Under $100: Tijuana

Tijuana might not have the best reputation when it comes to towns south of the border, but it’s certainly worth a day visit at least. There are plenty of shopping opportunities and great beaches in the area, and most of it can be seen without breaking the bank.

Start your day off with a little shopping excursion at Plaza Rio Tijuana. This 792,000- square-foot open-air mall is the fourth largest in Mexico and offers plenty of upscale shops at discount prices along with two full movie theaters. If you’re looking for something a little more authentic, hop over to the nearby Hidalgo Merado, a native market where local farmers from Mexico peddle their food and handcrafted goods.

© Czuber | Dreamstime

Once lunch rolls around you’ll want to head toward Tijuana’s downtown main street Avenida Revolucion. Here you’ll find Los Acros Seafood Restaurant and Bar, a popular joint among locals and tourists that serves some of the best seafood in the city. It’s pricey compared to smaller restaurants in the city, but you should still get by with spending roughly $15.

Take time to stroll along the main street and check out the shops before heading to the Tijuana Cultural Center, where you’ll find a giant round ball that houses an IMAX theater and many events to partake in.

© Cesar Bojorquez | Flickr

From there, make your way back to the Cathedral de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe to view the spectacular stained glass windows adorning the old church. It’s a Tijuana landmark and it’s free to visit.

For dinner, you’ll definitely want to give Cien Anos a try. The restaurant is beloved for its stash of tequila brands reaching 100 strong. The main courses are great, but most people come here to drink and have dessert. It’s going to set you back, though, with dinner easily approaching $40.