Querétaro (state) Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Querétaro (state) with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, accommodations, local culture, safety information, transportation options, and more.
- Introduction to Querétaro (state)
- List of Places to Visit in Querétaro (state)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Querétaro (state)
- Best Things to Do in Querétaro (state): Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Querétaro (state)
- Food and Drink Scene of Querétaro (state)
- Where to Stay in Querétaro (state): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Querétaro (state): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Querétaro (state)
- Best Time to Visit Querétaro (state)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Querétaro (state)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Querétaro (state): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Querétaro (state)
- Where to Go Next from Querétaro (state): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Querétaro (state)
Located in the Bajío region of Mexico in North America, Querétaro is a state known for its colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and natural attractions. The state’s capital city, also called Querétaro, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for history buffs, while nature lovers will enjoy exploring the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve. Querétaro’s food and drink scene also offers a variety of mouth-watering dishes and refreshing beverages to try.
List of Places to Visit in Querétaro (state)
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Aqueduct of Querétaro: Built in the 18th century, this aqueduct is a masterpiece of civil engineering and is a symbol of Querétaro.
- Cerro de las Campanas: Site of Emperor Maximilian’s execution in 1867, this hill offers excellent views of the city of Querétaro and the surrounding mountains.
- Museum of the City of Querétaro: Located in a restored colonial-era mansion, this museum offers exhibits on the history and culture of the state’s capital.
- Teatro de la República: This theater is famous for its role in Mexican history as the site of the 1917 signing of the Constitution of Querétaro.
Natural Attractions of Querétaro (state): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Peña de Bernal: This massive monolith is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Mexico and is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.
- Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve: Covering over 1 million hectares, this nature reserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including jaguars, pumas, and black bears.
- Puente de Dios: Meaning “Bridge of God,” this natural formation is a set of small waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation, and is a great spot for swimming and hiking.
- El Sótano: Located in the Sierra Gorda, this cave is one of the largest in the world and is home to millions of bats.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Querétaro (state)
- El Camino Real: This trail used to be a part of the main road between Mexico City and Santa Fe, and offers stunning views of the countryside and historic landmarks.
- El Jardín de las Esculturas: This sculpture garden offers a network of hiking and biking trails, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- La Peña de Bernal: Climbing this monolith is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering amazing views of the surrounding landscape when reaching the top.
- Parque Nacional El Cimatario: With a variety of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, this park is a great place for hikers and bikers of all levels.
Best Things to Do in Querétaro (state): Activities and Tours
- Join a Walking Tour: Joining a walking tour is the perfect way to explore the historic center of Querétaro, while learning about its history and culture.
- Take a Wine Tasting Tour: Querétaro is known for its wine production, and there are many tours available to visit local vineyards and taste some of the best wines in the region.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Get a bird’s eye view of Querétaro’s stunning landscape by taking a hot air balloon ride.
- Visit a Local Market: Querétaro is home to several bustling markets, where visitors can find local handicrafts, fresh produce, and traditional food and drinks.
Week-Long Itinerary for Querétaro (state)
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore the historic center of Querétaro and visit the Aqueduct |
| 2 | Hike or bike in El Cimatario National Park |
| 3 | Try some of the local wines on a vineyard tour |
| 4 | Visit the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve |
| 5 | Learn about the region’s history at the Museum of the City of Querétaro |
| 6 | Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside |
| 7 | Relax in a local market and try some traditional food and drinks |
Food and Drink Scene of Querétaro (state)
Must-Try Dishes
- Enchiladas Queretanas: These are enchiladas filled with potatoes and topped with a tomato-based sauce, cheese, and onion.
- Escamoles: These white ant larvae are a delicacy in Mexico and are commonly eaten scrambled with eggs or in a taco.
- Gorditas: These are similar to corn cakes stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, beans, or meat.
- Cabrito al Pastor: This roasted goat dish is marinated in a sauce with pineapple, achiote, and other spices.
Local Beverages
- Pulque: This fermented drink is made from the sap of the maguey plant and has a sour taste.
- Mezcal: Similar to tequila, mezcal is made from the agave plant and is known for its smoky flavor.
- Cerveza Artesanal: Querétaro is home to a variety of craft breweries, making it a great place to try some locally brewed beers.
- Agua de Jamaica: This refreshing hibiscus tea is a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Querétaro.
Where to Stay in Querétaro (state): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hotel Mesón de la Merced: Located in the heart of Querétaro’s historic center, this hotel features colonial architecture, modern amenities, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
- Hostel Casa Frida: A budget-friendly option located in the historic center, Casa Frida offers a communal kitchen, free breakfast, and a lively atmosphere.
- Hotel Hacienda Jurica: This luxurious hotel is set in a historic hacienda and features an outdoor pool, spa, and golf course.
- Casa La Marquesa: Located in the countryside of Querétaro, this guesthouse offers peaceful surroundings, a horse ranch, and home-cooked meals.
What to Buy in Querétaro (state): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Soapstone Carvings: Hand-carved soapstone figures are a common sight in markets across Querétaro.
- Talavera Pottery: This colorful, hand-painted pottery is a specialty of Querétaro.
- Local Wines: Querétaro’s wine region produces some excellent white and red wines, perfect for bringing home as a special gift or souvenir.
- Traditional Clothing: Folkloric dresses and woven shawls are beautiful examples of Querétaro’s traditional clothing.
Local Culture and Customs of Querétaro (state)
Querétaro is a state known for its rich cultural heritage, with music, dance, and religion being integral parts of daily life. The state is home to several famous festivals, including the International Festival of Santiago de Querétaro and the Festival of the Cheese and Wine Route. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and it is customary to greet others with a smile and a “buenos días” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), or “buenas noches” (good evening).
Best Time to Visit Querétaro (state)
The best time to visit Querétaro is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The rainy season runs from May to September, with heavy downpours and tropical storms being common. While this time of year can be beautiful and lush, it is not as ideal for outdoor activities or sightseeing.
Do’s and Don’ts of Querétaro (state)
Do:
- Do try the local cuisine and beverages - Querétaro has a rich food and drink scene that is not to be missed.
- Do respect the local customs and traditions - Querétaro’s culture is deeply rooted in its history and is respected by locals.
- Do bring sunscreen and insect repellent - The state has a lot of outdoor activities that may require protection from the sun and bugs.
- Do take a tour or hire a guide - Querétaro has a lot of history and attractions that are best explored with someone who knows the area well.
Don’t:
- Don’t drink tap water - Stick to bottled water to avoid getting sick.
- Don’t leave valuables unattended - As with any travel destination, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings to avoid theft.
- Don’t disrespect religious sites or symbols - Querétaro’s strong religious history deserves respect, and visitors should dress appropriately and behave respectfully while visiting religious sites.
Safety and Health
Safety in Querétaro (state)
Querétaro is a generally safe destination, with low levels of violent crime and a welcoming local population. However, visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not flaunting expensive belongings. It’s also a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Health in Querétaro (state)
Querétaro is a relatively safe destination for health and medical concerns, but visitors should still be up to date with their routine vaccinations before travelling. It’s also a good idea to bring insect repellent and to wear long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites, as dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses can be a concern in some areas.
Getting to Querétaro (state): Transportation Options and Logistics
Getting to Querétaro is easy, with several transportation options available:
- Fly into Querétaro International Airport: Buses and taxis are available for transport into the city.
- Take a bus: Several bus lines operate in the region, offering a range of schedules and budgets.
- Drive: Querétaro is accessible by car via several highways.
Airports Near Querétaro (state)
- Querétaro International Airport (QRO)
- Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
- Léon-Guanajuato International Airport (BJX)
Bus Stations Near Querétaro (state)
- Central de Autobuses de Ciudad de Querétaro (Querétaro)
- Central de Autobuses del Norte (Mexico City)
- Central de Autobuses de León (León)
Other Options
- Hail a taxi or ride-hailing service once in Querétaro.
- Rent a car from a reputable operator.
How to Get Around in Querétaro (state)
The most convenient and reliable way to get around Querétaro is by car or taxi. However, visitors looking for a more adventurous way to see the state can also use public buses or hire a guide to explore the countryside.
Where to Go Next from Querétaro (state): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Mexico City: The capital of Mexico is only a few hours’ drive from Querétaro and offers endless attractions, including world-class museums, historic landmarks, and excellent food and drink.
- San Miguel de Allende: This charming colonial town is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant art scene, and excellent dining.
- Guanajuato: This colorful town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning architecture, narrow alleys, and underground tunnels.
Conclusion
Querétaro offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors, from exploring historic landmarks to hiking in the great outdoors. The state’s rich food and drink scene, friendly locals, and ease of accessibility make it a must-visit destination for travellers to Mexico.
