zona Centro include:

  • Flying: The closest airport to Zona Centro is the Tijuana International Airport (TIJ), which is located just 10 minutes from the city center.
  • Driving: If you’re driving, Zona Centro is accessible via the San Diego-Tijuana border crossing.
  • Bus: Several bus companies offer service to Tijuana from major cities in Mexico, including Mexico City and Guadalajara.

How to Get Around in Zona Centro

Getting around Zona Centro is easy, with several transportation options available.

  • Walking: Zona Centro is a walkable area, with several attractions located within a few blocks of each other.
  • Taxi: Licensed taxis are available throughout Zona Centro and can be hailed on the street or through an app.
  • Public transportation: Tijuana has a network of buses and trolley lines that can take you to different parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Zona Centro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore other areas of Baja California, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

  • Rosarito: A popular beach town located just 30 minutes from Zona Centro.
  • Ensenada: A coastal city located two hours south of Tijuana, known for its wineries, seafood, and beaches.
  • Valle de Guadalupe: A wine region located east of Ensenada, known for its vineyards and tasting rooms.

Conclusion

Zona Centro is a cultural hub that offers something for everyone, from museums and historical landmarks to natural attractions and a vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or an extended stay, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit to Tijuana’s cultural heart.