How to Visit the Lady of Guadalupe Basilica: Tips and Essential Info
During your trip to Mexico, no matter which city you’re in, you’ll see her everywhere: candles, murals, jewelry… The Virgen de Guadalupe is, in my opinion, one of the most iconic images.
This religious figure, venerated unconditionally, is considered the patroness of the country and a symbol of Mexican identity.
It was during my second stay in the country that I truly understood her importance. I was told that every December 12th, the day she is celebrated, nearly 9 million pilgrims from all over the Republic travel by car, bus, and even on foot to the Shrine of Guadalupe to pay their respects.
So, even though it wasn’t December 12th, I felt I had to explore this must-see place of Mexican faith.
And I also recommend visiting it, even if, like me, you’re not religious, because the site is as beautiful as it is surprising. Here are my tips for visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
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THE ESSENTIAL | VISIT THE LADY OF GUADALUPE BASILICA
- The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe was built on the site where the Virgin of Guadalupe is said to have appeared in 1531.
- Access to this complex of monuments is free.
- December 12th and Holy Week are the most popular dates for pilgrims.
- Join a guided tour to make sure you don’t miss anything at this iconic site of Mexican culture!
Our Lady of Guadalupe, a major spiritual and religious symbol
The majestic Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe was built on the very site where the Virgin of Guadalupe is said to have appeared in 1531. Today, it is the most visited Marian sanctuary in the world and a must-see tourist attraction.
And you’ll be surprised if, like me, you thought it was just a simple religious building! That’s what I thought too until I visited. In fact, it’s a vast complex of buildings, gardens, and chapels.
The New Basilica
This is where Masses are held. Built between 1974 and 1976 to accommodate an increasing number of pilgrims, it surprises visitors with its very modern architecture and circular shape.
Behind its glass walls, it can hold up to 10,000 worshipers who gather in a space with a very clean, minimalist design. The current Basilica was built because the old one, constructed on unstable ground, was at risk of collapsing.
Juan Diego’s Tilma: the Basilica’s treasure
Juan Diego’s tilma is an agave-fiber cloak that he wore, on which the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe is said to have appeared, after she asked him to carry roses picked from the hill of Tepeyac to the bishop of Mexico.
When he opened his cloak in front of the bishop, the flowers fell to the ground and the image of the Virgin appeared, imprinted on the tilma’s fibers.
What fascinates visitors, both believers and scientists, is that the fabric, which should have long since disintegrated, remains remarkably well-preserved.
Today, the tilma is displayed in the New Basilica, behind bulletproof glass above the main altar.
The Old Basilica
Construction began at the end of the 16th century and was completed in 1709. In a Mexican Baroque style, the basilica, designed by Pedro de Arrieta, features a richly decorated façade with reliefs and twisted columns.
Inside, both tourists and locals admire original altarpieces, frescoes, and a beautifully decorated altar. From the outside, you’ll notice that the basilica is slightly tilted (like many buildings in Mexico City). Restorations have been necessary to preserve its structure.
The Mariana Square
The plaza that connects the two basilicas is also a great place to spend some time—not only to admire the two buildings and photograph them from every angle, but also to see the Guadalupan carillon.
This concrete tower, designed by architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, who also designed the New Basilica, was completed in 1991. It rises over 23 meters and is adorned with 48 bronze bells that play different melodies.
The Parish of Santa María de Guadalupe “Capuchinas”
Also located on the plaza and adjacent to the Old Basilica, it was originally a convent run by the Capuchin Sisters of Santa María de Guadalupe. It is also worth a visit.
The Tepeyac Pantheon
Founded in 1740, this cemetery is still in use. Many notable Mexican figures are buried here.
The Chapel of Cerrito
You’ll have to climb many stairs to reach the Chapel of Cerrito, built on the site where the Virgin of Guadalupe is said to have appeared to Juan Diego in 1531.
Inside the chapel, you’ll discover beautiful pieces of sacred art, including paintings inspired by the apparitions. The murals painted by Fernando Leal tell the story of this apparition.
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The view of the city from the Tepeyac hill
Even if you’re not interested in religion, I still recommend visiting this site, which will surprise you both with its size and its beauty. You’ll also get to enjoy a spectacular view of the capital.
Between the blue and white domes and the silhouette of the basilicas, the skyline of this exceptional city takes shape.
The Tepeyac Gardens
After climbing so many steps to reach the hill and explore the buildings that make up the site, it’s time to take a break in the Tepeyac Gardens.
This place serves as a much-needed stop amid lush greenery, enhanced by fountains and statues.
The Chapel of Pocito
The Chapel of Pocito was built in the 18th century over a spring believed to be miraculous. Since I love domes decorated with mosaics, I really enjoyed admiring it. Inside, beautiful frescoes depict the Marian devotion and the history of the site.
The Indians’ Chapel
The Indians’ Chapel was built to allow the first indigenous converts to practice their faith and stands as a testament to the fusion of pre-Hispanic traditions and Catholicism.
Built in the 16th century, its unassuming façade hides some old paintings and modest decorations.
How to get to the Lady of Guadalupe Shrine?
The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is located outside the city center, in the Villa de Guadalupe neighborhood, north of Mexico City.
You can get there by public transport or by private car.
By metro
Take Line 6 towards Martin Carrera and get off at the “La Villa-Basílica” station, about a 10-minute walk from the site.
By metrobus
Take Line 6 and get off at the De Los Misterios stop. It’s a few minutes’ walk to the site.
By taxi or Uber
It takes approximately 20–30 minutes from the historic center.
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How to visit the Lady of Guadalupe Basilica?
As always, there are two options. You can very well explore the attraction on your own if you’re not afraid to venture far from the city center, have time for an excursion, and the language barrier doesn’t worry you too much.
For everyone else, it’s best to join a guided tour. You won’t have to worry about transportation, the itinerary, or essential information, as everything will be taken care of.
Visiting the site on your own
I went alone to explore this unique place in Mexico. This allowed me to walk around the site at my own pace and take the time to admire the interiors of both basilicas, and the other buildings.
Then, I went up to the heights to enjoy the breathtaking and calming view of Mexico City.
The downside? Not having detailed explanations of what I was seeing. I admired the buildings and felt the spirituality of the place, but didn’t necessarily understand all the historical and religious details that give this sanctuary its full meaning.
That’s why I recommend choosing a guided tour to understand better the importance of the Shrine of Guadalupe in Mexican culture and in the faith of its people.
Joining a guided tour
Most tourists who choose a tour to discover the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe combine it with a visit to Teotihuacan.
And it must be said that this option is particularly convenient: both sites are on the same route, allowing you to visit two major symbols of Mexican culture in a single day, while benefiting from clear and complete explanations from a guide.
This is a formula I highly recommend if you have limited time in Mexico City.
Si, en revanche, vous avez déjà visité Teotihuacan ou que vous préférez le faire de manière indépendante, sachez qu’il existe également des tours exclusivement consacrés à la Basilique. Ces visites guidées plus ciblées permettent de plonger en profondeur dans l’histoire du sanctuaire et de ses différents édifices, sans disperser votre temps sur plusieurs sites.
Frequently asked questions
Are you planning to visit the Lady of Guadalupe Basilica and wondering when to go, how much time to allow, or what to eat on-site?
Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit and fully enjoy this unique and authentic experience.
The site is open all year round:
- Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
If you decide to visit on December 12th, be prepared to be surrounded by thousands of pilgrims. You’ll need patience to enter the basilica, but know that on this day it’s open 24 hours.
Visiting on such an important day allows you to take part in the local fervor and enjoy the celebrations held in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe. In short, it’s a truly local and authentic experience.
During Holy Week, expect large crowds as well, since Mexico remains a very religious country.
It is recommended to allow 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy your visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. This time frame includes exploring the main buildings, the outdoor areas, and learning about the history of the religious site.
It is recommended to cover your shoulders and legs when visiting the different buildings. However, it is not mandatory.
Before reaching the site, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants. Once on-site, during the climb up the hill, there are also several shops offering food and drinks.
Be sure to bring cash, as sometimes businesses in Mexico do not accept card payments.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a must-see for slow travelers who want to explore Mexico City, blending history and spirituality. Leave me a comment if you have any questions!
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