The city of Guanajuato is arguably one of the most scenic and vivid in Mexico. It is dispersed among hillsides that rise to an elevation of 6,725 feet above sea level; its lowest points meet centrally to comprise the Centro Histórico area. Get a taste of the local fare, have a conversation with a local, or take in some history about this striking city and you will immediately realize how much it has to offer.

Considering its breathtaking stacked hillsides sprinkled with yellows, oranges, pinks, greens, and blues, one absolute must-do in Guanajuato is to take in a bird’s-eye view from the hilltop. One of the easiest ways to get a good vantage point is on the Funicular de Guanajuato, a cable car at the city’s center.

The funicular opened in 2001 to connect tourists from the Centro Histórico area to the Pípila Monument. The entrance to the station is directly behind Teatro Juarez, next to the Tunnel el Minero. It is comprised of two cars, one goes up while the other goes down and the entire ride takes less than two minutes. The price is worth its weight in gold because visitors can forego the 15-minute hike that tends to leave one breathless and ready for a nap.

The Pipila Monument  (or Monumento al Pípila) was built in honor of a miner turned unlikely hero in 1810 during the Mexican independence movement. Juan José de los Reyes Martínez, better known as El Pípila through his courageous actions helped Mexico to gain their first victory and became a local folk legend.

The platform at the monument provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain ranges. While taking in the views, just for a moment you’ll feel that you’ve borrowed the backdrop from a vintage romance.