Ultimate 3-Day Zacatecas Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Zacatecas dazzles visitors with its pink-stone colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking mountain views at every turn.
Day 1: Historic Center & City Views
Morning
Start your Zacatecas adventure at the Catedral Basílica de Zacatecas, a UNESCO-listed baroque masterpiece with intricate pink sandstone façades and a luminous interior.
Catedral Basílica de Zacatecas
Stroll over to Plaza de Armas, the city’s historic main square, surrounded by vibrant buildings and the elegant Palacio de Gobierno—perfect for people-watching and morning coffee at a nearby café.
Plaza de Armas
Afternoon
Marvel at Mexican art in the stunning Museo Pedro Coronel, housed in a 17th-century former Jesuit college and featuring works by Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and its eponymous Zacatecan artist.
Museo Pedro Coronel
Enjoy lunch at La Cuija Café, a cozy local favorite offering traditional Zacatecan fare, vegetarian options, and an artsy atmosphere.
La Cuija Café
Evening
Ride the panoramic Teleférico cable car at sunset for sweeping views over Zacatecas and the Cerro de la Bufa.
Teleférico
End your evening with authentic Zacatecan cuisine at Los Dorados de Villa, known for its regional stews, enchiladas, and lively ambiance.
Los Dorados de Villa
Day 2: Mines, Museums & Local Flavor
Morning
Descend into Zacatecas’ mining heritage with a guided tour of the legendary Mina El Edén, an enormous 16th-century silver mine featuring underground tunnels, a mineral museum, and even a subterranean nightclub.
Mina El Edén
Afternoon
Admire the works of one of Mexico’s greatest painters at the Museo Rafael Coronel, set in a dramatic former monastery and home to a mesmerizing collection of over 5,000 Mexican masks.
Museo Rafael Coronel
Stop for lunch at the beloved local spot Gorditas Doña Julia, famous for its handmade gorditas filled with flavorful stews and regional ingredients.
Gorditas Doña Julia
Evening
Wander the cobblestone streets of the Barrio de Jalisco, Zacatecas’ bohemian quarter brimming with colorful facades, artisan shops, and lively cantinas.
Barrio de Jalisco
Sample craft mezcal and cocktails at the speakeasy-style El Botarel, a hidden gem for locals and visitors alike.
El Botarel
Day 3: Scenic Peaks & Regional Experiences
Morning
Hike or drive up to Cerro de la Bufa, Zacatecas’ iconic mountain with panoramic city views, a monument to revolutionary heroes, and a small but fascinating museum.
Cerro de la Bufa
Refuel with a hearty breakfast at Café Nevería Acrópolis, a classic Zacatecas institution serving strong coffee, pastries, and Mexican breakfast favorites.
Café Nevería Acrópolis
Afternoon
Step back in time at the Museo de Guadalupe, located just outside the city in a former baroque convent, displaying colonial art and religious artifacts.
Museo de Guadalupe
Have a long lunch at Restaurante La Leyenda, which offers traditional dishes in a friendly, colorful setting with panoramic city vistas.
Restaurante La Leyenda
Evening
Wrap up your Zacatecas trip with an atmospheric callejoneada (alleyway parade)—meet at Plazuela Miguel Auza and join the lively procession of musicians, dancers, and local revelers through the city’s winding lanes.
Plazuela Miguel Auza
Finish with a nightcap at La Casa del Mezcal, sampling artisanal mezcals and soaking up the convivial local atmosphere.
La Casa del Mezcal
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