A Spanish colonial city in Mexico’s Chiapas Highlands, San Crisóbal de las Casas is known for its beautiful natural setting and thriving arts scene. While nearby attractions such as Sumidero Canyon and El Arcotete ecological park attract crowds of tourists from around the region, some of the best things to do in San Cristóbal don’t require any planning. Think: listening to live jazz, reading at a café, or browsing markets overflowing with textiles and handicrafts.
Thanks to its high altitude at 7,000 feet (2,100 meters) above sea level, San Cristóbal has moderate highs and chilly evenings year-round—a welcome reprieve if you’re coming from Mexico’s hot lowlands or beaches. Time your visit for the dry season (November to April) for the best weather, or travel during major holidays such as Día de los Muertos or Christmas to see the city light up with parades and celebrations.
Most of San Cristóbal’s shops, restaurants, and museums are within the compact and walkable city center. There are even dedicated pedestrian zones, or andadores, where you can stroll past cafés and markets away from vehicle traffic. It’s easy to catch a taxi for short rides across town, but if you want to explore farther, use tourist shuttles, public buses, or colectivo vans to reach your next destination.
Don’t miss San Cristóbal’s stunning natural surroundings. In addition to joining the crowds at Sumidero Canyon, you can swim at the turquoise Agua Azul waterfalls, walk along towering limestone stalactites and stalagmites at Rancho Nuevo Caves Natural Park, or hike and rock climb at El Arcotete ecological park. While it’s possible to take a day trip to Cascadas El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello National Park, the 3-hour drive is just far enough to make it worth spending the night.
