Colonial streets wind through this Mexican mountain city, where centuries-old silver mines, baroque churches, and 16th-century buildings tell stories of its mining past.
Zacatecas sits dramatically along the steep slopes of a narrow valley in north-central Mexico. Pink stone buildings line the cobblestone streets, while the massive cathedral dominates the city center. You can descend 500 meters into the El Edén silver mine, watch street theater during the Festival de Teatro de Calle, or take a cable car ride between Cerro del Grillo and Cerro de la Bufa mountains for panoramic city views.
Walking Through Pink Stone Streets
The historic center of Zacatecas follows the natural valley contours between mountains. The pink limestone architecture earned the city UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 1993. Walk through Plaza de Armas, where the State Government Palace's intricate stonework catches sunlight throughout the day.
Exploring the Cathedral
Built between 1730 and 1760, the Zacatecas Cathedral stands as a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque style. The façade features detailed carvings of saints, flowers, and geometric patterns. Inside, you'll find gilded altarpieces and religious paintings from the colonial period. The cathedral's pink stone walls take on different shades as sunlight moves across them throughout the day.
Descending into El Edén Mine
Step into El Edén mine's 436-year history by boarding a small train that travels 500 meters into the mountain. Your guide will lead you through narrow tunnels while explaining the mining methods used since 1586. Learn how miners extracted silver using different techniques across centuries, making Zacatecas one of the world's major silver producers.
Tasting Local Flavors
Try corn-based dishes like gorditas filled with cheese and chile, or sweet panecillos with pumpkin filling. Local drinks include colonche, made from fermented prickly pear cactus fruit, and mezcal distilled in nearby villages. You'll also find pulque and aguardiente, traditional Mexican spirits served in bars throughout the city center.
Experiencing Cultural Events
During Holy Week, the Festival Cultural Zacatecas fills streets and venues with music performances and art exhibitions. The Internacional Festival de Teatro de Calle turns city squares into stages for street performers. The Feria Nacional de Zacatecas brings regional food, crafts, and music to the city each September.
Getting Around
Fly into General Leobardo C. Ruiz International Airport, which connects to Mexico City and Tijuana. Walk through the compact historic center, or take local buses to reach outer neighborhoods. The cable car system connects major viewpoints while giving you aerial views of the valley below.
