If you love to shop, head first to the Mercado Hidalgo, one of Mexico's best markets. Built in 1910, this cast-iron art nouveau-style structure, with an interior balcony that encircles the entire building, overflows with stalls selling produce, crafts, and food. Don't miss the candy and leather vendors.

Guanajuato also has workshops that produce traditional majolica-style pottery, as well as shops selling silver jewelry, both in the city and at La Valenciana Mine. Especially look for the traditional pajaritos (small birds) jewelry and baroque silverwork.

Dolores Hidalgo is famous for its Talavera pottery, which is distinct from that made in Puebla, and a whole lot less expensive. You'll discover workshops as you walk the streets around the zócalo.

San Miguel has one of the biggest and best concentrations of craft shops in Mexico. Brass and tin, the town's specialty, shine brightly, but you'll also find locally handwoven fabrics and well-designed jewelry in the shops occupying colonial buildings surrounding its square. Go to the large outdoor Mercado de Artesanías, located outside the Mercado El Nigromante, or visit some of the many townhouses that have been converted into handicraft shops and art galleries.