Things to Do in Querétaro: A Flavor Route Through Vineyards and Magical Towns

 Queretaro has become one of the most compelling destinations in central Mexico. Located just two and a half hours from Mexico City (about 218 km / 135 miles), the state offers a rare mix of colonial history, semi-desert landscapes, and a fast-growing culinary scene. But Queretaro’s best food experiences aren’t concentrated in one place—they’re spread across vineyards, Pueblos Mágicos (“Magic Towns”), and historic estates.

That’s why choosing a car rental in Queretaro isn’t a luxury—it’s a smart move for travelers who want to eat well and explore freely. Skip rigid group tours and discover the region at your own pace. This expert-curated route is designed to satisfy both your appetite and your sense of adventure.

Historic Downtown: Where the Journey Begins

Your first essential stop is Queretaro’s Historic Center. Park near Jardín Zenea and explore on foot—this area is steeped in colonial history. A must-visit is Las Monjas, located on Ezequiel Montes Street. This restaurant honors traditional convent-style cuisine. Don’t leave without trying the enchiladas callejeras or the iconic stone soup.

After lunch, head to Cerro de las Campanas, just a 10-minute drive from downtown (about 4 km / 2.5 miles). It’s the perfect place to walk off your meal while exploring a key site in Mexican history surrounded by green spaces.

The Wine and Cheese Route: Enjoy Responsibly

Take Federal Highway 100 northeast, and after about 50 minutes (59 km / 37 miles), you’ll reach the famous Querétaro Wine and Cheese Route. This region is known for high-altitude vineyards and artisanal cheeses.

One standout stop is Bodegas de Cote in Ezequiel Montes. Its modern architecture and landscaped gardens are impressive, and its bistro offers refined dishes paired with locally produced sheep and cow’s milk cheeses.

Important note: At MEX, we want your trip to be memorable and safe. If you’re driving, don’t drink alcohol. Designate a driver—or better yet, use the trunk of your rental car to take your favorite bottles with you and enjoy them later at your hotel or final destination. Road safety is part of a great travel experience.

Peña de Bernal: High-Altitude Street Food

Just 20 minutes from the vineyards, you’ll arrive in Bernal, home to the iconic Peña de Bernal, the third-largest monolith in the world. This Pueblo Mágico is guarded by the massive rock formation and known for its simple, rustic, and deeply satisfying food.

Skip formal dining and look for gorditas de maíz quebrado stuffed with pork or spicy cheese. El Negrito, near the main square, is a local institution. Having a car lets you arrive early (before 9:00 a.m.), find parking easily, and hike the Peña before the sun gets too intense.

Sierra Gorda: For the Adventurous Traveler

If you have extra time and a taste for adventure, your MEX rental car is the key to reaching the Sierra Gorda. The drive to Jalpan de Serra takes about three and a half hours from Querétaro City and offers dramatic scenery—transitioning from semi-desert to pine forest and jungle.

Here, cecina serrana and freshwater shrimp (acamayas) take center stage. The roads are winding, so traveling in a well-maintained vehicle—like those offered by reliable car rental companies—is essential.

Tips for Renting a Car in Querétaro

To enjoy this gastronomic route without hassle, keep these tips in mind when looking for car rentals in Querétaro:

1. Book in advance, especially during festivals or long weekends.
2. Clear requirements: The minimum rental age is 18 (drivers under 25 may incur a young driver fee).
3. Payment method: A physical credit card in the main driver’s name is required. At MEX, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. With certain cards and coverage options, you can access highly competitive security deposits.
4. Coverage: If you plan to drive to Pueblos Mágicos or rural areas, we recommend reviewing our road safety tips and choosing comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.

Your Journey Starts with MEX

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a vineyard or the bold flavors of a corn gordita, Querétaro is best explored on four wheels. Rent a car in Querétaro with MEX and turn a simple getaway into an unforgettable culinary road trip.

Book now and let Mexico’s flavors lead the way.