When planning how to get to Leon, you are heading to the famous "shoe capital" and an important economic hub of Guanajuato state in the central part of the country. This colorful city, attracting tourists with its architecture and shopping opportunities, boasts a developed transport infrastructure. You can reach Leon in various ways: by a direct flight, on a modern intercity bus, or by car, enjoying the scenic views that Mexico offers.
How to get to Leon
How to get to nearby cities
Getting There: Introduction
By Plane
The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is to fly into Guanajuato International Airport (BJX). This modern aviation hub is the region's main air gateway and is well connected to the city's transport network. Many scheduled flights arrive here from both domestic and international destinations.
If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighboring cities. Convenient alternatives would be the airports in Aguascalientes or Queretaro, from where it is easy to continue your journey to your destination by ground transport.
Available plane tickets
Airlines
Airlines flying here:
By Train
Currently, the city of Leon does not have an operating passenger railway station, as trains in this region are primarily used for industrial freight transport. Travelers should not rely on rail connections when planning their route.
The nearest major cities with railway lines are Aguascalientes and San Luis Potosi. However, even from there, it is most convenient and fastest to reach the final destination by bus or car.
The city has no major railway stations. Nearest cities with rail connections:
Available train tickets
By Bus
Bus travel is one of the most popular and accessible options for traveling around the country. A trip from the city of Aguascalientes covers a distance of 134 km in approximately 3 hours, while the journey from the city of Queretaro (about 182 km) will take an average of 3.5 hours.
For those departing from the city of San Luis Potosi, the road will not be tiring either. The distance is about 180 km, and travel time on a comfortable bus usually varies from 3 to 4 hours.
By Car
Traveling by car allows you to plan your time flexibly and enjoy the landscapes of the Bajio region. The route from the city of Aguascalientes, about 128 km long, usually takes 1 hour 50 minutes, while the road from the city of Queretaro (around 169 km) will require just over 2 hours.
If you are heading from the city of San Luis Potosi, expect to spend about 2.5 hours behind the wheel to cover the 180 km journey. It is recommended to use toll roads for greater safety and to reduce travel time.
Travel Tips
To ensure your trip to Leon is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared a list of practical recommendations. These tips will help you adapt to local features more quickly.
- Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is moderate, but evenings can be cool. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for long walks and a light jacket or sweater.
- Transport: To move around the city, use the Optibus metrobus system — it is a fast and affordable way to get to the desired district. In the evening, it is safer to order an official taxi or use ride-hailing apps.
- Finances: The official currency is the peso. Cards are accepted in shopping malls and restaurants, but always carry cash for purchases at markets and paying for street food.
- Health: Drink only bottled water, avoiding tap water. Do not forget to use sunscreen, as the sun in the highlands can be very strong.
- Communication: The main language is Spanish. By learning a few basic phrases ("Hola", "Gracias"), you will show respect to the locals, although English is often understood in tourist places.
- Local Etiquette: Mexicans are very polite people. It is customary to greet others when entering a room and to say thank you for any service rendered.
- What to Avoid: Try not to display expensive jewelry and electronics in crowded places, and avoid walking on the outskirts at night.
- Shopping: Since the city is known as the leather capital, be sure to visit the Zona Piel district, where you can buy quality shoes, bags, and jackets at excellent prices.
Following these simple rules will help you enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city and its hospitality without unnecessary worries.
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