Santiago and the sierra gorda from monterrey, host of the world cup
Exploring Santiago and the Sierra Gorda by car from the Monterrey host city
During the 2026 World Cup, Monterrey will be one of the key cities to experience football in Mexico. However, beyond the stadiums, the region offers several alternatives if you want to make the most of your trip and visit nearby destinations. Among them, Santiago and the Sierra Gorda stand out as two ideal options for an unforgettable roadtrip.
If you are looking for places near Monterrey to travel to by car, this route combines nature, culture, and mountain landscapes in an accessible and well-connected journey by road. To make the most of this experience, it is best to have your own mobility: you can choose car rental and plan each stop at your own pace.
Monterrey as a starting point for a roadtrip
Monterrey is not only a 2026 World Cup host city; it is also an excellent point to start tours through the north of the country. Its road infrastructure allows quick access to natural destinations and charming towns. Among the main places to visit in Monterrey before hitting the road, we find:
-Fundidora Park (Parque Fundidora)
-Santa Lucía Riverwalk (Paseo Santa Lucía)
-Macroplaza
-Cerro de la Silla
Once you explore the city, you can begin your journey toward one of the closest destinations: Santiago. If you are organizing your trip and do not have your own vehicle, we recommend choosing car rental in Monterrey to have greater flexibility during the 2026 World Cup with Hertz Mexico.
How to get to Santiago, Nuevo León, from Monterrey?
The journey to Santiago, Nuevo León, is one of the simplest and fastest getaways from Monterrey, ideal if you want to leave the city without traveling long distances. The trip lasts approximately between 30 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Suggested route:
-Depart from Monterrey heading south
-Take the National Highway (Carretera Nacional - Mexico 85)
-Follow the signs to Santiago
-Continue to the center of the town
What to do in Santiago, a Magical Town in Nuevo León?
Santiago is one of the most attractive destinations near Monterrey, as it combines history, gastronomy, and nature in one place. This magical town stands out for its colonial architecture, its quiet streets, and its proximity to the mountains, making it a must-stop on any route through the region. Here is what to do in Santiago:
-Stroll through Plaza Ocampo
-Visit the Santiago Apóstol Parish
-Enjoy restaurants with mountain views
-Explore local markets
Additionally, its privileged location allows you to complement the visit with nearby natural attractions such as the Cola de Caballo waterfall, one of the most representative landscapes of Nuevo León.
From Santiago to the Sierra Gorda: a scenic roadtrip
After visiting Santiago, the journey can continue toward the Sierra Gorda, one of the most impressive natural regions in northeast Mexico. This journey is part of the best roadtrips from Monterrey, as it combines highway, mountains, and unique landscapes. The travel time is around 5 hours, depending on the specific destination within the mountains. General route:
-Depart from Santiago via the National Highway
-Continue toward Linares
-Follow signs toward the Sierra Gorda area
-Cross mountain roads with panoramic views
What to do in the Sierra Gorda?
The Sierra Gorda is the perfect destination if you are looking for nature and adventure. It is a great place to disconnect from the urban pace and complement your football trip with outdoor experiences. Among the main activities we find:
-Hiking
-Observation of mountain landscapes
-Nature photography
-Tours through rural communities
Discover everything about the Sierra Gorda and what you can do on our blog!
Why take this roadtrip during the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 World Cup will not only be experienced in the stadiums. It will also be an opportunity to get to know the country and explore nearby destinations. This type of route will allow you to escape the urban movement, discover landscapes, and combine football with tourism. Additionally, Santiago and the Sierra Gorda are accessible destinations from Monterrey, making them a great opportunity for short getaways.
Exploring the city and its surroundings by car is one of the best ways to get to know northern Mexico. From the city to the mountains, this trip offers a balanced combination of culture and nature. Whether you have a few days or want to extend your stay, this tour is ideal, especially if you are evaluating places near Monterrey to travel to by car.