Guanajuato played an important role in the Mexican revolution and the start of independence from Spanish rule in the 1800’s. One of things you’ll first notice when arriving to the city, is a large statute of a man on the top of the hill, El Pipila. He is the supposed hero of the War of Independence for Mexico and helped burn the gate of Alhóndiga de Granaditas which began the start of the war.

While the story of how he burnt the door to the ground is somewhat of a legend, many believe el Pipila was a real person, Juan José de los Reyes Martínez. However, there is little evidence confirming El Pipila’s existence. Whatever the truth may be, this figure stands tall and proud in above the city offering the best views of Guanajuato. One of the most common things to do in Guanajuato is to take a ride on the funicular to the top ($60 pesos roundtrip), or if you don’t mind getting a little exercise taking the stairs and windy alleys up to the top. No matter which method you choose, the view is worth it!

One of the best things to do in Guanajuato is just get lost in the streets. To roam, explore, and enjoy it’s incredible unique buildings. This city is dubbed one of the most colorful cities in Mexico because of the unique and bright colors. However, it wasn’t always this way. Up until around the 1970’s much of the city did not have running water, electricity, or sewage — especially the homes on the hills. As tourism increased for the International Festival Cervantino, the government created incentives to make the homes more colorful offering rewards to those who could paint their home the brightest color. This trend continued, and now the government helps give money for those who need it to help maintain the bright colors throughout. There are endless windy streets to explore with bright colored doors, beautiful flowers, and crazy colors.

The best way to be able to appreciate Guanajuatos unique history, vibrant culture, and incredible food is a food and history tour. Normally, we are not “tour people”. We like to explore on our own and enjoy a bit of independence as we travel. But with the language barrier and simply our lack of knowledge about Mexico’s unique history and food, tours on this trip have been invaluable. We’ve also done a lot more tours at the time of this writing, and our tour with GTO walking tours was by far the best. Our guide was so knowledgable and passionate about Guanajuato and shared incredible food and interesting stories. If you’re looking for things to do in Guanajuato this should be at the top of your list!

There are plenty of other things to do Guanajuato that aren’t covered here, but if you’re planning a trip this is a great start. We absolutely loved our time here, and would love to hear your favorite part of the city or favorite things to do in Guanajuato in the comments below.