Monterrey travel guide
Monterrey Tourism | Monterrey Guide
You're Going to Love Monterrey
Mild winters, blooming and pleasant springs and falls, and smoldering summers - no matter when you travel, your "where" should be Monterrey. Colonial buildings, incredible local cuisine, and the backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains are just half the story.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Monterrey
1. Visit the Gran Plaza
Ever heard of an all-in-one plaza, housing the city's restaurants, shopping locations, hotels, and historical buildings? The locals call it "Macroplaza" and it's the largest attraction in this North Mexican city.
2. The Incredible Food
If you eat your way through Monterrey, you might well have eaten your way through the entire country. Hangouts like La Felix - Cantina De Ciudad delight your palate with empanadas, fresh ceviche, and carnitas.
3. Vibe with the Nightlife
The rooftop pool and bar at Hotel Habita is a popular spot for mingling, with its scenic infinity pools and mezcal-infused margaritas.
4. Explore the Caves
The Parque Grutas de García on El Fraile Mountain is a spectacular site (and sight!) for visitors. Take a 5-minute cable car ride up the mountain into a dozen limestone chamber caves with intricate formations.
5. Experience the Joys of Nature
Try the Santa Lucía Riverwalk, Sierra Madre mountains, and the Parque Fundidora for a more urban nature experience.
Where to Eat in Monterrey
In Monterrey, spicy fare is the norm. So prep your palate for some incredible spicy, smoky, and tangy enchiladas, pulled pork, and fried goat cheese, among other delicacies, at FONDA San Francisco, where meals cost between Mex$85-150.
When to visit Monterrey
During summer in Monterrey, from May to September, the temperatures rise to over 100. It's best to go when the weather is milder, during the spring, March to May or the fall, from October to November. At this point, temperatures are a comfortable 65-80.
How to Get to Monterrey
Plane
Air travelers will land at General Mariano Escobedo International Airport (MTY). The airport is located about 15 miles away from downtown; take a taxi for about Mex$25.
Car
Getting in to the city using a car is just as easy as using the bus. Monterrey is located 124 miles from the US border. Use the I-35 and then use Mexico's Federal Highway 85.
Bus
To get in by bus, from the southern states of the US or other Mexican cities, use services like Adame, Turimex Internacional, and Estrella Blanca. From Alamo to Monterrey, for example, a one-way fare is Mex$1,120.
Airlines serving Monterrey
Where to stay in Monterrey
Those who don't mind spending a little extra will enjoy accommodations at NH Collection Monterrey. Modest but comfortable furnishings await at Hotel Fundador. Budget travelers will find Ikali Hostel to be the right spot.
Popular neighbourhoods in Monterrey
Mitras Centro - Mitras Centro is a beautiful neighborhood that is well connected and right in the core of Monterrey. It includes residential areas and the Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon.
Barrio Antiguo - one of the main hubs of Monterrey is this "barrio" or neighborhood. It features great restaurants, hotels, and the well-preserved historic quarter.
Nuevo Repueblo - right beside this mainly residential neighborhood is Río Santa Catarina and the Technological Institute of Monterrey.
Where to stay in popular areas of Monterrey
Most booked hotels in Monterrey
How to Get Around Monterrey
Public Transportation
Public transportation includes inner-city buses, inter-city buses servicing Guadalupe and San Bernabé, and the subway system. A one-way adult fare costs Mex$12 and you can purchase a monthly pass for Mex$400.
Taxi
If you're hailing a taxi locally, expect to pay about Mex$50. Fares start at a flat rate of Mex$10, with $9 per mile after that.
Car
Rent a car in Monterrey through companies like Alamo, Dollar Rent A Car, and Thrifty, with daily fares starting at Mex$94.
The Cost of Living in Monterrey
Shopping Streets
You could say Monterrey was made for shopping! There is a perfect mix of high-end luxury labels, mid-range finds, and lots of tourist-focused souvenir stalls. If you love the latter, check out the Zona Rosa. If you prefer a good mall, head to Galerias Monterrey or Plaza Fiesta San Agustín.
Groceries and Other
A quart of milk costs Mex$17 and a dozen eggs costs Mex$29.