By Unesco as a World Heritage protected colonial Queretaro (1 million inhabitants) is the capital of the same state. A friendly, cosmopolitan atmosphere and an embossed center looking like in Andalucia expect visitors in the 1865 m high town. The mixture of colorful houses, flower-filled plazas, patios and shady arcades corridors, colonial palaces and baroque churches makes the city very attractive.

Acueducto de Querétaro
To get the water from the over 2 km away source, 74 enormous arches had to be build, sometimes up to 30 meters high. The landmark of the city is beautifully illuminated at night and can be seen from the point of view in the Calzada de los Arcos, east of the historic center in its full length.

Casa de la Zacatecana
In the building from the 17th century, more than 600 art objects - paintings, sculptures, watches - from three centuries are shown. Tue-Sun 10am-6pm Independencia 59

Cerro de las Campanas
Hilly park west of the center with a memorial for Emperor Maximilian of Austria Avenida Tecnológico

Convento de la Cruz
The monastery from the 16th century with seven patios belongs to the oldest church buildings in the country. The building now serves as a cultural center. Avenida Independencia

Teatro de la República
In this national monument was Emperor Maximilian 1867 sentenced to death and 1917 the Mexican constitution drafted. daily 9am to 5pm  Juárez/Angela Peralta

shopping
From Thursday to Monday in the pedestrian area of the center (Avenida Corregidora / Andador Libertad) a hawkers market with colorful booths is set up in which you can find all kinds of art objects and souvenirs. A Sunday flea market with cheap shopping is the Mercado de la Cruz next to the Market at the Templo de la Cruz.

food
Cananas
Authentic Mexican kitchen in a stylish frame in a perfectly restored spanish city palace. Avenida Hidalgo 1
Harry's New Orleans Cafe & Oyster Bar
Restaurant and bar with a modern, international kitchen, traditional atmosphere with subtle jazz music Plaza de la Constitución
Meson de la Corregidora
Simple Mexican dishes, tasty and appealing 16 de Septiembre 16 b (Plaza de la Corregidora)
Restaurante 1810
For a romantic evening: you can eat outdoors in front of a historic front of houses. On basket furniture in colonial style is best regional kitchen served. Andador Libertad 62

where to stay
Dona Urraca
For a stylish night a luxury hotel in the historic center with a beautiful pool and bio-Spa Center. 24 rooms. 5 de Mayo 117
Meson de la Merced
A bit hidden and not at first to be recognized as a hotel. Huge patio with large rooms, partly over two floors. 14
Suites
16 de Septiembre Oriente 95
Plaza
Very inexpensive, but nevertheless comfortable accommodation in the center overlooking the Zocalo. 29 rooms. Juárez Norte 23/16 de Septiembre
Plaza Camelinas
For a stylish night: The curved staircase in the lobby is reminiscent of old Hollywood movies, with pool and fitness center, plus an online travel agency. 163 rooms. Avenida 5 de Febrero 201/Zaragoza (Colonia Los Virreyes)

Bus                                                                                                                                                                            a 2 hours busride from Mexico City, terminal norte with ETN or Primera Plus.