7 Terrific Things To Do in Tepic, Nayarit

Planning a trip through Mexico and curious about Tepic, Nayarit? While this large city isn’t one of the usual tourist destinations, visiting Tepic gives you a more authentic look at Mexican culture and history – without the crowds. Whether you’re just passing through or staying a few days, my guide covers some of the most popular things to do in Tepic.

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Where is Tepic, Nayarit?

Tepic is the capital of the state of Nayarit, in western Mexico and sits in a valley surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains. It’s close to the Pacific Ocean but not right on it. Founded in 1542, Tepic is an urban area with a population of approximately 570,000 people. But despite its growth, it’s managed to maintain it’s charm and beautiful colonial architecture.

Originally, Tepic wasn’t part of my travel plan. I ended up in there on a whim after a late day flight to Guadalajara. After visiting La Paz and Todo Santos in Baja California Sur, I flew to the mainland planning to visit Puerto Vallarta to wrap up several weeks in Mexico. Trying to squeeze in just one more place, I thought it might be fun to visit Tepic and take a bus south to Puerto Vallarta. So I headed off – without much planning.

Little did I know that it would take me hours, if not days, to get to Puerto Vallarta on a local bus from Tepic and I just didn’t have the time. In the end, I had to backtrack a bit and lose a few hours. Even though my time in Tepic was short it was so worth it and I’m excited to visit Nayarit again in the future.

Things to do in Tepic, Nayarit

With the exception of the costal towns, Nayarit as a state isn’t as well known as neighboring Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara are located. But that doesn’t mean it should be missed. Two days, or even three, will give you a good start to explore in and around the historic city center – more if you really want to slow down and just enjoy. Here are a few of the best things to do in Tepic:

Plaza de Armas Tepic

Like most Mexican cities, Tepic has a plaza principal in its historic center. And just like is in most cities, this plaza is the center of the action, serving as a social gathering place. The day I was in Tepic, the plaza was buzzing with locals, live music and performers. Proof that if you are ever looking for something to do in a Mexican city just head to the local park or plaza.

Full of lush trees, flowers and tranquil water features, Plaza de Armas is the ideal spot to relax, people watch and enjoy a coffee or meal from one of the many cafés around its perimeter. Enjoy the culture of every day life – take in the sounds and vibe in one of my favorite plazas I’ve been to in Mexico.

Take a Turibus Ride

One of the best ways to get a feel for a city is by walking around or joining a local walking tour. But if you’re short on time, like I was, then hopping on an open-air bus tour tour is the next best thing – taking you straight to the highlights of the city without all the legwork.

With my limited time, I was so happy to find a tour bus option in Tepic. Turibus Tepic starts in the main downtown plaza and visits some of the most popular and historic sights around the city plus a few of the more unique neighborhoods you might not get a chance to see on your own.

Interestingly, instead of listening to a pre-recorded program – like you’ll find on so many other bus tours – Turibus Tepic has a knowledgeable, local, Tepiqueña guide on board to educate riders about the history of the city, share interesting stories and even play some traditional folk music.

Stops on the tour include local parks, colorful murals – art is a big part of Tepic’s identity – and statues that highlight the city’s history and culture. The tour lasts approximately two hours and give a great overview of Tepic’s character. And of course, don’t forget to show your appreciation by tipping your guide. They’re using their time and knowledge to make your visit better

• Turibus Tepic – purchase tickets at the kiosk in front of the Cathedral
• Monday through Sunday with tours at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm
• Adults $40 pesos $30 pesos for children, seniors, and disabled

Visit Catedral de la Purísima Concepción de María

It’s customary for there to be a church in the main plazas in Mexico. The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is one of the most impressive ones I’ve seen anywhere. This Roman Catholic church, originally built in 1750, is a striking example of Neo-Gothic architecture. It was later expanded in the early 19th century, giving it the stately appearance it has today.

The cathedral is open to the public and free to visit. Since it remains an active place of worship with regular services, be sure to dress modestly and maintain a respectful attitude during your visit. Even if you choose not to go inside, the cathedral’s stunning exterior alone is worth stopping to admire.

• The Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Av. México Nte. 246, Centro, 63000 Tepic, Nayarit
• 52 311 212 2074

Museo Regional de Nayarit

Located in one of the most spectacular historic pink-colored buildings near the historic center, the Nayarit Regional Museum takes visitors on a journey of pre-Hispanic times and features ceramics sourced from ancient burial tombs of the native Aztlán culture.

Aztlán, loosely translated to mean the place of herons, is believed to be the mythical ancestral homeland of the Aztecs (Mexica people). This place is described as a paradise-like region located somewhere in Mexico. Legend suggests that Nayarit could have been the location or if not then it was at least part of the Aztec’s migration route to what is now modern day Mexico City.

Figurines and statutes featured in the museum show ancient Aztec homes, warriors, ball-players, pregnant women and musicians. In addition to artifacts related to Aztlán, the museum also features burial urns from Tepic’s ancient Mololoa civilization, along with a recreated burial tomb.

• Museo Regional de Nayarit
• Av. México Nte. 91, Centro, 63000 Tepic, Nayarit
• 523112121900

Zitákua – One of the Best Things to do in Tepic

Spanish is the primary language spoken In Tepic but you’ll find many other indigenous groups in the area. The Huichol people are just one of those groups. Visiting the small colonia of Zitákua, high above Tepic is one way learn more about their culture.

Zitákua is a village for families of the Huichol culture dedicated to preserving their traditions, customs and everything related to ancestral life. It’s set up with a shopping area offering a range of products from native art and jewelry to dolls to clothing, sandals and even paintings representative of the sacred elements of their culture.

While there, be sure to try some traditional Huichol dishes at the on-site restaurant, including their flavorful stews and the delicious blue corn tortillas they’re known for. Pair your meal with a refreshing agua de pepino con limón or a chilled agua de Jamaica for the perfect local feel.

Everything the Huichol community does at Zitákua supports the preservation of their culture and helps sustain their way of life. As a visitor, it’s important to be mindful and respectful. If you take photos of people, especially children, be sure to offer a small tip as a gesture of appreciation. And don’t forget to bring cash (pesos), as credit cards aren’t accepted

Cinco Pueblos Casa De Artesanias

If you are unable to make it to Zitákua, then one of the best things to do in Tepic downtown to learn about the other cultures is visiting the Cinco Pueblos Casa De Artesanias. This is a permanent exhibition in the historic downtown of Tepic showcasing the history of the five ethnic groups of the state with handicrafts, jewelry, art and other popular items for sale.

• Five Pueblos Art
• Av México Nte & Emiliano Zapata Ote 105, Av. México Nte., Centro
• Admission is free

Eat Delicious Food

As one of the more agricultural regions of the state, know for its sugarcane and citrus, Tepic is full of fresh, locally grown food and fruit. So, a perfect way to experience the city is by tasting what’s in season. You’re sure to come across something you’ve never tried before.

No matter where you are in the historic downtown area, you’ll spot carts and vendors selling colorful fruit. Don’t be afraid to choose something unfamiliar and give it a try. You just might discover a new favorite.

Since I arrived in Tepic late in the evening, after my ride, and basically only had one day, I ate at restaurants around the plaza and close to my hotel. A lot of people will tell you not to do this. Their reasoning is the area around the main plaza is a touristy area and better food can be found elsewhere.

But plazas in Mexico weren’t made for tourists. They’ve been around for centuries and were constructed as places for locals to gather, go to church, socialize and have fun. Because of that, plazas always have good local options and plenty of street food mixed in with more popular or trendy places.

One of those options in Tepic is Cafetería Caffet Aromático de Nayarit (map) in the western end of the plaza. I had a delicious coffee and homemade apple pastry in the morning while soaking up the sights and sounds of the plaza principal.

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And later, since the bus for the Turibus tour was in the shop for a minor repair, and no one was quite sure exactly when it would be ready, I didn’t want to wander too far and risk missing it. Luckily, the nearby Mexican chain restaurant Fresh Salads (map), I was able to grab a fresh, made-to-order sandwich. It was quick, convenient and surprisingly delicious.

Hamburguesas Pio (map) is actually the only restaurant I knew about before I went to Tepic. A small, local hamburger stand, it was recommended by a friend as one of the best hamburgers they had ever eaten. Unfortunately it doesn’t open till at 6pm and I was there too early and couldn’t stay.

How to Get to Tepic

By air – Tepic is serviced by the Amado Nervo International Airport (TPQ). To fly from the United States, you will likely need to fly through Mexico City, Guadalajara or Tijuana since there are no direct flights from the U.S at the time of writing. Within Mexico, Volaris, Viva Aerobus and Aeromar all fly into Tepic from those major cities and others.

By bus – To travel to Tepic from Guadalajara there are several bus companies that cover this route. The apps Rome to Rio – one of my essential apps for traveling in Mexico – or Reservamos.mx – if you speak Spanish – gives a good overview of the bus schedules. Some bus companies travel hourly from Guadalajara and some only offer one daily bus.

I personally traveled on a TAP bus from the Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara (in Tlaquepaque) to the bus station in Zapopan to pick up other passengers before we departed. From there it takes approximately 3 hours to reach Tepic and when I arrived at the bus station in Tepic, I took a taxi to my hotel from the station.

Tepic is a excellent home base, or starting point at least, for exploring Nayarit or for visiting the popular beach town of San Blas. You could also start in Tepic and visit Rivera Nayarit which includes the costal towns of San Pancho, Bucerias, Punta Mita and Sayulita. Additionally, a trip to Guadalajara, Jalisco and Puerto Vallarta could be combined with a trip to Tepic.

Where to Stay in Tepic

A lot of the popular things to do in Tepic are in, or near, the historic center so it makes sense to stay there and use public transportation to get around. However, if you are driving – unless your hotel has parking – staying outside the congested city center is best since the streets Downtown Tepic are narrow, crowded and parking can be difficult to find.

For a typical Mexico hacienda-style hotel, Hotel los Girasoles, where I stayed, is located just a couple of blocks from the main plaza. It was simple but very clean. City Express, a well known hotel chain in Mexico, now owned by Marriott, is generally reliable in Mexico. The Tepic location is near the main highway and has free parking. Alternatively, Fiesta Inn, another popular Mexican chain hotel, has a location not too far from downtown.

Is Tepic Safe?

I traveled to Tepic solo and I felt as safe as, or safer than, I do in my home city of Atlanta. In fact, even though people question safety in Mexico all the time, I’ve never felt unsafe. Tepic is a big city so you should take the same precautions you take when you travel anywhere. Use common sense and don’t flash money, jewelry or phones.

Definitely, pay attention and be situationally aware at all times. Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know and don’t invite trouble by drinking too much or using drugs. You can find more suggestions about general safety when traveling in my Travel Safety Tips article.

In general, the U.S. State Department currently rates Mexico as a Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution in their travel advisory ratings and Nayarit, as a state, is also a Level 2, due to terrorism and crime. At the time of this writing, there aren’t any restrictions on travel for U.S government employees. Which is in itself a good guide as to whether you should travel there or not.

More Tepic Tips

Money – You might be accustomed to using U.S. dollars in touristy places in Mexico but that won’t work in Tepic. It’s best to use pesos since it’s a less touristy city, there just aren’t as many convenient places to exchange money. Make sure to have pesos, including bills, small bills and coins on hand before you arrive.

Healthcare and Travel Insurance – Mexico has excellent healthcare, but in recent years there have reports of private hospitals requiring large upfront payments before performing surgery or admitting patients. The best way to protect yourself is by having travel insurance. Not all travel insurance is the same so it’s important to research what policy is right for your needs. 

TravelInsurance.com is one of the best websites for shopping a variety of companies. Simply enter a few trip details and in seconds have a list of options to check out. You can purchase a policy that only covers medical care or add-on trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage as well.

Final Thoughts on Things to do in Tepic

While it’s not the most popular and may not be on every traveler’s radar, that’s exactly what makes Tepic worth a visit. For a mix of culture, a laid-back vibe and real authentic charm, it’s the kind of place that gives you a better look at the people of Mexico.

So if you’re looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and experience a different side of Mexico, don’t overlook Tepic. Stroll through the plaza, try the regional food and fruit, take in the slower pace of life that makes this city feel so welcoming and just enjoy your travel time.