Centro Travel Guide (Monterrey/Nuevo León/Northern Mexico/Mexico/North America)

Centro Travel Guide

Welcome to Centro, a charming district in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. Centro is a historic and cultural hub of the city, with a rich past and plenty of modern amenities that make it a must-visit destination. In this travel guide, we’ll explore Centro’s main attractions, best things to do, where to eat and stay, local customs and culture, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Centro

Centro is one of the oldest and most significant neighborhoods in Monterrey, and it’s full of places you won’t want to miss. Here are the top attractions in Centro:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Monterrey - A stunning cathedral that dominates the Centro skyline.
Palacio de Gobierno - Built in the 19th century, this historic government palace now houses a museum.
Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Monterrey - A modern art museum featuring national and international art exhibitions.
Museo de Historia Mexicana - A museum showcasing Mexico’s history.

Natural Attractions of Centro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parque Fundidora - An urban park with plenty of green spaces, gardens, and outdoor activities.
Cerro de la Silla - A mountain range that offers hiking trails and scenic views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Centro

Cerro de la Silla - Trek the highest peak of Monterrey or riding bikes on skilled-level trails.

Best Things to Do in Centro: Activities and Tours

Take a walking tour of the historic district.
Explore Parque Plaza Sesamo with your family.
Visit the famous Barrio Antiguo and its vibrant nightlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Centro

Here’s a sample itinerary for a weeklong trip to Centro:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Cerro de la Silla
Day 2	Go to the Palacio de Gobierno and Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Monterrey
Day 3	Explore Parque Fundidora
Day 4	Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Monterrey and Museo de Historia Mexicana
Day 5	Enjoy Barrio Antiguo and its vibrant nightlife
Day 6	Take a day trip to Santa Lucia Riverwalk
Day 7	Relax at your hotel or enjoy last-minute shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Centro

Centro is a dining paradise, with plenty of local and international flavors to suit every taste bud. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Cabrito - A regional slow-roasted goat dish.
Carne Asada - Grilled beef or steak that comes with fresh salsa, guacamole, and beans.

Local Beverages

Michelada - A beer-based cocktail made with lime juice, hot sauce, and tomato juice.
Tequila - A famous Mexican alcoholic drink made from the blue agave plant.

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

InterContinental Presidente Monterrey - A high-end hotel that offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Safi Centro Monterrey - A luxury hotel that offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Centro.
Hotel Santiago - A boutique hotel that offers unique decor and a fantastic on-site restaurant.

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

Mexican Alebrijes - Hand-carved and painted mythical creatures and animals made from wood.
Ponchos - A traditional clothing item that can be worn as an outer layer or blanket.

Local Culture and Customs of Centro

Centro has a diverse and unique culture influenced by a mix of Mexican and European heritage. The area is known for its friendly locals and vibrant nightlife.

Best Time to Visit Centro

The best time to visit Centro is from November to April, when the weather is mild and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Centro

Do:

Try local food and drinks.
Take a guided tour of the city.
Take part in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

Wear revealing clothing in public.
Drink tap water.
Litter on the streets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Centro

Centro is a relatively safe area, but visitors should always be vigilant and take precautions, especially at night.

Health in Centro

Visitors to Centro should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up-to-date, and they should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

Getting to Centro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Centro

The nearest airport to Centro is Monterrey International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Centro

The central bus station in Monterrey is the Station of Autobuses de Monterrey.

Other Options

Taxis and Uber rides are readily available in Centro, and public transportation, such as buses and metro, are also frequent.

How to Get Around in Centro

Rent a bike or scooter from bike-sharing programs Bici+ or VeoVe.

Where to Go Next from Centro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visit Nature reserve “Chipinque” and marvel at its stunning views of the city.
Relax on the beaches of San Miguel de Allende.
Visit the charming town of San Pedro Garza García.

Conclusion

Centro offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities that appeal to all kinds of travelers. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most out of your time in this captivating neighborhood.