Salamanca City Guide

Try local dishes like guacamayas and enchiladas mineras. International food options are growing but limited. Vegetarian and vegan choices need special requests. Late-night food is mostly street stalls.

Nightlife is quiet with local bars and cantinas. No major clubs or wide variety.

Local cafes exist but no strong specialty coffee scene.

Tipping is normal. 10-15% in restaurants. Taxi tips are small or rounding up. Tips appreciated for hotel and other services.

SIM cards are sold at official stores (Telcel, AT&T, Movistar) and convenience stores like Oxxo. Telcel has the best coverage. ID or passport is needed for activation.

Main areas are fairly clean; some spots have litter. Waste collection is regular.

Limited 24/7 options. Some Oxxo stores open all night. Few late-night pharmacies or food places.

Larger supermarkets like Soriana, Walmart, and Chedraui sell international products. Mercado Tomasa Esteves is a key fresh market. Stores usually open 7 AM to 10 PM. Smaller markets may close Sundays. Bargaining happens only in markets.

Card payment works in big stores, supermarkets, and some restaurants. Cash is needed for markets, small shops, and street vendors.

ATMs are common from major banks like BBVA, Banamex, and Santander. Withdrawal fees, usually 30-50 MXN, apply when using other banks' ATMs.

Local schools teach in Spanish. International schools are limited in Salamanca; better options exist in Querétaro or San Miguel de Allende.

No established digital nomad community or events.

Parks like Parque Xochipilli offer green space for walking and running.

Running is popular in parks and residential areas, safe during the day. Air quality can be an issue due to industry.

Gyms like Smart Fit and local options are available for workouts.

Some private clubs have tennis courts.

No known public padel courts.

A few local yoga studios exist but limited variety and no English-speaking instruction.

Some dojos teach Taekwondo and Karate. English-speaking instructors are rare.

No skiing available.

Limited water sports locally; nearby lakes offer some kayak or paddleboard options.

No surfing, being inland.

No diving options.

Hospitals include Hospital General de Salamanca and some private clinics. English-speaking staff may be limited. Pharmacies like Farmacias Guadalajara have doctors on-site for basic care. Overall quality rated 6/10.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water, which is widely available.

Some parks have playgrounds but few kid-specific attractions or cafés. Baby supplies are found in supermarkets.

Local attitudes are conservative. Few safe spaces or events. National protections exist.

Pet policies vary. Veterinary services available. Limited pet-friendly places.