Much like crystal-clear seas are the main draw for beach bums heading to Mexico, colonial cities are the sweet spot for culture enthusiasts.
We’re sure you’ve heard of Mexico City and its vibrant neighborhoods, Merida with the soaring, stone-built cathedral, Oaxaca and its cobblestone streets, and of course, San Miguel de Allende, famous for colorful townhouses and a landmark pink church.
That being said, none of Mexico’s usual colonial tourism hotspots are stealing the limelight. In fact, an offbeat historic city in the state of Guanajuato, in the heart of the country, is the one smashing records at the moment, and chances are you’ve never even considered visiting.
This changes now:
Have We Been Sleeping On León All Along?
This year alone, León welcomed over 6 million visitors, as reported by Milenio, and it’s on track to have a record-breaking year in tourism 450 years after its foundation.
The largest city in the state of Guanajuato, in central Mexico, it is best known among shopping tourists as the world capital of leather.
People come from all over Mexico (and beyond), to buy affordable, high-quality leather products in Zona Piel, a district known for its many leather markets, but León has so much more to offer than just a seasonal wardrobe shake-up.
It may not have Mexico City’s appeal as a global cosmopolitan hub, nor does it share San Miguel de Allende’s fame as a romantic, quaint getaway, but it is one of Mexico’s most historically significant cities, with plenty to see and do.
What To See In León
In the midst of the modern urban sprawl, you’ll find a charming Historic Center dotted with colonial-era landmarks. Not as well-preserved as those in Guanajuato or San Miguel, for sure, but worth checking out, nonetheless.
The most visually striking element here is, without question, the cathedral.
León’s soaring main church building was originally founded in the 1700s, right on the city’s main square, and it presents a mix of Neoclassical and Baroque elements that is unique in Mexico.
However, some would argue the centerpiece of León’s religious life is the Templo Expiatorio: it’s not as old as some of the other churches, having been built only in the 20th century, but the Neo-Gothic facade definitely evokes Old World charm.
Other must-sees in the colonial zone include Parroquia del Sagrario, one of the oldest churches in the city, the Municipal Palace, housed in an old seminario, and El Arco, a triumphal arc set along the Causeway of the Heroes, a pedestrianized promenade running through central León.
High-Quality Leather Products For Much Cheaper
Of course, you haven’t really been to León until you’ve done some leather shopping, and trust us, this is every bit as part of the local culture as going to a leather market.
The city was in fact established during Spain’s initial expansion into central Mexico, at around the same time they conquered Teotihuacan and founded Mexico City, and it was one of New Spain’s most important commercial zones.
All of this to say León’s role as a leather-producing city dates back centuries, and to a certain degree, it even helped shape its identity.
The best district to immerse yourself and get a taste of León’s traditional craftsmanship is the aforementioned Zona Piel, a market housing over 4500 merchant shops, where they sell leather boots, shoes, belts, wallets, bags, and more.
There are so many options to choose from, from smaller stalls to major outlets, so you can compare quality and price and get the best deal possible. Shops open after 10:30 AM usually, and we suggest you get there close to opening time before it’s too crowded.
Delicious Food Just About Everywhere You Look
Like any Mexican city, León also has its fair share of food markets where you can gorge on some amazing street food, and never burn through your dollars.
Our personal favorite, and seemingly everyone else’s, is Mercado Aldama, one of the oldest around, founded as early as 1833. Think rows upon rows of stalls for fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as takeout spots for tortas, tacos, pozole, and every Mexican delicacy under the sun.
If you’re staying downtown, Mercado Central should be within walking distance of your hotel or accommodation, and though far grander and arguably more chaotic, it does have a great food court where you can grab a quick meal without traveling far.
Now, for a sit-down meal in a local-frequented restaurant, without the ‘gringo prices’ you’ll get in La Casona del Arco, try El Gaucho: it’s cozy, unpretentious, and their meat cuts and wide range of sauces are mouth-watering.
Check The Safety Advice Before Flying
Heading to Mexico this season?
Check the safety advice that applies at your destination using our Travel Advisory Checker: simply type ‘Mexico’ in the search bar, then pick the Mexican state you’re headed to. In León’s case, that would be Guanajuato.
For those going to Cancun or Tulum, Quintana Roo is your destination, and for the Cabo-bound travelers, check the latest security report for Baja California Sur.
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