Queretaro's formal name is Queretaro Arteaga. Queretaro is a state in central Mexico. Its capital is the city of Santiago de Queretaro, although in general parlance the name "Queretaro" is used for both the city. Queretaro City is characterized for its colonial architecture and its beauty. You shall not miss the city tour by trolley, the main sites, monuments, legends and most important issues of the city. There is no doubt that the tour in a Panoramic trolley will be a greater experience, traveling through the city in a lovely two story trolley.
Famous Attractions in Queretaro:
Plaza de Armas:
The urban core of Queretaro; a gathering place, pleasant and uneasy, surrounded by splendid buildings of colonial architecture such as the Palace of Government, and cosy restaurants and cafes in which there is always a motif to start an amusing conversation.
This space of the City was an Indian market or tianguis - a trade fair on which products were not only bought and sold but also exchanged. The statue of the marquis of Villa del Villar de Aguila, responsible for the construction of the aqueduct of the City, symbol of Queretaro, stands out in the middle of the plaza.
Aqueduct:
A monumental conduit with a 9 kilometre extension and 74 arches 23 meters high. It was built between 1726 and 1735 to provide with water the entire City. Three years later, enlargements would be made to feed 10 public fountains, including that of the Main Plaza, and 60 private ones. Due to its majesty, this notable public work has turned into the symbol of Queretaro. It can be fully appreciated from the Causeway of the Arches, in the Bernardo Quintana Boulevard.
Theatre of the Republic:
Of neoclassical style, it has a beautiful balcony with Ionic columns standing out on its facade, while in his oval interior it has 4 storey galleries. It was originally named Iturbide Theatre, in honor of one of the heroes of independence, but the name would be changed in 1922. Beyond artistic performances, on its stage have taken place transcendent events in the history of the country. Due to these events it was declared National Monument. It is located on Benito Juarez Street, corner with Angela Peralta.
Hill of the Bells:
This beautiful park, with ample green areas and playgrounds, was the setting for the decisive clash between the forces of the Republic and those of emperor Maximilian of Habsburg. The name of the Hill is explained by the existence of several stones that emit sounds resembling the toll of a bell when hit one against the other. It is situated between Tecnología and Hidalgo Avenues.
Hot Springs & Day Trips
Just 40 miles west of Queretaro is the beautiful little town of Tequisquiapan. You can buy great arts and Mexican crafts here, and it's also famous for its hot springs. This whole area has volcanic springs situated under it, so warm pools of water, said to be therapeutic, and to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, gout and insomnia, are abound.
Museums & Art:
The Museo Regional (Regional Museum) offers visitors a selection of artifacts from pre-Hispanic, colonial and republican times.
The Museo de Arte (Art Museum) offers fabulous architecture and also hosts some of the finest collections of Mexican Colonial Artwork in the country.
Night Life:
There is a good variety of Late Night Entertainment in Queretaro to keep you happy and entertained into the early hours. Queretaro has a selection of good night spots to suit those looking for culture and those looking for a party! Queretaro's flood lights really add a special touch and feel to the city once night falls - so stay overnight and wonder around the colonial centre when its lit up, to experience the night atmosphere while enjoying some of the local food and drink.
Transportation
Rail Line:
Railroads connect municipalities along the industrial corridor with Mexico City, Laredo and the state of Guanajuato. However, these are used only for freight. There have been various attempts to connect Santiago de Queretaro to Mexico City with a high speed train.
Bus Line:
Private buses provide intra-state connections, serving all of the municipalities. They also serve various cities nationwide. Within towns and cities, public transportation is offered only by private buses.
Air Line:
There are two airports in the state one is Queretaro International Airport and second is Jalpan de Serra. Queretaro International Airport from the state capital opened on December 10, 2004 (IATA: QRO, ICAO: MMQT). The second is a small airfield in Jalpan de Serra; at the moment it receives no commercial flights, which are used to connect the Sierra Gorda region to Santiago de Queretaro, mostly by State government aircraft.
