Compostela

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Compostela's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Compostela
morning
:

Arrive in Compostela and settle into your chosen accommodations, taking a moment to soak in the local atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional dishes like chilaquiles or tamales. Take a leisurely stroll around the town square to admire the colonial architecture and vibrant local life.

afternoon
:

Visit the Church of Santiago Apostol to marvel at its historical significance and stunning façade. Afterward, explore the local artisan markets, where you can find handmade crafts and delicious local snacks. End your afternoon with a refreshing drink at a local bar or café, mingling with the friendly locals.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant that serves authentic Mexican cuisine, enjoying dishes such as mole or fresh seafood. As the sun sets, partake in the vibrant nightlife, perhaps enjoying a live music performance or a salsa dancing session. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets of Compostela.

day 2
Exploration of Local Culture
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café before heading to the local museum to learn about the rich history of Compostela. The museum provides an overview of the area's indigenous cultures and Spanish colonial past. Take time to appreciate the local art and artifacts that tell the stories of the region.

afternoon
:

After your museum visit, join a guided walking tour through the historical district of Compostela, where you can see significant landmarks and hear fascinating tales from the past. Stop for lunch at a local eatery that specializes in traditional recipes handed down through generations. Spend your afternoon visiting the local artisan workshops, where you can see craftspeople at work and purchase unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a terrace restaurant with a view of the majestic sierra, sampling more regional specialties. Join a cultural event or festival if there's one happening, where you can experience traditional music and dance. Afterward, take a moment to sit at a plaza and enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather for the evening.

day 3
Day Trip to Tepic
morning
:

Take an early morning bus to Tepic, the capital of Nayarit, to explore its bustling streets and local attractions. Start with breakfast at a popular local taqueria to fuel your day of exploration. Once in Tepic, visit the Catedral Basílica Menor de Tepic to admire its impressive architecture.

afternoon
:

Wander around the main square and visit the Regional Museum of Nayarit, which showcases the state’s history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a local market, sampling some of the region’s famous birria or enchiladas. Spend your afternoon visiting nearby parks or the nearby Arcos de Tepic, the beautiful stone arches.

evening
:

Return to Compostela in the evening and recap your adventures over a relaxed dinner at a cozy restaurant in town. Choose a place with a menu featuring local specialties to keep the food journey going. After dinner, take a night walk through the town, soaking in the quaint and peaceful ambiance.

day 4
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Spend the morning preparing for a nature-filled excursion to the nearby Sierra de Vallejo National Park. Pack essentials like water and snacks for your day trip in the great outdoors. Upon arrival, start your hike and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

During the hike, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the fresh air and breathtaking views. Continue exploring various trails that lead you to waterfalls and picturesque vistas, perfect for photos. Make sure to take in the tranquility and beauty that surrounds you, away from city life.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Compostela and rest after your adventurous day. Treat yourself to a comforting meal at a local diner, perhaps sampling some freshly grilled meats or veggie options. End your day with a warm beverage at a café, reflecting on the memorable experiences of the day.

day 5
Visit Local Farms
morning
:

Start your day with a farm-to-table breakfast at a local bed and breakfast or café that highlights local produce. Then, embark on a tour of nearby organic farms to learn about sustainable practices and see how local ingredients are grown. Interact with farmers and discover the agricultural traditions of the region.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class hosted by a local chef who teaches you how to incorporate fresh ingredients from the farms into authentic regional dishes. Enjoy a delicious lunch made by you as part of the class, tasting the vibrant flavors of the ingredients. Spend your afternoon relaxing in the countryside, enjoying nature and engaging with locals.

evening
:

Return to your accommodations and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a recommended local restaurant that focuses on farm-fresh ingredients. Savor your meal while appreciating the care taken in producing local foods. Spend your evening relaxing in the town square, perhaps enjoying some ice cream while people-watching.

day 6
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Partake in a traditional breakfast of huevos rancheros or another local favorite before heading to workshops that offer classes in local crafts like pottery or weaving. Engage directly with artisans, learning their techniques and the history behind their work. This hands-on experience allows for a deeper connection to the culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore more of the culinary scene by taking a street food tour, tasting various snacks and dishes that make Compostela unique. Visit local vendors and discover new flavors while learning about the ingredients used. Your afternoon could include visiting local galleries that showcase contemporary and traditional art.

evening
:

Enjoy an authentic dining experience at a family-run restaurant, where recipes are passed down through generations. Sample delicacies unique to the area while sharing stories with the owners about the history of the dishes. Conclude your immersion with an evening performance featuring traditional music or storytelling, allowing you to connect with the local culture deeply.

day 7
Relaxing Day at the Beach
morning
:

Take a morning drive to the beautiful beaches of San Blas, located a short distance away, and enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café. Spend the morning relaxing on the sand or taking a refreshing dip in the ocean to kickstart your day. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some beach activities like paddleboarding or kayaking.

afternoon
:

Have a leisurely beachside lunch at a restaurant renowned for its seafood, allowing you to savor the flavors of the ocean. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or exploring tide pools, indulging in the tranquil setting you find yourself in. You can also take a boat tour to get a closer look at sea life or visit nearby small islands.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a picturesque view of the horizon while dining at a beach restaurant during golden hour. Feast on fresh ceviche or grilled fish as the day winds down with a gentle ocean breeze around you. End the night with a bonfire on the beach, listening to the sounds of the waves and sharing stories with fellow travelers.

day 8
Local Festivals and Events
morning
:

Take part in any ongoing local festivals, beginning with a festive breakfast that sets the tone for celebrations. Attend early morning events that might include traditional dances, music performances, or parades filled with colorful decorations. Interact with locals who are eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

afternoon
:

Continue the festivities with a lively lunch featuring regional dishes served at the festival, where you can explore various food stalls. Engage in craft workshops or activities organized for visitors, providing a fun way to witness and participate in local customs. Bask in the joyful atmosphere, mingling with both locals and tourists alike.

evening
:

As evening falls, enjoy an elaborate evening event such as a concert or dance performance, celebrating the local heritage. Sample evening bites from vendors while soaking up the vibrant energy of the festival around you. Conclude the day with fireworks or a special nighttime ritual that showcases the community spirit of Compostela.

day 9
Return to Compostela
morning
:

Spend your morning revisiting any favorites spots or hidden gems you may have missed earlier in your trip, allowing for a final indulgence of the local charm. Take a leisurely breakfast at a café, reflecting on your journey throughout Compostela and what you have learned. Prepare for your departure while enjoying the last moments in this beautiful town.

afternoon
:

Finish any last-minute shopping for souvenirs and local products, ensuring you have mementos to take home with you. Relax in the town square, enjoying a peaceful afternoon before your departure. Engage with locals one last time, expressing gratitude for their hospitality and sharing smiles.

evening
:

Depart for the airport or your next destination, making plans to return to Compostela in the future. Reflect on the incredible experiences, relationships, and memories you have created during these ten immersive days. Hold onto the warmth of the local culture as you leave with a heart full of cherished moments.

Discover Compostela

Read more in our Compostela 2025 Travel Guide.

Compostela Travel Guide