Solo Exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal's Secrets Unveiled

Today was a day of wandering, of letting the spirit of San Cristobal de las Casas guide my feet. It’s amazing how a place can whisper stories if you just take the time to listen. I set out with no rigid plan, just a desire to soak in the atmosphere and stumble upon whatever treasures the day might hold. And San Cristobal, as always, did not disappoint.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurante Miura. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were the perfect start. I opted for a traditional Chiapaneco breakfast, savoring every bite as I planned my day. The staff were incredibly friendly, making me feel right at home. It’s these little moments of connection that truly enrich a travel experience.


Experience exquisite grilled cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Restaurante Miura in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where every meal tells a story.
Fueled and ready, I set off to explore the Arco del Carmen. This iconic structure, built in the 17th century, is a testament to the city's rich history. As I stood beneath its arch, I couldn't help but imagine the countless people who had passed through it over the centuries. The architecture, a blend of Moorish and colonial styles, is simply breathtaking. I spent a good hour photographing the Arco from different angles, trying to capture its beauty and grandeur. It’s amazing to think this served as one of the main entrances to the city back in the day.


Discover the historical charm of Arco del Carmen, a stunning landmark in San Cristóbal de las Casas, steeped in culture and beauty.

Sometimes, the best discoveries are the ones you don't plan.

Next on my impromptu itinerary was a rather unusual item: deteccion de fuga. Now, I knew my Spanish phrasebook would come in handy, but I didn't expect to be deciphering notices about leak detection! Turns out, San Cristobal, like many older cities, struggles with water loss due to aging infrastructure. Apparently, the local government is using sophisticated equipment to find and fix these leaks. It was fascinating to see this blend of old-world charm and modern technology working side-by-side. It's a reminder that even in the most picturesque destinations, there are real-world challenges being addressed.


Explore the rich history of Detección de Fuga in San Cristobal de las Casas, a hidden gem that showcases the cultural legacy of Chiapas.
For lunch, I ventured to El Caldero, a restaurant known for its authentic Mexican soups. The reviews online raved about their Caldo de Chipilin, so I knew I had to try it. It was a chilly afternoon, and the warm, flavorful broth was exactly what I needed. The restaurant itself had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the service was excellent. I can definitely see why it's a local favorite. Maximilian would have loved this place; he always appreciates a good, hearty soup, especially when the Berlin weather gets him down.


Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Caldero in San Cristóbal de las Casas – where every meal tells a story.
After lunch, I decided to do some shopping. I stumbled upon a vintage store called Bad People / Ropa Vintage. As someone who appreciates sustainable fashion, I was immediately drawn in. The store had a curated selection of second-hand clothing at great prices. I ended up finding a beautiful vintage dress that I can't wait to wear back in Berlin. It's always a thrill to find unique pieces that tell a story.


Explore Bad People, a unique vintage clothing store in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where fashion meets local culture and sustainability.
As the sun began to set, I made my way to Jack Rock Y Chela, a local bar known for its live music and laid-back atmosphere. I ordered a local beer and settled in to enjoy the music. The crowd was a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the lively atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration. I even struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler from Argentina, sharing stories and travel tips.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Jack Rock Y Chela, a must-visit bar in San Cristóbal de las Casas, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
For dinner, I chose Restaurante Sabor a mi, drawn in by its promise of traditional Mexican cuisine and a rooftop terrace. The view of the city at night was magical. I ordered a selection of tacos, each one bursting with flavor. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with discovery. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes when I get back home – a little piece of Mexico in my Berlin kitchen.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante Sabor a mi in San Cristóbal de las Casas - where every dish tells a story.
Tomorrow, I plan to visit San Cristóbal and Calle los artitectos, hoping to delve even deeper into the heart of this fascinating city. I’m particularly excited to explore the local art scene and see what hidden gems I can uncover. It’s days like today that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected discoveries, the connections with people, and the chance to immerse myself in a different culture. And even though Maximilian isn’t here with me, I feel like he’s experiencing it all through my stories and photos. Maybe next time, I can convince him to trade Berlin for San Cristobal for a while.

San Cristobal continues to surprise and delight me. Each day brings new adventures and new perspectives. It's a place that nourishes the soul and inspires creativity. And as I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience it all. I am also grateful that I didn't forget my camera, as I almost forgot my portable charger and rain jacket before I left Berlin. I'm looking forward to sharing more of my journey with you all. Stay tuned!