✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Nestled in the embrace of the Chiapas Highlands lies San Cristóbal de las Casas, a vibrant and colorful city that beckons with its soul-stirring beauty and rich cultural heritage.
From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to wandering through bustling markets and savoring the delectable flavors of local cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do in this enchanting destination.
Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of San Cristóbal de las Casas, where every adventure is a glimpse into the heart of Mexico.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in San Cristóbal de las Casas:
1. Santo Domingo Church
Santo Domingo Church is a colonial-style church located in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico.
It was built in the 16th century by Spanish colonizers and has since become a significant religious landmark in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate façade of the church which features a mix of Baroque and indigenous designs. Inside the church, you can see traditional religious artwork, carvings, and altarpieces.
Don’t miss: A notable feature of the church is the large and detailed wooden altarpiece, which is a stunning example of colonial art.
Visitors should look out for the intricate details in the artwork.
Insider travel tips: – Check the church’s schedule to attend a religious ceremony and experience the local culture and traditions.
2. The Guadalupe Church
The Guadalupe Church is a beautiful colonial church located in the center of the Mexican town of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Guadalupe Church can admire the stunning architecture of this historic building, with its white facade and elaborate bell tower.
Inside, there are numerous religious artworks and sculptures to see, as well as the traditional Mexican shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Guadalupe Church is the stunning view from the church’s hilltop location, which provides panoramic vistas over the town and surrounding countryside.
Visitors should not miss the opportunity to climb the church tower for an even more spectacular view.
Insider travel tips: The Guadalupe Church is a popular tourist attraction in San Cristóbal de las Casas, so it can get busy during peak season.
To avoid crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful views from the top of the tower!
3. Na Bolom Museum
A museum dedicated to the preservation of the culture and history of the Lacandon Maya and the legacy of Danish archaeologist Frans Blom.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the extensive collection of artifacts and photographs, including pre-Columbian artifacts and ethnographic displays. The museum also features beautiful gardens and a bookstore with literature on Maya culture and anthropology.
Don’t miss: The museum’s main attraction is the house of Frans Blom and his wife, who played a major role in the preservation of the Lacandon Maya culture.
The interior decoration and furnishings provide a unique glimpse into the life of the couple and the culture they dedicated their lives to studying.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English, which are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and significance of the exhibits.
Don’t forget to bring insect repellent, as the gardens can be mosquito-infested. The museum also serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and traditional music performances throughout the year.
4. San Cristobal Cathedral
San Cristobal Cathedral is a spectacular Roman Catholic church located in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the architecture of the cathedral, which is a mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Indigenous design. Inside, the cathedral is decorated with ornate altars and artwork.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive floral carpet that is created in front of the cathedral during the city’s annual Carnival festivities. It is truly a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: – Consider attending a mass at the cathedral to experience the religious and cultural traditions of the area.
5. Amber Museum
The Amber Museum in San Cristóbal de las Casas showcases one of the largest amber collections in Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits showcasing the historical and cultural significance of amber in the region. The exhibits include various samples of amber in different shades, sizes, and forms, including valuable jewelry and ancient artifacts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the museum’s main attraction, the “Lucky Deer.
” The fossilized deer is encapsulated in a golden brown hue amber and is said to bring good luck to those who see it.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the museum is during the morning hours when it is less crowded.
6. Casa Na Bolom Museum
A museum housed in a former home of archeologists Frans Blom and Gertrude Duby Blom.
What to see or do: View an archive of ancient Chiapas cultures, and an extensive library with over 10,000 volumes of rare books and photographs. Take a guided tour around the gardens and see the wildlife such as howler monkeys, parrots, and toucans.
Don’t miss: See the impressive collection of pottery from the Mayan civilization, which is the largest collection in Chiapas. Also, be sure to check out the pre-Columbian sculptures and other artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can participate in workshops on traditional arts and crafts or stay on-site at the Casa Na Bolom Hotel.
You can purchase unique handmade souvenirs at the museum’s gift shop, and don’t forget to try the delicious organic coffee grown on the property.
Guided tours are in English, Spanish, French, or German.
7. Mayan Medicine Museum
The Mayan Medicine Museum is a small museum located in San Cristóbal de las Casas that showcases the traditional healing practices of the indigenous Maya people.
What to see or do: Visitors can view various artifacts and tools used in traditional Mayan medicine, as well as learn about the different types of herbal remedies and healing ceremonies used by the Maya.
The museum also offers guided tours and workshops on traditional healing practices.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the collection of traditional Mayan healing plants and the recreated temazcal, a traditional Mayan steam bath used for purifying the body and soul.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend approximately an hour at the museum. It is also recommended to visit the nearby Santo Domingo church and market, both located within walking distance.
Additionally, hiring a local guide can provide a richer cultural experience.
8. Museo del Jade
Museum showcasing pre-Columbian jade artifacts and the history of jade in Mesoamerica.
What to see or do: Browse the impressive collection of jade objects, including jewelry, tools, and sculptures, dating back over 2,000 years. Learn about the significance of jade in Mesoamerican cultures and its use in daily life, religion, and art.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the tomb of K’inich Janaab’ Pakal, a Maya king whose burial mask is made of jade.
This impressive artifact is over 1,500 years old and is considered one of the most important pieces of jade art in the world.
Insider travel tips: The museum can get crowded, so arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the displays at your leisure.
Take advantage of the guided tours offered by the museum, which provide a wealth of information about the jade artifacts and Mesoamerican culture.
9. Huitepec Ecological Reserve
Huitepec Ecological Reserve is a natural sanctuary in San Cristóbal de las Casas that offers scenic views and several hiking trails.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely hike along one of the many trails that wind through the reserve, and experience diverse flora and fauna.
The cloud forest is home to orchids, bromeliads, and bird species, including toucanets, quetzals, and hummingbirds.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Mirador de los Amorosos, a viewpoint that overlooks the town of San Cristóbal de las Casas and gives you a panoramic view of the surrounding hills.
Insider travel tips: – Bring comfortable, sturdy shoes, sunblock, and a hat for the hiking trails.
10. El Arcotete Natural Park
El Arcotete Natural Park is a breathtaking nature reserve located just a few kilometers from San Cristóbal de las Casas in Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities in this scenic park such as hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and exploring the stunning cave, which is one of the main highlights of the park.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness the natural rock formation, which gives the park its name. The arch-shaped rock is a must-visit attraction in the park.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks as there are few vendors in the park.
11. Museum of Mayan Medicine
A museum dedicated to the ancient Mayan medicinal practices and traditional healing methods in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits that showcase the various medicinal plants and herbs used by the Mayans, as well as their healing rituals and ceremonies.
Learn about the role of shamans and midwives in Mayan society and how they used their knowledge to treat illness and disease.
There are also workshops and classes offered on traditional Mayan medicine and alternative therapies.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of ancient Mayan medical texts and hieroglyphics that offer insight into the beliefs and practices of this ancient civilization.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can get busy with tour groups, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
12. Zocalo
Zocalo is the main square in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas, a colonial town in Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: The Zocalo is a great place to watch people and soak up the local atmosphere. You’ll see street performers, artisans, and vendors selling crafts and food.
There are also some beautiful colonial buildings surrounding the square, such as the Cathedral of San Cristobal and the Municipal Palace.
Don’t miss: On one side of the square, you’ll find the Arco del Carmen, a beautiful white arch that marks the entrance to a pedestrian street filled with shops selling handicrafts and textiles.
Be sure to take a stroll down this street to find some unique souvenirs to take home.
Insider travel tips: The Zocalo is a great place to visit any time of the day, but it really comes alive at night when the street vendors come out and the square gets even more crowded.
If you’re in town during a holiday or festival, the Zocalo will likely be the epicenter of the celebrations, so it’s definitely worth checking out.
13. Mercado de Santo Domingo
A bustling and colorful market located in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the market stalls, which sell everything from fresh produce and meats to handmade textiles and souvenirs. The market is also a great place to sample local street food and traditional dishes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful church of Santo Domingo, located adjacent to the market. Its stunning architecture and intricate interior design make it a must-see attraction.
Insider travel tips: Bargaining is common in the market, so don’t be afraid to haggle over prices. It’s also a good idea to bring cash, as many of the vendors do not accept credit cards.
Finally, be prepared for crowds and noise, as the market is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
14. Templo del Carmen
Templo del Carmen is a stunning Catholic church located in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate facade of the church, featuring Baroque and neoclassical elements. Step inside to see the beautiful altarpiece and impressive murals on the ceilings.
Attend a Sunday mass if you’re interested in experiencing a traditional Mexican religious service.
Don’t miss: Make sure to walk around the peaceful garden located at the back of the church, complete with a lavender-filled fountain and benches that offer a calming respite from the busy streets of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Insider travel tips: Entrance is free, although donations are appreciated.
To see the church in its full glory, visit during the morning when the sunlight pours into the atrium and illuminates the interior.
It can get quite crowded during mass times, so plan accordingly.
15. Casa de las Artesanías de Chiapas
The Casa de las Artesanías de Chiapas is a government-run building that serves as a cultural center and a store for traditional handcrafted items made by artisans from various regions of Chiapas.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire and purchase an impressive array of handcrafted textiles, ceramics, woodwork, jewelry, and other artwork made by local artisans.
The center also hosts exhibits and workshops featuring traditional and modern techniques and designs.
Don’t miss: Take a moment to appreciate the intricate designs and bright colors of the textiles on display, including the famous Chiapas embroidery, weaving, and ikat techniques.
Don’t forget to grab some delicious Chiapan coffee or chocolate at the onsite café.
Insider travel tips: Check the center’s schedule for cultural events, such as live music, dance, or theater performances.