Colonial Cities Immersion, from Authentic Mexico Travel
Seven days exploring the intriguing and historic heart of Mexico.
The forging of the Mexican nation will come alive as we immerse ourselves in four cities:
- San Miguel de Allende- think vivid colors, rich history, and a thriving arts scene
- Guanajauto- think French architecture and lovely quiet plazas off of cobblestone streets
- Querétero- think delicious authentic food and lovely plazas in the cradle of Mexican independence
- Dolores Hidalgo- think “cry of Dolores”, mariachis, and talavera ceramics
Note: this trip is often combined with the Monarch reserves, Mexico City and/or Puebla. Arrival airports may vary depending on itinerary.
Here is your itinerary:
Day 1- Arrive at Leon airport (BJX) and transfer on your own to Guanajuato and Hotel Posada de Santa Fe
As you leave security there are taxi stands where you can purchase transfer to your hotel (about $35 USD for 1-4 passengers). Your historic hotel (1892) captures the colonial architectural and artistic richness that you will experience each moment of this trip. Wander the plaza area and get acquainted.
Hotel: Posada de Santa Fe
Day 2- Walk the streets of Guanajuato
Our day begins at 10am in the lobby of the hotel. We will spend the day getting immersed in this enchanting colonial city. Among the stops will be an 18th century hacienda and gardens, the breathtaking overlook above town, the Juarez Theatre, and possibly the Count of Valenciana’s Churriqueresque style church. Also options to see the mummy museum, the market, gondola, and maybe just relaxing at one of the many street side eateries.
Hotel: Posada de Santa Fe
Day 3- Explore Dolores Hidalgo en route to San Miguel de Allende
Be packed and ready as we leave from the lobby at 10 am for historic Dolores Hidalgo. You will learn about that famous “cry” today which started the War of Independence. There are several fascinating stops including Atotonilco Church. In the afternoon we travel (about 2 hrs) to our hotel in the historic district of San Miguel. You will stay close to the central square, the museum home of General Don Ignacio Allende. Nearby a host of shops, restaurants, and historic places.
Hotel: Hotel Casa Rosada
Day 4- Walking tour of San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel is widely known to be one if the world’s top travel destinations- and rightly so. This place is the cultural centerpiece of Mexico and you have the morning free to begin to enjoy what makes it so popular…art galleries, craft shops, restaurants and cafes- enjoy! In the afternoon we may gather for a walking tour including the market, the imposing Gothic Cathedral, the Cultural Center, the San Miguel Art Gallery and a variety of plazas and churches in the central area.
The lovely homes and gardens are a vivid highlight in San Miguel as well as the house museum of Don Ignacio Allende. Allende was prominent in the struggle for independence and his 18th century baroque casa is now home to many historic and archeological wonders. There will be time to shop and to stroll through neighborhoods, rich with lovely homes and gardens.
Hotel: Hotel Casa Rosada
Day 5- Morning in San Miguel and then off to captivating Querétero
The journey to nearby Queretaro will include possible stops at a winery and the little town of Comonfort.
Shady squares, grand fountains and historic mansions characterize this place known for its colonial charm. The Gran Hotel is close to major museums as well as the big park, and dates to the 18th century. Get settled and you will have time to explore on foot.
Day 6- Querétaro
This morning we will move around the city by van and then explore on foot in the afternoon. You will see the old aqueduct, the Convent of San Francisco, the Santa Clara Church, the famous tree at the Convent of the Cross, and tons of baroque buildings. We will walk up the hill where French Emperor Maximiliano was defeated and executed by the Liberal army.
Day 7- Our last day and you fly from Querétaro homeward
You make your way to the Querétero airport (QRO) by taxi on your own—the end of a fascinating journey through the historic and cultural heart of Mexico.
[NOTE: this trip includes hotels with no elevators, steep uneven steps, as well as walking, hills, and cobblestone streets. If you are not able to walk well and handle hills and uneven surfaces, you will not be able to enjoy this trip.]
Pricing will be set as our trip is scheduled
Your trip will include:
- Hotels as listed or equivalent for 6 evenings
- Meals on your own—there are many local nearby eateries
- Tours and stops as mentioned or equivalent, entry fees included
- Transfers from first day hotel to last day hotel—does not include airfare or airport transfers
- Tour leader and local guide
Optional pre and post trip extension— we can help to arrange a hotel for you to arrive early or stay on for a few days:
Dave Hensleigh, DaveHensleigh@gmail.com, 217.369.9897, www.authenticmexicotravel.com