Monterrey, Mexico: Travel Guide & Things to Do
Monterrey is Mexico's modern business capital in the state of Nuevo León, framed by mountains and close to the Texas border — a gateway to museums, great food and outdoor adventure.
Why visit Monterrey?
Monterrey is Mexico's industrial and business capital and its third-largest city, ringed by dramatic mountains like the Cerro de la Silla. It is a modern, cosmopolitan city with excellent museums, craft breweries and food, and — just outside town — some of the best outdoor adventure in northern Mexico: canyons, caves and waterfalls. For US travelers it is also one of the easiest Mexican cities to reach.
How to get to Monterrey from the US
Monterrey International Airport (MTY) is a major hub with frequent direct flights from Texas and other US cities (Houston, Dallas, and more) on carriers like United, American and Aeroméxico — often under a two-hour flight. Monterrey is also about a 2.5-hour drive from the Texas border, though most leisure visitors fly.
Best time to visit Monterrey
Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are the most pleasant. Summers are very hot, and winters can be cool with the occasional cold front, so pack a layer from December to February.
Top things to do in Monterrey
Cerro de la Silla — the 1,770-meter saddle-shaped mountain that is the city's symbol, great for hiking and photos. Parque Fundidora and the Paseo Santa Lucía riverwalk anchor the city center, near the MARCO contemporary art museum and the lively Barrio Antiguo. Just outside the city, don't miss the Grutas de García caves, the cliffs and trails of Parque La Huasteca, the forested Chipinque reserve in the Sierra Madre, and the Cola de Caballo waterfall.
Where to stay in Monterrey
Base yourself in San Pedro Garza García (upscale, safe, great dining) or around the Macroplaza and Barrio Antiguo in the center for culture and nightlife. The city has the full range of international business and boutique hotels.
Is Monterrey safe for tourists?
Nuevo León carries a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory, the same level as most of Mexico's main tourist destinations. Monterrey itself is a modern business city visited by travelers year-round. Use normal travel precautions and check the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before your trip.
Northern Mexico: Destinations Near Monterrey
Monterrey is the industrial and financial capital of northern Mexico, but it also boasts impressive natural attractions. Tampico, on the Gulf of Mexico coast, is a few hours away. Chihuahua is the starting point for the Copper Canyon adventure. For cultural tourism in central Mexico, San Luis Potosí and the Huasteca Potosina are stunning. Check our Mexico travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Monterrey, Mexico?
Monterrey is the capital of Nuevo León, in northern Mexico, about 2.5 hours by road from the Texas border and roughly 900 km from Mexico City.
How do I get to Monterrey from the US?
Fly into Monterrey International Airport (MTY), a major hub with frequent direct flights from Houston, Dallas and other US cities — often under two hours.
When is the best time to visit Monterrey?
Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November). Summers are very hot and winters can be cool.
What are the best things to do in Monterrey?
Hike the Cerro de la Silla, explore Parque Fundidora and the Santa Lucía Riverwalk, visit the MARCO museum and Barrio Antiguo, and head out to the García Caves, La Huasteca and Chipinque.
Is Monterrey safe for tourists?
Nuevo León carries a Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ advisory, the same as most of Mexico's main destinations. Monterrey is a modern city visited year-round; use normal precautions and check the current US advisory.