Learn about these marvelous insects, their 3,000 mile journey from the U.S. and Canada, and how you can experience and be witness to the presence of the Monarchs overwintering at one of the protected butterfly sanctuaries. If you are traveling in Mexico between November and March, this is one of the most rewarding outdoor activities you can experience.

The Monarch Butterfly

The Monarch Butterfly, in Latin known as Danaus Plexippus, is native to the North American tropics. An adult wingspan will reach about 4.5 inches (11 centimeters) and weight one gram or less.

Milkweed plants provide an essential food source for their caterpillars. The milkweed contains a chemical that is toxic to many species, but which Monarchs can, uniquely, assimilate and store in the cells of its outer skin. This in turn provides the butterfly with a powerful defense ‘shield’ against potential predators and thus assists the insects in their 3,000 mile journey south, to overwinter in the mountains west of Mexico City.

Adult Monarchs live only for 3-4 weeks. However, one of the mysteries of these insects is their capability to breed what has been termed by scientists as a ‘Methuselah’ generation. This is a very special generation of butterfly, born once a year near the end of the summer months. These butterflies can live up to 9 months and this generation will not breed in the north: instead, the butterflies store up nectar from flowers and use this as fuel that enables them to migrate south for the winter.

The Monarch Winter Migration

Migrating Monarch butterflies journey in colonies of about 20 million insects and will travel between 80-120 nautical miles per day, depending on the wind and other weather conditions.

The butterflies take advantage of ascending warm-air currents, gliding in the thrust they provide, needing only to flap their wings when the air current diminishes a little or when they change their flight path. This technique uses their energy efficiently, and physically enables them to undertake the long journey.

The butterflies travel only by day and will roost overnight, usually on the branches and trunks of trees.

By around mid November each year, the Monarch butterflies begin arriving in Mexico. They settle in the Oyamel fir tree forests which are situated in the eastern perimeter of the Mexican state of Michoacán, also bordering the state of Mexico, west of Mexico City.

Once here, the butterflies cluster on tree trunks and branches, and remain in the area for the winter. As the sun heats the day, some of the butterflies will flutter in the forests and return to cluster again on the trees when the air cools.  The best time to see the butterflies is between late January and the end of March: before late January, the air temperature is cooler and the butterflies don’t flutter as much.

YouTube: Monarch Butterflies

The Monarch’s Reproduction & Journey Back North

In February, when the temperatures begin to rise, the Monarchs begin their mating rituals. The females will lay over 400 eggs each on the fine leaves of the asclepias and afterwards gather nectar from the flowers, the fuel source that provides the energy for them to make the journey back north.

By mid March, the same Methuselah generation of butterflies that arrived here in November will begin fluttering in a bid to catch the spring time’s ascending air currents which will propel them on their journey back across the border to the United States and Canada.

Their short-life progeny, which begin life in the mountains of Mexico, will also begin the return journey back to the United States and Canada, in a staged relay covering several generations of butterflies.

The ‘great-great grand progeny’ of this year’s Methuselah generation will return to Mexico; and although they themselves have never flown south before, they will instinctively know where to fly as it’s believed that their sense of direction is passed on to them genetically from their ancestors. Latest research also suggests that the butterflies possess an “inner clock” which enables them navigate by means of the sun’s position in the sky.

This remarkable life cycle is manifested by an insect that weighs less than a gram, but who’s ‘pollinating agent’ work plays an enormously important role in our planet’s eco system.

Monarch Sanctuaries in Mexico

The butterflies begin arriving from mid November each year. January and February are the most popular months for visits, as it’s during this time that the butterfly population is at its peak.

The sanctuaries are open to the public between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. seven days a week. Weekends are considerably busier that week days, especially in January and February.

You can visit one of the sanctuaries independently or you can go as part of an organized Monarch Butterflies Tour. Most guided tours visit the El Rosario or Sierra Chincua reserves.

The Mexican government has set up a number of protected sanctuaries within a biosphere reserve to ensure that the important habitats required by the Monarch Butterflies are protected and preserved, while still allowing visitors to witness these remarkable insects and enjoy some of Mexico’s most breath-taking landscapes.

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve covers an area of over 560 square kilometers (350 square miles) and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2008.

Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries:

There are four sanctuaries open to the public, two in the state of Michoacán and two others in the state of Mexico. The biosphere is on the eastern edge of the state of Michoacán and crosses into the state of Mexico. The two most frequented sanctuaries are:

El Rosario – Near the town of Ocampo in the state of Michoacán

Sierra Chincua – Near the town of Angangueo in the state of Michoacán

Getting to the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries

If you are traveling independently, you can either take a bus or rent a car and drive to the area. Although the Monarch tours are most often marketed as day tours from the colonial city of Morelia or Mexico City, the biosphere is about equidistant between these two cities, making the experience a very long day-trip with a steep hike thrown in for good measure. We recommend an overnight stay at Angangueo if you want to experience the area and the butterflies in the best possible way. See “Accommodation” in the practical information below, for more details.

Getting to El Rosario Reserve

If you are traveling by bus from Mexico City, go the eastern bus terminal (known as Observatorio) and buy tickets on a direct bus to Angangueo, a four hour trip. There are frequent buses from Morelia to Zitácuaro, the third largest city in the state of Michoacán; the journey takes about three hours. From Zitácuaro you can board a local bus north to the town of Ocampo, or take a local cab. From Angangueo, you can take a local bus or cab southwards, to reach the trail head of El Rosario.

Getting to Sierra Chincua Reserve

This reserve is situated about five miles north from Angangueo (see above), but the trail head is higher and it’s a less strenuous climb up the mountain. To get here take a local bus signed to Tlalpujahua, or jump in a cab to get taken to the trail head; the fare is around US$10 each way.

Practical Information

Whether you travel independently or as part of an organized tour, you will find this practical information valuable to make good preparations for your visit.

When to go

Depending on the climate and weather conditions, the butterflies may start arriving at the biosphere as early as late October or as late as the third week in November. The best months to visit are late January thru March, which is when the butterfly population reaches its peak, the air temperatures on the mountain are warmer and the thus the butterflies are more active. However, these are also the busiest months, so if your schedule allows, we recommend you visit on a week-day and avoid the (crowded) weekends.

Weather and temperature influences

Monarch Butterflies like and need warm weather, which is why they migrate south. On colder days when cloud and/or rain are present or on days when a cold front has come to pass in the biosphere region (these happen on occasion every year and last from a couple of days to a week) the butterflies will be less active. Keep your eye on the weather reports; if your plans are flexible, try and choose a couple of days when the weather will be warmer, for the best experience. How far up the mountain you have to climb also depends upon the time of year. During the coldest months, (November – January) you will need to hike higher to see the butterflies; as the weather warms up, the butterflies move down the mountain.

Local accommodation

Day tours are marketed to the butterfly sanctuaries from Mexico City and Morelia; however, they make for very long day trips and with the hike at high altitude can be wearing and make the experience less pleasant. If you are traveling independently, we recommend you take the time to stay in the area, get a good night’s rest a small few miles from the trail head, take a hearty breakfast, and experience the butterflies that way. Experienced Tour Operators will include an overnight stay in Angangueo as part of their itinerary. The hotels in Angangueo cannot be easily booked on online; if you don’t visit by means of a an organized tour, local hotel names to consider for accommodation include Hotel Don Bruno, Plaza Don Gabino, Cabañas Margarita.

Your physical fitness

The bus, car or taxi can lead you to a trail head, but it’s uphill on foot from there. Horseback rides are available from Chincua, see below for more details. The trails up the mountain are narrow and steep and you will need to be physically fit to make the journey.

Elevation

The hike can lead you above 3,000 meters (nearly 10,000 feet) above sea level: the air is thin and altitude sickness can affect you. Be sure to take water; vendors sell bottled water at the trail head if you forgot to bring your own. Climb slowly, taking regular breaks–and pace yourself. If you ascend too quickly at this altitude, you could easily feint. See Blog: Breathing Easy at High Altitudes.

Dress for the occasion

The micro climate on the mountain means that it can be quite cool or quite warm, depending on the day. You may feel cold at the trail head, but quite hot after climbing for an hour. Dress in layers, allowing your body to warm-up or cool-down as required. Also, take a good pair of hiking shoes or boots; footwear that supports your ankles is best. Flat soft shoes, sandals, and flip-flops are completely inappropriate.

Afternoon walking

On warmer afternoons, the butterflies fly low to settled at ground level, seeking the cooler air and moisture. Inevitably, some butterflies get crushed by visiting walkers… watch your step and try to be as gentle as possible on your feet.

Keep to the trails

You must keep to the trails inside the reserve areas—this minimizes the impact of walkers and visitors on the butterflies. Hiking off the trails is prohibited anywhere inside the biosphere.

Horseback rides

If you are not up to physical challenge of climbing at this altitude, you may like to consider doing the trail on horseback. El Rosario does not have a horse path, but Sierra Chincua does. Horses can only go so far up the mountain; when the intensity of the butterflies increases, you will need to dismount and complete the journey on foot, so some physical exercise will be involved.

Monarch Butterfly Trip Organizers

Uxmal (pronounced “oosh-MAHL”) is said to be among the most attractive of Mexico’s archaeology centers and should be included in any itinerary that intends to visit the most important Maya ruins.

Uxmal was an important city, probably built around 700 AD, although inhabitants are thought to have lived in the area as far back as 800 BC—nearly 1,000 years before the city was built.

It is a mystery as to why a settlement was ever made here: there are no rivers or local sources of water, and no evidence that they once existed. One of the important features of Uxmal are the chultunes (cisterns), which held water for the population to live from, and Chaac, the rain god, features prominently in much of the architecture’s carvings—no doubt an important source of water for the people that lived here.

Within a 10 mile radius of Uxmal are four other smaller ancient ‘towns’ of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, and Labna. Together with Uxmal, these places make up the Ruta Puuc, named after the hills in which these ruins are nestled and the architectural style of the buildings found at this and other Puuc sites.

Uxmal is a delightful archaeological site to explore and experience. During the rain season (May to October) the rich green fertile land provides a perfect setting for some of the most magnificent ancient pyramids, buildings, and temples of the ancient world. You can sense the history here as you walk around and gaze at the stunning architecture and majestic layout of this ancient city.

Key Attractions

The 120-foot high Piramide del Adivino (Magician’s Pyramid) stands majestically above the other buildings, and a climb to its summit will reward you with spectacular views of the entire half-square-mile ancient city.

The Cuadrángulo de las Monjas (Nuns’ Quadrangle) was believed to have been used for military purposes, perhaps an academy or palatial complex.

At the Palacio del Gobernador (Governor’s Palace) you can admire the 300 foot-long facade described by one scholar as the finest structure in Uxmal.

Other attractions include the Juego de Pelota (Games Court) which is nowhere near as large or impressive as the one in Chichen Itza; Casa de las Tortugas (House of the Turtles), one of the smallest buildings, but quaint and interesting all the same and La Gran Piramide (The Great Pyramid), a 100-foot, 9-level structure adjacent to the Governor’s Palace. As is the case with the Magician’s Pyramid, those prepared to climb to the summit of the Great Pyramid will be rewarded with spectacular views.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport is in Mérida. Further away, but in the same region, is the airport of Cancun. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Uxmal is located about 40 miles southwest of Mérida, and about 250 miles southwest of Cancún. Because of the limited public transport in this area, we recommend you rent a car (see below) to explore the region and especially the Ruta Puuc, if you are not taking a guided tour. Also see additional information about Driving in Mexico on Mexperience.

By Bus – Public transport is very limited in this area in comparison to other regions in Mexico, and most of the buses that pass-by Uxmal are infrequent local transport services, or organized tour buses visiting the Ruta Puuc. To explore this area independently, it’s best to rent a car for your visit. You can find detailed information about car rental and bus transportation here on Mexperience.

Uxmal Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Federal and state admission charges apply and there are concessions for students, children, seniors and legal foreign residents (you need to show your residency card).  On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents (with proof of residency).

Other Nearby Sites: To avoid the tour bus crowds, consider staying overnight at a hotel in Uxmal archaeological park. There are several hotels immediately surrounding the Uxmal Archaeological park. Uxmal is an excellent base for travelers who want to experience the other significant archaeological sites in the vicinity which include: Kabah, Labna, Sayil, Xlapak, Mayapan and the caves, Grutas de Loltun.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with a non-slip sole; strong shoes, appropriate for climbing, if you plan to ascend the pyramids. Note: The Magician’s Pyramid is especially steep and extreme care must be taken when climbing this pyramid. This region is very hot and humid year-round, so dress for sweltering weather – see Local Climate, below. See also: Tips for Visiting Mexico’s Pyramids and Archaeology Sites

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (closest)

Colonial Cities: Merida, Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen

Other Archaeological Sites: Chichen Itza, Coba, Tulum

Local Climate

During the late spring and summer, Uxmal is hot with drenching humidity. The rainy season is May through October; fierce afternoon rains last for 2-3 hours and clear in the evening. Dress in light clothes, and carry plenty of water and stay hydrated at all times. Wear high factor sun screen, take a hat and spray on some insect repellent to keep flying creatures at bay.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Chichen Itzá Mexico’s most extensively restored archaeological park, and has always been the most-visited, but since it was voted as one of the New Wonders of The World in 2007, the publicity which surrounded this anointment served to attract even more visitors. The ancient city of Chichen Itzá — which means “the mouth of the well of the Itzás” — is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico.

The archaeological site takes up about four square miles and it will take you all day to see it properly. The temples are laid out in such a fashion that they represent time, akin to an enormous calendar.

Much of the Mayan and Toltec cultures are still a mystery and there is disagreement between scholars over how the Mayas arrived here and their relationships and interactions with the Toltecs. This doesn’t take away from the immense feeling of size and grandeur of this location; even when it is full with tourists, there is so much space that, aside from the main temple which tends to become crowded, you can feel quite relaxed wandering around the park.

Official local guides situated at the site will take you on a tour and explain the history of the site and the Mayan culture.

This region of Mexico gets extremely hot during the peak daytime hours of noon until around 4 pm. Staying at a hotel nearby and starting your tour of the site early in the morning will significantly enhance your experience of Chichen Itzá; see the article: The Best Way to Experience Chichen Itza for details.

Key Attractions

Chichen Itzá has a wealth of features that will take you all day to experience properly. Listed here are a few of the highlights; consult a guide book for further details.

El Castillo

As you enter the site, your first glance will be towards the Piramide de Kukulkan, or Castillo (Castle). This pyramid has 365 steps, 52 panels and 18 terraces. If you visit during the spring or autumn equinox (March 21st and September 21st) you’ll be in for a special treat: The sun’s light touches the steps on the northern side, creating the shadow of a “moving serpent” which glides up the pyramid as the sun moves through the sky.

Juego de Pelota Principal

Juego de Pelota Principal (Principal Ball Court) is the main one of eight ball courts, and the largest games court in all of Mexico’s archaeological sites. Here, you will see the famous stone hoops. It is believed that contestants of pelota (ball) needed to get a stone ball through them during the game.

Templo de Jaguares

To the southeast, you’ll find the Templo de los Jaguares (Temple of the Jaguars) on which you’ll see carved rattlesnakes and jaguars. The murals inside depict an ancient battle.

Tzompantli

Tzompantli—Toltec meaning “Temple of Skulls”— is in between the Temple of Jaguars and the Castle. It was here where heads of those sacrificed were displayed for the gods.

El Caracol

El Caracol (“The Snail” – named because of its circular structure and staircase) is actually an ancient observatory. This structure is an example of how the Maya were obsessed with time and astronomy. This building developed over time and was used by astronomers to accurately measure and record important days in the astronomical calendar, such as the spring and autumn equinox and the solstice.

Chichen Viejo

Chichen Viejo, literally meaning “old Chichen”, is the oldest part of the city; it has some interesting structures which date to the pre-Toltec times. If you stay at the Mayaland Hotel, you can also arrange for a horseback tour through Chichen Viejo.

Sound and Light Show

The Sounds and Lights Show, that is a mixture of colorful lights projected onto the pyramids, Mayan music, and a voice-over with commentary about Maya legends, is worth attending if you are staying overnight at one of the nearby hotels. It starts at around 7:30 p.m. (check times locally); the admission fee is included in the price of your entrance ticket to the site.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airports to Chichen Itzá are Cancún or Mérida. Many travelers to Cancún take a day trip here, although there are some good hotels nearby and if you stay overnight in the area, you’ll see more and enjoy a better experience of the site and area surrounding it. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – Depart frequently from Cancún and Mérida to Chichen Itzá, most often as part of organized tours to the ancient city. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

Chichen Iztá Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission charges apply (check at local tourist office for the latest admission prices.) Multi-lingual guides are available for hire at the ticket booth.

Better Overnight: Chichen Itza is a big tour-bus destination. Since it was nominated as a ‘New Wonder of the World’ in 2007, the center has become extremely busy during the daytime. If you want to miss the crowds and get the most out a visit to this spectacular archaeological park, stay for a night at one of the hotels situated next to the archaeological park and be among the first to enter the park in the morning. It’s by far the best way to experience Chichen Itza.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole—Chichen Itzá is an extensive archaeological site. Wear light clothes—it gets very hot and humid here. Carry plenty of water, wear a sunhat, and insect repellent is also very useful as this site is located in the jungle. See also: Tips for Visiting Mexico’s Pyramids and Archaeology Sites

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Merida (State Capital of Yucatán), Campeche, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Other Archaeological Sites: Palenque, Tulum, Coba, Uxmal

Local Climate

The local climate is the same as that for Cancun—hot, and humid. Be sure to keep yourself hydrated. The sun here is fierce, especially between midday and 4 pm.   Wear light clothes, sun cream, sun glasses and a hat.   Insect repellent is also useful to keep the mosquitoes at bay; carry and drink plenty of water at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Spain’s colonial influence remains remarkably notable in Puebla: from the moment you approach the city center, you see the dome-shaped roofs of churches and buildings, suggesting Spanish and Moor influences which arrived centuries ago and have remained here in Puebla ever since.

The city is known for one of Mexico’s most notable historic battles, which took place on May 5th 1862, against the French. Today Cinco de Mayo (fifth of May) is a holiday in the state of Puebla.

Puebla is famous for its cuisine, as some of Mexico’s most popular national dishes, including Mole and Chile Poblano were created in Puebla.

The colonial center is a colorful, vibrant and charming reflection of what Mexico’s colonial days looked and felt like. The main plaza is the central focus of the colonial city and weekends see the center packed with locals and visitors, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, street performers and live bands.

When the Spanish arrived, they brought with them Talavera (itself a Moor craft), a very strong and hard-wearing ceramic, which was colorfully decorated and used primarily for tiles. Today, Talavera is still manufactured here; and while it’s not an inexpensive item anywhere you buy it in Mexico, you can find some of the lowest prices for it here in Puebla.

The state of Puebla is home Mexico’s most famous (and non-dormant) volcano: Popocatepetl. If you drive or take the bus to Puebla, you’ll see this magnificent tower of natural energy from the south side; it is sometimes capped with snow. In the 1970s you could see it from Mexico City, but today, air pollution blocks the view on most days. The best views of the volcano can be seen early in the morning; late mornings and afternoons bring heat that causes mist and obscures the view.

A short drive from Puebla is the colonial town of Cholula; famous for its churches and views of Popocatepetl and Iztaccíhuatl; see Key Attractions, below, for more details and related links.

Puebla is well connected by road with Mexico City, and also has an airport, so it’s very accessible. While you can see Puebla on a long day trip from the capital, we recommend staying longer to enjoy a better experience and gain a deeper appreciation of this beautiful and important colonial city.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

The look, feel and atmosphere in Puebla’s colonial center is distinctly Spanish/Moor. The colonial center is well preserved, the streets are cobbled or laid with old-style paving stones. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the surroundings are colorful; the ambiance here is distinctly colonial.

Start your experience in the main plaza, the zocalo. The principal tree-lined square is surrounded by a selection of shops and restaurants; many people start their day by enjoying breakfast at one of the restaurants surrounding he square.

Puebla’s Magnificent Cathedral

On the south side of the city’s zocalo (main square) is the Puebla’s breath-taking cathedral.

The cathedral’s bell towers are 69 meters high (over 207 feet), making them the tallest bell towers of any cathedral in Mexico. The tone of the bells is truly exceptional, and the interior of the cathedral is spectacular; and includes the largest church organ in Mexico.

Adjacent to the cathedral, you’ll find the Casa de la Cultura which takes up a whole block and hosts, among other things, the oldest library in the Americas: Biblioteca Palafoxiana.

A lot of the architecture here features Talavera tiles – look out for them as you explore the various streets and plazas around this picturesque colonial city.

There are a couple of Temples you shouldn’t miss: Templo de San Francisco and Templo de Santo Domingo; both have excellent examples of 16th and 17th century architecture.

Learn Spanish in Puebla

There’s no better way to learn Spanish than by becoming immersed in it at a language school in Mexico. Puebla is one of Mexico’s finest colonial cities and is also well-known as a cultural and language center; there are number of fine language schools here. Read our guide to Learning Spanish in Mexico for more details and to find a language school in Puebla.

Cerro de Guadalupe

Away from the colonial center, up on the hill, you’ll discover one of Puebla’s main parks: Cerro de Guadalupe. Take a trip here if you’re looking for some nice views and some green surroundings. There is also a a couple of historical forts here and a museum as well.

Cholula

Just a fifteeen minute cab ride from the center of Puebla is the town of Cholula. Although the most famous attraction of Cholula is its famous archaeology park, the town itself provides an excellent base to explore nearby villages and procure some fine art and Talavera ceramic ware. Also, if you want to see the Volcanoes clearly, Cholula is the perfect place to stay overnight so that you can see the volcanoes clearly early in the morning. For more details, read our complete Travel Guide to Cholula.

Museums and Art in Puebla

Puebla has a good number of Museums to visit. The main ones include:

Museo Amparo – which is one of the best archaeological Museums in Mexico;

Museo Bello – situated in a colonial house in the historic center, the museum hosts fine art, furniture and antiques from around the world;

Museo de Artes Populares – (Popular Art Museum) offers a selection of Mexican Arts and Crafts, as well as a traditional kitchen, displaying native Mexican cuisine;

Museo de la Revolucion – (Revolution Museum) is house that staged the first battle of the 1910 revolution.

Museo del Ferrocarril – S (Locomotive Museum) hosts a couple of handful’s of vintage locomotives.

Golf in Puebla

The climate in Puebla is ideal for golf all year-round, and due to the influence of the high number of multi-national companies based here, there are several good golf courses where you can play.

Getting There & Around

Getting There

By Air – You can fly to Puebla from the US and and other points in Mexico including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Leon and Tijuana. Connect to the Mexperience guide about Air Travel in Mexico for more details.

By Bus – You can travel to Puebla on a luxury bus from Mexico City – the trip takes around 2 hours. Buses travel from the Southern Bus Terminal and also directly from the Airport. Connect to the Mexperience guide about Bus Travel in Mexico for more details.

By Car – Driving to Puebla is very fast and efficient on the high-speed road that connects the Capital to Puebla. Take Highway 150D South, or from Veracruz 150D, West. See the detailed Mexperience guide to Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads for full details.

Getting Around

From the Airport – The airport is about 10 miles west of Puebla and ground transportation is available into town; buy your tickets from the terminal building inside the airport.

Taxis – Puebla’s street taxis are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a better price! Another good reason to Learn Spanish!

Rent a Car – If you plan to explore the region independently, renting a car would be a smart option as it will give you the freedom and flexibility to see more of the area and its surrounding attractions. Learn more about Renting in a Car in Mexico on our detailed guide. You can rent a car from Mexico City or the airport at Puebla: see the Travel Reservations Center for Car Rental in Mexico

Puebla Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the Communications in Mexico Page on Mexperience for full information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of Puebla, especially in the areas around the main plaza (Zocalo). During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy traveler’s cheques and cash from you as well. Read about currency exchange in Mexperience’s Money Section.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical cover and/or travel assistance cover when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

Active Volcano Alert: Popocatepetl is currently semi-active, although recent volcanic activity has settled down again. However the State of Puebla and in particular the immediate areas surrounding the volcano are on yellow alert. The city of Puebla, and Mexico City itself are not under immediate threat and it is quite safe to travel to both places. Constant monitoring of volcanic activity takes place, and if the situation changes, notice will be given.

What to Buy in Puebla

Puebla is the home of Talavera ceramic-ware, and you can buy a selection of items including colorful tiles, crockery and dinnerware made from this hard-wearing (and “unbreakable”) ceramic craft. The ceramic ware is not inexpensive anywhere, but Puebla is the best place to buy it, as it is among the least expensive of the places in Mexico that sells it. While you are here, be sure to savor Mole Poblano, a rich, dark savory sauce made with chocolate, bananas and spices. It’s traditionally served over chicken accompanied with Arroz a la Mexicana–delicious.

Local Climate

Puebla enjoys year-round, spring-like weather. The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor sports and activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture and scenery. Rains are seldom a feature here; when they do come they tend to be during the months of April thru November, but as with most monsoon areas, the rains tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off. You may need a wool pullover for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in the winter months.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Mexico’s capital city is often referred to as just “Mexico” by people living in the country, traditionally termed El DF, referring to “Mexico, Distrito Federal“—Federal District—although since January 2016 the capital dropped its iconic “DF” status and is now officially referred to as La Ciudad de México.

The metropolitan area of Mexico’s capital is one of the world’s most populated urban expanses with an estimated 22 million inhabitants living inside an area of 750 square kilometers (290 square miles).

The Mexican capital is situated at an average altitude of 2,250 meters (7,400 feet) above sea level and is watched over by two mighty volcanoes. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. Originally a “floating city”, served by a large and complex network of canals when it was the epicenter of the Aztec empire, today, the nation’s capital is one of the world’s most populous mega-cities on our planet.

The Spanish conqueror, Hernán Cortés, was one of the first Europeans to have set eyes on the immense Aztec capital, then named Tenochtitlán, as he reached the heart of the Aztec empire’s political and administrative center. A restored ruin of the most important temple of that ancient city, Templo Mayor, can be seen today in the archaeology park next door to the cathedral in the heart of the historical center. The rest of the architecture in the old city downtown has a distinctly Spanish feel about it.

Mexico City is the center of government, business and culture in Mexico. Over one-fifth of Mexico’s population works, lives and plays here. The city never seems to sleep and the ever-present energy is one of the big attractions of this metropolis.

Flying into the city, it’s hard not to become overwhelmed by the sheer size and scale of the metropolis passing by underneath you. The city goes on for as far as the eye can see: if you fly in at night, it’s like gliding over an enormous ocean of lights.

Fortunately, a lot of the really attractive features of Mexico City are clustered together in easy-to-get-to areas. Three or four days here will ensure that you manage to experience all of the main attractions.

Mexico City has a feast of experiences waiting for you to enjoy and savor. From a world-famous archaeology park to a world-class zoo and everything in-between – you’ll find it in Mexico City.

The choice of restaurants here is immense: Whatever food you like or want to experience, you can in Mexico City.

For shoppers, Mexico City provides an enormous variety of shopping experiences, with an enormous variety of colors and flavors. From fruit and vegetable stalls at local markets, specialist markets and bazaars selling arts and crafts, chic boutiques, designer fashion houses and jewelry, right through to the multi-million dollar US-style shopping malls —it’s all here.

Aficionados of history, culture and archaeology will find a rich panoply of areas and places to feed their thirst for new insight and knowledge: World-class museums (including the Anthropology Museum, one of world’s most impressive and most important of its kind), arts and theater, sculpture, murals and plazas, and a history which extends back over 12,000 years, to the first animals and inhabitants around Lake Texcoco— the lake Mexico City was built on—and on which bed it still lies.

Mexico City also has several parks and natural areas where people go to relax, converse, meet and just watch the world go by. Like to play golf? Hiding behind the busy streets are tucked away no less than two great golf courses right in the pulse of capital.

For general entertainment, Mexico City will fulfill just about any activity you have in mind that can logistically be catered for in an urban area. The night life is energetic and varied; during the day you can play sports, go to a funfair, ice-skate, play tennis or attend a top quality spa, go horse racing, watch movies, experience a huge selection of festivals and events, and much more.

Not everyone who visits Mexico visits the nation’s capital city. Many fly into its airport, only to connect to a flight elsewhere, usually a colonial center or beach destination. However, Mexico City is a great place to experience because there is a certain magic here that most often leaves a dust on its visitors’ shoes: the kind of dust which in many cases keeps you coming back for even more next time, or keeps you away for evermore.

Mexico City is still one of the world’s most vibrant, charismatic and extraordinary cities. Take the time to wander around some of its attractions and enjoy the experience of one the most contrasting, exciting and inspiring capital cities in the world.

Key Attractions

The main areas of Mexico City with Key Attractions for visitors are:

• The Central Colonial Area
• Zona Rosa
• Bosque de Chapultepec & Polanco
• Coyoacan & San Angel
• Xochimilco

Mexico City’s Historic Colonial Center

The Centro Historico (Historic Center) focuses around the Plaza de la Constitucion (Constitution Plaza) or more commonly known as the zocalo (main plaza), the second biggest in the world—only Moscow’s Red Square betters it for size. This is the heart of Mexico City and its government, main business and financial centers all operate in and around this area. There are over 1,400 colonial buildings in this area: the feel is distinctly Spanish— they built their new city on top of the destroyed Aztec City of Tenochtitlan. Off the plaza you can find the city’s Catedral Metropolitana and Palacio Nacional (National Palace)— both are examples of glorious colonial architecture. You can see some of the remains of the old city by visiting Templo Mayor—the archaeological site in the heart of Mexico City. You can discover Templo Mayor with Mexperience.

Zona Rosa

Translated, this literally means, “the Pink Zone”, referring to the pink colored tiles on the street, still there today. It was once the high-class residential area of Mexico City, before tourism, shops, restaurants, hotels and commercial office space took it over. Today, it is the center of commercial activity in Mexico City. This area, along with Polanco and San Angel (see below) is one of Mexico City’s main night spots.

Coyoacan and San Angel

These two colonial areas make up districts of today’s Mexico City, but it hasn’t always been this way. Not so many years ago, these areas were separate colonial towns in their own right. They both have a colonial atmosphere and charm all their own and are well worth a visit— especially at the weekend.

Coyoacan – The Central Plaza is a classic—with its street performers and ambulant vendors; a real family place on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. The streets in this area are all cobbled; the area is home to some of Mexico City’s finest mansions and great museums. Many present-day celebrities live around here, as past celebrities have, including: Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera and Leon Trotsky.

San Angel – Once a quaint town on the outskirts, now a suburb for the rich and/or famous with cobblestone streets and leafy lanes. Some of the houses here are more modern, but there is also a great selection of colonial houses, mansions and haciendas. Some of these places have been turned into fine restaurants and fashionable night clubs. San Angel is also one of Mexico City’s prime night spots. See below When Night Falls.

Bosque de Chapultepec and Polanco

Mexico City’s large green area, Chapultepec (From the Aztec, meaning “Place of the Grasshopper”) is the largest area west of the city, and incorporates: Chapultepec Park itself, the Castle where Maximilian ruled from before he met his fate in Queretaro, Mexico City’s extensive zoo, the world-famous Anthropology Museum, Chapultepec Fun Fair with its famous “Russian Mountain” wooden roller-coaster, several top-class museums and cultural centers, and some of the city’s finest hotels and restaurants. Just north of Chapultepec is the district of Polanco, an ultra-high class residential area, which is also host to Mexico’s biggest and most elaborate US-Style shopping mall, Santa Fe.

Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Xochimilco, pronounced “soh-chee-MIL-koh,” was considered ‘outside of Mexico City’ as late as the 1970s. Today, it has been engulfed into the massive reach of the capital’s city limits, but the floating gardens—so called because of the the brightly decorated boats that float on a network of canals which is 50 miles long—and dates back to the time of the Aztecs.

In years gone by, the boats would be decorated with real flowers, thus “floating gardens”, but today only paint is used, save for special occasions, often requiring pre-booking and payment by the sponsor.

Xochimilco itself is an old colonial town. Although run-down and in a seeming state of decay, the area has a great colonial center, and a couple of good markets. You’ll pass these on route to the canal ports (of which there are several)—so take time to stop and experience them if you have time.

You can hire a boat and oarsman to take you and up to 40 other people on a tour of the canal and environs. Boats come in three sizes; the small will seat up to around 10 people, the medium up to about 25 and the large up to about 40. Prices vary according to the size of boat (“Lancha“) you want, but prices are very reasonable.

A bucket with beers and soft drinks will be placed on the boat; you pay for what you consume, plus a small tip for the vendor when you get back to port.

While you’re on your canal tour, you’ll likely be approached by “floating merchants” selling anything from pottery and textiles to a full five course meal. Mexican Mariachis may float up beside you on their boat, and in exchange for a small fee, will serenade your cruise or party with a feast of traditional Mexican music. Don’t miss this opportunity. Remember to take cash with you; credit cards are no use on the canals.

Museums and Art in Mexico City

Mexico City is packed full with great museums—including the Anthropology Museum that is, unquestionably, one of the world’s best (see below). There are so many, that there is only space for a mention of the main ones here. You can get a comprehensive list from a good guidebook or one of the local tourist information booths in Mexico City.

Museo de Arte Moderno (Modern Art Museum) – A selection of contemporary art by famous Mexican Artists. Located in Chapultepec.

Galería de Historia (National History Museum) – Also known as the Museo del Caracol, this museum tells the story of Mexico’s history and its struggle for independence and recognition as a republic. Located in Chapultepec.

Museo Nacional de Antropologia (Anthropology Museum) – This museum is one of the world’s finest: It would take you weeks to see all of it properly; but just going there for a day will give you an insight into the importance of this awesome museum. Situated in the heart of Chapultepec Park, the anthropology museum is stocked with priceless artifacts chronicling the history of Mesoamerica. The building itself, inaugurated in 1964, is a masterpiece of architectural design. Inside its twenty-six halls you’ll see outstanding examples of pottery, textiles, agricultural implements, religious icons, traditional costumes and more gathered from all corners of Mexico. For travelers visiting Mexico City, the Anthropology Museum offers an opportunity to experience one of the world’s truly astounding museums.

Museo Rufino Tamayo – Rufino Tamayo is one of Mexico’s most famous contemporary artists and this museum has a collection of his art and art from around the world—a collection donated to Mexico by Rufino and his wife.

Museo Frida Kahlo – Frida Kahlo is one of Mexico’s greatest artists; her life and work is revered in Mexico, and world-wide. Her work has enjoyed a recent surge of popularity, spurred on by an excellent biographical film (wiki) and a global tour of her art pieces. Her former home in Mexico City — which she shared for a time with her eccentric lover, husband and intellectual friend Diego Rivera — is today one of the capital’s most visited and most celebrated museums. The house is on Calle Londres in the Coyoacan district of the city. The museum contains many samples of her work, her personal goods and chattels, as well as other Mexican arts and crafts. It’s best to visit on a weekday, outside of school and national holidays. At weekends, and during holiday periods, build-in additional time to your schedule if you visit here, as you will need to line up to gain entry and your visit through the property will be slower and more crowded. Learn more about Frida’s extraordinary life here (Wiki).

Museo Leon Trotsky – Trotsky fled Stalin’s Russia after being expelled from the Soviet Union and found refuge in Mexico, aided by his friendship with Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. His small house on Calle Viena (No.45) is where Leon Trotsky was murdered. It has been preserved much as it was left when a Russian agent, acting on Stalin’s orders to kill Trotsky, finally carried out the infamous deed.

Museo Franz Mayer – This museum is hosted in the serene surroundings of the 16th century Hospital de San Juan, on Avenida Hidalgo. Franz Meyer was a German philanthropist who moved to Mexico, obtained residence and citizenship and proceeded to build a colossal collection of Mexican arts and crafts including textiles, silver, pottery and furniture. The setting does justice to the works on display here— this is a truly serene corner in Mexico City’s energy-filled metropolis. Located in the Colonial Center.

Museo Mural Diego Rivera – Diego Rivera, one of Mexico’s most famous, if not THE most famous artist (muralist) to date, was best known for his stunning mural works. As you travel around the city, you may see some of his work; a lot of it is painted on civic buildings and also around the university area. Come to the museum to see examples of his murals, with full interpretations written in English and Spanish. Located in the Colonial Center.

Museo Nacional De Arte (National Art Museum) – This museum hosts art from every type and style and technique of Mexican art throughout the 20th century. The building dates back to the early 1900s and has a magnificent marble staircase.

Cathedral and Churches

Mexico’s Catedral Metropolitana (Metropolitan Cathedral), off the zocalo in the city center is a magnificent work of Spanish colonial architecture, although other parts have been added since its original construction. Engineers have reinforced the cathedral’s foundations to stop it from sinking into Mexico City’s soft foundations (the city was built on top of Lake Texcoco, now drained), which means that scaffolding has had to be erected inside while this work continues, but the cathedral is a must-see on a tour of colonial Mexico City.

One of the most revered religious places in all Mexico is the Basilica de Nuestra Señora Guadalupe. The church is modern and spacious, allowing thousands of worshippers to gather together at once; the legend behind the Image of the Virgin Guadalupe, hanging behind the main altar, is one that every Mexican child knows. Back in 1531, an indigenous boy saw a vision of the Virgin, who told him to tell the local priest that he should build a church on the spot where he was. The priest did not believe the boy’s vision, so he returned to the the spot, when he saw the Virgin for a second time. On this occasion, a gilt-edged imprint of her was miraculously placed on his coat. When he returned, the priest believed him. A microscopic sample of the material the printed image has been sent for tests, but the substance is not identifiable. The ink that makes up the image is also an enigma, and many miracles have surrounded the Virgin’s presence. People from all over Mexico come to worship the Virgin, and many crawl on their knees on the way in to the Basilica itself.

National Monuments

Palacio Nacional (National Palace) – This is where the Finance Minister has his offices (the presidential residence is a place called Los Pinos, southwest of the city center). The land occupied by the Palace has a fascinating history, dating back to the Aztecs. Cortez destroyed the Aztec Palace and built his own, in the Spanish style with large courtyards. Later destroyed by revolutionary riots, it was built again and even now, takes up the entire eastern side of the Zocalo.

Monumento de la Independencia – Probably Mexico City’s No.1 Landmark, situated on a roundabout in Mexico’s downtown area, the Independence Monument is a statue of a gilded angelthat sits atop a tall column. Known as “Angel de la Independencia“, or just “El Angel“. The sculptures that surround the base represent Law, Justice, War and Peace. The Statue was inaugurated in 1910. The monument recently underwent a complete restoration.

Monumento a los Niños Heroes – The Monument to the Young Heroes, in Chapultepec Park , is a bastion of patriotism in Mexico. Six columns represent the six Cadets, who were based at the Castillo de Chapultepec (Castle of Chapultepec), then a military academy. Each wrapped themselves in a Mexican flag and jumped from the castle to their deaths rather than surrender to American troops who had recently stormed the city.

Getting There & Around

By Air – Mexico City is the main airline hub in Mexico. From the USA, you can fly to Mexico City from cities including Chicago, New York, Miami, Dallas, Los Angeles, Phoenix and others; From Europe via London, Amsterdam, Paris, Madrid. The airport is quite close to Mexico City on the northeast side of the capital. You can arrange for a shuttle or car to pick you up from the airport (see Airport Transfers, below), or take a taxi from the airport. If you take a taxi, for safety reasons, only take official taxis; you can buy tickets from the booths inside the airport terminal building. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Mexico City on a luxury bus from main cities and towns across all of Mexico: Mexico City has no less than four bus stations (one at each compass point) and all roads in Mexico lead to Mexico City, as do the bus routes. Some buses travel overnight, allowing you to sleep and make the most of your available time. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Mexico City is the airline and road hub of the nation; wherever you are in Mexico’s mainland, you’ll see signposts to Mexico City (signed simply as “Mexico“). See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico independently, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Mexico City’s Taxis are metered. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage in your negotiations with local taxi drivers. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Getting Around the Capital

Traffic Congestion – Mexico City’s traffic is very congested these days. Even with the introduction of “second level” sections of the city’s main ring-road, traffic congestion has reached epidemic proportions. Allow extra time in your schedule to travel around the city—especially during the busiest morning and evening rush hour periods.

Traveling just a few miles can take a long time if you are unlucky; and “rush hour” is no longer restricted to certain times: it’s virtually constant during the weekdays.

Don’t look at the map and assume “that’s close”: It isn’t when you factor in Mexico City’s near-gridlock traffic. This means that you should build-in additional travel time when you’re touring Mexico City—especially getting to and from the airport. The exceptions are: weekend mornings, when traffic levels are much calmer; Easter, during this time the city ’empties out’ and traffic congestion seems to vanish by comparison; Christmas week, the days between Christmas Day and the 30th December traffic levels are also subdued. NB: Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve on the city’s roads are usually a nightmare, as people undertake their last minute shopping and make final preparations for their festive celebrations.

Mexico City Metro – Mexico City’s metro system is quite efficient, and inexpensive to travel on, but it does get very crowded in the mornings and afternoons, during rush hour (6:00am – 9:30am / 4:30pm – 8:30pm).

Watch out for pick-pockets – They work in groups and it’s not just tourists they’re after, but tourists do stick out on the Metro. It’s best to avoid using the Metro after dusk, unless you know the area and you know where you’re going.

Tip for women travelers on the Metro- dress down, and avoid the rush hours on the Metro. Women and children are allocated special carriages on the Metro at peak times on the busiest routes: check for the sign and head for the front or back of the train (it varies).

Metro Travel – General – You’ll find that metro carriages and stations are clean and tidy and that the service is generally efficient. Travel by metro can be faster than traveling by car or taxi if the traffic outside is heavy. During the rainy season (May-October) trains can run considerably slower after rain storms on tracks that run along the surface. The system is similar to the one in Paris, France: rubber tires on flat metal tracks; when it gets wet, trains must slow down to avoid skidding.

Tren Ligero in Mexico City: The southernmost point of the Metro network, at a place called “Taxqueña”, is extended by a tram system called the “Tren Ligero” (Light Train) which can take you from Taxqueña into the heart of Xochimilco. The Tren Ligero gets particularly crowded during the rush hour (6:00am – 9:30am / 4:30pm – 8:30pm), and on days when there is a football soccer match at the Aztec Stadium: the tram has a stop (named Estadio Azteca) which has a bridge leading directly into the stadium grounds. The tram is the best way to get to the stadium, provided that you arrive much earlier than the game is scheduled to start AND leave to catch the tram out before the final whistle blows and the stadium empties out—with tens of thousands of fans heading for the tram system.

Local Buses / Mini Buses – You’ll see green and white minibuses everywhere in Mexico City. They connect the main Metro Lines with the ‘rest of the city’, and literally keep people in the city moving. Without them, getting around Mexico City effectively would be almost impossible without a car. Their costs vary, depending on how far you intend to travel, but are very cheap all the same. As the Metro, they get extremely crowded at rush hour. Also read the article about traveling on a bus/mini bus in Mexico City.

“Metro Bus” Lane on Avenida Insurgentes – Since 2005, the inside lane on each side of the enormous Avenida Insurgentes (at 35 miles long, said to be world’s longest commercial boulevard) was converted into a dedicated “Metro Bus” lane with stations dotted along various points of the central reservation dividing the two sides of the road. To ride the bus, it’s necessary to purchase a plastic card which costs only a few pesos and thereafter is “topped up” with credit at special payment machines and swiped each time you board. The Metro Bus connects the city’s southern area near the Perisur shopping complex (adjacent to the Periferico ring road), through the trendy San Angel area (near the National University – UNAM) in the south, past the World Trade Center and the now hip Colonia Condesa, and then travels all the way to the north of the city to an area known as Indios Verdes. Indio Verdes is one of the capital’s most northerly transport terminals (also a Metro train station) and is situated just inside the city limits. Because of the dedicated lane and priority the Metro Bus is given at intersections, it’s an efficient (and very inexpensive) means to cross this very busy and very congested capital city.

Mexico City Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines can be found throughout Mexico City. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio (exchange houses) will buy traveler’s checks and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

Traveling by Taxi in Mexico City: Read the important practical and safety advice about traveling in a Taxi in Mexico City on the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

What to Wear: Mexico City, like Guadalajara is a ‘conservative dress’ city. Beach clothes, high-cut shorts and sandals are best kept for the beach.

Pollution in Mexico City: Mexico City does suffer with a pollution problem, similar to that of Los Angeles in the USA, and care must be taken, especially by those with respiratory problems. You may get watery eyes, a runny nose and a sore throat; or you may sense nothing, depending on the climate at the time of your visit. November through January tend to be the worst months for pollution. The colder air traps the contamination in the atmosphere, and it can just hang over the city. During the monsoon rainy season (May – September) the afternoon rains really clean the air and leave it refreshed. Windy days have a similar effect. Mexico City is at altitude (2,250m or 7,400 feet above sea level, or put another way, about one and-a-half miles up in the sky!), so when you combine heat, altitude and pollution, you may find yourself easily tired or feeling irritated. The remedy for this is to relax and rest, drink plenty of water, and slow your activity schedule down.

What to Buy in Mexico City

All of the arts, crafts, foods, drink etc. produced throughout Mexico are brought from every state in the country to Mexico City to be sold. The capital city’s ‘internal market’ for Mexican goods is huge —c.22 million consumers— so the domestic market alone is a vibrant one for the traders of these goods.

If your available time to travel to the regions is limited and you want to purchase some kind of regional specialty item from a place you can’t get to (for example, black clay pottery from Oaxaca), Mexico City is an ideal place to procure it—because you’ll be sure to find it here.

Conversely, if you plan to visit the regions, don’t buy anything in Mexico City that you could buy (possibly—directly from the makers for less) in the provinces!

Ask locally at your hotel or even at bars and restaurants about the location of markets, craft centers and specialist suppliers of specific goods in the vicinity. Allow yourself a good half-day to go and find what you want: if you’re really lucky it will be around the corner, but if not, Mexico City is big and getting around can take hours—literally. Getting to your market or craft center, finding what you want, and getting back will take more time than you realize. Don’t look at the map and think: “that’s close”— it isn’t when you factor in Mexico City’s near-gridlock traffic.

Local Climate

Mexico City’s climate is temperate all year-round. Summers are warmer, and temperatures can reach into the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the early afternoons, so if you’re traveling in the summer months, bring light clothes.

Note that it is not that common to see adults wearing shorts and in particular “beach” wear around Mexico City (except at leisure centers, sports clubs, etc). To blend in while walking the streets on hot days, wear light clothes (natural fibers like cotton are ideal) that are not shorts or loud beach attire.

In the winter months, temperatures are spring-like during the daytime, but cooler in the mornings and at night. Bring a sweater and a coat.

The rainy season lasts from May to the end of September. Rains tend to come in the afternoon, are fierce, and leave the evenings dry and cooled off. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, a light, rain-proof overcoat will come in useful.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Campeche (“Kam-Peh-Che”) has been one of the country’s best kept colonial secrets for many years. The city is one of the most picturesque colonial centers in Mexico, but it is still remains largely undiscovered by foreign tourists.

An old Mayan trading port, Campeche is the capital city of the state which bears its name. Although the Spaniards first discovered this place in 1517, the opposition they were greeted with kept them from settling here until 1540, when Francisco de Montejo (who founded nearby Merida) gained sufficient control to establish a settlement in the area. With its exports to Europe of local timber, silver, and gold, the port prospered and became the primary trading port of the Yucatan.

The success did not arrive unnoticed, and pirates, eager to capitalize on the wealth being created here, often attacked this port. Following a particularly gruesome massacre, when rival pirate groups co-operated in a coordinated attack on the city, the Spanish took action to secure the facilities at Campeche, building huge bulwarks, each one over 10 feet thick. By 1668, eighteen years after they began building them, the fortress-like structures were in place. The walls between them have either decayed or been demolished; however, most of the bulwarks are still standing.

Wealthy merchants and traders built stunningly beautiful houses and haciendas here. Today hundreds of these have been carefully restored to their former glory and repainted with the original soft pastel orginally used in the construction. In 1999 UNESCO declared Campeche a World Heritage Site.

Campeche’s appeal is enhanced by the long and broad waterfront it has stretching along the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a popular place in the evenings for people who want to watch the sunsets and also an extraordinary stage from which to experience thunderstorms roll in off the Gulf.

This old walled city with its narrow streets, pastel colored houses and an old-world, colonial feel is one of Mexico’s best kept secrets, although as travelers begin to venture further south from Merida and the Mayan ruins nearby, they are beginning to discover and experience this true gem. Next time you find yourself in Mexico’s Yucatan region, be sure to visit this colonial wonder—your time spent here will be well rewarded.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

The city’s Cathedral, Catedral de la Concepcion Inmaculada, stands just off the main Zocalo (Parque Principal); it was completed early in the 18th century.

The Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) is an ultra modern building, built on reclaimed land, northwest of the Parque Principal just off the Plaza de la Republica.

Fuerte de San Miguel (St Michael’s Fort) on the southwest side of the city is host to a fine archaeological museum, housing Mayan artifacts from the archaeological ruins at Edzna and Jaina.

The city’s narrow streets and pastel-colored houses are a major attraction. In the famous neighborhood of San Roman, you can visit the church where the Black Christ is hosted; a six feet ebony statue brought to Mexico from Italy in 1575. The Tram can take you here (see Trams, below).

The Bulwarks (“Baluartes”)

The city’s Bulwarks (7 of the original 8 still stand) can be toured on foot, along Avenida Circuito Baluartes (Baluartes is Spanish for bulwarks); some of them now house visitor attractions.

Baluarte de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is host to the Museo de Estelas Maya; offering a collection of Mayan artifacts.

Baluarte de Santiago hosts the miniature Jardin Botanico Xmuch Haltun, a collection of tropical plants and fountains.

Baluarte de San Pedro, situated in the middle of an intersection is a local crafts exhibition and sales center.

Baluarte de San Carlos has the Museo de la Ciudad (city museum) which includes a scale model of the old city. There are sea views from the roof.

Baluarte de San Francisco, Baluarte de San Juan and Baluarte de Santa Rosa are the last three of the Bulwarks which can be visited.

Nearby Beaches

Campeche is a coastal city, and although the beaches immediately adjacent to it are not ideal for beach-goers, there is a small fishing village a few kilometers away called Lerma near where you’ll find some beaches to relax on at Playa Bonita (“Pretty Beach”).

Campeche’s Trams (“Tranvias“)

One of the best ways to see the delights of the city is to take a ride on one of the Tranvias (Trams) which offer bi-lingual commentary (English and Spanish). The Tranvia de la Ciudad passes by most of the main attractions and picturesque colonial neighborhoods in Campeche including San Roman; while El Guapo (“The Handsome One”) takes a route along the seafront to the Fuerte de San Miguel (see above). Both trams start the Zocalo (Parque Principal).

Campeche by Night

To enjoy a wonderful walking experience around Campeche’s narrow colonial streets, wait until the sun goes down. As the temperature cools, the lights come on and illuminate the pastel-colored houses, streets and courtyards. Evening walks are a popular pastime with locals and visitors alike.

Getting There & Around

By Air – You can get to Campeche by plane from Mexico City, and Cancun. The airport is just a couple of miles away from the city. You can either hire a private taxi, or a Collectivo Taxi (a minibus that drops each of the passengers at their required destination in geographical order) from the airport to town. The latter is considerably less expensive. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – Regular long distance buses make the journey from Mexico City to Campeche daily; the journey takes 18 hours, sometimes stopping at Villahermosa en route. Regional buses travel daily and frequently from Merida and Cancun and Villahermosa. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – There are now fast roads connecting this region to Merida, Cancun, Oaxaca, Mexico City. The drive is a long one from Mexico City, but you’ll be rewarded by some stunning scenery. Most people tend to fly to the region and rent a car locally (see Getting Around, below). See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Local Buses – Local buses are available to take you around town and are very inexpensive.

Taxis – Local taxis are widely available and have set rates posted on an official label inside. Even so, it may be a good idea to agree your price before you get in, or insist that the official rates are adhered to. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

The Tram – Campeche’s Tram System is an effective way to get around and there are also tourist trams which offer bi-lingual commentary and excursions around the key attractions of the city (see Key Attractions, above, for more details).

Campeche Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines can be found in the downtown area of Campeche. During business hours, they and the Casas de Cambio will buy traveler’s cheques and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

Local Climate

Drenching, hot, humid, sticky… this is jungle weather. Wear light and breathe-able clothing, avoid synthetic materials (e.g. polyester) in favor of natural ones (e.g. cotton), wear a hat and sunscreen to protect your head and face from the intensely hot sun (and protect young children’s skin especially). Carry plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated, especially when you are out and about exploring this magnificent city.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Guanajuato is one of a group of old silver mining cities, which also includes San Miguel, Zacatecas, Queretaro, San Luis Potosí and Alamos. You can discover all these places with Mexperience.

These cities all lie northwest of Mexico City. Each has its own unique character, features, and atmosphere and together they make up some of Mexico’s best inland travel experiences.  Mexico’s colonial cities are not overwhelmed with tourists as some of the coastal areas can be. It’s in the colonial cities that the real Mexico begins to emerge: places where you’ll experience magnificent scenery, stay at wonderful colonial hotels that offer terrific value for money, and savor local foods and flavors as colorful and diverse as the cultures that created them.

Guanajuato (gwah-nah-HWAH-toh) is a colonial gem sitting in a valley around 220 miles northwest of Mexico City. If Mexico’s colonial cities were a crown, Guanajuato would, without doubt, be its prime jewel. The town has been named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The great architecture of this gorgeous city was built using the enormous wealth generated from the silver mines that enjoyed their heyday during the 17th and 18th centuries; during this period, Guanajuato was the source for one-third of the world’s silver.

Today, you can see Guanajuato in its unspoiled and beautifully preserved splendor. Coming here is like stepping back in time; the city is remarkable and offers visitors an authentic colonial experience amidst one of the most picturesque colonial backdrops to be found anywhere in Mexico.

Guanajuato is clean, tidy, and very safe. Its cobbled streets twist and turn, so just walking around is an adventure. The city’s maze-like layout often creates opportunities for serendipitous encounters, with visitors discovering things they had never planned to see, but are glad they did.

This city has a genuine colonial look, style, feel and atmosphere. Cobbled streets, churches, asymmetrical buildings, an amazing tapestry of color, vibrancy and sheer historical splendor await all who visit.  You’ll need a good pair of walking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the city on foot, some roads and alleyways feature steep and steady climbs, sometimes along cobbled pavements.

Guanajuato remains largely an undiscovered treasure among foreign tourists to Mexico. It’s a very popular weekend getaway for Mexicans and their families living in the region, and if you make the time to come here, you won’t be disappointed.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

Guanajuato doesn’t have a main square like the other colonial cities; but the Jardín de la Unión (Union Garden), an intimate tree-covered urban green space, is a popular meeting place.

However, Guanajuato does have lots of small plazas, each of which is connected by an intricate and complex series of cobbled streets and narrow alleys. Guanajuato winds and bends all over the place—it’s a delight to discover. Get a tourist map at the local tourism office (see below). If you get lost, the locals are very friendly and will point you in the right direction.

Some of the more photogenic plazas are Plaza San Roque, which hosts outdoor theater productions during the Festival Cervantino and Plaza de la Paz, adjacent to the Basilica and surrounded by mansions, owned by former silver magnates who lived here during the boom years.

Teatro Juarez is a major attraction – the architecture outside and the decor inside are both well worth a look.

For great bird’s-eye view photographs of the city get up to El Pipila; the statue at the top of the hill, commemorating Jose de los Reyes Martinez, who is said to have given his life opening the doors of the granary where Guanajuato’s rich and powerful were sheltering, enabling the rag-tag independence army to take control of the town during the struggle for Independence.

Templo de Cata is a small miner’s church, which you’ll see up on the mountain to the north of the city. Admission is free and this is another good place from which to take photographs.

The Basilica is the main place of worship in Guanajuato; other main churches include Iglesia de San Diego, Templo de la Compañía de Jesus and Templo de San Francisco.

Callejon del Beso – alley of the kiss – is famous for its balconies, which are so close to each other they nearly touch. Locals will recite an old tale of forbidden lovers for a small tip.

Museums and Art in Guanajuato

Guanajuato’s Mummy Museum is situated just outside of the town on the northwest side. The local water supply is so packed full of minerals, that people who drink it all of their lives are effectively preserved naturally when they die. Coupled with the ultra-dry climate, their bodies don’t decompose, and those who cannot afford the cemetery’s land rents end up cremated or on display at the mummy museum (only about 1% end up here). Glass cabinets house mummified remains of the dead, and a tour guide will happily tell you stories about the people currently on display. Rather macabre, but also a fascinating tour – certainly different.

Those who like art won’t want to miss Diego Rivera’s birthplace. The house has been restored recently and converted into a museum. Some of Rivera’s early works are on display.

Festival Cervantino Internacional

This festival, held in October each year (exact dates vary) is in celebration of Cervantes (of Don Quixote fame), during which time you can experience exhibitions, arts and performances from artists around the world. This festival is one of the biggest and most important festivals in Mexico, and one of the most repected festivals in the world. To find out dates and events, visit the organizer’s official website. This is an incredibly busy time in Guanajuato and we recommend that you Book your hotel accommodation early.

See Blog: International Cervantino Festival

Learn Spanish in Guanajuato

Besides being one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial cities, it is also a top venue for people who want to attend a residential Spanish School to mix learning and pleasure in the World Heritage city of Guanajuato. There’s no better way to learn Spanish than by becoming immersed in it at a language school in Mexico. Read our guide to Learning Spanish in Mexico for more details and to find a language school in Guanajuato.

Golf in Guanajuato

The climate in this region is ideal for golf and there are several good golf courses in the area to enjoy.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport is between León and Silao “Bajio International Airport”, and stands about 40km (about 25 miles) from Guanajuato. The closest (main) airport is Leon. The only way to get back and forth to Guanajuato from the airport is to drive you own car or take a private taxi. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Guanajuato on a luxury bus from Mexico City— the trip takes around 4 hours. There are plenty of buses to Guanajuato, all day, every day. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Guanajuato is very fast and efficient now that many high-speed and safe toll roads connect with the city. It looks longer on the map, but Highway 57, leading to Highway 45D, then Highway 45, and lastly bear east on Highway 110 is the fastest route (tolled, four-lane carriageways all the way). See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Guanajuato’s taxis are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a better price! Another good reason to Learn Spanish

Local Events Calendar

Practical Information

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of Guanajuato. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

Festival Cervantino Internacional: This festival, held in October each year (exact dates vary) is in celebration of Cervantes (of Don Quixote fame), during which time you can experience exhibitions, arts and performances from artists around the world. This festival is one of the biggest and most important festivals in Mexico, and one of the most respected festivals in the world. To find out dates and events, visit the organizer’s official website. This is an incredibly busy time in Guanajuato and we recommend that you Book your hotel accommodation early. See Blog: International Cervantino Festival

Cervantino Festival Bookings: If you plan to visit and stay in Guanajuato during the Festival Cervantino, book early. Last-minute hotel rooms are impossible to find at this time, and most last-minute visitors to the festival end up staying in the nearby towns of Queretaro, Leon or San Miguel and drive in to Guanajuato during the day.

Local Climate

Guanajuato enjoys year-round, spring-like and very dry weather. The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor sports and activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture and scenery. Rain is seldom; the infrequent thunderstorms happen April thru November and tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoons, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off. Winter nights can get quite cold – down to freezing, so pack some warm clothes during these times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Morelia is the capital of the state of Michoacan and one of the country’s most significant colonial cities. In 1541, Mexico’s first Viceroy, Antonio de Mendoza, named the city Valladolid after the city in Spain where he was born. Following Mexico’s War of Independence, it was renamed Morelia to honor one of the city’s greatest heroes: Jose Maria Morelos.

Located about 200 miles west of Mexico City, Morelia is colonial with an aristocratic feel. The city is filled with elegant Spanish Colonial architecture featuring pink stone and baroque styles. Many areas in this capital city have remained true to their colonial heritage because Morelia, like many colonial cities in Mexico, has strict building regulations to ensure that the original look and feel of the city is well-preserved.

The center of town hosts a beautiful pink stone cathedral—one of the finest in Mexico—with twin towers over 200 feet high. Morelia has over one and a half million residents, a large university, and many opportunities for high-end art, music and other cultural experiences such as museums, theater and exhibits.

Morelia also has a number of good language schools where people from all over the world come to study for extended periods of time.

Nearby Morelia is the colonial town of Patzcuaro. Just 45 minutes by highway from Morelia, Patzcuaro is a charming town with a mixed colonial and indigenous feel. Although Patzcuaro is close enough for a day-trip, it is best experienced with a stay over of at least one night.

The state of Michoacan is host to the Monarch Butterflies, which arrive from the USA and Canada in early November and stay through the end of February. Domestic and international tourists alike come to see the butterflies which cover the trees with a bright flaming orange hue at the sanctuary near the town of Angangueo. Although it’s about a 3-hour drive from Morelia to see the Monarchs, it’s an amazing experience. See Key Attractions, below, for more details.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

An impressive pink stone cathedral dominates the main plaza, which is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings. The cathedral is said to have taken over 100 years to build and is one of the finest (if not the finest) in all of Mexico.

The cathedral’s twin towers, large organ and sculpture of the Crucifixion (Senor de la Sacristia) are worth a visit.

One of Morelia’s most prominent architectural features is the El Acueducto (the aqueduct), which is an artificial channel that brings water from one location to another. Morelia’s aqueduct runs along dozens of colonial arches that stretch for over a mile across the city. You’ll probably travel under at least one of the arches while you’re in town, so you can’t miss it.

Other colonial features worth visiting here include:

Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), which is about a block east of the cathedral, and today boasts fine murals that tell the history of Michoacan and Mexico.

Palacio Clavijero is right next to the tourist office and about 2 blocks west of the cathedral and has a pink stone patio. The Palacio Clavijero was a school, a warehouse and a prison before hosting the state government offices as it does today.

Colegio de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, which is between Palacio Clavijero and the cathedral, hosts a statue of Miguel Hidalgo, one of the heroes of Mexican independence, amid a beautiful courtyard.

Plaza del Carmen is a few blocks north of the cathedral around the corner from the Museo de Arte Colonial and has numerous cultural performances. It’s also around the corner from the Museo de la Mascara (mask museum) which is worth a visit as well.

Templo de Capuchinas is a few blocks south of the Plaza Valladolid and is an adorable little baroque church that is best seen between 8 am and 9 am or 5 pm and 6 pm during mass.

Museums and Art in Morelia

Morelia has several museums that are worth visiting to get an insight into the history and social evolution of this part of Mexico.

Casa Museo de Morelos is a converted house, the place where Morelos lived as an adult.

Museo del Estado (State Museum) displays the archaeology and history around Morelia on the lower level and contemporary life in Michoacan on the upper level.

Museo Regional Michoacano (Regional Museum of the State of Michoacan) displays pre-Hispanic and colonial artifacts, contemporary art from local artists as well as the region’s fauna.

Museo de Arte Colonial displays a selection of religious paintings from the 18th Century.

Patzcuaro

Just 45 minutes by road southwest of Morelia is the town of Patzcuaro. This beautiful town with its indigenous feel makes a perfect day-trip from Morelia. And if you fall in love with it as many people do, you can always return easily, or perhaps use Patzcuaro as a base to explore the areas around it more fully. Read the Mexperience Guide to Patzcuaro for full details.

Monarch Butterflies in Michoacan

Michoacan’s Butterfly Sanctuary (Santuario de Mariposas El Rosario) is situated high up in the mountains of north-eastern Michoacan.

The Monarch Butterflies arrive in Mexico from the USA and Canada in early November, and you can see them here until late February or early March.

Despite the 3 hour drive from Morelia, you’ll find the trip is worth every minute of the journey. The sanctuary is near a small colonial town called Angangueo, near the village of El Rosario (thus the name). For a small entry fee, you can hike uphill for about an hour to catch a glimpse of these amazing butterflies.

The best way to see the butterflies is by means of an organized tour, arranged via travel specialists who know the area and are experienced in taking small groups to the sanctuaries.

To learn more about these remarkable insects, their migration and over winter in Mexico, connect to our complete guide to Monarch Butterflies in Mexico.

Getting There & Around

By Air – You can fly to Morelia from the USA and other points in Mexico including Mexico City, Guadalajara and Leon. Morelia has become extremely well-connected by air from serveral US cities in recent years. Mexicana Airlines flies non-stop between Dallas Forth Worth and Morelia and between Los Angeles and Morelia. Continental Airlines also flies from Los Angeles to Morelia, and from Houston to Morelia. The Houston connection is particularly useful for people connecting from other US cities, Canada and Europe as Houston is Continental’s principal hub. The airport is about 15 miles away from the city center and taxis will be standing by to take you into town when your flight arrives.For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Morelia on a luxury bus from Mexico City – the trip takes around 4 hours. The buses depart from the Western Bus Terminal (Terminal de Autobus Poniente) – and are frequent and plentiful. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Morelia from either Guadalajara or Mexico City (Morelia is equidistant from these two cities, the drive takes 3-4 hours) is fairly easy using Highway 15, a high-speed toll road. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico

Morelia Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines can be found throughout the downtown area of Morelia. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy traveler’s cheques and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

What to Buy in Moreila

You can buy good quality, locally made and hand-crafted Mexican craftwork in and around Morelia and the surrounding towns and villages. The Mercado de Artesanias features craft works from almost every main town and village in the state: each town/village specialises in a certain type of craft. The market provides you with a convenient opportunity to buy genuine crafts made in the surrounding towns and villages; however, if your time allows, you should also consider visiting the surrounding area to get a full appreciation of the way the materials are worked and the craftworks created.

Don’t miss the opportunity to buy some traditional Mexican confectionery which is a specialty in this state (Michoacan) – and sold all over the Mexico. Two sweets which you should definitely try are: Chongos (made from milk, honey and cinnamon) and Ates, which are made from fruit paste. You can buy the local confectionery from market stalls, shops and other trading outlets all around this area.

Local Climate

Morelia, standing at an altitude of around 1,980 meters (6,500 feet), enjoys year-round, warm and dry weather. The climate is spring-like and thus ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture and scenery. The rainy season is April thru November. As with most monsoon areas, rains tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off. Winters here can be chilly (November to February) – so bring warm clothes during these months.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

The state of Oaxaca (pronounced “wa-HAH-ka”) is one of Mexico’s richest states in terms of history, culture, archaeology, and ecology.

Oaxaca was home to Benito Juarez, originally a servant-boy to an affluent family, and the man who would become Mexico’s first president as well as one of Mexico’s most revered historical characters.

When the Spanish settled here during the 16th century, Oaxaca grew into a semi-prosperous colonial city; the most populous and important center in the south of Mexico. The city was nearly destroyed by an earthquake in 1854, and it wasn’t until the era of Porfirio Diaz that the city began to properly rebuild and start to grow again.

Oaxaca hosts some of Mexico’s most vibrant natural terrain. From tropical forests, to high mountains, lush arable valleys, breathtaking rugged Pacific coasts, and quiet coves offering tranquil beaches with soft sands.

Black clay pottery and textiles are famous handicrafts produced here. Both crafts are well-established locally, and Oaxaca pottery is especially well known and sought-after throughout Mexico, and world-wide.

Oaxaca exhibits features that give this distinct location a mature character interlaced with a unique vibrancy—reasons why it is so highly spoken of by the people who know it.

The eternal Mexico is embodied in Oaxaca: deep indigenous roots interweave with colonial flair, and the result is a cultural and historical vibrancy which is as emotive as it is unique.

Oaxaca City offers a blend of experiences and attractions, including an engaging historical colonial center with cobbled streets, striking architecture, quiet plazas, and a fine central square often filled with soft sounds created by local musicians serenading people as they rest under the shade of its trees, as well as those taking some time to enjoy fine coffee and quiet conversation at one of the local cafés.

Nearby, you’ll find an abundance of attractions (see below) – including El Tule – the 2,000-year-old living tree.

Monte Albán, and Mitla, two of Mexico’s outstanding archaeological parks, are also near here; you can discover them through Mexperience guides.

If you’re seeking to uncover the roots and the heart of Mexico, you’ll find them both in Oaxaca. This is a place to come when you’re hungry to explore the ‘undiscovered Mexico’, a region where friendly people, breath-taking architecture, a perfect climate, and delicious foods blend together to create an extraordinary cultural experience that is authentically Mexican.

People who come to Oaxaca tend to keep coming back. Every time they return, they see something new in what they already know—and know that they’ll find something brand-new to experience as well.

Ask any Mexican about Oaxaca and the first thing they’ll usually tell you is that it’s ‘the soul of Mexico’. It is true that Mexico’s roots and heart extend from here; but to understand why it’s called so, you’ll need to come and feel the atmosphere, smell the air, and absorb the culture.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

Oaxaca city is a well preserved, charming and vibrant colonial city. The city center has been restored in recent times. The city is host to some of the most important colonial buildings in Mexico and these are protected by INAH, the government body responsible for securing the country’s heritage.

The center of town around the zocalo (Main Plaza) is completely closed off to traffic, and cafés and restaurants that surround the tree-lined square make a perfect setting for a relaxed drink or two while enjoying the warm sunshine and watching the world go by.

The city’s Cathedral, which was finished in the 18th century is just north of the zocalo and features some stunning stone carvings on its front facade.

The old Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) is on the south side of the zocalo and features some great architecture both inside and out. The seat of local government has moved out of the historic building to an out-of-town location. As a result the impressive palace is being converted into a museum and cultural center.

To see a French-style indoor theatre, go to the Teatro Macedonio Alcala, built in 1903. You’ll find it on Av. 5 de Mayo and Independencia. The theater has seating for over 1,300 people on five tiers, and features an impressive marble staircase.

One of Oaxaca’s most impressive-looking churches, and often seen in photographs promoting the city, is the Iglesia de Santo Domingo. The church was originally a Dominican Monastery; the internal decor is quite brilliant. In the evenings, the inside of the church is illuminated by soft candlelight.

To see Oaxaca’s oldest church, you’ll need to walk about 2 blocks southwest of the zocalo and find the Iglesia de San Juan de Dios. This is a simple church, built around 1521, and is very popular with the local people.

Museums and Art in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has many good museums, which is not surprising given the rich culture, history, and archaeology that Oaxaca has. A few of the main ones are listed here and you can get a complete listing from the local tourism office (see Practical Information).

Museo Regional de Oaxaca (Regional Museum of Oaxaca) – Among other historical treasures, this museum hosts artifacts from Monte Alban’s Tomb No. 7 which contained corpses, jewelry and gold.

Rufino Tamayo Museo de Arte Pre Hispanico (Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre Hispanic Art) – Rufino Tamayo (who was from Oaxaca) was also one of Mexico’s most famous artists and this museum is collection of great pre-Hispanic art collected over a period of around 20 years.

Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Oaxaca (Museum of Oaxacan Contemporary Art) – Is situated on the picturesque street of Alacala, includes collections from Mexico’s most contemporary artists including Rufino Tamayo, Rodolfo Morales, Francisco Toledo, Rodolfo Nieto and others.

El Tule – Mexico’s Oldest Living Tree

There are buses every quarter of an hour from Oaxaca’s second-class bus station to Santa Maria del Tule – Home to Mexico’s (and one of the world’s) oldest living trees, celebrating 2000 years and still growing. You can read about El Tule and see a picture gallery here. The tree is situated just 14 km (8 miles) away from Oaxaca City and makes an easy morning or afternoon trip.

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Getting There & Around

By Air – You can fly to Oaxaca from the US and and other points in Mexico including Mexico City, and some other smaller regional airports in the south of Mexico. The airport is on Oaxaca’s south side and it takes around 20-30 minutes to travel the 4 miles into the city center using ground transportation. Taxis, or for a cheaper ride, combis (mini vans) can take you into the city center. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Oaxaca on a luxury bus from Mexico City – the trip takes around 6 hours on the highway that connects Oaxaca City to Mexico’s capital. Buses depart from Mexico City’s eastern bus station (Central de Autobuses Oriente) and are frequent and plentiful, although prebooking is advised during Mexican Holiday periods (see Busy times in Oaxaca, below). For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Oaxaca is very fast and efficient now with a high-speed toll road which leads directly to the colonial city from the nation’s capital. Take Highway 150 (Toll Road to Puebla) and keep going. The journey takes around 5 hours by car. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Local Events Calendar

Major National Festivities are celebrated with vigor here, and Oaxaca becomes very busy during Easter Week, Guelaguetza (July) Day of Dead (November), and over Christmas.

Guelaguetza: One of the biggest and most important festivls in Mexico is the Guelaguetza, a festival of colorful folk dancing and music which takes place here in Oaxaca around in July each year. For more details read Guelaguezta, Oaxaca on our blog.

Book Ahead! If you plan to visit Oaxaca during one of the major festivals it’s advisable to book your transport and accommodations well in advance. Buses and flights book up and hotels sell out during the festive periods.

Oaxaca Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines can be found downtown, with a row of banks and exchange houses on a road off the south side of the main plaza. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will exchange your foreign currency. Read about money and currency exchange in Mexperience’s Money Section.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes are commonplace in Mexico – new ones open and old ones close all the time – but you won’t have to look hard to find one downtown and in the main tourist areas.

Busy Times in Oaxaca: During religious holidays (Christmas and Easter) and the Guelaguetza festival in July (see Local Events Calendar, above), Oaxaca becomes very busy as Mexicans go on holiday in the region and many Oaxaqueños return home to their families for the holidays. If your travel plans involve visiting this area during these times be sure to book ahead, especially your accommodation.

What to Buy in Oaxaca

Shopping for arts, crafts, textiles, pottery, and wood carvings in Oaxaca is a real treat. The selection is immense and the quality and value is unbeatable.

Everything you buy in Oaxaca will be made in the surrounding towns and villages by artisans and crafts people living there. There are several markets in Oaxaca itself, as well as a plethora of craft shops and ambulant vendors.

The main market in the city is the Central de Abastos— the big day is Saturday, although you’ll find activity there every day of the week.

The surrounding towns and villages also have their own markets, which specialize in a particular kind of product, e.g.: pottery, textiles, wood carving, cheese, local food, crafts, etc. Tours out to these markets can be arranged locally. Here are the locations, days and products:

Monday: Miahuatlan for bread, leather and mezcal.

Tuesday: Santa Ana del Valle for miscellaneous arts and crafts.

Wednesday: Etla for flowers, cheese and meats.

Thursday: Ejutla for textiles and mezcal.

Friday: Ocotlan for flowers, textiles, and pottery.

Saturday: Oaxaca at the Central de Abastos (see above).

Sunday: Tlacolula for rugs and ceramics; and Tlaxiaco for blankets and leather jackets.

Local Climate

Oaxaca enjoys year-round, warm and dry weather (hot and humid on/near the coasts). The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture, and scenery. Rains are seldom a feature here; when they do come they tend to be during the months of April thru November, but as with most monsoon areas, rains tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Queretaro is one of a group of old Silver Mining cities which also includes San Miguel, Zacatecas, Guanajuato and San Luis Potosi.

These cities all lie north-west of Mexico City. Each has its own unique character, features and atmosphere—but together they make up some of Mexico’s best inland travel experiences. These cities are friendly places; the areas are not overwhelmed with tourists as some of the coastal areas can be.

It is in the colonial cities that the real Mexico begins to emerge. You’ll see real people living real lives; experience magnificent scenery; stay at wonderful colonial hotels that offer terrific value for money; savor local foods and flavors as colorful and diverse as the cultures that created them.

The road network in this region is well developed and traveling through it is fast and efficient in most places. These cities are safe: crime is low and its a great region to consider if you want to treat your family to a real cultural experience in Mexico.

Santiago de Queretaro, or just Queretaro as its known, is a colonial city steeped in Mexican history. The Spanish took control of the city in 1531 and designated it the “third city of New Spain”. It was here where the father’s of Mexico’s Independence Movement met in secret to discuss the overthrow of their Spanish rulers.

Installed by the French in 1864, Emperor Maximilian surrendered here three years later in 1867 after a 100 day siege. He was subsequently executed by firing squad, on an order handed down by Benito Juarez in San Luis Potosi.

The Mexican Constitution, written in 1917, was composed here— the same document that underscores the rule of law in Mexico today. Queretaro was also the birthplace of the Partido Revolucionario Institucional (PRI)—the political party that governed Mexico for 71 years, before Vicente Fox’s PAN (Partido de Accion Nacional) ousted the regime in July of 2000.

Queretaro itself is a bright, lively and very clean city. It’s just 130 miles north-west of Mexico City and is connected by high-speed modern highways (tolled).

The feel here is Baroque. Take time to browse its churches, its mansions with their graceful balconies, the myriad of tree-lined plazas and the quaint colonial side streets and alleyways. The local government in Queretaro strives to make the colonial city a pleasant place for people to live in and visit; and you will find that the historic colonial center is pristinely well kept and maintained.

This colonial city is one for walkers. Walk around the streets and discover little plazas leading off narrow alleys. At night, Queretaro lights up with a carefully orchestrated system of flood lighting, giving the whole place a wonderful look, feel and atmosphere.

Surrounding Queretaro are a series of beautiful small towns like Tequisquiapan and San Juan del Rio. This area is one of Mexico’s natural hot spring regions, which are a very popular attraction with locals and visitors alike. You’ll also find a good number of quality spas in this region, too.

Queretaro and its surrounding attractions are so close to Mexico City that it makes the destination an ideal one for visitors looking for a first stop on a colonial city tour starting from the country’s capital. Although day trips to Queretaro are easy from Mexico City, as well as other nearby colonial cities, it’s recommended that you spend at least one night here to have enough time time to experience Queretaro’s charm and elegance properly. Those who do, often stay longer, or come back for a longer stay later on.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

Begin your exploration at one of the the town’s key plazas: Jardin Zenea. The bandstand dates back to the 1800’s and live music can be heard playing from it at weekends.

The main plaza is Plaza de la Independencia—central, and a very good place from which to explore the rest of city’s colonial charm.

For an excellent example of baroque architecture, visit the churches of Santa Clara and Santa Rosa de Viterbo, which you’ll find in the downtown colonial area of Queretaro.

Other places of historical and architectural interest include the Casa de La Corregidora, where Doña Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez lived (Heroine of War of Independence), La Casa de la Zacatecana, which is an excellent representation of the way that mansions looked and felt like during the colonial era, and the Cerro de Campanas (Hill of Bells), which is where Emperor Maximilian was executed after his capture here in 1867.

Queretaro also has a 1.3km Aqueduct (Acueducto) featuring 74 arches and is still used today as a means to transport water to the city.

Between Tuesday and Sunday, there is a tour that will take you around 21 of the most historical buildings and places of interest in Queretaro and explain the history behind them. The tour starts from the local Tourism Office – see Practical Information for details of where to find this.

Wine Production

In recent years, the state of Querétaro has become one of Mexico’s top wine-producing regions, and wine and cheese tours are one of the highlights of a visit to this area.

Hot Springs & Day Trips

Just 40 miles west of Querétaro is the beautiful little town of Tequisquiapan. You can buy great arts and Mexican crafts here, and it’s also famous for its hot springs. This whole area has volcanic springs situated under it, so warm pools of water are said to be therapeutic and able to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, gout and insomnia.

Also nearby is the growing town of San Juan del Rio, which boasts high quality textiles and Mexican craftwork, as well as hot springs, and colonial architecture dating back to the 16th centuries.

Museums and Art in Queretaro

The Museo Regional (Regional Museum) offers visitors a selection of artifacts from pre-Hispanic, colonial and and republican times.

The Museo de Arte (Art Museum) hosts some of the finest collections of Mexican colonial artwork in the country, all housed in the fabulous 18th century Baroque architecture of Ex-Covento de San Augustin.

Getting There & Around

By Air – Situated 8km northeast of the city center, Queretaro’s modern international airport has regular flights to and from Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. You can take a taxi or a city colectivo (the more economical option) to the city center. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Queretaro on a luxury bus from Mexico City – the trip takes around 3 hours. You can get a bus directly from the Airport or from the Northern Bus Terminal in Mexico City. Buses run all day from Mexico City to Queretaro at least once an hour. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Queretaro is very fast and efficient on the toll roads that connect the Capital to Queretaro. Take Highway 57D from Mexico City, Highway 57D (South) from San Luis Potosi, or Highway 111/57D from San Miguel de Allende. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Querétaro Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of Queretaro, especially around the main plaza. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy traveler’s cheques and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

What to Buy in Querétaro

Queretaro is well known for its sale of Opals—soft stones which have chameleon-like properties as they exhibit different colors and play games with the light they reflect. Queretaro still mines Opals for their local, national and international sale. Be sure to find a bargain for yourself here in Queretaro, where the stones are particularly good value for money.

Local Climate

Queretaro enjoys year-round hot, dry weather. The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor sports and activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture and scenery. Rain is seldom a feature here; when they do come they tend to be during the months of April thru November. Rains tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

San Miguel de Allende, most often referred to as San Miguel, is one of a group of old Silver Mining cities, which also includes Guanajuato, Zacatecas, Queretaro and San Luis Potosi.

Over the last two decades San Miguel de Allende—once a quiet, quaint, cobble-lined town that developed a following among artists in the 1950s—has exploded in popularity with foreign expatriates who have chosen to live (full-time or part-time) in Mexico. The overall feel is still colonial and bohemian, but the town is alive with activity and growth which also makes it an exciting place to visit.

Although this is a small city, it successfully combines old world charm with modern-day cosmopolitan lifestyle. Most activities surround arts and learning, painting, weaving, photography and sculpture. Spanish Language schools are big here too; you can learn more about residential Spanish Language Courses with Mexperience’s Learn Spanish section.

Although San Miguel can be enjoyed as part of day visit, you really need to stay here for a few days to grasp the essence of what this colonial city has to offer. It’s a very popular weekend destination, and people from Mexico City will spend weekend breaks in San Miguel to escape the urban congestion of the capital. As a result, Thursdays to Sundays are much livelier in San Miguel, although hotel rooms in San Miguel are harder to come by at the weekends.

The town is known for its fine hotels and B&Bs, quaint restaurants and fine boutique shops pureying a wide assortment of articles from arts and crafts, to fine clothes and jewelry.

Gathered around the colonial center are a number of fine examples of great colonial architecture, including the Parish Church which resides in front of the tree-lined main plaza.

San Miguel is magical and lively place to visit. It is a must-see destination as part of a tour of Mexico’s colonial cities. If a local festival is going on, you’ll have a first-hand experience of the colorful traditions celebrated in this region; but even during quieter times, this city has a unique, attractive charm that reflects all that is best about Mexico. Come here for a visit and experience what so many others have encountered here: an irresistibly draw cast by a spell that is uniquely Mexican, uniquely San Miguel.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

San Miguel is endowed with stunning views and equally stunning colonial architecture. From the minute you enter the town square you’ll be enchanted by its antiquated beauty. The Parish Church, which faces the main plaza (zocalo), is one of the main architectural attractions here.

Be sure to visit the recently restored home (colonial mansion) of Ignacio Allende, the famous Patriot who the town was named after.

Another colonial gem that should be seen is La Casa del Conde Canal (House of the Count of Canal), now occupied by the famous art institute, Instituto Allende (see below). You can walk through the salons and watch as students paint, weave and sculpt as part of their courses.

Instituto Allende

One of the most famous art schools in Mexico, the Instituto Allende hosts thousands of art students from all over the world who come here to learn arts and languages in the heart of San Miguel. Students come here and stay for weeks or months; rented accommodation is plentiful and available in nearby residential areas.

Museums and Art in San Miguel

Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramirez – Also known as the Escuela de Bellas Artes (school of fine arts), this is a local art institute where you can take courses in art, sculpture, music and dance. The center is hosted in a former convent; one of its most treasured inheritances is an unfinished 1940’s mural painted by David Alfaro Siqueiros. Large trees, a huge courtyard and colonial fountains set the scene for this magnificent place to study, learn and explore. Concerts and lectures are given here; check locally for details.

Casa del Mayorazgo de Canal – This is the old family home of the Canal family – now occupied by Banamex Bank. Check out the wooden-carved door.

There are plenty of art galleries allowing you to find art for sale everywhere in San Miguel, but there is also a selection of fine galleries from which you can buy artwork in San Miguel. See the What to Buy in San Miguel section for further details.

Exploring Around San Miguel

There are hot springs nearby, where you can bathe in natural warm mineral waters. The most popular are La Gruta and La Taboada—both lie about 30 minutes’ outside of San Miguel.

From San Miguel, day trips are available to the town of Dolores Hidalgo, named after the famous Patriot who sounded the “Grito” (Cry) for Mexican Independence. September 16th is huge in Dolores Hidalgo—it is traditional that Mexico’s President comes here to re-enact the “Grito” on his last year in office. Dolores Hidalgo is also famous for Talavera—a very strong ceramic which is used to make a variety of crockery and also wall and floor tiles. The pottery is colorfully decorated. Talavera is plentiful here and a lot less expensive than you could buy it elsewhere.

Special Events

San Miguel has a huge number of festivals and parties. There is a saying that Mexicans will find any excuse to have a party. This is no more true than in San Miguel de Allende which literally has a celebration (big or small) happening every week of the year. See the local events section below, for more details about some of these.

Getting There & Around

By Air – There is no airport at San Miguel de Allende, but if you want to fly close, you have two options: Aeropuerto Internacional del Bajio near Leon (95 miles) and Aeropuerto Internacional de Queretaro (53 miles)—note that both airports are virtually equidistant from San Miguel in travel time: taking around 90 minutes to reach by car.  Check carriers that fly to each location. Mexico City’s international airport, which is about 170 miles away, takes approximately 3.5 hours to get to by car (subject to traffic congestion in and around the capital). Private ground transport to San Miguel from airports is via private taxi or airport transfers. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to San Miguel on a luxury bus from Mexico City – the trip takes around 4 hours and departs from Mexico City’s northern bus terminal. If you don’t want to travel across Mexico City from the airport to the bus terminal, you can board a bus from Mexico City’s airport to Queretaro, where you can can change and board a second bus to San Miguel. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to San Miguel is very fast and efficient with the roads and toll roads that connect the region. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Local Events Calendar

San Miguel is host to a significant number of Local Events all year-round; many related to arts and culture. The principal ones are detailed here.

January 21st – Ignacio Allende’s Birthday – a local parade and celebrations take place to mark the birthday Ignacio Allende—one of Mexico’s most revered historical figures and the person whom the town of San Miguel Allende is named after.

Easter Week – Religious celebrations are big in San Miguel, not least because it has six Patron Saints—and Easter week is, of course, one of the biggest. The festivals during Easter week will include a variety of celebrations, parties and street performances.

Third Saturday in September – sees what is probably San Miguel’s biggest festival—that of it’s Patron Saint Archangel Saint Michael. The celebrations last all weekend and include bull-fights, cock-fights, street performers, dances, music and the very famous “pamplonadas“, which include letting loose bulls to run through the streets, chasing the crowds around a pre-determined route. Beware! Accidents tend to happen every year during this event, some of them can be fatal. Stay clear of the bull-run if you’re not prepared to run hard, fast and possibly be prepared to dodge an agitated two-ton bull.

Practical Information

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of San Miguel. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy traveler’s cheques and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

WiFi Access at the Library: The town’s central library (biblioteca) offers free WiFi (wireless internet) access, so if you have a laptop and need access to the web for email or other information, you can get online at the library. It gets busy in the afternoons, when school children go there to study and use the internet access too.

What to Buy in San Miguel Allende

San Miguel is principally known for its fine artwork and crafts which is widely available throughout the town with niche and boutique shops selling an ample range of high quality art-related items.

Local Climate

San Miguel enjoys year-round, warm-to-hot & dry weather. The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor sports and activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture and scenery. Rain is seldom a feature here; thunderstorms happen infrequently during the months of April thru November, but tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off. Winter evenings and early mornings can be quite cool – so pack some warm pullovers if you’re visiting during the winter months.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Zacatecas is one of a group of old Silver Mining cities, which includes San Miguel de Allende, Queretaro, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi and Alamos. You can discover all these places with Mexperience.

These cities all lie north-west of Mexico City. Each has its own unique character, features and atmosphere – but together they make up some of Mexico’s most authentic inland travel experiences. These cities are friendly places; the areas are not overwhelmed with tourists as some of the coastal areas can be.

It’s in the country’s colonial cities that the real Mexico begins to emerge. You’ll see real people living real lives; experience magnificent scenery; stay at wonderful colonial hotels that offer terrific value for money; savor local foods and flavors as colorful and diverse as the cultures that created them.

The road network in this region is well developed, and traveling through it is fast and efficient in most places. These cities are safe: crime is low and it’s a great region to consider if you want to treat your family to a real cultural experience in Mexico.

Zacatecas, like Guanajuato, built its wealth in the hey-days of the region’s mining boom. Geographically, it’s on the edge of the quintet of central mining cities, and if you take the cable car to the top of the mountain (see Key Attractions), you’ll be able to look out across the desert and see just how much of a frontier-city Zacatecas was at the height of its industrial prosperity.

The architecture here is immensely attractive—the pink limestone used in its buildings gave the city the nickname Ciudad Rosada (the Pink City). Take time to look at the intricately-designed stone and iron works which has been invested into the colonial buildings. Many of the major buildings here took years to complete, because their sponsors and creators were determined to craft and leave something special behind them—and they succeeded in doing so.

Like some of the other colonial gems in Mexico, Zacatecas is not well known among the mass of tourist and traveling communities that visit the country. You won’t find much English spoken here, although local people, restaurants, and hotels will be obliging, helpful, and friendly with any needs you may have.

There are lots of attractions worth seeing in Zacatecas; some historical, some cultural, and some scenic. What you’ll experience in Zacatecas is a genuine city with warm and friendly people amidst a community that is proud of its history and heritage.

Choosing to explore Zacatecas you’ll enjoy a real Mexican experience; there is no tourist make-up here: what you’ll witness is a wonderful colonial city, exhibiting its old-world charms and elegance alongside modern-day Mexican culture.

This is a great place to spend a day—or a long weekend. Stay for the evenings as the temperature cools, the city lights up, and the atmosphere changes. Whether you’re traveling independently or with a family, you’ll find Zacatecas is well worth the few extra miles of road it takes to arrive here.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

The Plaza de Armas (main square) is also host to the city’s cathedral, with its magnificent stone facade. You’ll also find the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) building here, as well as the Residencia de Gobernadores (Governor’s Residence) and Palacio de la Mala Noche (Palace of the Bad Night), also known as the Palacio de Justicia (Palace of Justice).

The Mercado Gonzalez Ortega, previously the main marketplace in Zacatecas, has now been renovated into a modern up-market shopping center. You can also eat here at one of the several restaurants integrated within the building.

There’s an old Silver mine, called Mina El Eden, which is located inside the Cerro del Grillo, a major attraction of the city and an important historical landmark. There were originally seven levels in this mine; level four is open to visitors, and a train ride will take you deep into the hill which hosted it. The train stops inside, and you are guided down walkways deep into the mines, where you’ll begin to see the conditions that mind workers of the day endured to get gold, silver, iron, copper and zinc out of these rocks.

Cerro de La Bufa is the imposing mountain on the northeast side of the city. It’s up here that you’ll see magnificent views across the city, and further north, the vast expanse of arid desert that streams out from this ‘frontier capital’. To get to the top, you can drive there, but it’s best to take the Cable Car (Teleferico) which will transport you across a magnificent view of the city to the top of the mountain in just a few minutes. The Teleferico station is near the mine, so both are within easy access of each other.

Museums and Art in Zacatecas

There are various museums to visit in Zacatecas.

Museo Rafael Coronel hosts what is probably the largest display of traditional masks in Mexico (over 2,000 of them).

Museo Francisco Goita gives you the opportunity to view the works of six major artists of the 20th century who were from Zacatecas, including works of Francisco Goita himself.

Museo de Pedro Colonel is regarded as one of Mexico’s best art museums outside of Mexico City. Pedro Colonel, an affluent artist in Zacatecas, left his entire works and collection of art from around the world to his native city. Besides his own work, art from places as far away as Africa and New Guinea may be enjoyed here.

Getting There & Around

By Air – You can fly to Zacatecas from the US and and other points in Mexico including Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Tijuana. The airport is about 18 miles outside the city on the north side; ground transportation into the city is available; buy your tickets from the airport’s terminal building. You can choose between a private taxi (most expensive) and a shared suburban van which carries about 10 passengers and their luggage comfortably. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Zacatecas on a luxury bus from Mexico City – as well as Queretaro, Aguascalientes, Guadalajara, and other places in the region too. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Zacatecas is very fast and efficient with high-speed and safe toll roads connecting to the city. From the south, you’ll need Highway 45D, and from the Northeast you’ll need Highway 54. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Zacatecas Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of Zacatecas, especially around the main plaza. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy travelers checks and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace—from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in defined public spaces.

Easter Week and September: If your travel plans involve staying in Zacatecas during the festival dates (see Local Events Calendar, above), then be sure to book early. Hotel rooms become scarce or unobtainable during these times, and many travelers who make an 11th-hour decision to attend the celebrations, often find themselves having to stay at hotels in towns and cities away from Zacatecas, which means they have to drive in and out each day.

What to Buy in Zacatecas

There are several good places in Zacatecas where you can buy a selection of authentic Mexican arts and crafts. Silver jewelry and silver craft-ware is also a major feature of a shopping experience in Zacatecas. Some silverware is crafted locally and you’ll find silver items here are good value for money.

Local Climate

Zacatecas enjoys year-round, generally warm and dry weather during the daytime. The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor sports and activities and for taking in the local culture, architecture and scenery. The rain season runs from May thru October: summer storms tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon. Remember that you are out in the desert here: the combination of its remoteness and altitude means that mornings and evenings can be cold, especially in the winter months, so pack warm clothing layers in addition to lighter clothes for warmer daytime temperatures.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico