León Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Martyrs Plaza
Leon
Leon Cathedral
León
Martyrs Plaza

Leon today is much more than an industrial city and transportation hub. It’s a lively, historic destination with an exciting arts scene and striking architecture.

Leon is one of the most important cities in the state of Guanajuato, as it is a focal point of the region’s bus routes and a hub for regional industries. Visit the city to experience authentic Mexican life and discover historic churches and sleek, modern neighborhoods.

Amble around the Historic Center of Leon to appreciate the city’s atmosphere. The region was first inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Toltecs and the Chichimecas, before Spanish settlers founded a city here in 1576. Pause for a break in the formal gardens of the Martyrs PlazaOpens in a new window or beneath the columns of the Heroes' Causeway ArchOpens in a new window (Triumphal Arch of Leon).

One of the Old Town’s most impressive sights is the Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazon de JesusOpens in a new window, a neo-Gothic church in pastel shades of pink and blue. Step inside to see stunning stained-glass windows and explore the vast catacombs beneath the church.

East of the Old Town is a more modern section of Leon that offers art venues and museums. Watch a touring opera company or local ballet in the Bicentennial TheatreOpens in a new window. The 21st-century building is distinctive for its geometric design and spacious layout.

Explore the Museum of Art and History, which features spacious galleries dedicated to topics such as Mexican sculpture and regional culture. Visit regularly to see touring exhibitions hosted in the multifaceted venue.

Leon is a main hub for buses in the state of Guanajuato, so reaching the city is simple on public transportation. Board a coach traveling through the country and stop in Leon to experience the unique character of the city. Alternatively, fly to Guanajuato International Airport, which is located 17 miles (28 kilometers) southeast of the city center.

Guanajuato remains mild and dry throughout the whole year. Visit Leon in any season to enjoy its impressive landmarks and stylish arts venues. Many of the attractions in Leon are close to one another, which makes it easy to explore this city on foot.

Where to stay in León

Leon Cathedral

León Centro

León Centro is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Manuel Doblado Theater and Cathedral of León.

León Centro
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San Miguel

San Miguel might not have many top sights, but Expiatory Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Heroes' Causeway Arch are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

San Miguel
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El Castillo

While there might not be top attractions in El Castillo, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Leon Zoo and Leon Metropolitan Park.

El Castillo
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Barranca

Barranca might not have many top sights, but Cathedral of León and Manuel Doblado Theater are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Barranca
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Jardin Delta

While Jardin Delta isn't home to many top sights, Altacia Shopping Center and Aquarium Bajio are some notable places to visit nearby.

Jardin Delta
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Chapalita

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Chapalita and surrounding area, you can visit Templo expiatorio del Sagrado Corazon de Jesus and Cathedral of León.

Chapalita
HS HOTSSON Hotel Leon
HS HOTSSON Hotel Leon
4.5 out of 5
Blvd Adolfo Lopez Mateos #1102 Ote, Colonia Los Gavilanes, León, GTO
The price is Rp1.527.855 per night from 8 Jun to 9 Jun
Rp1.527.855
Rp1.833.426 total
8 Jun - 9 Jun
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in León. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,013 reviews)
"Always stay here"

Reviewed on 14 May 2025

HS HOTSSON Hotel Leon
Hotel San Francisco Leon
Hotel San Francisco Leon
3 out of 5
Blvd Adolfo Lopez Mateos 2715, León, GTO
The price is Rp381.752 per night from 18 May to 19 May
Rp381.752
Rp458.102 total
18 May - 19 May
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star family-friendly hotel in León. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and private pools. Our guests praise the clean rooms and the overall value ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,236 reviews)
"The place was good, friendly staff, and fair price. Water temperature of the pool was very cold."

Reviewed on 21 Apr 2025

Hotel San Francisco Leon
Hotel Noite Business Class
Hotel Noite Business Class
4 out of 5
Blvd Adolfo López Mateos 2114, León, GTO
The price is Rp1.068.905 per night from 18 May to 19 May
Rp1.068.905
Rp1.282.686 total
18 May - 19 May
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in León. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Popular attractions León Stadium and Explora Science ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (399 reviews)
"Great value"

Reviewed on 9 May 2025

Hotel Noite Business Class
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Brisas
Brisas
2.5 out of 5
Brisas de la Bahia Brisa de la Bahía, León, GTO
Stay at this apartment in León. Enjoy free parking and 5 outdoor pools. Popular attractions León Stadium and La Hacienda Driving Range are located nearby.
"La estancia me canceló, van 2 meses y no me han realizado la devolución del hospedaje ni del deposito por posibles daños. La plataforma de Xpedia tampoco se hace responsable. Es un total fraude, deberian tener politicas que protejan a los usuarios y que se de seguimiento legalmente a quien resulte ..."

Reviewed on 18 Dec 2024

Brisas
Australia Suites Ejecutivas
Australia Suites Ejecutivas
2.5 out of 5
Blvd. Adolfo Lopez Mateos No.1012 Pte., Esq. Limbo y Australia, Col Obregon, León, GTO
Stay at this aparthotel in León. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions León Stadium and Templo expiatorio del Sagrado ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (124 reviews)
"the property isn't very updated. slow water flow but great service from management and employees. They were very friendly and helpful. I would stay again because of price and service but this hotel isnt highend at all but a great price for what you get."

Reviewed on 22 Oct 2024

Australia Suites Ejecutivas
Cozy Apartment Poliforum AC
Cozy Apartment Poliforum AC
2 out of 5
Sta. Virginia El Mirador Oriental, 230, León, GTO
Stay at this apartment in León. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and free parking. Popular attractions León Stadium and Explora Science Center are located nearby.
Cozy Apartment Poliforum AC
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

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Reviews of León

3
Guest rating
5 - Excellent
0
5 - Excellent 0%
4 - Good
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4 - Good 0%
3 - Okay
1
3 - Okay 100%
2 - Disappointing
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3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

Large industrial town. I came for a wedding.

Cities near León