7 days in León, Mexico: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Dive into the mesmerizing charm of León, Mexico, a city filled with friendly locals, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine. As the city boasts stunning architecture and dazzling shoe shops, your wanderlust will have you hunting for beautifully crafted footwear and exploring the majestic Metropolitan Cathedral. León’s throbbing nightlife coupled with lively events like the International Balloon Festival will ensure you have a blast. So, if you’re in for an unforgettable experience, make León, Mexico your next destination!
Things to consider before arriving in León
Affordable living: As compared to other tourist cities in Mexico, living in León is relatively inexpensive.
Delightful food: If you’re a food enthusiast, rejoice! León’s gastronomy has a plethora of delicious street food and luxurious dining experiences.
Limited English speakers: While communicating, remember that not everyone in León is fluent in English.
Who will love León? This city is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Mexican experience and those looking to explore local cultures and traditions.
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable shoes for exploring the city
2. Lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm weather
3. Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen)
4. A Spanish phrasebook to help you communicate with locals
5. A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Best time of the year to visit
León experiences pleasant weather almost year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and March when the temperatures are mild, and the chances of rain are lower.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: León’s Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) is the main gateway to the city. It’s well connected with flights from major cities in Mexico and the United States.
2. By bus: The Central de Autobuses de León bus station serves long-distance buses all across Mexico, making it an easy and affordable way to reach León from other cities in the country.
3. By car: León is well connected via highways such as the Guadalajara-León Highway and the Mexico City-León Highway. If you prefer a road trip, you can rent a car and drive to León.
7 Day City Guide Trip in León, Mexico
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Welcome to León, known for its leather goods and stunning architecture. Start your day by exploring the historic center and its many churches, including the impressive Basílica Catedral de León. After lunch, head to the Plaza de los Fundadores and grab some ice cream while wandering through the many vendor stalls. In the evening, catch a performance at the Teatro del Bicentenario, one of Latin America’s premier cultural establishments.
Day 2: Art and Culture
Begin this day by heading to the Museo de Arte e Historia de Guanajuato, which features a variety of art and historical exhibits. Next, visit the Centro de Ciencias Explora, an interactive science museum perfect for families. For dinner, hit up the trendy La Casona de las Brujas for authentic local cuisine.
Day 3: Day Trip to San Miguel de Allende
Take a day trip to the charming town of San Miguel de Allende, known for its colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Visit the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel and climb to the top for amazing views of the town. Don’t forget to try some of the local street food like gorditas and churros!
Day 4: Shopping and Relaxation
This day is dedicated to the amazing shopping in León. Head to the Plaza Piel, which is famous for its leather goods, and grab yourself some high-quality shoes or bags. In the evening, hit up the nearby hot springs of Los Azufres for a relaxing soak.
Day 5: Foodie Day
Get ready to eat your way through León! Start the morning with some chilaquiles and coffee at Cafe con Letra. For lunch, head to the Mercado de San Juan for a wide variety of local dishes and treats. Finally, indulge in some delicious ice cream at La Garrafa de San Gabriel.
Day 6: Day Trip to Guanajuato City
Take a day trip to the capital city of Guanajuato, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Visit the iconic Callejón del Beso and take a walk down the underground tunnels of the city. Finish your day by enjoying a traditional meal at Casa Valadez, a local favorite.
Day 7: Outdoor Adventures
Spend your last day in León exploring the beautiful outdoors. Head to the nearby Parque Metropolitano for a bike ride or hike. In the evening, catch a soccer game at the Estadio León, home of the León Fútbol Club.
How to Continue Your Travel After Spending 7 Days in León
If you’re looking to continue your travels after spending time in León, consider making a stop in the nearby towns of Guadalajara or Querétaro. In Guadalajara, visit the impressive Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and enjoy some delicious tequila at the Casa Herradura distillery. In Querétaro, explore the stunning colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife of the city’s historic center. Both cities are easily accessible by bus or car, and offer a unique look into Mexico’s rich culture and history.
