Exploring San Cristobal de Las Casas: A Guide To The Mexican Gem

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an enchanting colonial town nestled in the lush Chiapas Mountains of Mexico. With its cobbled streets, colorful markets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, it’s no wonder this destination is quickly becoming a tourist favorite. Visitors can enjoy exploring the city’s rich history, sampling the local cuisine, shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs, and immersing themselves in the local culture. Read on for a comprehensive guide to exploring this Mexican gem – from discovering its vibrant culture to finding the best spots for outdoor activities.

What to Do in San Cristobal de Las Casas

There’s plenty to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas, whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history and culture or just relax and enjoy the scenery. Here are some suggestions for things to do in San Cristobal:

• Visit the San Cristobal de Las Casas Cathedral – The cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in the city, with its towering spires and ornate facade. It’s worth taking a tour inside to see the stunning interior, which is filled with elaborate gold leaf detailing.
• Explore the San Cristobal de Las Casas market – The market is a great place to find traditional Mexican handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, and jewelry. haggle with the vendors for the best prices on souvenirs to take home with you.
• Visit Sumidero Canyon – Just outside of San Cristobal is Sumidero Canyon, a deep gorge carved out by the Grijalva River. Take a boat tour of the canyon to see wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys up close, or hike one of the trails for stunning views of the canyon walls.
• Take a day trip to San Juan Chamula – San Juan Chamula is a nearby indigenous village of the Tzotzil people. Explore the town and visit its colorful church, which is decorated with large pine needles and other symbols from their traditional religion.
• Go on a coffee tour – Coffee is one of Chiapas’s main exports, and San Cristobal has plenty of great cafes that use local beans. Take a coffee tour to learn about the production process and get a taste for this unique flavor profile.
• Visit the Mesoamerican Museum – San Cristobal is home to the Museo Mesoamericano, a museum dedicated to the history and art of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. Take a guided tour to learn about the region’s unique cultural heritage.

Where to Stay in San Cristobal

There are a few different areas to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas, and each has its own unique charm. The historic center is the best place to stay if you want to be close to the action and have easy access to all of the main sights. For a more laid-back experience, head to one of the quieter neighborhoods like San Juan Chamula or Las Margaritas. And for breathtaking views of the city, consider staying in one of the high-rise hotels near the Observatory. Here are some of the top areas to stay in San Cristobal de Las Casas, along with some recommended accommodation options:

1. Centro Histórico – The historic center of San Cristobal de Las Casas is the heart of the city, and offers a variety of accommodation options, as well as easy access to the city’s main attractions and amenities.

• Recommended Accommodation: Hotel Bo – A stylish and modern hotel located in the heart of the historic center, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and an on-site restaurant.

2. El Cerrillo – A quiet and residential neighborhood located on the outskirts of San Cristobal de Las Casas, offering a more tranquil setting and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

• Recommended Accommodation: Casa del Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa – A luxurious hotel located in El Cerrillo, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Barrio de Guadalupe – A charming and traditional neighborhood located just north of the historic center, offering a range of accommodation options, as well as some great restaurants and shops.

• Recommended Accommodation: Hotel Boutique Casa de los Arcángeles – A beautiful boutique hotel located in Barrio de Guadalupe, featuring elegant rooms, a garden, and an on-site restaurant.

4. La Quinta San Martin – A quiet and residential area located just a short walk from the historic center, offering a range of accommodation options and easy access to the city’s amenities.

• Recommended Accommodation: Hotel Posada del Valle – A charming hotel located in La Quinta San Martin, featuring comfortable rooms, a garden, and a terrace with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Food and Drink Options

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a foodie paradise with endless options for every type of eater. From traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a quick bite, there are plenty of street stalls and taquerias serving up delicious tacos and other snacks. For a sit-down meal, there are countless restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining. And of course, no visit to San Cristobal would be complete without trying some of the local specialties like mole poblano or tamales de chipilin. Here are some top options for food and drink in San Cristobal de Las Casas:

1. Street Food – San Cristobal de Las Casas has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling a variety of snacks and treats, including tamales, tacos, quesadillas, and churros.
2. Mercado de Santo Domingo – This market is a great place to try traditional Chiapan cuisine, including tamales, pozole, and cochinita pibil.
3. La Casa del Pan – A popular bakery that offers a wide variety of bread, pastries, and cakes.
4. El Corte – A traditional Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious dishes such as chiles rellenos, enchiladas, and mole.
5. Cafe Bar Revolución – In addition to live music, this popular bar also serves up a variety of cocktails and bar snacks.
6. El Posh – A contemporary restaurant that offers a fusion of Mexican and European cuisine, with a focus on using local ingredients.
7. Tierra Adentro – A vegetarian restaurant that offers a range of creative dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
8. La Casa del Te – A cozy teahouse that offers a wide variety of teas and delicious baked goods.
9. El Jacobo – A cozy coffee shop that serves up delicious coffee and pastries.
10. Cervecería Namandieré – A local microbrewery that offers a range of craft beers, along with tasty bar snacks.

Shopping Options

There are plenty of shopping options available in San Cristobal de Las Casas. From traditional Mexican markets to high-end boutiques, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for traditional Mexican souvenirs, the best place to go is the handicraft market on CalleReal de Guadalupe. Here you’ll find a wide variety of handmade goods, including textiles, pottery, and jewelry. Prices are negotiable, so be sure to haggle! Here are some of the top shopping options in San Cristobal de Las Casas:

1. Mercado de Santo Domingo – A large, colorful market that offers a wide variety of artisanal crafts, including textiles, jewelry, pottery, and carved wooden figurines.
2. Mercado de Artesanías – A bustling market that features a wide range of handmade goods, from traditional clothing and textiles to ceramics, leather goods, and carved wooden crafts.
3. Tianguis Cultural – A weekly street market that takes place on Saturdays and features local food, music, and artisanal crafts.
4. Casa de las Artesanías de Chiapas – A government-run store that showcases some of the best artisanal crafts from throughout the state of Chiapas, including textiles, ceramics, and woven baskets.
5. El Na Bolom – A cultural center and museum that features a gift shop selling artisanal crafts made by indigenous communities from throughout the region.
6. Plaza de los Artesanos – A small plaza located just off the main square that features a variety of artisanal crafts, including jewelry, clothing, and pottery.
7. Jolom Mayaetik – A cooperative that works with indigenous women to create handmade textiles and embroidery, which are sold in their shop in San Cristobal de Las Casas.

Nightlife and Entertainment Options

There is no shortage of nightlife and entertainment options in San Cristobal de Las Casas. From traditional Mexican folk music and dance to modern bars and clubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Traditional Mexican music and dance can be found at the city’s many cantinas. These lively establishments are great places to mingle with locals and enjoy some authentic Mexican culture. If you’re looking for something a little more modern, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Club Mocambo is a popular spot for dancing and live music, while La Negrita Bar is known for its wide selection of tequila. Here are some specific places, bars, and clubs that you might enjoy in San Cristobal de Las Casas:

1. Cafe Bar Revolución – A popular bar that features live music and a variety of cocktails.
2. La Envidia – A lively nightclub with DJs and dancing.
3. La Puerta – A cozy bar that offers a wide variety of drinks and has a friendly atmosphere.
4. El Cau – A trendy bar with a bohemian vibe, serving craft cocktails and hosting live music.
5. Cafe Bar Revolución – A popular bar that features live music and a variety of cocktails.
6. La Viña de Bacco – A wine bar and restaurant with an extensive wine list and delicious food.
7. Mandala Bar – A cozy bar with a wide variety of drinks, comfortable seating, and a friendly atmosphere.
8. La Madriguera – A fun nightclub that offers live music, dancing, and a great selection of drinks.
9. Casa Nostra – A hip and trendy bar that serves craft cocktails and offers a stylish atmosphere.
10. El Jaguar Negro – A popular bar and live music venue that offers a great selection of drinks and an energetic atmosphere.

Outdoor Activities in San Cristobal

One of the great things about San Cristobal is that there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some of our favorites:

• Hiking: San Cristobal is surrounded by mountains, so there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. We recommend heading to El Ocote Biosphere Reserve for some of the best hiking in the area.
• Mountain Biking: If you’re looking for a little more adventure, try mountain biking. There are several trails around San Cristobal that are perfect for biking. Just be sure to wear a helmet!
• Horseback Riding: For a truly unique experience, go horseback riding through the mountains and forests around San Cristobal. It’s an unforgettable way to see the area.
• Camping: If you want to really get away from it all, camping is a great option. There are several campsites in the area, so you can find one that’s perfect for you. Just be sure to bring all the supplies you’ll need.

Must Visit Places

1. Templo y Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo: This historic church and former monastery dates back to the 16th century and features beautiful Baroque architecture, ornate decorations, and a museum.
2. Na Bolom Cultural Centre: This cultural center and museum is dedicated to the indigenous peoples of Chiapas and features a variety of exhibits, artifacts, and art collections.
3. Mercado de Santo Domingo: This bustling market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, try traditional Chiapan cuisine, and experience the local culture.
4. Sumidero Canyon: This stunning natural wonder features towering cliffs, a winding river, and a variety of wildlife. Take a boat tour to see its dramatic scenery up close.
5. El Arcotete Natural Reserve: This beautiful nature reserve features hiking trails, waterfalls, and a natural arch formation that is a popular spot for photography.
6. San Juan Chamula: This traditional Tzotzil village is known for its unique blend of Catholic and indigenous beliefs, and features the colorful and ornate Church of San Juan Chamula.
7. Zinacantan: This nearby town is known for its textiles and traditional weaving techniques, and features a variety of markets and shops where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.
8. Museo del Ámbar: This museum features a wide variety of amber specimens from around the world, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology or natural history.

These are just a few of the many must-visit places in San Cristobal de Las Casas, and there are many more historic sites, museums, and natural wonders to explore during your visit.

San Cristobal de Las Casas itenary

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful and historic city located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. Here is a suggested itinerary for spending 3 days in San Cristobal de Las Casas:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start your day by exploring the historic center of San Cristobal de Las Casas. Visit the Cathedral of San Cristobal de Las Casas, which dates back to the 16th century, and the adjacent Plaza 31 de Marzo, which is a popular gathering place for locals.
• Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the colorful streets of San Cristobal de Las Casas, which are lined with shops, galleries, and cafes. Be sure to visit the Mercado de Santo Domingo, which is one of the largest markets in the city and a great place to try traditional Chiapan cuisine.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the historic center, and then head to a local bar or nightclub to experience San Cristobal de Las Casas’ vibrant nightlife.

Day 2:

• Morning: Take a day trip to nearby San Juan Chamula, a traditional Tzotzil village that is known for its unique blend of Catholic and indigenous beliefs. Visit the Church of San Juan Chamula, which is filled with colorful candles and other offerings, and then explore the village’s traditional market.
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Zinacantan, which is known for its textiles and traditional weaving techniques. Tour a local cooperative to see how textiles are made, and then shop for souvenirs at one of the many markets in town.
• Evening: Return to San Cristobal de Las Casas and enjoy dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants.

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit the nearby Sumidero Canyon, a stunning natural wonder that features towering cliffs and a winding river. Take a boat tour of the canyon to see its dramatic scenery up close.
• Afternoon: Return to San Cristobal de Las Casas and visit the Museo del Ámbar, which features a wide variety of amber specimens from around the world. Alternatively, explore the nearby Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello, which features a series of beautiful lakes and hiking trails.
• Evening: Enjoy a final dinner in San Cristobal de Las Casas before departing the next day.

San Cristobal de Las Casas overview

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a picturesque colonial town located in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas. Situated in the highlands of the state, it is known for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and rich indigenous culture. The town was founded by the Spanish in the early 16th century and served as a center of colonial power in the region. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists who come to explore its history, architecture, and natural beauty.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is also home to a vibrant indigenous community, with many Maya villages located in the surrounding hills. Visitors can experience traditional culture through handicraft markets, food stalls, and cultural events such as the Day of the Dead festivities. Some of the top attractions in San Cristobal de Las Casas include the central plaza, which is surrounded by colonial-era buildings such as the cathedral and the Palacio Municipal; the Templo de Santo Domingo, a stunning baroque church with a beautifully decorated interior.

The Na Bolom Cultural Center, which houses a museum and library dedicated to the study of the region’s indigenous cultures. The town is also a hub for adventure tourism, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the nearby Sumidero Canyon and Montebello Lakes National Park.

Safety Tips

While San Cristobal de Las Casas is generally a safe and welcoming city, it is always important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during your visit:

1. Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for anything that seems out of the ordinary, and be alert to your surroundings at all times.
2. Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit areas and travel with a group if possible, especially at night.
3. Keep your belongings close: Don’t leave your bags or valuables unattended, and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
4. Use official taxis: When taking a taxi, make sure it is an official taxi and negotiate the fare before getting in.
5. Be cautious when withdrawing money: Use ATMs located in well-lit areas, and be aware of your surroundings when withdrawing cash.
6. Respect local customs: Be mindful of local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious or cultural sites.
7. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news and travel advisories, and avoid any areas that are known to be unsafe.

Conclusion

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an undeniably beautiful and unique city situated in the heart of Mexico. From its colorful markets to its ancient churches, this vibrant city has something for everyone. With our guide, you can now explore San Cristobal de Las Casas with ease and find out what makes it such a remarkable place to visit. Whether you’re looking for culture or adventure, San Cristobal has it all! Start planning your next trip today!