Things To Do
in San Cristóbal
San Cristóbal de las Casas sits high in the Chiapas Highlands, framed by green mountains and cobbled streets. Its pastel colonial buildings, lively markets, and vibrant Indigenous heritage give the city a distinct, welcoming atmosphere. The town is known for its coffee, crafts, and misty mornings, with cafés spilling onto the sidewalks.
Within easy reach of nearby villages, it serves as a gateway to Chiapas culture and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the cobblestone streets of San Cristóbal's historic center, where the colorful colonial architecture will draw you in. Visit the stunning Cathedral of San Cristóbal, a beautiful example of baroque architecture that dates back to the 16th century. As you sip on a traditional Mexican coffee at a nearby café, soak in the lively atmosphere filled with local artisans and street vendors.
After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the Na Bolom Cultural Center, where you can learn about the indigenous cultures of Chiapas. Explore the small museum and the lush gardens, filled with native plants and vibrant flowers. Engage with local artisans displaying their crafts, and consider purchasing a unique piece to take home as a souvenir.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Chiapanecan dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor dishes like tamales and mole. Afterward, stroll through the main plaza, where you can often catch live music or cultural performances. End your night with a visit to a local bar, sampling regional spirits like mezcal while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Kick off your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a guided boat tour through the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon. Marvel at the towering cliffs and diverse wildlife, including crocodiles and various bird species, while your guide shares fascinating stories about the area's history and ecology. Don't forget your camera; the views are absolutely stunning!
After the boat tour, enjoy a picnic lunch by the river before heading to the nearby Chiapa de Corzo, a charming town known for its colonial architecture and vibrant markets. Explore the local shops and take in the sights, including the impressive 16th-century fountain. Spend some time relaxing by the riverbank, soaking in the peaceful environment.
Return to San Cristóbal for a quiet evening walk, where you can appreciate the illuminated streets and vibrant colors of the town. Stop by a local café for a piece of delicious chocolate cake and a cup of hot chocolate made from locally sourced cacao. End the night by attending a traditional folk dance performance, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or café drink | $2-5 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🧶Local crafts souvenir | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture
- Friendly locals and a walkable town center
- Low-cost destinations with good value for money
- Strong coffee culture and artisan markets
- Some areas have limited English, so language helps
- Altitude can cause fatigue for first-time visitors
- Limited direct international flights to the region
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "No entiendo" - I don’t understand
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in San Cristóbal
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking neo-Gothic facade and blue domes; best captured in morning light.
Colorful façades, street life, and the colonial skyline provide vibrant city photography.
A kaleidoscope of textiles, fruits, and vendors; great for candid and product shots.
Historic mansion with warm tones and skyline views across the town.
Panoramic city views from a hillside overlook, especially at sunset.
Food in San Cristóbal
San Cristóbal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional maize drink or soup enjoyed hot or cold, widely found at markets and stalls.
Must-Try!
Tamales flavored with fresh chipilín greens and local herbs, common in Chiapas homes.
A cinnamon cacao beverage, sweetened and served cold or warm.
High altitude Chiapas coffee available as a brew or iced beverage to pair with desserts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market with fresh produce, prepared foods, textiles, and daily snacks.
Evening stalls offering tostadas, quesadillas, tamales, and fresh fruit drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with a warm greeting; address elders formally as 'usted' in most situations.
Ask before photographing people and ceremonies; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Haggling is common but with a friendly tone; approach with politeness.
Be respectful, remove hats, and speak softly in churches or chapels.
Safety
Tipping in San Cristóbal
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included; small tips for cafe and street vendors are appreciated.
Cash (MXN) is widely accepted; many shops take cards, but carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cool evenings. Sunny days are common; pack layers and sunscreen.
Milder days with frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity. Bring a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
San Cristóbal at Night
Hiking in San Cristóbal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cloud forest reserve with elevated trails and birdwatching close to the city.
Natural limestone caves and forested paths ideal for a half-day hike.
Hilltop trails offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach San Cristóbal by plane.
Main gateway to the region, located near Tuxtla Gutiérrez; about 60-120 minutes by car to San Cristóbal depending on traffic.
A smaller international airport in Palenque; a longer drive to San Cristóbal but serves some regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong presence in the surrounding villages with rich traditions and weaving arts.
A mix of locals and travelers contributing to the town’s cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns and cities, with local matches and street games common on weekends.
Played in schools and local clubs; occasional pickup games in parks.
Cultural demonstrations occasionally seen in villages near San Cristóbal.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Cristóbal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made without meat or lard; look for bean soups, corn tortillas, and veggie-filled tamales; ask for no chicken stock and clarify ingredients.