San Cristobal De Las Casas-2-day-itinerary

San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • 9:00 am - 10:30 am: Start your day at the Mercado de Artesanías, a vibrant market where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
  • 11:00 am: Visit the stunning Catedral de San Cristóbal, a beautiful Catholic church that dates back to the 16th century.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Head to El Fogoncito for lunch, a cozy restaurant serving delicious traditional Mexican cuisine.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Explore the Centro Histórico, a charming historic center filled with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and lively streets.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at La Casa de Toño, a popular restaurant serving authentic Chiapanecan dishes.
  • 10:00 pm: Take a stroll around the town square, Plaza de la Constitución, to soak up the lively atmosphere.

Day 2

Morning

  • 9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Visit the nearby indigenous village of San Juan Chamula, known for its vibrant market and stunning church. Take a guided tour to learn about the local culture.
  • 1:00 pm: Grab lunch at Comedor Mary, a humble eatery serving traditional dishes.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Explore the Museo de la Cultura Maya de Chiapas, a museum showcasing the history and traditions of the Maya civilization.
  • 5:00 pm: Visit the Cerro de la Cruz, a hill offering breathtaking views of the town.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Paloma, a restaurant serving contemporary Mexican cuisine.
  • 10:00 pm: End your trip with a relaxing evening stroll around the town.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Casa Mexicana: A charming hotel offering comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.
  • Hostal La Casa de los Abuelos: A cozy hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers.

Things to Know

  • San Cristóbal de las Casas is a high-altitude town (2,200 meters above sea level), so be prepared for cooler weather and potential altitude sickness.
  • The town is known for its strong indigenous culture, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Many businesses in the town accept Mexican pesos only, so have some cash handy.

Transportation

  • Fly: The nearest airport is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ), located about 1 hour from San Cristóbal de las Casas.
  • Bus: Take a bus from Tuxtla Gutiérrez or other nearby cities to San Cristóbal de las Casas.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in the town, but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals and appreciate their culture more fully.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, including rain and cooler temperatures.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

Other Things of Interest

  • Hiking: San Cristóbal de las Casas is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it an ideal base for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Language Schools: The town is home to several language schools, offering Spanish classes and cultural immersion programs.
  • Festivals: San Cristóbal de las Casas hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Fiesta de la Virgen de Asunción in August.