Zacatecas is one of those cities that are best enjoyed on foot: a historic center of pink sandstone, alleyways that go up and down, and viewpoints from which you can understand why the city grew among mining hills. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and much of what is worth seeing is within walking distance.
If you arrive by bus, you don't need a car to get around. Here's what to do and how to get there.
How to get to Zacatecas by bus
- From Aguascalientes: It is the shortest connection. In our search query, the direct trips took between 2 h 10 min and 2 h 30 min, operated by ETN, from the Aguascalientes Bus Terminal to the Zacatecas Bus Terminal.
- From Mexico City: There are direct ETN services from Terminal Norte and Central del Sur, with durations of around 8 to 12 hours depending on the departure time. It is a good option for a night trip.
The Zacatecas Bus Terminal is outside the city center; the practical thing is to take a taxi or an app-based transportation to get to your hotel.
Find your trip to Zacatecas
Live schedules and prices for all operators.
What to do in Zacatecas
Cathedral and historical center
The Cathedral of Zacatecas, with its Baroque facade carved from pink sandstone, is the natural starting point. Around it you will find plazas, porticos, and colonial buildings that can be explored without haste on a morning. It is worth returning at night, when the lighting completely transforms the atmosphere.
Cerro de la Bufa
It is the city's viewpoint and the setting for the 1914 Siege of Zacatecas, one of the most important episodes of the Revolution. At the top there is a museum dedicated to that battle and expansive views of the city center. You can climb up by road; check when you visit if the cable car is operating.
Mina El Edén
An old mine that today is visited on guided tours, with a section on a narrow railway inside the hill. It is a very direct way to understand the mining history that gave rise to the city.
Museums Rafael Coronel and Pedro Coronel
The Rafael Coronel Museum, in the former San Francisco convent, is famous for its collection of Mexican masks. The Pedro Coronel Museum brings together art from different eras and cultures. If you only have time for one, choose according to your interests: popular art (Rafael) or universal collection (Pedro).
Street fights
Nightly walks with music through the streets of the city center. They are a local tradition and a great way to end the day.
Guadalupe
The neighboring municipality of Guadalupe, a few kilometers away, has an important museum of viceregal art in an old convent. It is reached by local transport or taxi.
Tips for your trip
- Climate: Zacatecas is at a high altitude and the nights can be cold even when the day is warm. Bring an extra layer.
- Footwear: The center has marble and cobblestone floors; wear comfortable shoes.
- Time: Two full days allow you to see the main attractions without rushing; with three, you can leisurely visit Guadalupe.
Data on schedules, durations, and operators consulted in the BUZ search engine on September 23, 2026 for departures on October 7, 2026. Prices and schedules change: always confirm in the search engine before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the bus from Aguascalientes to Zacatecas take?
In our search query on BUZ, direct trips took between 2 h 10 min and 2 h 30 min. Please check the exact departure time of each departure before purchasing.
Do I need a car to travel around Zacatecas?
Not for the historic center, which can be explored on foot. For the terminal, Cerro de la Bufa or Guadalupe, a taxi or an app-based transport is sufficient.
How many days do I need in Zacatecas?
Two full days are enough for the main things; three if you want to visit museums slowly and go to Guadalupe.
