Cultural Exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas

Adios, San Cristobal!

Our last day in San Cristobal de las Casas arrived far too quickly. Over the past nine days, Lena and I have truly immersed ourselves in the culture, the food, and the stunning scenery of this vibrant city. Today was all about soaking up those last moments, revisiting some favorite spots, and making a few final discoveries before we pack our bags and head back to Berlin. It’s funny how a place can feel like home in such a short time, isn’t it?

We started our day with breakfast at Restaurante Las Pichanchas. Knowing it was our last chance to savor authentic Chiapan cuisine for a while, I opted for a hearty plate of *huevos rancheros*, while Lena enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt. The atmosphere was as lively as ever, with locals and tourists alike chatting and enjoying their morning meals. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Chiapas cuisine at Restaurante Las Pichanchas in San Cristóbal de las Casas – a feast for your senses.

With our bellies full, we decided to dive into the local history and art scene. First stop: Museo de San Cristóbal MUSAC - Palacio de Gobierno. Housed in the former Municipal Palace, the MUSAC offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. The building itself is an architectural gem, and the exhibits inside are well-curated, with interactive displays that bring the history to life. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the halls, learning about the city's founding, its colonial past, and its more recent struggles and triumphs. It was a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for San Cristobal and its people.


Discover Chiapas' artistic and historical treasures at Museo de San Cristóbal MUSAC, an inspiring art and heritage museum in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

It is through art and culture that we truly understand the soul of a place.

After the museum, we joined a Free Walking Tour San Cristobal de Las Casas. We’ve done a few of these tours in different cities, and they’re always a fantastic way to get a local’s perspective and discover hidden gems. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about San Cristobal, sharing stories and anecdotes that you won’t find in any guidebook. We strolled through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful buildings and soaking up the atmosphere. The tour took us to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, as well as some lesser-known spots that were equally charming.


Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of San Cristobal de Las Casas with an insightful Free Walking Tour led by local guides.

One of the highlights of the walking tour was a visit to the markets around Santo Domingo Church. The air was thick with the scent of spices, flowers, and freshly baked bread. We wandered through the stalls, marveling at the colorful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and other artisanal goods. It was a feast for the senses and a great opportunity to support local artisans.

For lunch, we ventured to Masala Raff, an Indian restaurant that had been recommended to us. As someone who lived in Berlin for quite a long time, I can say that finding authentic international cuisine is something I enjoy quite a lot, and this place did not disappoint! The flavors were incredible, and the portions were generous. Lena and I shared a few different dishes, including a flavorful curry and some delicious naan bread. It was a welcome change of pace from the Mexican food we’d been enjoying, and it was fun to experience a different culture's cuisine in the heart of San Cristobal.


Experience authentic Indian flavors at Masala Raff in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where every dish tells a story.

In the afternoon, Lena was keen to do some shopping, so we headed to Boutique El Camino de los Altos. This place is known for its beautiful textiles and handcrafted clothing, all made by local artisans. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was in heaven, carefully examining the intricate patterns and vibrant colors. She ended up buying a stunning embroidered blouse, a perfect reminder of our time in San Cristobal. Supporting local artisans is something we both feel strongly about, and it was great to find a place that values fair trade and sustainable practices.


Explore Boutique El Camino de los Altos for unique artisanal crafts in San Cristóbal de las Casas, reflecting the rich culture of Chiapas.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at La Viña de Bacco, a cozy wine bar that had caught our eye earlier in the week. This place has a unique, European vibe, with wooden tables, soft lighting, and a great selection of wines. We ordered a couple of glasses of local red wine and settled in to enjoy the ambiance. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our time in San Cristobal and savor those last few moments before our departure.


Experience exquisite tapas and fine wines at La Viña de Bacco in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas.

For our final dinner, we returned to La Viña de Bacco. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was simple but delicious. We shared a cheese board and some crusty bread, savoring each bite and sipping our wine. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey in San Cristobal, with simple, hearty food and great company.

As we walked back to Hotel D' Monica, the cobblestone streets were quiet and peaceful. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars were shining brightly overhead. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve had here. San Cristobal de las Casas has captured our hearts with its vibrant culture, its stunning scenery, and its warm and welcoming people.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel D' Monica, centrally located in San Cristobal de las Casas, where vibrant culture meets homely hospitality.

Looking back on our 9-day trip, I’m struck by how much we were able to experience in such a short amount of time. From exploring the ancient ruins of Palenque to hiking in the Sumidero Canyon, from wandering through the colorful markets to savoring the delicious local cuisine, we’ve truly immersed ourselves in the beauty and culture of Chiapas. I am slightly sad that it is over, but I know Berlin is calling, and I have to get back to work!

I’m so glad that Lena and I decided to come here. It’s a place that will stay with us long after we’ve left, and I know we’ll be back someday. Until then, *adiós*, San Cristobal. Thank you for the memories.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home. It’s always a bit bittersweet leaving a place you’ve grown to love, but I’m excited to return to Berlin and share our adventures with friends and family. Plus, I’m already starting to plan our next trip! Who knows where we’ll end up next? Stay tuned to find out!

Reflecting on this trip, I realize how much travel enriches our lives. It broadens our perspectives, challenges our assumptions, and connects us with people and cultures that are different from our own. It’s an investment in ourselves, in our understanding of the world, and in our ability to appreciate the beauty and diversity of our planet. And that, to me, is priceless.

Even though I forgot my Spanish phrasebook and sunscreen, I think I managed to navigate the city quite well. I will make sure to bring them next time.