Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Albuquerque?

Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Albuquerque?

Many visitors spend two to four days in Albuquerque during their trip. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because your journey calls for making the most of every moment. The town offers the chance to browse around the old town, spend time at the museums, sample the delicious cuisine, and find the best deals at the shops.

Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico. It's surrounded by desert and has a unique adobe Old Town that dates back to 1706 when it was established as a Spanish colony. There are many adobe buildings and unique artisan craft shops. The city also has the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center which is educational and interesting.

Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Albuquerque? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.

Is 3 days enough time in Albuquerque?

Three days in Albuquerque is often considered best, as many tourists spend two to four days for their trip here. This would usually give you enough time to browse around the old town, spend time at the museums, sample the delicious cuisine, and find the best deals at the shops. Further down, you'll find our recommendations to kick off your adventure.

How to spend 3 days in Albuquerque

The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

A few tour suggestions include:

PRIVATE History, Legends and Lore Guided Old Town Stroll - 10am or 2pm ($40)
12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll ($35)
The Ghost Tour of Old Town - New Mexico's oldest Ghost Walk - Since 2001 ($35)

You'll absolutely want to spend some time enjoying the food scene in this town, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine for a meal or two. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Don't miss the Old Town during your trip to Albuquerque, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

This town is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Albuquerque a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

A few tour suggestions include:

The Turquoise Museum Curator's Tour ($20)
Turquoise Museum Visit ($21)
Albuquerque Old Town Art Tour with Wine & Museum Admission ($85)

There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Albuquerque.

Is 4 days enough time in Albuquerque?

Four days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Albuquerque, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. The historic old town, the famous sights and museums, the food, and shopping on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Albuquerque as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding areas.

Albuquerque, NM

How to spend 4 days in Albuquerque

If you have more than 4 days in Albuquerque, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the town has to offer.

Shopping in Albuquerque is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is 5 days enough time in Albuquerque?

Five days is more than enough time to see everything that Albuquerque has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend two to four days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the historic old town, the famous sights and museums, the food, and shopping at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.

How to spend 5 days in Albuquerque

Having 5 days in Albuquerque will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the town.

Known for it's hiking, Albuquerque sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Albuquerque, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.