Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe)

The basics

Two basilicas now stand at the Shrine of Guadalupe—the Old Basilica (1709) and the New Basilica (1976), which houses Juan Diego’s cloak with the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Visitors can also climb the steps to the Capilla del Cerrito, the original hill chapel built on the site of Juan Diego’s vision. Many full-day tours combine a visit to the shrine with a tour of Teotihuacán, another must-see in Latin America.

Things to know before you go

• Entrance to the basilicas is free, so you don’t need Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe) tickets; however, there is an admission fee for the Basilica Museum.

• Dress appropriately in modest clothing—shorts are not allowed.

• The Shrine of Guadalupe is wheelchair accessible.

• The shrine is closed on Mondays.

How to get there

The Shrine of Guadalupe is located in the La Villa neighborhood in northern Mexico City. To get there, take metro Line 6 to La Villa Basilica, a few blocks from the shrine, or any number of city buses.

When to get there

With thousands of daily visitors, the Shrine of Guadalupe is always busy, so arrive early to avoid the crowds. The most atmospheric time to visit is on December 12 for the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, when the shrine is the epicenter of countrywide celebrations including parades, special masses, and firework displays.

The legend of the Shrine of Guadalupe

According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin in December 1531. In his vision, the apparition was a teenage girl who asked the recently baptized Aztec in his native Nahuatl to build a shrine in her honor on Tepeyac Hill. Eventually, he would report seeing four apparitions of the Virgin Mary. When the Spanish priests refused to believe Juan Diego's claims, she gave him a sign: roses in December. And when he gathered the flowers up in his cloak, her image miraculously appeared on it. Today, Juan Diego’s tilma (cloak) is on display at the Basilica of Guadalupe, and December 12 marks one of Mexico’s holiest celebrations.

Ways to explore

The focal point of the basilica is the cloak bearing the face of the Virgen de Guadalupe—the religious artifact is housed in the circular, modern basilica, attracting millions of pilgrims a year. After extensive renovation, the old basilica reopened to the public and is now the site of the Perpetual Adoration. While visitors are welcome to explore on their own, there are plenty of tours available to ensure you see all the highlights. Whether you’re on a spiritual journey or appreciating the basilica’s cultural and historical significance, plan to spend at least two hours at the site.

Accessibility

Both the old and new basilicas are accessible via wheelchair; however, other sites in the complex are connected via stairs and steep ramps, which may be difficult for some visitors.

Age limits

None, but children should be supervised.

What to pack

Cash, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat (to be removed indoors)

What to wear

Modest dress (knees and shoulders covered) as it is a religious site

Not allowed

Different buildings in the complex have different restrictions, but most don’t allow food, and some don’t allow photography.

Amenities

Bathrooms, cafés, shops

Address 

Like many places in Mexico City, parking can be a challenge, and traffic is always worse than you think. Thankfully, the basilica is close to both bus stops and metro stations, and taxis and ride shares are always available.

Driving

Driving is not recommended, but if you do drive, you’ll likely end up parking on one of the side streets surrounding the basilica. From central Mexico City, take Av. Insurgentes Nte. to 5 de Mayo in Villa Gustavo A. Madero.

Public transportation

From central Mexico City, take Line 3 on the metro towards Idios Verdes. Transfer at the Deportivo 18 de Marzo station, and take Line 6 towards Martin Carrera. Hop off at La Villa-Basilica stop, which is a half-block from the basilica.

Best times to visit

Services run throughout the day, so your best option is to arrive mid-morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

Best days to visit

There will always be something happening, and the site is always busy—work it into your schedule whenever you have time.

Best months to visit

Aim for the dry season, from November to April, to avoid rain.

Special events

The two largest events held at the basilica are the Feast of the Virgen de Guadalupe on December 12 and Easter Week. Both attract millions of worshippers and visitors, which creates an electric atmosphere.