Exploring the Heart of Chiapas: A Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

Adios, San Cristobal!

As our Chiapas adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family in San Cristobal de las Casas. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of this magical town, revisiting favorite spots, and discovering a few hidden gems we'd somehow missed along the way. It’s amazing how a place can feel like home in just a few short weeks, and I already know a piece of my heart will remain here.

Our final day began, as many others did, with a delightful breakfast at BELIL SABORES DE CHIAPAS. The aroma of freshly brewed Chiapan coffee filled the air, mingling with the savory scent of traditional dishes. It’s become a ritual for us, a comforting way to start the day. Sofia always orders the huevos rancheros, while Hans and I usually share a platter of local pastries. The friendly staff always greets us with warm smiles, making us feel like part of their family. I made sure to thank them for their hospitality throughout our stay; it’s these small connections that truly enrich a travel experience.


Savor authentic Mexican cuisine and artisanal chocolates at Belil Sabores de Chiapas in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

After breakfast, we decided to explore Castillo Zavaleta. I had read about it before our trip, but seeing it in person was something else entirely. The castle, with its somewhat gothic architecture, stands as a quirky landmark amidst the colonial beauty of San Cristobal. Built in 1978, it is surrounded by many myths. Some locals even say that it was owned by a vampire ! While the stories are definitely intriguing, I was more captivated by the architecture and the panoramic views of the city from its elevated location. Sofia was absolutely thrilled, imagining knights and princesses as we wandered around the grounds. It was a fun, slightly spooky, and memorable experience for all of us.


Explore Castillo Zavaleta, a historical castle in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Chiapas' rich cultural heritage.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the ones we stumble upon unexpectedly, adding an extra layer of magic to our journey.

Next on our list was a leisurely stroll down Andador Eclesiástico De San Cristóbal. This pedestrian street is the heart of San Cristobal, bustling with life and color. The architecture here is a beautiful blend of colonial and indigenous influences. We passed by the Catedral de San Cristóbal, admiring its stunning facade, and continued towards the Templo de Santo Domingo. The vibrant Mercado de Artesanías de Santo Domingo was a feast for the eyes, with textiles, jewelry, and wooden crafts galore. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the amber jewelry, a regional specialty, and picked out a small pendant as a souvenir.


Explore the vibrant Andador Eclesiástico De San Cristóbal, a cultural gem filled with artisan shops, delicious cuisine, and historical landmarks in Chiapas.

As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia creeping in. It felt like just yesterday we were marveling at the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo for the first time. The way the sunlight filters through the ancient stones, the echoes of history in every corner – it's all so captivating. It reminded me of my childhood in Zacatecas, wandering through the old plazas with my abuela, listening to her stories of the past. Those memories are so precious to me, and I'm grateful that I can create similar experiences for Sofia.

For lunch, we ventured to Chef Claudia Sántiz, a place recommended by a local artisan we met at the market. It was a small, unassuming restaurant, but the food was incredible. Chef Claudia uses traditional Chiapan recipes and fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are bursting with flavor. I had the mole chiapaneco, a rich and complex sauce made with chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. Hans opted for the tasajo, a grilled beef dish, while Sofia enjoyed a simple but delicious quesadilla. It was a perfect, authentic meal that truly captured the essence of Chiapan cuisine.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Chef Claudia Sántiz in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where every dish tells a story of flavor.

In the late afternoon, seeking a moment of relaxation, we stumbled upon Soul Barra Bistro. This cozy bar had a laid-back atmosphere and an impressive selection of drinks. We settled into comfortable chairs and ordered some local craft beers. Sofia, of course, stuck to her usual limonada. The music was mellow, the ambiance was perfect, and it was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring. I made a mental note to try to recreate their vibe in our backyard back in Heidelberg – maybe with a few strings of fairy lights and some Mexican-inspired decor.


Discover the lively Soul Barra Bistro in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where vibrant drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Santo Nahual for our final dinner in San Cristobal. This restaurant had been on our list since the beginning of our trip, known for its innovative take on traditional Mexican dishes. The ambiance was sophisticated yet welcoming, with dim lighting and colorful artwork adorning the walls. We ordered a variety of appetizers to share, including the esquites (grilled corn with chili and lime) and the guacamole with chapulines (grasshoppers). I know, it sounds a bit adventurous, but trust me, they were delicious!


Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Santo Nahual, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

For our main courses, Hans chose the cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), Sofia went for the enchiladas, and I decided to try the sopa de tortilla (tortilla soup). Every dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. It was the perfect culinary send-off, a reminder of the incredible gastronomic experiences we've had in Chiapas.

After dinner, we took one last stroll through the Plaza de la Paz, the heart of San Cristobal. The square was alive with activity, families laughing, street vendors selling their wares, and musicians playing traditional tunes. We sat on a bench, soaking in the atmosphere, and reflecting on our time here. It felt surreal that our trip was coming to an end. We’ve created so many wonderful memories, experienced so much beauty, and learned so much about the culture and the people of Chiapas.

Tomorrow, we head back to Tuxtla Gutierrez to catch our flight home. While I’m excited to return to Heidelberg and our familiar routines, I know that I’ll carry a piece of San Cristobal with me always. The vibrant colors, the rich culture, the warm hospitality – it’s all etched in my heart. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll return to this magical corner of Mexico and create even more unforgettable memories.

Until then, adios, San Cristobal! Thank you for the adventure.

As I sit here, penning down these final thoughts from our hotel room at Casa del Alma, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, connection, and growth for all of us. I've seen Sofia's eyes light up with wonder as she explored ancient ruins, Hans's face beam with joy as he sampled local delicacies, and my own heart swell with pride as I shared my heritage with my family. These are the moments that make life truly rich and meaningful.


Experience unparalleled comfort and luxury at Casa del Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa in San Cristobal de las Casas, your ideal retreat for relaxation and adventure.

Before I sign off, I want to share a little anecdote that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of San Cristobal. Yesterday, as we were browsing through a small bookstore, Sofia stumbled upon a collection of Mexican folk tales. She was instantly captivated by the stories of mythical creatures, brave heroes, and magical lands. We bought the book, and last night, as I read aloud to her, I realized that San Cristobal itself is like a living folk tale, full of enchantment, mystery, and wonder. It's a place where the past and the present intertwine, where traditions are cherished, and where the spirit of the Maya people lives on.

And now, as the clock ticks closer to midnight, I must bid you adieu. Thank you for joining us on this incredible adventure. I hope that our stories have inspired you to explore the world with curiosity, respect, and an open heart. Until next time, happy travels!