Nestled in central Mexico, the vibrant city of Santiago de Querétaro, commonly known as Querétaro, is emerging as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an authentic cultural experience. This colourful metropolis combines rich history with a dynamic contemporary scene, offering everything from beautiful gardens and incredible restaurants to a thriving music culture.
A City Bursting with Energy and History
Pronounced kay-reh-tar-o, this city boasts a significant legacy, having twice served as Mexico's capital due to its pivotal role in the nation's struggle for sovereignty. Despite its historical importance, Querétaro has often been overshadowed by its famous neighbours, San Miguel de Allende and Mexico City (CDMX). However, its star is now firmly in the ascendant.
State tourism grew by an impressive 17 percent last year, with growth set to continue thanks to planned infrastructure improvements including an electric passenger train from CDMX to Querétaro scheduled for 2027. As the nexus of Mexico's data centre industry, it has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the Northern Hemisphere.
Exploring the Cultural Heart
The city's charming centro histórico presents a postcard-perfect patchwork of buildings with flaking facades in faded pastels, crowned with blazing bougainvillea. The skyline is dotted with the elaborate domes of vast Baroque churches, while the city centre maintains a welcoming small-town feel.
Visitors can spend afternoons ambling along street art-emblazoned avenues, browsing antique bazaars and artisanal markets. The city is mercifully flat, walkable and compact, following a simple grid layout devised during Spanish occupation. Locals proudly emphasise how safe it feels compared to other parts of Mexico.
Don't miss the nearly one-mile long pink-stone aqueduct that straddles the city, a marvel of 18th-century engineering that once delivered Querétaro's clean water, with origins tied to a romantic local legend.
From Ancient Sites to Modern Delights
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Museo Regional, housed in a former Franciscan monastery, where exhibits include the desk where the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed. A short journey away, the Cerro de las Campanas (Hill of the Bells) offers a scenic spot commemorating Emperor Maximilian's execution.
For a glimpse into pre-Hispanic Mexico, El Cerrito provides a fascinating insight into a nationally significant ceremonial centre, just a 15-minute Uber ride from the city centre.
The Alamos neighbourhood exemplifies Querétaro's cultural transformation, with industrial spaces being repurposed into cosmopolitan cafes like Brecco Panaderia, independent bookshops such as Punto Y Coma, and cultural venues like La Fabrica hosting theatre performances and pop-up markets.
Culinary Adventures and Nightlife
Querétaro's food scene delivers surprising diversity. Start your day with pastries from Panico and quality Mexican coffee from El Apacho. The trendy Monono Cafe caters to digital nomads with its signature avocado pie and local orange wine.
When taco cravings strike, join the queue at celebrated local stall El Feo, noticeable by the mouthwatering smell of chorizo winding round Calle Corregidora. Despite being inland, the city offers surprisingly good seafood at spots like PalMar, known for exceptional aguachiles.
Sundays traditionally feature barbacoa (pit-roasted lamb) or carnitas, with Don Chamorros at the Mercado de la Cruz offering an authentic experience for those who can handle the meaty aromas.
As evening falls, the city comes alive with entertainment options. The Hércules neighbourhood pulses with energy, where old textile factories now host dance halls with cumbia music, craft beers from Cervecería Hércules, and open-air cinema nights. The reggaeton call of the city's newest nightclubs beckons revellers into the early hours.
For a change of pace, take an hour's bus ride to Bernal, one of Mexico's Pueblos Magicos, or explore Querétaro's status as Mexico's second-largest wine-producing region with a tour along its renowned cheese and wine route.
Getting to Querétaro is straightforward, with its international airport (QRO) well-connected to major US hubs and Mexico City. American Airlines flights from London Heathrow, via Dallas Fort Worth, start at £773 return. Within Mexico, the city can be easily reached by coach (roughly three hours from CDMX).
Accommodation options range from the design-forward, five-star Hotel Hércules located a 15-minute taxi ride from the centro histórico (prices from £130 per night) to the more centrally located Hotel Criol with contemporary rooms and rooftop views (from £140 per night).
