If we’re talking about Magical Towns, San Cristóbal de las Casas is, without a doubt, THE Magical Town. Here you’ll find history, art, delicious food, colonial mansions converted into hotels, and free places to visit. After experiencing an incredible adventure in this corner of Chiapas, I’m sharing my recommendations for making the most of it in three days.
Flights and Getting There
San Cristóbal de las Casas doesn’t have its own airport, so the best option is to fly to Tuxtla Gutiérrez and then take transportation to the town. There are several alternatives: private service, ADO buses, or car rental.
If you only plan to stay in San Cristóbal, renting a car isn’t the best option due to parking issues; but if you’re going to explore other parts of Chiapas, it’s the most practical and economical way to travel. Tip: If you buy your ticket in advance, you can find round-trip flights for less than two thousand pesos.
Where to Stay
San Cristóbal has options for every budget: from backpacker hostels to hotels with history and personalized service. If you appreciate warm hospitality and spaces with character, I recommend Sombra del Agua, Casa del Alma, and Sereno. These are small, cozy hotels with an architectural style that celebrates the beauty and culture of Chiapas.
Plus, they’re all located in the historic center, so you can easily walk to the main attractions. You can find rooms for two people for under 1,000 pesos.
What to Do in San Cristóbal de las Casas
Strolling along its cobblestone streets is a magical experience in itself. The colorful facades, tiled roofs, and fresh mountain air create a unique and captivating atmosphere.
Visit the Maya World Textile Center, where you’ll find handmade garments crafted by various communities in the region (there are free admission days).
It’s also worth visiting the churches of La Merced, San Cristóbalito, and El Carmen, true architectural gems.
If you’re looking for a getaway, San Juan Chamula is a must-see. Its church is famous for its religious syncretism: Catholicism and ancestral traditions coexist here. Taking photos or videos is prohibited—you could be fined if you do—but entering is a unique spiritual experience.
Where to eat
The San Cristóbal market is ideal for sampling local snacks: sweet tamales (not pink ones!), corn on the cob, esquites (corn kernels with chili and lime), traditional sweets, exotic fruits like rambutan, corn atole, and pozol (a fermented corn drink).
For a more gourmet experience, visit La Esquina San Agustín, a space with diverse culinary offerings: Mexican and Asian cuisine, artisanal bakeries, coffee shops, and even an arcade.
Barra San Juan: an unforgettable culinary experience
If you’re looking for something truly special, visit Tarumba, the restaurant of chef Jorge Gordillo, a passionate advocate for Chiapas cuisine. Inside the restaurant, he offers the “Barra San Juan” experience, a seven-course tasting menu that celebrates local flavors.
Reservations are required at least two days in advance. The experience costs approximately 1,800 pesos per person, and believe me: it’s worth every penny. The food, the ambiance, and the conversation with the chef make this dinner something you’ll always remember.
Buy local art and textiles
The talent of Chiapas artisans is impressive. Each piece is full of history, color, and symbolism. Visit the Juxta collective, where the creators receive fair compensation for their work. You can also buy online, but nothing compares to seeing, touching, and experiencing each piece in person.
This is how you can enjoy 72 hours in San Cristóbal de las Casas, surrounded by culture, art, good food, friendly people, and an energy that stays with you long after you return home.
Source: directoalpaladar
