What to expect when visiting San Cristobal de las Casas
San Cristobal de las Casas is Mexico’s magic town — a nickname it gained for its vibrant bohemian vibe. Its well-preserved, colourful colonial houses give you the feeling of stepping back in time. There’s also a remarkable cultural and artisan scene that’s worth discovering.
Check out the artisan market for some of the most exquisite handmade textile and jewellery and the municipal market for unique flavours. Finish your days in one of the many bars and restaurants that line almost every street. One not-to-miss restaurant in San Cristobal de las Casas is La Vina de Bacco where you can get wine for under $1 plus free tapas!
1 way to get from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas
The bus is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 619 kilometers (385 miles) from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas. The journey takes around 13 to 14 hours and costs start from 990 MXN (€47).Where to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas at the bottom of this page.
Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas by Bus
Most buses operating from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas travel overnight. So although a bus trip takes around 13 to 14 hours, you won’t lose a lot of daytime. You can also save a night on accommodation.
The bus company providing the service between Puerto Escondido and San Cristobal de las Casas is OCC, a sub-branch of Mexico’s most popular company, ADO. Their buses are equipped with AC, reclining seats and a toilet.
It is a long journey, so the bus will make a few stops for food and bathroom breaks. That means you can stretch your legs every few hours (if you’re not asleep). It’s also a great idea to prepare a playlist or stock-up on Netflix movies to make the journey more comfortable.
Bus Schedule from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas
Since departures are limited, it is better to book your tickets in advance. Bus fares from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas start from 990 MXN (€47).
Bus departure in Puerto Escondido
Buses operating from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas depart from the ADO bus terminal, located just a few blocks away from the main beach and the city centre. You can get there on foot or through a short taxi ride.
Bus arrival in San Cristobal de las Casas
The OCC buses will drop you off at the main bus terminal in San Cristobal de las Casas. This station is located very close to the city centre and it takes only around 10 minutes to walk to the main square.
If your accommodation is further away, there are taxis available outside the bus terminal with rates from 50 MXN (€2.40).
Best places to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas
Hotel Bo - Treating Yourself
Many people say that Hotel Bo is ‘one of the best places they have ever stayed in’. You’re certainly treating yourself if you decide to stay here. Alongside the stunning flower-filled gardens ideal for relaxing in, there are modern and cosy rooms, a gym and onsite restaurant.
The hotel’s restaurant treats guests to upmarket Mexican cuisine and international dishes in an beautifully-designed environment. Their exceptional breakfast is the perfect way to set you up for a day of exploring San Cristobal. Trust us, you won’t want to leave once you arrive at Hotel Bo.
- Stunning and relaxing garden
- Exceptional restaurant
- Onsite gym
- Large and modern rooms
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Casa Lum - Treating Yourself
You couldn’t be more at the heart of San Cristobal than at Casa Lum. The popular walking street filled with restaurants and bars are literally on your doorstep.
Contemporary style and colonial architecture coexist in harmony at Casa Lum. This is clearly exhibited throughout it’s 8 rooms and delicious restaurant. Another thing we love about this place, they’re also a social and environmentally sustainable hotel.
- Onsite, highly rated restaurant
- Excellent location
- Socially and environmentally responsible ethos
- A intricately designed city oasis
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Sereno Art Hotel - Mid Range
This 4 star hotel really does feel like it was designed by artists, with it’s spectacular wall art and intricate details. The decor is an interesting blend of urban and rustic pieces.
The courtyard is truly stunning, with fairy lights creating the appearance of a starry night sky. Another star of the hotel is it’s restaurant. Their food can’t be raved about enough!
- Delicious food served in their onsite restaurant
- Creative and stunning decor
- Great location
- Cosy and large rooms
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
Posada del Abuelito - Budget Friendly
Posada del Abuelito is a friendly and colourful hostel situated inside one of San Cristobal’s stunning colonial buildings. The heart of the hostel is the perfect place to chill, surrounded by plants and hammocks.
Their delicious complimentary breakfast sets you up perfectly for a day of exploring the city. The communal kitchen also means you can dabble in a bit of cooking yourself. The best part? The hosts do an excellent job of making everyone feel at home.
- Homely atmosphere
- Great location
- Delicious breakfast included
- Rooms are bright and spotless
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
Puerta Vieja Hostel - Budget Friendly
We’re not quite sure how Puerta Vieja Hostel makes money, but we’re definitely not complaining. For just $9, you get both breakfast and dinner included in the price. On top of that, they even offer a free burger and cocktail night every Friday!
There’s plenty to keep you occupied within the hostel too. There’s table tennis, a TV lounge and a large garden for chilling in. The hostel is also only seconds away from San Cristobal’s main square. It’s the best place to meet other travellers in San Cristobal.
- Free breakfast and dinner
- TV lounge and table tennis
- Great atmosphere
- Close to the main square
Dorm rooms from $9 per night, including breakfast and dinner
Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas
What is the distance from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas?
The distance from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas is 619 kilometers (385 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas?
The fastest way to get from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas is by bus and takes 13 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas?
The cheapest way to get from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas is by bus with ticket costs starting from 990 MXN (€47).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
