We’re convinced that Querétaro is the perfect destination for the vacation you have in mind or those weekend getaways. To help you explore the best places to visit in Querétaro, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to make sure you experience it all. Get ready to soak in the charm of this colonial city and its surroundings. Read on and discover the top tourist spots in Querétaro.
What to visit in Querétaro
There are lots of things to do in Querétaro, which is why we’ve created a list of places to visit in Querétaro you can’t miss:
Querétaro Aqueduct
This iconic symbol of Querétaro is the most important urban construction of the 18th century. Built in 1726 to provide water to the city upon the request of the Capuchin nuns, it spans 4,199 feet with a height of 75 feet across its 74 arches. A majestic masterpiece you must witness.
Querétaro Historic Center
The Querétaro Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and showcases the most representative architectural gems of the 17th and 18th centuries. It also boasts places of historical significance like the House of the Corregidora (Casa de la Corregidora), where the Mexican Independence movement began.
Here, you can find the Regional Museum (Museo Regional), the Franciscan Convent of the Holy Cross (Convento Franciscano de la Santa Cruz), and the Santa Clara and Santa Rosa de Viterbo convent complexes. Although the Cathedral is small, it’s still a stunning example of colonial architecture. Explore these sites on a leisurely walking tour.
Cerro de las Campanas
Cerro de las Campanas, which translates as Hill of Bells, holds a significant piece of Mexico’s history. Guides here will share the story of Emperor Maximilian of Habsburg with you, and why this place is so important.The name comes from the stones you’ll find on the hill, which sound like ringing bells when you strike them.
You’ll also find a chapel dating back to 1900, housing a cross made from the same wood as the one used in the ship that brought Maximilian and later transported his remains back to Europe. Visit from Monday to Sunday, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, for a mere $1 peso entrance fee.
Tzibanzá Island
At this ecotourism campsite, you can disconnect from the stress of city life. Located an hour and a half from Santiago de Querétaro, you can reach it by boat. Booking in advance is essential, as you can’t access the island unless you have a reservation. It’s perfect for fishing, swimming, and relaxing in equipped cabins. Learn more about Tzibanzá Island here.
Querétaro Art Museum
Querétaro Art Museum (Museo de Arte de Querétaro, also known as MAQRO) This museum opened its doors in 1988. It hosts exhibitions by both national and international artists and is hosts various cultural events. Housed in an 18th-century building with a New Spanish Baroque style, it’s open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The entrance ticket costs $30 pesos.
Querétaro Regional Museum
Located in the heart of the city, the Querétaro Regional Museum (Museo Regional de Querétaro) was once the San Francisco Convent (Convento de San Francisco), a significant colonial structure in Mexico. Its six exhibition halls cover five themes, from pre-hispanic to contemporary Querétaro.
Although the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, it mostly focuses on showcasing and preserving the country’s cultural richness, especially Querétaro’s. Join guided tours to delve deeper into these topics. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The entry fee is $60 pesos.
Peña de Bernal
We’re talking about the third largest monolith in the world, only surpassed by Gibraltar’s Rock in the Mediterranean and Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. You can reach the peak by quad bike or car, then park near the viewpoint, and hike up. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try rappelling. Peña de Bernal is one of the magical towns near Mexico City.
In Bernal, you can also visit the Sweets Museum (Casa Museo del Dulce), explore the La Aurora Craft Center (Centro Artesanal La Aurora), and witness the Dancing Fountains (Fuentes Danzarinas). Additionally, the Bernal vineyards are renowned in the region, so we suggest you take a tour after visiting the Peña.
Plaza de Armas
Considered the heart of Querétaro’s Historic Center, Plaza de Armas doesn’t have four open streets surrounding it, nor does it host the Cathedral, as many main town squares do. It does host the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno). This site, formerly the House of the Corregidora (Casa de la Corregidora), was where the Independence movement began. Sometimes impromptu concerts and small art exhibitions happen here.
The plaza is surrounded by typical 18th-century houses and features a fountain with a sculpture in honor of the Marquis of Villa del Villar del Águila, the same person who commissioned the Aqueduct.
Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve
Another place to visit in Querétaro is this natural reserve, covering one-third of the state and declared a protected natural area. Here, you’ll find various endangered species, including the green macaw. You can trek to the 114-feet-high Chuveje Waterfall, where you’ll arrive after a 30-minute walk. The entrance fee is $20 pesos.
Take advantage of staying at El Jabalí Camp. It’s a three-hour journey from the village of San Joaquín that will take you through rivers, canyons, and dense forests. The Los Herrera Cave (Gruta de Los Herrera) is also an option, open from Monday to Sunday, from 10:99 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance fees range between $30 and $50 pesos.
Temple of San Francisco
Construction of the Temple of San Francisco (Templo de San Francisco) began in 1550 and concluded in 1640. This temple is a beautiful example of baroque art. It features a monumental three-story tower with a massive clock in front. The temple’s former convent, also built in the same architectural style, now houses the Regional Museum (Museo Regional).
Temple of Santa Rosa Viterbo
If you want to experience the baroque art that defines Querétaro, the Temple of Santa Rosa de Viterbo (Templo de Santa Rosa de Viterbo) is a must-see. It features elaborate altarpieces with 200 years of history, as well as religious artwork. It’s a true gem thanks to its silver, ivory, and precious wood carvings.
Inside, you will find a Walcker organ from the early 20th century, as well as several paintings including José Páez’s portrait of Sister Ana María de San Francisco y Neve. Because of a series of meticulous restorations,the temple remains as majestic as ever.
How to get to Querétaro
By car from Mexico City’s Zócalo, the drive to Querétaro is around 2.5 hours if you take the highway, with two tolls to pay. From Guadalajara, it’s about a 4-hour drive with six tolls. If you are coming from Veracruz, the journey takes around 6 hours with nine tolls.
If you’re traveling by air, we suggest travel with Viva Aerobus. After arriving at Querétaro Airport, you can take a bus to the city center. Buses depart hourly from the airport, and the ride takes approximately 30 minutes.
How to get around Querétaro
Exploring Querétaro’s Historic Center on foot is ideal, and from there, you can head out to the main tourist attractions.You can also head to the central bus station and take a bus to various sites or use a taxi instead. Regardless of your choice, these incredible places in Querétaro are waiting for you.
Where to eat in Querétaro
Querétaro’s capital city offers a great variety of dining options, including international and, of course, Mexican cuisine. Don’t miss the restaurants near the Historic Center, where you can try escamoles (ant larvae), Querétaro-style gorditas, and sopa de natas (cream soup), among other local specialties.
Looking for something exotic and delicious? Then lettuce or beet mole are your best options. You can’t leave without sampling guajolotes, which are tortas filled with chicken or pork, and served with an enchilada. They are finger-licking good!
Plan Your Trip to Querétaro!
Don’t miss out on visiting Querétaro, the birthplace of the Mexican Independence, on your upcoming vacation. This city will charm you with its colonial streets. Its warm hospitality and delightful cuisine make it an unbeatable destination.
Now that you’ve read all about the best places to visit in Querétaro, it’s time to pack your bags. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about Mexico’s history in this colonial city and its surroundings. Go ahead and book your flights to Querétaro. Your trip starts now!