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Did you know that Queretaro is almost 500 years old? This city has seen it all, and the diverse melting pot of indigenous, Aztec, and Spanish influences makes it so vibrant and unique that Queretaro has a well-earned reputation as one of the most romantic cities in Mexico.
I spent six weeks here and it quickly became one of my favorite destinations in the country. I loved wandering the cobblestone streets, visiting the nearby Pueblo Magicos, and hiking in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve – one of the largest and most ecologically diverse protected areas in Mexico – to discover the best Instagram spots in Queretaro.
The city may be overlooked by the tourists and digital nomads who flock to Mexico’s more famous coasts, but this roundup of the top 10 Instagram spots in Queretaro will convince you otherwise.
Bookmark this page, grab your camera, and get inspired to photograph all that Queretaro has to offer!
1. Centro Queretaro at Dusk
Centro Queretaro is the the historical, colonial, cobblestone area of the city and the most beautiful part to wander through and photograph. I recommend walking through it every evening during your stay because each sunset and street is different so you can get a new shot every night. This particular photo was taken at the corner of Calle Venustiano Carranza and Calle Independencia.
2. Taishii
Uhm, how cute are these ice cream cones?? Taishii is a tiny ice cream shop in downtown Queretaro serving up super unique treats. I don’t know which part is my favorite – the fish-shaped waffle cone, the purple ice cream, the unicorn horn, or the edible glitter – but I love it all. And the fact that it’s actually tasty too makes Taishii one of the best Instagram spots in Queretaro.
3. Queretaro Pedestrian Streets
As a photographer, traveler, and human being, I love a good pedestrian street. Queretaro has quite a few criss-crossing the central historic center and they’re all gorgeous. But, this tiny hidden gem off Calle 5 de Mayo may just be my favorite!
4. Mirador de Los Arcos
Remember my ramblings about the history of Queretaro at the beginning of this article? The city was the third most important in Mexico after Mexico City and Puebla and the impressive aqueduct built in 1736 played a role in that. Now, this lookout point is not only a great place to see the sheer scale and size of the aqueduct, but also to get a birds eye view of the entire city from above. Go at sunrise or sunset (unlike I did) for the best Instagram pics!
5. This Door
I’m a sucker for a good door. At least one usually shows up in my Instagram city guides and Queretaro is no exception. This door is giant, ornate, and bright pink, and the fancy restaurant inside is beautiful too. What’s not to like??
6. Pena de Bernal
I’d be doing you guys dirty if I didn’t expand our search for the best Instagram spots in Queretaro to the surrounding area, because there are so many unique and beautiful places just a short half or full-day trip from the city. Starting with Pena de Bernal.
This sacred monolith is 1,420 feet tall and one of the 13 Wonders of Mexico. Multiple hiking routes climb up the monolith for sweeping views of the Queretaro countryside, but I still think the view of the monolith is the best. Use this Bernal Guide to plan your trip!
7. The Town of Bernal
After your climb Pena de Bernal, it’s time to visit the colorful town of Bernal tucked into it’s base. Bernal is one of 100+ Pueblo Magicos in Mexico, towns that are recognized as top tourist destinations in the country, and the accolade is well-deserved.
I’ve visited many of the Pueblo Magicos around Mexico and Bernal is one of the best. The restaurants, shops, courtyards, galleries, streets, and churches are beautiful in their own right, but made even more photogenic with the monolith rising behind them. *Chef’s kiss* Use this Bernal Guide to plan your trip!
8. The Queretaro Vineyards
Queretaro is part of Mexico’s wine region, so vineyards and wineries dot the entire state and many are easily accessible by car or tour from the city center. I’m sure most of them could find their way onto this list of the best Instagram spots in Queretaro, but I chose Maria y Bernardo Hotel y Vinedo because they have private bungalows for overnight stays on the property. Dan and I splurged on a Valentine’s Day getaway in the Tempranillo Room, with a cozy leather couch, garden views, home-cooked breakfast, and private thermal pool. It was magical.
9. Mirador de Cuatro Pelos
One third of the entire state of Queretaro is in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve. Even if you’re not super outdoorsy, I strongly recommend getting out here on a day trip because it’s absolutely one of the best Instagram spots in Queretaro. Dan and I rented a car and drove to two major sites in Sierra Gorda on a day trip, the first of which was this breathtaking viewpoint at almost 9,000 feet! Use this Sierra Gorda guide to plan your trip.
10. Puente de Dios
Puente de Dios means ‘Bridge of Gods,’ and the name could not be more accurate. This magical cave and waterfall are also located in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, and this guide will get you there!
Bonus: Monarch Butterfly Migration
This may be a bit of a stretch for a list of Instagram spots in Queretaro, but I honestly think I’d be doing you guys a disservice if I left it off. Hear me out.
The Monarch Butterfly migration takes places from November to March every year in the neighboring state of Michoacan, which is easily accessible on a day or weekend trip from Queretaro. We did it on a day trip, and it was a highlight of my one year stay in Mexico.
If you happen to be in Queretaro, Mexico City, or honestly the entire country during the migration, going down to the reserves is a must! Use this guide to plan your trip and find yourself walking through forests full of thousands of swirling butterflies – if that’s not a picture perfect setting for an Instagram pic, nothing is.
Ready to go?
Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like this downtown duplex or this home with a private pool – and the top hotels on Booking.com to plan your trip to Queretaro.
Then, check out more food, cultural, and outdoors experiences in the city to round out your itinerary (or, book a multi-day Mexico tour to finish your travel planning in one click!).
This article is part of the Quintessential Queretaro Series. Read the rest below:
How to Go Hiking in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve
How to Visit Pena de Bernal and Climb a Sacred Monolith
The Best Vineyard in Queretaro for a Romantic Getaway
Or, explore the complete Mexico Series for 50+ more articles on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country!
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