Route Through the Heart of Mexico: Queretaro and Its Surroundings

If you are looking for an escape that combines history, nature, and charming towns, a road trip through Queretaro is the perfect answer. Strategically located in the center of the country, this state offers unmatched connectivity for the practical traveler who wants to make the most of every minute. By opting for cheap car rental in Queretaro, you take control of your itinerary, ensuring the comfort and safety your family deserves.

At MÁS Rent A Car, we know that convenience is key. That’s why we offer our offices in the metropolitan area: one directly at the Queretaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO) and another at the Centro Sur location (QRO2). Plus, if your flight arrives in a neighboring city, remember that we are also ready to welcome you at our offices in Mexico City (AICM, AIFA, and the Angel of Independence) or at the Bajío International Airport (BJX).

Below, we present a 3-day itinerary designed for you to live an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Santiago de Queretaro and the Stone Giant

Your adventure begins in Santiago de Queretaro. Before hitting the road, spend the morning touring its Historic Center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Have breakfast in one of its colonial plazas and get ready to drive.

Take State Highway 100 towards the Sierra Gorda. Just 37 miles away (approximately 50 minutes by car), you will see the third-largest monolith in the world rising on the horizon: the Peña de Bernal. This immense rock formation, dating back millions of years, is often compared in majesty to the Rock of Gibraltar or Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro.

Upon arriving at the Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) of Bernal, part of the municipality of Ezequiel Montes, you will feel a special energy. It is no coincidence that every March 21st, during the spring equinox, thousands of travelers gather here to "recharge their energy." Park your MÁS car and hike up to the base of the monolith or browse the shops selling wool crafts and milk candy sweets.

This area is also the gateway to the places of memory and living traditions of the Otomí-Chichimeca people of Tolimán, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. End the day enjoying the local gastronomy (the broken corn gorditas are a must) and rest in one of the area's boutique hotels.

Day 2: Colonial Charm and Colorful Skies in Tequisquiapan

For your second day, drive towards Tequisquiapan, located just 22 miles from Bernal (about a 35-minute drive). This Pueblo Mágico is characterized by its tranquility, cobblestone streets, and fuchsia bougainvillea adorning the facades.

If you wake up early, we recommend heading to the outskirts to witness the spectacle of hot air balloons at sunrise, an iconic activity in the region that paints the sky with colors. Afterward, head downtown to visit the Parish of Santa María de la Asunción. This pink Neoclassical church is the heart of the town and the main stage for the patron saint festivities every August 15th.

Tequisquiapan is famous for its tourism focused on relaxation and good living. Use the trunk of your rental car to store purchases of wicker and reed crafts typical of the region. After a relaxed walk and a meal in the main square, you can choose to drive briefly towards Cadereyta or simply enjoy the afternoon at a hotel with thermal springs, which are very common in the area.

Day 3: San Miguel de Allende, the City of the World

To finish on a high note, we will cross the state border into Guanajuato to visit San Miguel de Allende, considered by many as the City of the World for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and architectural beauty. From Tequisquiapan, the trip in your rental car will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (55 miles) via Highway 111.

San Miguel welcomes you with its iconic Neo-Gothic style parish church, San Miguel Arcángel, which seems to touch the sky. Walk through its streets full of art galleries, design shops, and world-class restaurants. Having your own vehicle allows you the total freedom to visit the scenic viewpoint (mirador) on the exit to Queretaro to get the perfect panoramic photo of the city.

The return trip to the city of Queretaro or the airport will take about an hour. Remember that when traveling by road, safety comes first.

Choose to Travel Comfortably, Choose Always MÁS

Doing this route by public transport would limit your time and prevent you from stopping to admire the landscapes of the Queretaro semi-desert. Car rental is the tool that transforms a simple transfer into a complete travel experience.

Whether you are traveling as a family looking for a spacious SUV or as a couple preferring a compact and economical car, at MÁS Rent A Car we have the ideal unit for you. With our low deposits and clear rates, your only worry will be choosing which Pueblo Mágico to visit first.

Ready to discover the charm of the Bajío region? Reserve your car today on our website and start planning that dream route through Santa María, Bernal, and Miguel de Allende. We give you the keys to your next adventure