A UNESCO listed Mexican silver mining city of colorful hillside houses and a maze of underground tunnel roads.

Why Visit Guanajuato

Guanajuato’s wealth from centuries of silver mining built one of Mexico’s most visually striking cities, with brightly painted houses stacked up steep hillsides above a maze of narrow alleys and, uniquely, a network of former riverbed tunnels now used as underground roads. Its UNESCO listed historic center and student energy from the University of Guanajuato give it a lively, colorful character.

Top Experiences

  • Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss): A famously narrow alley tied to a local legend of star crossed lovers, one of the city’s most photographed spots.
  • Underground tunnel roads: A unique network of former riverbed tunnels repurposed as roads beneath the historic center.
  • Museo Iconografico del Quijote: A museum devoted entirely to Don Quixote themed art, reflecting the city’s literary festival heritage.
  • Mummy Museum (Museo de las Momias): A famous and unusual museum displaying naturally mummified bodies discovered in local cemeteries.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Guanajuato.

Tacos Tequila y Más - The Centro of Centro (Vegetarian Friendly)

Tacos Tequila y Más - The Centro of Centro (Vegetarian Friendly)

★ 5.0 (61)
From USD 104.31
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Guanajuato Walking Tours Discover the City Rich History/culture

Guanajuato Walking Tours Discover the City Rich History/culture

★ 5.0 (1)
From USD 42.88
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Private Pre-Hispanic Cooking Class at Isabel's Countryside Home

Private Pre-Hispanic Cooking Class at Isabel's Countryside Home

★ 5.0 (37)
From USD 115
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Private Nature Bicycle Tour

Private Nature Bicycle Tour

★ 5.0 (31)
From USD 117
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Taste of Europe in Mexico: History and Flavors of Artisan Cheese

Taste of Europe in Mexico: History and Flavors of Artisan Cheese

★ 5.0 (28)
From USD 110
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Dolores Hidalgo & Sanctuary of Atotonilco

Dolores Hidalgo & Sanctuary of Atotonilco

★ 5.0 (28)
From USD 359
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Practical Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, the city’s steep hillside streets and stairways are extensive.
  • The Cervantino Festival in October brings huge crowds for one of Latin America’s largest arts festivals.
  • Funicular rides to the Pipila monument offer the best panoramic view of the colorful cityscape.

FAQ

Why is Guanajuato famous for tunnels?
Former riverbeds were converted into an underground road network beneath the historic center after repeated flooding, a unique feature among Mexican cities.

What is the Callejon del Beso?
A famously narrow alley in Guanajuato tied to a local legend of star crossed lovers, a popular photo stop.

Is Guanajuato a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, its historic center and surrounding mining sites hold UNESCO World Heritage status.