best day tours mexico city

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The 9 best mexico city tours, according to reviews.

Experience the highlights of Mexico City with one of these immersive tours.

The 9 Best Mexico City Tours

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Mexico's sprawling capital is known for its eclectic neighborhoods (as many as 350), that each have distinct characteristics. As such, Mexico City offers a myriad of options for sightseeing, shopping and dining, and one of the best ways to explore this fascinating destination is with a tour.

U.S. News compiled this list of the best tours in Mexico City based on expert input and reviewer sentiment. Whether you want to cycle your way through the city, explore nearby archaeological sites or indulge in local delicacies, there's a tour to fit your itinerary.

Tekpan Tours – Teotihuacán Early Morning Tour from Mexico City

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $40 Duration: 8 hours

This tour departs from Mexico City for an early morning visit to the pyramids at Teotihuacán , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along with mild temperatures, a morning visit yields few crowds, allowing for excellent photo-ops. The second stop at an artisan market gives tourgoers the chance to learn about different Mexican handicrafts. Visitors offer positive reviews about the insightful guides and appreciate the crowd-free experience.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, guidance from an art historian and entrance fees. Lunch is at your own expense. Tekpan Tours also operates outings to Xochimilco.

Check prices & availability on:

Mexican Food Tours – Polanco Food Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $49 Duration: 3 hours

Explore one of Mexico City's trendiest neighborhoods to sample Mexican specialties during this culinary tour of Polanco. Stroll along picturesque streets and pop into several lesser-known spots and upscale eateries to taste everything from seafood dishes to tamales to chocolate to Mexican ice cream. Reviewers extol the knowledgeable guides as well as the wide variety of delicious food.

This small-group tour departs at 11 a.m. daily as well as 4:30 or 5:30 p.m. The company also offers a taco-themed food tour, among other options.

Estación Mexico – Coyoacán Free Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Walk through Coyoacán, one of Mexico City's quiet bohemian neighborhoods, on this tour. Learn the history and legends of this unique part of the city as you stroll by sights like the Capilla de San Antonio, Parroquía San Juan Bautista and the home of renowned artist Frida Kahlo. Reviewers appreciate the informative guides and learning about this lesser-known section of the city.

Tips are suggested for the guides, since there is no charge for the tour. Walks depart daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The company offers other free tours through the Chapultepec Forest and the city's university , among other options.

Mexico a Pie – Lucha Libre Experience

Price: Adults from 1,980 pesos (about $106); kids from 1,880 pesos (around $101) Duration: 4 hours

Don a colorful mask and join in the fun at a wrestling match known as lucha libre. Before the match, there is a two-hour walking tour with a guide who tells you all about lucha libre as you enjoy a mezcal and guacamole tasting. Then, head into Arena México to watch a wrestling match unlike one you've seen before. Patrons report having a great time on this tour and especially enjoy the group experience. They also say there's plenty of mezcal at the tasting and suggest eating a meal before you go.

Tours are offered three times a week: Sunday at 3 p.m., Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. and Friday at 6:30 p.m. Prices include a mask and the tasting. Additional food and beer can be purchased with cash at the arena. Children must be at least 3 to attend. Mexico a Pie also runs an art-themed tour, among other experiences.

Amigo Tours – Teotihuacán at Sunrise Tour

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $40 Duration: 8 hours

Reviewers give this excursion rave reviews for its well-informed guides and an early start time that aims to avoid the crowds at one of Mexico's best-known archaeological sites. Tours depart around 6 a.m. to visit the old city of Teotihuacán, known as the "City of the Gods." You'll see the city's famous stepped pyramids and stop at a local obsidian workshop for a tasting of cactus-based liquor, such as tequila.

Prices include all entrance fees, transportation and liquor tastings, but do not include lunch. Amigo Tours offers a variety of day trips from Mexico City, as well as tours within the city.

Courtesy of Eat Like a Local Mexico

Eat Like a Local – Mexican Food 101

Price: From $115 Duration: 4.5 hours

Owned by a Mexico City native, this tour company is operated by an all-woman staff. The company's introductory tour to Mexican food starts at 10 a.m. in Condesa with a cup of coffee and pan dulce, a Mexican pastry. Then, tourgoers hit two of the city's colorful markets for bites of carnitas, corn, fresh fruit, insects (if you're adventurous) and specialties like tlacoyos, a popular Mexican street food. The excursion ends back in Condesa with popsicles along the way.

This tour includes visits to several neighborhoods, 4.5 miles of walking (including tons of stairs), a ride on the subway and 19 tastings. Tours are limited to six people. The company also offers an evening street food tour, tours specifically designed for kids, and more.

Sabores México Food Tours – Taco Beats and Mezcal Sips

Price: Adults from $124.99; kids from $99.99 Duration: 3.5 hours

This tasty evening excursion takes curious foodies to four traditional Mexican taquerias and a mezcal bar. In all, you'll visit four Mexico City neighborhoods, including Condesa, Colonia Roma, San Rafael and Anzures. Along the way, you'll sample a variety of tacos from street stalls to established spots, and some are Michelin-rated. You'll also taste different kinds of mezcal and beer. Reviewers praise the delicious tacos and the tour's in-the-know guides. They also say to come hungry.

The English-speaking tour begins at 7 p.m. nightly and is limited to 10 people. Sabores México also offers tours of the Roma neighborhood as well as a chocolate tour of Mexico City.

Eat Mexico Culinary Tours – Gourmet San Juan Market & Street Food

Price: From $109 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

This intimate culinary tour features some of the best food destinations in the historic downtown center. Patrons will visit the colorful San Juan Market with its traditional and exotic snacks (such as grasshoppers) and fresh produce (like lime and guanábana). You will also taste heartier items like mole and seafood tostadas. Reviewers applaud the experience and the food and come away with an appreciation for Mexico's culinary heritage.

Tours depart daily at 10:30 and 11 a.m. and are limited to six people. This tour was not designed with children in mind; the company encourages families to try its Family Friendly Streets & Sweets tour.

Tlatoani Tours – Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacán

Price: From 2,300 pesos (about $124) Duration: 6 hours

Fly high over Teotihuacán in a hot air balloon during this trip. Your outing begins bright and early (around 4:30 or 5 a.m.) with pickup from your Mexico City hotel . You'll then be taken to the launch site where you'll enjoy 45 minutes of flight time. Afterwards, you'll have breakfast at a restaurant located within a cave (at your own expense), get time to visit Teotihuacán and stop at an obsidian workshop. Tourgoers say this is a wonderful experience and say it's especially great for couples.

Tours depart daily year-round, but keep in mind where you fly may depend on the weather. Food and drinks are not included in your ticket fee, nor is entry to the archaeological site. Tlatoani Tours also runs a lucha libre experience.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in Mexico City
• The Best All-Inclusive Hotels in Cancun
• The Best Cancun Tours

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Mexico

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20 Best Day Trips From Mexico City You Can’t Miss in 2024

Looking to book a Mexico City DAY TRIP?

While there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Mexico City, there are also so many amazing day trips from Mexico City you can take within a 1-4 hours drive.

Don’t want to drive? Book this Best Mexico City Day Tour — Exploring the Waters of Tolantongo’s Hot Springs and Thermal Baths (Rated 5 Stars)

If that day trip to Tolantongo isn’t for you — no worries! You’ll also find quite a few of the Central Mexico UNESCO Sites on this list, as well as historic cities and pueblos magicos (Mexico magic towns).

By the end of this article, you’re going to find the perfect day trip from Mexico City that will make your CDMX trip feel enriched.

Ready to discover the BEST day trips to all the amazing cities near Mexico City? Let’s get to it so that you can find the right popular day trip from Mexico City for you.

Day Trips from Mexico City

Best mexico city car rentals.

The easiest, fastest and most convenient way to go on a day trip from Mexico City is in your own private rental car from Discover Cars .

If you don’t want to drive, there are also tour options listed below near each of the day trip destinations.

While driving in Mexico is considered quite safe, check out this article, Renting A Car in Mexico City: Everything You Need to Know .

After reading, you’ll feel confident about renting a car and driving in Mexico City and Central Mexico.

The 20 Best Day Trips from Mexico City

1. teotihuacan ruins.

📍 Teotihuacan Pyramids is located in the pueblo magico of San Juan Teotihuacan, in Estado de Mexico (Mexico State), about 75 minutes from Mexico City.

Planning to visit Teotihuacan (pronounced tay-oh-tee-wok-on ) from Mexico City?

You can’t go wrong, as the famous Teotihuacan Ruins in Mexico are a place any visitor will want to see while traveling to Mexico City.

In fact, this is one of the most common Mexico City day trips, and one of the best things to do in Mexico .

Historians date this incredible construction as early as 300 BC, making it well worth a visit and a place in your Mexico City itinerary , to get up close with Mexico’s incredible history.

Teotihuacan has been used by various pre-columbian civilizations, from the Teotihuacanos to the Aztecs.

As this UNESCO World Heritage Site is so interesting, the best way to visit Teotihuacan is with a guide.

While possible to see on your own, someone who understands the complexities of this ancient marvel will help you understand why Teotihuacan is such a special place.

15 Highest Rated Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

For those who want to climb the Teotihuacan pyramids, it is permitted to do so. In fact, climbing pyramids in Mexico is part of what makes day trips from Mexico City to Teotihuacan so popular!

While the trek isn’t easy, you can climb the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl (pronounced ketz-al-co-ah, the Aztec Feathered Serpent God), the Pyramid of the Moon and Pyramid of the Sun. This is the largest of the three.

When visiting Teotihuacan, make sure to wear eco-friendly sunscreen and bring your reusable Water-To-Go Bottle , which also filters the water to help you with how to NOT get sick in Mexico .

You’ll also want appropriate footwear to both climb the pyramids and walk the large site. With that much walking and climbing, the wrong shoes will ruin your Teotihuacan day trip from Mexico City.

Make sure to pack your camera to take plenty of photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the pyramids, Teotihuacan Museum and Sculpture Garden.

It’s best to arrive early in the morning so you can avoid the crowds and the heat, and plan to spend one full at this Mexico bucket list place.

Best Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

Many travelers would say that no trip to Mexico City is complete without a visit to the ancient city of Teotihuacan.

You can go to Teotihuacan on your own , or book one of these best tours for your trip to Teotihuacan.

day trips from mexico city to tolantongo

2. las grutas tolantongo hot springs.

📍 Las Grutas de Tolantongo is located in Hidalgo state, about four hours from Mexico City by car.

Las Grutas de Tolantongo (pronounced toe-lawn-tong-go), AKA Tolantongo caves, is one of the most Instagram worthy places in Mexico.

It is an amazing Mexico City day trip — but only if you go with a group tour — otherwise you’ll have to stay the night at a Tolantongo hotel or Tolantongo campground.

Want to leave Mexico City and get out into nature? These best Mexico City to Tolantongo Tours are just what you need.

This turquoise water playground sits at 4,200-feet (1,280 m) above sea level in Mezquital Canyon in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico.

This state isn’t popular with tourists, which is a shame because Hidalgo is safe and has many other amazing places, like Pachuca , Huasca de Ocampo and Tula de Allende .

The word tolantongo comes from the Aztec word tonaltonko , meaning “where it feels warm,” and like the name says, the water at Tolantongo is always warm.

It comes from hot springs and underwater thermal pools, which heat all the waters throughout Las Grutas de Tolantongo.

The word gruta means cave (or grotto), and Tolantongo does have one.

There’s also the pools on the side of the cliff, a river, zipline, suspension bridge, regular swimming pools, hotels, campsites, about 10 restaurants, convenience stores, lockers, medical facilities, and more — Yes, Tolantongo is a big place!

As one of the best Mexico off the beaten path destinations, many have Tolantongo as one of their bucket list Mexico must see.

From my personal experience, the only way this works as a day trip is going with a tour — which I did, and highly encourage others to do. ⬇️ Check out your Tolantongo tour options below .

Best Las Grutas Tolantongo Tours from CDMX

Day trips from mexico city to xochimilco, 3. xochimilco (mexico city boats).

📍 Xochimilco is located in the southern part of Mexico City, in the historic Xochimilco neighborhood. It’s located about one hour from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), south of the city center.

Looking to take day trips around Mexico City? Technically located within CDMX city limits, Xochimilco is certainly one of the day trips in Mexico City you can take.

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co ) is located in the south part of the city, about an hour from Centro Historico , so it can feel like a day trip.

One of the best places to visit in Mexico City, a trip to Xochimilco is a fun way to spend the day.

Depending on how long of a boat cruise you take, it can be a full day trip in Mexico City, or you can combine with a visit to the nearby Coyoacan neighborhood .

This unique part of CDMX can feel like a totally different world.

In fact, it can even have two worlds within it — one part is lively and busy with multicolored boats playing mariachi music, and in another part, it’s quiet and tranquil with lots of nature and no other people around.

The more popular way to visit Xochimilco, and the one you’ve likely seen online, is with lively parties on the colorful, gondola-style boats called trajineras (trah-he-ner-as).

At Xochimilco, one of the most popular places in Mexico City, you’ll hop on a trajinera and make your way through the canals as boats as mariachi bands float by to serenade you.

There are also boats selling tacos , tamales, beer and an ancient alcoholic beverage called pulque (pull-kay).

To visit Xochimilco sustainably , consider a tour to the chinampas (chin-am-pas).

These are the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco that have been maintained by local farmers for centuries, since the Aztecs hand-dug these canals.

Book your Chinampas: Living an Ancient Culture tour here!

Although you’ll have to visit the chinampas with a tour company, it’s a way to see a sleepy and natural side to Xochimilco, rather than the party side.

While cruising down the river with no one else around, you will hardly believe you’re in one of the biggest cities on Earth. I have done this tour, and it was amazing.

Best Xochimilco Tours from Mexico City

Day trips from mexico city to puebla.

📍 Puebla City, Mexico, is the capital of Puebla state, located about three hours from Mexico City by car.

The city of Puebla is among the best proper cities near Mexico City you’ll want to visit.

It is actually Mexico’s fifth largest city, and makes a fantastic escape from the country’s sprawling capital to somewhere a more manageable size.

It is also one of the only places in Mexico that hosts a large-scale Cinco de Mayo festival for this important Mexican holiday .

If you’re visiting in early-May, you’ll definitely want to add a Mexico City to Puebla day trip to your CDMX itinerary to experience this festive time in Puebla City.

Best Things to do in Puebla, Mexico

There’s so much to see on a day trip to Puebla, so you’ll want to plan a trip strategically. If it were me, I’d start in the center of the city and just wander, taking in the architecture and trying some street food.

Spend some time walking around in Puebla’s Centro Historico (Historic Center), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful colonial architecture .

Many buildings are adorned with stunning talavera tiles, Mexico’s famed blue and white tiles, that are produced right here in Puebla.

Thanks to the flat terrain and wide sidewalks, the Puebla city center is very walkable. It’s home to a plethora of ornate churches, shops, museums and cafes.

Perhaps the most photographed of all Puebla’s beautiful places, be sure to stop by the Callejon de los Sapos (Toad Alley or Frog Alley), located on Calle 6 Sur.

This picturesque street is lined with gorgeous, brightly-painted buildings, outdoor cafes and adorable shops.

Here, you can pick up souvenirs like jewelry, local handicrafts, talavera pottery, and all kinds of treasures in one of the Puebla antique shops. It’s one of my favorite places to shop around the city.

Must-Try Puebla Mexican food

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, pop into El Mural de los Poblanos . This is known as the best restaurant in Puebla, Mexico to try the local cuisine.

Here, you can order the city’s signature dish, mole poblano, which has pre-hispanic origins. Mole (pronounced mole-lay), used as both a sauce and a marinade, is Mexico’s national dish.

Puebla might not have the name recognition of Oaxaca in the foodie department, but its cuisine is among the country’s best. It’s known as comida poblana .

When visiting, don’t miss out on all must eats and best Puebla food :

• Cemitas: Pronounced sem-mee-tas, these gigantic sandwiches contain pretty much everything.
• Tacos arabes : These “Middle Eastern tacos” are a cross between tacos al pastor and a gyro.
• Molotes: cigar-shaped fried masa dough stuffed with everything from cheese to huitlacoche.
• Chalupas: Open-face tacos that bear no resemblance to a Taco Bell chalupa! Chalupas are the most famous Puebla street food, and you can only get them at night.

Puebla to Cholula pueblo magico

Nearby Cholula pueblo magico (magic town) is located less than 30 minutes outside of Puebla’s city center.

Within this charming village, you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula , which happens to be the world’s largest pyramid, by volume.

The pyramid is only partially excavated, and you can tour the interior via subterranean tunnels.

It is located in the Cholula Archeological Zone , beneath the iconic, yellow Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (Church of Our Lady of Remedies), the most photographed of all Cholula churches.

Best Puebla Tours from Mexico City (& Cholula Tours)

Day trips from mexico city to san miguel de allende, 5. san miguel de allende.

📍 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is located in Guanajuato state, about 3.5 hours from Mexico City by car.

San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful colonial town with a very international feel — though some would call it a weekend getaway from Mexico City, more so than a day trip.

In the past decade or so, many people from Europe, Canada, and the U.S. have fallen under its spell and relocated to San Miguel for its moderate climate, authentic Mexican cultural vibe and gorgeous esthetics.

There’s a lot to see in town, but if you want to venture out a bit, head to the El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden . Nearby, there’s the two best hot springs in San Miguel de Allende, Spa La Gruta and Escondido Place .

You’ll need a rental car to access both, or you can take a taxi or Uber.

Best Things to do in San Miguel de Allende Mexico

Located in Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), you’ll find the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel .

If you’ve ever seen photos of San Miguel, you’re probably familiar with this iconic pink-colored Gothic church from the 17th Century — one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico.

The parroquia is just one building surrounding El Jardin (the Garden), located in the Zocalo, or the main Town Square.

Sit on a bench and enjoy people watching in this beautifully-manicured garden, as street vendors walk by and the sounds of live mariachi music fills the air.

When it’s time for a snack, head to one of the best restaurants in San Miguel de Allende, Chocolates y Churros San Agustin , located next to the parroquia .

Here, you can sample the most beloved sweet treat in San Miguel, churros and hot chocolate to dip them in, as well as other Mexican favorites.

As San Miguel is quaint, you’re within walking distance of everything from the beautiful Biblioteca Publica (Public Library) to the picturesque Instituto Allende (Allende Institute).

For shopping, head to the open-air San Miguel de Allende Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market) to buy Mexican folk art souvenirs. ( Submitted by Džangir of  Dr. Jam Travels )

Best San Miguel de Allende Tours from Mexico City

Day trips from mexico city to morelia.

📍 Morelia, Mexico, the capital of Michoacan state, is located about four hours from Mexico City by car. It also makes for great weekend trips from Mexico City.

Morelia is the capital of Michoacan state, and the 22nd largest city in Mexico.

At four hours west of Mexico City, Morelia is a great day or overnight trip with gorgeous-yet-affordable hotels like the stunning Hotel de la Soledad , known as the best hotel in Morelia .

This is one of the most European looking cities in Mexico, with classic architecture and beautiful stone fountains scattered throughout the town.

While so many of Mexico’s colonial cities are painted in varying bright colors, Morelia’s buildings are all kept in their natural stone.

These instantly recognizable and well preserved 17th and 18th Century buildings are built out of a characteristic pinkish-colored stone from this part of Mexico.

Best Things to Do in Morelia

One of the most iconic buildings, located right in the Historic Center of Morelia, is the beautiful baroque Catedral de Morelia . Head to the Plaza de Armas to see the Morelia Cathedral, beautiful inside and out.

The Plaza de Armas park makes a nice place to relax for a bit in this bustling city.

Besides the cathedral, the one-mile long Acueducto de Morelia (Morelia Aqueduct), which was built in the 1700s, is one of the oldest sites in town.

It is beautiful during the day, but head there at night to its 250 limestone arches lit up.

Head to the Mercado de Artesanias y Dulces (Candy and Crafts Market) to find souvenirs. As Morelia’s is off the main tourism trail, this Mexico hidden gem is much more affordable than Mexico City.

While there, try some of Michoacan’s famous ate (pronounced ah-tay) fruit candy. 

Right around the mercado, you can sample the delicious and authentic foods from Michoacan state, like carnitas michoacanas , and gazpacho , a fruit, cheese and chili mixture.

There’s also corundas , a delicious triangular-shaped tamale, you’ll want to try.

Best M orelia Tours

Day trips from mexico city to queretaro, 7. queretaro.

📍 Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico, is the capital of Queretaro state, located about three hours from Mexico City by car.

Santiago de Queretaro, or simply Queretaro (pronounced care-uh-tare-oh), has long been overshadowed by its colorful neighboring towns of San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato .

However, Queretaro City is worth visiting in its own right.

As it’s located about 45 minutes closer to Mexico City than San Miguel de Allende, you’ll have more time to wander this colorful and historic town.

Known for colorful buildings, fancy fountains and flower-covered houses, get your camera ready for Queretaro.

Queretaro Pueblos Magicos

Besides the capital city, Queretaro state has other noteworthy places and pueblos magicos (magic towns).

See the world’s third-largest monolith in the city of Bernal , and enjoy the Wine & Cheese Route in Tequisquiapan , Mexico’s second largest wine-producing region after Valle de Guadalupe .

🚌💨 To see the both of these magical towns in one day, book The Wonders of Queretaro: Private Tour from Mexico City !

Best Things to Do in Queretaro

From restaurants, historic sites, amazing restaurants, and even a beer garden, there’s seemingly no end to the amazing things to do in Queretaro City .

As Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) is charming and pedestrian-friendly, spend some time strolling the streets.

While walking, don’t miss the prettiest streets in Queretaro : Andador Libertad, Calle Francisco I. Madero, Calle Jose Maria Pino Suarez, Andador Matamoros and Calle Cinco de Mayo.

When it’s time for a walking break and a snack, head to some of the best restaurants in Queretaro, which also happen to be located in very pretty plazas.

In Plaza Fundadores , head to La Vieja Varsovia, and in Plaza de Armas , try El Meson de Chucho El Roto. For a unique Queretaro cafe, check out La Biznaga.

If you’re looking to try some local beer, head to the Queretaro beer garden .

Located inside an old textile factory, the Jardin de Cerveza Hercules is a fun place to eat, drink, people watch and be merry in historic Downtown Queretaro City.

Love museums? Queretaro has quite a few, including what’s arguably the best museum in Queretaro, the Museo Regional de Queretaro .

This beautiful building, once a cathedral, now houses an interesting collection of pre-columbian artifacts, sculptures and pottery.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating things in this city is the Queretaro Aqueduct .

Built in the early-1700s, the impressive Acueducto de Queretaro has 75 arches. It is beautiful during the day and at night when it’s lit up with different colored lights.

Best Queretaro Tours

Day trips from mexico city to bernal, 8. pena de bernal.

📍 Bernal, Mexico, is located in Queretaro state, about three hours from Mexico City by car.

The small pueblo magico of San Sebastian Bernal is well known for its Peña de Bernal, the third tallest monolith in the world at 1,420-feet-tall (433 m).

Bernal is worth visiting for those who enjoy hiking outdoors — though even if you don’t hike the Peña de Bernal, you can admire it towering over the landscape.

Bernal offers the chance to see a beautiful, authentic, off the beaten path Mexico travel destination.

The town is famous as a holistic healing destination, and many believe there’s an energy vortex in Bernal. It is a popular year-round Mexico City day trip, but many people head there during the Spring Equinox.

Best Things to Do in Bernal

Don’t miss the Finca Sala Vive by Freixenet Vineyard , one of the popular stops on the Mexico Wine & Cheese Route.

If you’re ambitious enough to climb Peña de Bernal , be sure to wear a sun hat, put on sunscreen, and bring a water bottle and food — as it’s a tough, uphill climb.

If you do want to hike up, know there are several stopping points along the way, so you never have to go beyond your comfort level.

One of the stops you need to make is the Capilla de las Animas chapel located at one of its high points.

It’s a wonderful architectural structure, where you’ll also get a scenic view of the town and the natural landscapes surrounding it. 

The iconic yellow Templo de San Sebastian is one of the must see places in Bernal.

All located just around it, sample some delicious food from Grucado Peña de Bernal and El Mezquite , known as the best restaurants in Peña de Bernal.

If you’re looking for amazing views while dining, head to El Mirador .

There are also great museums in Bernal like the Museo de la Mascara (Mask Museum) with beautiful cultural masks.

Nearby, don’t miss the Museo del Cine (Cinema Museum) dedicated to Bernal filmmaker Rosalio Solano, and Museo de las Animas (Souls Museum), with maps and oil paintings from the time of Bernal’s founding.

Located just outside Bernal, many also enjoy Central Mexico’s Wine and Cheese Route .

Among the best places on the Mexico Wine and Cheese Route, don’t miss the Finca Sala Vive by Freixenet Vineyard , and Cava de Queseos Bocanegra cheese cave. ( Submitted by Martin of Travel Explorator )

Best Bernal Tours

Day trips from mexico city to taxco.

📍 Taxco, Mexico, is located in Guerrero state, about three hours from Mexico City by car.

Taxco de Alarcon , usually just called Taxco, has also been called the most beautiful pueblo magico in Mexico. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, Taxco certainly doesn’t disappoint in the aesthetics department.

Located up in the Sierra Madres, this hilly mountain town has interesting vistas from basically anywhere you’re standing or its iconic white buildings and peach-colored Spanish tile roofs.

It is also well known for its gorgeous silver art and jewelry, and as one of the few towns still mining silver in Mexico today.

Best Things to Do in Taxco Mexico

As this is a hilly town, a great first stop might be to take one of the vintage white VW bugs, Taxco’s taxis, up to the Parroquia de Guadalupe .

From this pretty church, you’ll get some of the best views of Taxco, and from there you can walk down the windy cobblestone streets of this town — instead of up them.

Taxco has a lot of charming callejones (cay-yay-hone-nes), or narrow alleyways. These adorable streets are beautiful, do all look similar, so be mindful you don’t get lost.

As you walk downhill, make your way back to the Zocalo (Town Square) to see the iconic Parroquia de Santa Prisca y San Sebastián (Church of Santa Prisca).

After walking for a bit, head to the El Adobe restaurant in the Zocalo next to the church, and see if you can snag one of the window tables.

If not, head to another restaurant with an outdoor patio, like La Parroquia Restaurant & Bar and Rosa Mexicano , because Taxco is all about the views.

As this is a silversmith town by trade, check out the many silver shops in Taxco to buy something made of silver, and even see some of the artisans working on their craft.

If you’re looking for other souvenirs, head to the outdoor Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market) next to the church.

Best Taxco Tours

10. grutas de cacahuamilpa national park (taxco caves).

One of the most must see Taxco sites, and a favorite among visitors, is the Cacahuamilpa Caves in Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park.

Venture underground and journey for about 1.5-miles (2.4 km) through this cave lit up with colorful lights that reflect off unique geologic formations.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Huasca de Ocampo

11. huasca de ocampo (basaltic prisms).

📍 Huasca de Ocampo, Mexico, is located in Hidalgo state, about two hours from Mexico City by car.

The Basalt Prisms of Huasca de Ocampo are truly spectacular, and one of Mexico’s most interesting natural wonders.

In fact, back in 2007, the Mexican Council for Touristic Promotion included the basaltic prisms on their list of the 13 Best Natural Wonders of Mexico.

Ranging in height from 75- to 150-feet-tall (22-45 m), these giant stone columns, located in the Santa Maria Regla Canyon , are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

If the basaltic prisms weren’t enough, there are a total of four beautiful waterfalls cascading over them in some parts, feeding the San Antonio Regla dam below.

These basaltic prisms were formed millions of years ago during the Pleistocene Period. They are giant rocks formed by the slow-cooling of volcanic lava.

Rock column formations like these are very rare, but can be seen in a few other places in the world including Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

While at Huasca de Ocampo, start with a walk across the suspension bridge that crosses over the rock formations.

Afterwards, hike down to the bottom of the ravine, where you can actually touch the prisms and the waterfalls that run over them.

Located next to the prisms, head to the 18th Century Hacienda of Santa Maria Regla , one of the oldest haciendas in Mexico still standing.

It is a gorgeous estate, and was used as a filming location in The Mask of Zorro with Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. However, it has a very dark history.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Real de monte

12. real de monte.

Besides Huasca de Ocampo, the state of Hidalgo has another pueblo magico worth visiting which is located nearby.

Real de Monte Mexico, sometimes called Mineral del Monte, was once one of the biggest mining towns in Mexico. You can still see the Acosta Mine to this day.

Head to the Plaza Principal (Town Square) to see the beautiful Spanish colonial buildings and old churches. Here, you can also sample a local delicacy called paste (pronounced paste-tee) from a Paste Shop .

These hand pies are similar to the Cornish pasty from Cornwall, England. As many Real de Monte residents trace their lineage back to Cornwall, this town has been dubbed “Little Cornwall.”

It is one of the most unique traditional Mexican foods , and many don’t even know pastes exist. The most famous place to try pastes in Real de Monte is Pastes el Portal .

Best Huasca de Ocampo Tours & Real de Monte Tours

Day trips from mexico city to valle de bravo, 13. valle de bravo.

📍 Valle de Bravo, Mexico, is located in Estado de Mexico (Mexico state), about 2.5 hours from Mexico City by car.

Valle de Bravo is a town on Lake Avandaro , located west of Mexico City. It’s known as the “Hamptons of Mexico City” thanks to the posh hotels in Valle de Bravo , gorgeous nature and relaxing vibes.

The beautiful lake, surrounded by mountains, makes boating and water sports very popular Valle de Bravo things to do, but don’t forget to look up to see all the hang gliders descending back to land.

The Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Reserve , a habitat for millions (maybe even billions ) of migratory butterflies, is located just north of town.

In the spring, these butterflies begin an eight month migration that takes them all the way to Eastern Canada and back, during which time four successive generations are born and die. How they find their way back to their overwintering site remains a mystery. — UNESCO

This sanctuary is part of the larger UNESCO World Heritage Property Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. If you want to take a Mexico butterfly tour , Valle de Bravo is one of the best places.

Best Things to Do in Valle de Bravo

Spend some time strolling the cobblestone streets, lined with well-preserved colonial buildings.

The beautiful Plaza de la Independencia park houses the 17th Century Parroquia de San Francisco de Asis church, and many great cafes here to get a bite to eat, like La Estacion.

Valle de Bravo has many beautiful places out in nature to explore, like Cascadas Velo de Novia (Bridal Veil Falls) , a waterfall you can walk right up to at the end of a well-maintained trail.

The  Mirador La Pena overlook, located high atop Valle de Bravo, provides unparalleled 360° views of the town and lake.

Ultimate Valle de Bravo Mexico Travel Guide

A boat tour around the lake is another great option, and of course, head to the Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary if you visit in butterfly season.

The season runs from mid-November to April, but the best time to see butterflies in Mexico is from January to early-March.

Visitors looking for a unique experience, can try out paragliding in Valle de Bravo . Jumps are done in tandem with a professional, so you can just enjoy the views as you glide back to land.

Best Valle de Bravo Tours

Day trips from mexico city to tepoztlan, 14. tepoztlan.

📍 Tepoztlan, Mexico, is located in Morelos state, about one hour south of Mexico City by car.

Looking to go off the beaten path near Mexico City? Look no further than Tepoztlan in the state of Morelos, located about an hour from Mexico City.

The mountain town of Tepoztlan is one of Mexico’s 177 or so pueblos magicos (magic towns).

Tepoztlan is one of the spiritual epicenters of Mexico, and many visit for weekend wellness getaway to experience a temazcal ceremony .

Staying overnight? These beautiful spa resorts — Hotel Boutique Casa Fernanda , Hotel Amomoxtli and Hotel Posada Del Tepozteco — are the best hotels in Tepoztlan.

Best Things to do in Tepoztlan

For many, no trip the Tepoztlan pueblo magico is complete without climbing way up into the mountains to see the Tepozteco Pyramid .

This mysterious Aztec pyramid, located high atop the town, is dedicated to Tepoztēcatl, the Aztec god of pulque (pronounced pull-kay). 

🍹 What is pulque? An ancient alcoholic drink made from the fermented agave plant, like tequila and mezcal , and very common to Central Mexico.

While not everyone appreciates pulque’s tangy taste and thicker texture, do make sure to at least try some pulque in Tepoztlan.

You can try it in its original flavor, or sweetened with things like mango and coconut to cut the tangy taste.

Visit the Tepoztlan Market

You’ll find pulque sold on the street by local vendors, or at the Mercado de Tepoztlan (Tepoztlan Market).

This bustling and colorful mercado (market) is a great place for souvenir shopping, sampling local food and getting photos (but always ask before you take one).

Besides pulque, you’ll find vendors in the market selling tepoznieves , an ice cream/fruit sorbet hybrid first made in Tepoztlan, and cecina. This thin, dried and cured steak is the most famous food in Morelos state.

For a truly unique culinary experience, be on the lookout in the Tepoztlan Market for these prehispanic foods — tlaltequeadas, (veggie pancakes), itacates (fried corn cakes), alaches and quelites (dark green veggies).

Best Tepoztlan Tours

Day trips from mexico city to pachuca, 15. pachuca.

📍 Pachuca de Soto, Mexico, is the capital of Hidalgo state, located about 90 minutes from Mexico City by car.

When looking for places to visit outside of Mexico City that offer a more local and authentic experience, Pachuca de Soto, usually just called Pachuca, must be on your list.

History, colors and culture are three things this city is not short of, so get your camera ready to capture your favorite scenes.

Located in a small valley, Pachuca (pronounced pa-choo-kah) is noted for three things: its charming fluorescent-colored buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the picturesque City Center.

Pachuca is the capital city of Hidalgo state, known for having the best barbacoa (barbecue) tacos in all of Mexico.

When visiting, also make sure to try some authentic Hidalgo barbacoa at some of the best restaurants in Pachuca , like Restaurante La Blanca and Taqueria Guerrero, both in downtown.

Best Things to Do in Pachuca, Mexico

Back in 2015, more than 200 homes in the hilly Palmitas neighborhood , one of the most depressed areas in Pachuca, became the colorful canvas of local artists.

The city-wide mural spans about 12.5 miles (20 km), and after this colorful facelift, more than 450 families returned to live in pretty Palmitas. 

In Centro Historico, Historic Downtown Pachuca, head to see the landmarks sites like Cuartel del Arte.

House in the Ex-Convento de San Francisco (Ex-Convent of Saint Francisco), this cultural center is home to a beautiful baroque church, art gallery and Fototeca Nacional Photo Library .

The Reloj Monumental , or Monumental Clock, is a can’t-miss neoclassical tower in the main square, Plaza Independencia .

The city’s icon, this 130-foot-tall clock tower (40 m), was donated by an English miner. It has machinery identical to that of the famed Big Ben clock tower in London.

All in all, Pachuca is an off the beaten path Mexico travel destination that will leave you in awe of its colors and history.

It makes an interesting day trip for anyone wanting to explore the outskirts of Mexico City, and the parts of Central Mexico so few will.

Tembleque Aqueduct : Mexico UNESCO Site

If you’re visiting Pachuca in your rental car , head just outside of town to the Aqueduct of Padre Tembleque, or Tembleque Aqueduct .

This 30-mile-long aqueduct, constructed from 1554-1571 under the guidance of a Franciscan friar named Padre Francisco de Tembleque, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

How to get from Mexico City to Pachuca

The trip to Pachuca is easy via your rental car , or an Uber or taxi for about $50-75 USD each way.

If you’re traveling in a group, splitting this fare is often more cost effective and faster than taking the bus.

For solo travelers and those familiar with bus travel in Mexico , head to the Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (Mexico City’s TAPO Bus Station), and buy a ticket to Central de Autobuses de Pachuca.

There are direct buses, and the trip is 90 minutes and costs about $10 USD each way.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Cuernavaca

16. cuernavaca.

📍 Cuernavaca, Mexico, is located in Morelos state, about 75 minutes southwest of Mexico City by car. It is a popular weekend retreat for chilangos (Mexico City locals).

Cuernavaca is a super easy Mexico City day trip, perfect for lovers of history, architecture, nature and art.

As many of the old haciendas have been turned into resorts, you can stay in luxury for relatively little money at Anticavilla Cuernavaca Hotel and Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas .

Cuernavaca is the capital of the Morelos state of Mexico, often called the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its lovely, balmy weather.

The city has gorgeous views of the Tepozteco Mountains, and plenty to do on a day trip from CDMX.

Best Things to Do in Cuernavaca, Mexico

A few must see Cuernavaca sites include the Palacio de Cortes , the palace where Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes lived in the 16th Century.

Today, this beautiful home-turned-museum, known as the Cuauhnahuac Regional Museum, boasts beautiful murals by Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

There’s also the Cuernavaca Cathedral , a 14th Century monastery complex, and bustling outdoor markets, like Mercado Adolfo Lopez Mateos.

For art and jewelry, head to Mercado de Artesanias y Plata (AKA Handcrafts Plaza) to purchase artisan pieces and souvenirs.

Outdoors lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby Lagunas de Zempoala National Park , a natural protected area with seven lagoons.

In town, spend some time just strolling around, but make sure to visit the pretty Jardin Borda Garden . ( Submitted by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk )

Best Cuernavaca Tours

Day trips from mexico city to tollan ruins, 17. tula (toll an ruins).

📍 Tula de Allende, Mexico, is located in Hidalgo state, about two hours north of Mexico City by car.

Mexico is a traveler’s paradise, with of course, gorgeous yet cheap Caribbean beaches , but also bustling cities with fascinating history, exciting culture, and utterly delicious food.

If you’re traveling to Mexico City , you already know the country’s capital personifies all of these traits.

Beyond the city itself, spend some time exploring the surrounding areas, which can be just as fascinating as the capital itself.

One of the best day tours from Mexico City is the city of Tula, home to the remains of Tollan.

🗿 BOOK YOU R Tula And Tepotzotlán Private Day Tour now !

Tula Ruins: Mexico Toltec Statues

The ruins of the former Toltec civilization’s capital city are located about 60 miles north of CDMX, in the city of Tula de Allende , or just Tula.

During the 9th-12th Centuries, Tollan (present-day Tula) was once one of the largest cities in all Mesoamerica.

Unlike most of the ruins in central Mexico, which have closer ties to the Aztec civilization, the ruins of Tollan are thought to have been influenced by the Mayans.

The central focus at the site, colossal statues known as the Atlantes, can be seen on the platform of the temple pyramid. 

However, there are other pyramids on the site, including a five-story high one upon which used to stand the Temple of the Morning Star.

An utterly captivating visit, especially for history buffs, Tollan should definitely be on your list of day trips from Mexico City.

Best Tula Ruins Tours

Day trips from mexico city to iztaccihuatl, 18. iztaccihuatl & popocatepetl (mexico city volcano es).

📍 Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park is located in three states, with Iztaccihuatl volcano in Estado de Mexico (Mexico state).

Flying into Mexico City, you might have noticed the two large, snow-covered mountains next to one another.

These two, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, are the second and third tallest peaks in Mexico, respectively, each at about 17,500-feet (5,334 m).

Iztaccihuatl (pronounced is-ta-see-wa-tel), is a dormant volcanic mountain popular with hikers, and Popocatepetl (po-po-ka-te-pet-tel) is an active stratovolcano.

The two are located in Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park , a 155-square-mile park (401 km²) that spans three states — Puebla, Morelos and Estado de Mexico.

The national park itself is a nice escape out into nature from bustling Mexico City, but many visit to climb Iztaccihuatl and enjoy the stunning views of the Valley of Mexico below.

While summiting is reserved for advanced climbers with mountaineering experience, hikers of all levels can make it to different parts. 🧗‍♀️ Note: Even on on some hikes that aren’t difficult, guides are required.

Best Popocatepetl & Iztaccihuatl Tours

Day trips from mexico city to tlaxcala, 19. tlaxcala (mexico firefly sanctuary).

📍 Tlaxcala, Mexico, the smallest state in the country, is located about two hours from Mexico City by car.

For being the smallest state in Mexico, there are quite a few things to do in Tlaxcala, Mexico (pronounced tuh-lack-skall-uh).

Tlaxcala has some of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Mexico, like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption .

This important historical church has even been nominated to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s also the Museo de Arte de Tlaxcala (Tlaxcala Art Museum), which houses an impressive collection of Frida Kahlo’s early works, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlan , located just outside the historic City Center.

💒 Fun Fact: According to local legend, the Virgin Mary appeared at the Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlan in 1541 and cured the entire town of a deadly plague. Today, many people make religious pilgrimages to the basilica.

Tlaxcala Firefly Sanctuary near Mexico City

Each year, from June-August, the Santuario de las Luciernagas ( Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary ) in Tlaxcala comes alive at night with tiny glowing creatures.

As the window for seeing this natural phenomenon is so short, make sure not to miss it if you’re visiting Mexico City from June-August.

During these three months, many visitors descend upon the small town of Nanacamilpa to see millions of fireflies in the forest during their mating season.

Walking around this magical Mexico firefly forest is an experience you’ll never forget, as it looks like something straight out of a fantasy movie.

Best Tlaxcala Tours and Firefly Sanctuary Guided Tours

💡 Note: The firefly tours are only available in June, July and August.

Day Trips from Mexico City to Val’quirico

20. val’quirico (mexico italian town).

📍 Val’quirico, Mexico, is located in Tlaxcala state, about 90 minutes from Mexico City by car.

Val’quirico Tlaxcala was inspired by Tuscan aesthetics, with an incredible amount of detail going into its cobblestone streets and building facades.

Today, Val’quirico has evolved into more than just a residential community and entertainment village; it has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of Italy in Mexico.

My boyfriend and I visited Val’quirico on a day trip and found it to be super charming. While it’s definitely a tourist destination, we enjoyed spending the day in Val’quirico, Mexico.

Best Day Trips From Mexico City Map

As Central Mexico is a larger area, the Mexico City day trip you decide may come down to location.

Each of the 20 unique options to take a day trip from Mexico City mentioned in this article have been pinned to the handy map of Mexico above, so you’ll have a visual idea of their location.

Best day trips from mexico city

Mexico unesco sites & pueblos magicos.

If you need help choosing a Mexico City day trip, consider visiting one of the pueblos magicos or UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

🇲🇽 Fun Fact: Mexico has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any country on the Americas Continent.

There are 35 of them in Mexico, and six Mexico UNESCO Sites are featured in this article — Teotihuacan, San Miguel de Allende, Xochimilco, Puebla, Morelia and Queretaro.

World Heritage is the designation for places on Earth that are of outstanding universal value to humanity… protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy. — UNESCO

In this article, you also learned about the pueblos magicos near Mexico City featured — Bernal, Taxco, Huasca de Ocampo, Real del Monte, Valle de Bravo and Tepoztlan.

The prestigious pueblo magico designation is similar to a UNESCO Site, but limited to Mexico. These “Mexico magic towns” are some of the coolest and best towns in the country.

Mexico Travel Guide & FAQ

Is mexico city safe for travelers.

If you’re wondering about Mexico travel safety, or even Is Mexico safe for solo travel? — the short answer is Yes , for the most part Mexico is perfectly safe for visitors.

As travel safety is a complex question, head to Is Mexico Safe to Travel to Right Now? for a much more in-depth explanation.

🎧 Prefer podcasts? Check out the Episode 43 of my Dream To Destination podcast, chock full of Mexico travel tips.

While Mexico is generally quite safe for visitors, do keep in mind that no place on Earth is 100% safe. It is the largest city in North America, after all.

For this reason, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Safety Guidelines and other travel safety suggestions below. These are the same things you’d do when traveling anywhere, and they will suffice in Mexico.

Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times? Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

I’ll be honest, when I first started traveling solo, I wasn’t insured. However, after years of solo traveling, I wised up… Now, I even have a whole page of this website dedicated to travel insurance, because it’s just that important!

If Mexico and Mexico City travel safety are on your mind, get your FREE quote below now!

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home in the event of an emergency while abroad.

• Always listen to your intuition — because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place asap. Don’t worry about making a kind, nice or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away fast.
• Don’t walk home alone at night.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things. This is annoying, for sure, but it works to not get your stuff stolen.
• Speaking of bar neighbors… don’t take drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay.
• This should be a no brainer, especially in the current travel climate — but get Travel Insurance from World Nomads, one of the biggest names in Mexico travel insurance. Get your free travel insurance quote below.

No, U.S passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Mexico from the U.S. This is another reason why, in general, Mexico is one of the best travel destinations from the U.S.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card.

Though it’s called a card, this is really just a small piece of paper you’ll need to hold on to so you can give it back to Immigration when you leave the country. 

There is no charge for the FMM, but if you lose yours, there is a charge of about $600 pesos ($30 USD) to replace it. You’d also need to get to the airport an extra hour earlier than normal in order to do the lost visa paperwork.

The bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM!

How many days in Mexico City do I need?

5 days — If you’re just staying in the city, three days or four days will do. However, to really get to know this metropolis, I’d recommend five days in Mexico City .

I’d spend Day 1, 2 and 3 in the city so you get your bearings, and see some of the top CDMX sites .

After that, check out some of the places around Mexico City on Day 4. I’d highly recommend you leave Day 5 free for any site in Mexico City you missed.

As the largest city in North America, there’s a lot to do — like going to the top of the Torre Latinoamericana to see the views overlooking the city, visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum, and doing a walking tour of the Roma neighborhood.

What Mexico City airport do I fly into?

The main airport is Mexico City International Airport (code: MEX), which is about 45 minutes by car from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown).

If you’re renting a car in Mexico City , this is the best place to do so.

📲 Mexico Travel Tips: You’ll want to have a SIM Card in Mexico , so you have data at all times to be able to use Google Maps, Google Translate, call an Uber, check in with family and friends back home, and more.

Best Mexico City Airport Transfers

What do i include on my mexico packing list.

Mexico is a big country and has varied climates — and temperatures fluctuate than most people realize. Mexico City is a great example, as it’s MUCH cooler at night than during the day.

While most Mexico beaches and beach towns have warm and hot temperatures year-round, you’ll want to double check the weather in the specific place you’re headed.

While there’s no official “Mexico dress code,” it always helps to blend in. As a general rule, Mexicans tend to dress on the conservative side.

Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download

Even in hotter places and pueblos (small towns), jeans and long sleeves are the norm. While on beaches it’s normal to see shorts and sandals, in cities you’ll definitely stand out.

FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Need a more detailed Mexico packing guide? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico in this article , which covers Mexico beach packing and Mexico city packing.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

Final Thoughts: Best Mexico City Day Trips

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Mexico City and great places to visit near Mexico City.

With some of the trips on this list about four hours away, you could even turn some of these into overnight or Mexico City weekend trips. If you want to check out all the great Mexico hotel options on Booking.com .

CDMX, as it’s known, is one of the biggest cities on Earth, so getting out for the day almost feels like you’re visiting another country.

Also, seeing the pueblos (small towns in Mexico) offers another insight into this diverse culture and its peoples.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Here are the best day trips from Mexico City

Oct 1, 2023 • 8 min read

Getting out of town for a day is easy from Mexico City, especially with such a great roundup of things to do © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

While there are plenty of museums, restaurants and historical sites to keep you busy in Mexico City , the central region of Mexico is filled with pueblos m á gicos (magical towns) and beautiful areas that are well worth your time for a weekend getaway. Mexico City is conveniently located so day trips are easy and numerous, not to mention a fun way to learn more about this incredible region. 

Top tip: Mexico City is well connected to the surrounding states with four bus terminals so it's easy to get around, but finding the right one for your desired destination can be confusing. Check terminals, times and prices using the  ADO app .

Explore the ancient city of Teotihuacán

Teotihuacán  is by far the most popular day trip from Mexico City for travelers. The main pyramid on site, the Pyramid of the Sun , is one of the largest pyramids in the world and you can climb all the way to the top. Just be sure to take it slow, as the altitude of the city is well over 2120 meters (7000ft).

Teotihuacán is an ancient Meso-American city that is believed to have been built as early as 400 BCE. It wasn’t until 1400 CE that the Aztecs stumbled upon this city and gave it the name we know now, Teotihuacán or “the place where the gods were created.”

You can expect to spend anywhere from one to four hours here depending on how long you linger at each pyramid. There is also the site museum and a set of well-preserved murals which are both included in your entry ticket. 

Getting there:  There are tours available that also include stops at the Basílica of Guadalupe and lunch near the pyramids. You can also take the bus directly from Terminal de Autobuses del Norte. Buses leave every 10 minutes from 8am to 9pm and you can book your roundtrip ticket at the ticket counter here. You cannot pre-book bus tickets for Teotihuacán.

Find peace in the traditional sweat lodge of Tepoztlán

Tepoztlán is a pueblo m á gico about 82km (50 miles) south of Mexico City and easily reached by bus. It’s said that Tepoztlán is the birthplace of Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec feathered serpent god, and because of this, many believe it to be a place of great healing and spirituality. 

Visitors from all over the country come to Tepoztlán to take part in a temazcal;  a pre-hispanic sweat lodge that was originally used as a way to purify the body and mind after something difficult like a battle or a ceremonial ball game. It was also used to help heal the sick and continues to be used by Indigenous people around the country today for this purpose. 

The second most popular way to sweat a lot and refresh the mind and body in Tepoztlán is to climb El Tepozteco , the mountain at the end of the town’s main street. Follow the steps up and in about an hour you’ll reach the pyramid of Tepozteco. 

Getting there : Take the bus from Terminal de Autobuses del Sur which is just outside of the Tasqueña metro station to the south of the city center. Buses leave every hour.

Eat your way around the city of Puebla

The city of Puebla deserves a whole trip of its own, but if you are only in the region for a short time, a day trip to Puebla will at least whet your appetite. Speaking of appetite, the city is best known for its culinary contributions. 

The Pueblan mole's chocolate notes and rich flavor make it a truly decadent sauce to add to any meal. It’s not just the mole that should be sampled, though. Try cemitas and pelonas , Pueblan sandwiches, for lunch, or dive into chalupas and memelas , corn-based snacks that are cooked in lard (keeping them incredibly juicy) and topped with spicy sauce, onions and melt-in-your-mouth-tender pork.

In between meals, the city of Puebla has several sites worth exploring including the Cathedral of Puebla , which is surrounded by colonial-era architecture and an ornate plaza. The Temple of Santo Domingo is incredibly detailed on the outside and inside is home to a chapel made almost entirely out of gold. Also in Puebla is the oldest library in the Americas, Biblioteca Palafoxiana .

Getting there: Take the bus from TAPO bus terminal to Puebla. It’s located just outside of the San Lazaro metro station on the east side of the city center. Buses run every 40 minutes and can be pre-booked on the ADO app. 

Shop for jewelry in Taxco

Taxco is a city in the hills of Guerrero, a state to the southwest of Mexico City. It’s about 170km (100 miles) from the city center and takes about two and a half hours to reach. A trip here should start early to avoid traffic.

Taxco used to be known around the world for its silver. When the Spanish arrived and discovered its mineral riches, they established the largest silver mine in the Western Hemisphere. 

As the extraction of silver grew in the area, so too did the art of crafting the silver into something beautiful. When the mines dried up, the shopkeepers and craftsmen stayed behind to continue making what is known around Mexico as some of the finest silver jewelry available. Tourists still flock here to have pieces specially made for loved ones.

In addition to shopping for bracelets and earrings, Taxco is also a beautiful city to explore. At the center of the city is the cathedral, the Templo de Santa Prisca , with its rose-pink stones on the outside and dark frescoes on the inside. 

Getting there: Many tour companies run day tours from Mexico City that include a stop in Taxco and the southern town of Cuernavaca. Buses also run from Terminal de Autobuses del Sur every hour. It takes roughly three hours by bus each way. Check bus times or pre-book tickets on the ADO app.

Take in the jaw-dropping views of Cuetzalan

This is more of a weekend trip from Mexico City, as it requires a little longer on the bus than some of the other destinations, but the gorgeous drive to Cuetzalan is one of the most exhilarating trips in the region and an adventure in itself. Beyond the Zaragoza turnoff, the road becomes dramatic, snaking up hills and around hairpin bends and offering breathtaking views. At the end of it all is the remote, humid town of Cuetzalan (Place of the Quetzals). Built on a precipitous slope, this striking town is famed for its vibrant festivals, weekend  voladores  performances and Sunday  tianguis  (street markets). On the clearest days you can see all the way from the hilltops to the Gulf coast, 70km (43 miles) away as the quetzal flies.

Start at the  zócalo,  Cuetzalan’s central plaza with a  kiosko  (rotunda). Three structures rise above the skyline: the plaza’s freestanding clock tower, the Gothic spire of the Parroquia de San Francisco to the northeast and, to the west, the tower of the French Gothic Santuario de Guadalupe, with its highly unusual decorative rows of  los jarritos  (clay vases) and design based on the sanctuary in Lourdes.

Restaurants are unfussy and family friendly with no upmarket options, and there are food stands at Mercado de Artesanías Matachiuj. Regional specialties, sold at many roadside stands, include fruit wines and smoked meats. Look for  xoco atol  (fermented rice drink),  yolixpa  (herbal liqueur) and  dulce de tejocote  (yellow hawthorn fruit in anise syrup). Try the regional  café de la sierra  while you can, as climate change has decimated crops in recent decades.

Getting there:  Vía buses run between Puebla and Cuetzalan (M$210, 3½ hours, hourly), leaving Puebla CAPU from 6:45am to 8pm, returning 5am to 6pm. It pays to check road conditions and buy your return bus tickets in advance during the rainy season. AU runs at least five buses a day, 9am to 10pm, from Mexico City’s TAPO bus station (M$394 to M$465, 5¾ to 6¼ hours), returning from Cuetzalan between 4:30am and 2:30pm. ADO offers additional services from Friday to Sunday.

Take a retreat in the charming village of Mineral de Chico

Another fantastic weekend getaway, the charming old mining village of Mineral del Chico is among the newest  pueblos mágicos . You can take an easy and very lovely day trip or weekend retreat from Mexico City to this "little" town or the nearly 30-sq-km (11.6-sq-mile) Parque Nacional El Chico, which was established as a reserve in 1898. Ask at local hotels or the park's visitor center, a 10-minute drive from the village, for details about guided outdoor activities.

In town, the views are wonderful, the air is fresh and the mountains have some great hiking among spectacular rock formations and beautiful waterfalls. Most Mexicans who visit on the weekend hardly leave El Chico's cute main street (virtually the whole town) – not surprising when the locals are this friendly, proving their motto " pueblo chico, gente grande " (small town, great people).

A street back in most directions from the main street, Corona del Rosal reveals views of the valley. A good spot is the maze of walkways behind the Capilla del Calvario, a rustic 19th-century chapel on Calvario, uphill from the church.

Mineral de Chico is an established weekend getaway and can feel like a ghost town during the week, but the available hotels often have discounted rates and you'll have the park trails almost entirely to yourself.

Getting there: From Mexico City, head to Pachuca, the capital of Hidalgo. There is an ADO 1st-class bus service to/from Mexico City's TAPO terminal, Terminal Norte, and Poza Rica that takes about two hours. From central Pachuca on Raza near the corner of Carranza (opposite the Mercado Benito Juarez) you can catch a colectivo (small bus) every 20 minutes from 8am to 6pm. It takes about 40 minutes from Pachuca up the winding roads to Mineral del Chico. 

By car, three scenic roads (Hwys 85, 105 and 130/132D) climb into the forested, often foggy, Sierra Madre Oriental. 

This article was first published Jul 4, 2019 and updated Oct 1, 2023.

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22 Best Day Trips From Mexico City to Take in 2024: Local’s Guide

Mexico City is one of the world’s most exciting and beautiful cities. From sprawling parks, ancient ruins, stunning cathedrals, rich culture, and a globally praised food scene, it’s easy to see why so many people visit it or call it home.  

However, like any place, sometimes you just want to get out and explore. And let’s face it. Mexico City is busy, congested, and hectic. Although its non-stop energy makes it one of the world’s most exciting places to live and visit, you’re still going to want a break once in a while. Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Mexico City that you can take in order to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and get away to phenomenal Aztec ruins, natural wonders, and charming pueblos. 

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Mexico City to Take in 2024

The best day trips from Mexico City offer a little something for everyone, whatever your interests or travel style. CDMX makes an excellent base for a wider exploration of Mexico and you could easily spend a month or two here, taking trips out to different gorgeous and culturally-rich places every couple of days. 

Public transport in the area is pretty good and comfortable, affordable air-conditioned buses run from various bus stations in the city center and out to different cities and tourist sites. Similarly, if you have the confidence to do so, renting a car in Mexico City gives you the freedom to hit the open road and explore this wonderful part of the country.

Thankfully, driving in Mexico is straightforward and relatively easy. Once you get out of Mexico City’s traffic, you’ll enter an open landscape just waiting to be experienced. 

Below are the best day trip destinations from the busy Mexican capital city. There are plenty of world-class destinations all within a few hours or less by car. You can choose between magical towns full of culture, rich natural areas, and historic sites filled with adventure and wonder. Continue reading to learn about the best day trips from Mexico City. 

30 minutes south

Just a short drive south of the capital is the town of Coyoacán. Here, you can visit the former house of Frida Kahlo , one of Mexico’s most celebrated artists and cultural figures. Her house’s blue exterior and long line of visitors are hard to miss. Fans of the Mexican artist’s work will love the museum inside the house, which features some of her paint brushes, furniture, and other items from her life. 

The city offers way more than just a Frida museum. Amongst the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture are beautiful parks like Fuente de los Coyotes and markets like Coyoacán Market are teaming with cultural items, amazing food, and street performers. There’s also a convenient tour bus that starts in the central Plaza Jardín Hidalgo and takes you around the city’s landmarks. Coyoacán feels like you’re in a small city far away from the hustle and bustle of the capital, yet you’re less than 12 kilometers away. 

Xochimilco Canals

50 minutes south

Few day trips are as popular for Mexico City locals or visitors as the canals of Xochimilco. When the Valley of Mexico was a large lake, Xochimilco was a series of important canals. Today, the canals attract thousands of visitors every week. You can rent a colorful gondola and take a ride through the artificial islands while listening to live mariachi music. 

The community around the canals is full of colorful shops, restaurants, street food, and beautiful gardens. You can spot rare birds and other wildlife along the banks of the canals. If you want to get away and unwind on the waterfront or enjoy a romantic day in nature, then Xochimilco will be the perfect day trip. 

Getting to Xochimilco from Mexico City

You can take an Uber from downtown Mexico City to Xochimilco for around 300 pesos (circa $15 USD) which is more than reasonable if there is a group of you. If you want to take public transport, you can take the metro line 2 to Tasqueña station and then take the Tren Ligero to its final stop: Xochimilco.

The Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas is the main spot where the gondolas depart from. There will be plenty of gondola operators standing around offering boat rides but do be prepared to haggle. 

You can typically expect to pay around 500-600 pesos for an hour for an entire boat. (That price is per boat, not per person). (Boats also depart from Embarcadero Cuemanco which is quieter but there are fewer boats). 

Recommended Xochimilco tours 

If you want to know that everything is organized in advance, you might want to reserve a spot on an Xochimilco tour. Some tour options that come highly recommended are detailed below.

Get them while they’re hot!

• Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM tour
• Xochimilco boat tour with lunch and drinks
• Xochimilco and Mexican party 

La Isla de Las Muñecas

If you are into all things spooky and macabre and are open to doing something a little different during your visit to Xochimilco, you can also request that your gondola driver take you out to the eerie island of the dolls ( La Isla de las Muñecas ). This small island in the heart of Xochimilco is filled with creepy dolls that hang from the trees and have been positioned around the woodlands. There is a sad and haunting tale about how the island came to be too. Legend has it that the caretaker of the island, a man by the name of Don Julian Santana Barrera found the body of a little girl that mysteriously drowned. After the encounter, he said he was ¨haunted¨ by her spirit and started purchasing dolls to appease her. Years later, he was found dead, face down in the water in the same place where the little girl died. Visitors have reported seeing the dolls blink and move their arms and legs. Stop by, if you dare… 

[Do note that most standard Xochimilco tours do not go to La Isla de Las Muñecas. You have to specifically request the stop.]

2 hours southeast

Just a short drive southeast of Mexico City is Cholula. The town is famous for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and rich history and culture that make it a Pueblo Magico, or magic town. 

Magic towns are designated and protected by the Mexican government for their cultural and historical qualities. Cholula’s history dates well before the mighty Aztec Empire. At its center was the giant Great Pyramid of Cholula, which is still the largest pyramid in the world (by volume). You can hike to the top of the pyramid where the 16th-century Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios stands. From here, you can experience breathtaking views of the volcanos Popocatépetl and Pico de Orizaba, Mexico’s highest peak. 

Like nearby Puebla de Zaragoza, Cholula is famous for its food and art. When you’re there, make sure to check out the Mercado Municipal San Pedro Cholula. Here, you can shop for souvenirs and clothes, and of course, try some of the delicious food from the diverse food stands. If you’re still hungry, take a stroll down the Plaza de la Concordia and visit one of the city’s popular restaurants. 

Puebla de Zaragoza

2 hours 15 minutes southeast

Puebla de Zaragoza , the capital of Puebla state, is one of the foodie capitals of Mexico. It’s also its fourth largest city. With beautiful colonial architecture, world-famous cuisine, and stunning cathedrals, you’ll love wandering around this iconic city. Puebla is just over two hours from Mexico City yet feels like it’s a world away. You can walk around its cobblestone streets, enjoying its famous street food or hop into one of its incredible museums. 

Puebla is the birthplace of Mexico’s national dish, Mole Poblano. There are several restaurants that specialize in this iconic dish. However, the city is rich in food history. Nothing beats a walk through the Calle de los Dulces, or candy street, to sample local treats like the town’s sweet potato candies known as camotes. 

Other famous Puebla dishes include tacos arabes, cemitas, chalupas, and molotes. Puebla also has a thriving bar scene, including the quirky La Pasita, which is famous for its shots of raisin liquor with goat cheese. If you want to try pulque, Mexico’s indigenous alcoholic drink, there are plenty of pulquerias to choose from too. Puebla is safe, provided that you take the same common sense precautions as you would when traveling to any large city. 

Getting to Puebla from Mexico City

It is easy to get from Mexico City to Puebla by bus and the journey takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Buses depart from various stations around CDMX including the main airport (MEX). That being said, if you are short on time, and you want to see Puebla as a day trip, returning the same evening, it might be preferable for you to participate in a tour. A handful of excellent Puebla tour options are summarized below. Many Puebla tours combine a Puebla de Zaragoza city tour with a trip to the Cholula pyramid. Book your place online in advance to avoid disappointment!

• From Mexico City: Puebla, Cholula and Tonanzintla day trip
• Puebla and Cholula day tour from Mexico City
• Puebla, Cholula and Chignahuapan full-day private tour

Teotihuacan

50 minutes north

Before the Aztec Empire, the city of Teotihuacan stood as a bustling capital and one of the largest cities in the ancient world. With its pyramids and avenues, the city was a center of commerce, art, food, and science. 

Today, its ruins offer plenty of history and beauty to experience. You can easily get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City. Once you’re there, you can walk along the Avenue of the Dead and gaze up at the towering Pyramid of the Moon. 

If you love history and ancient wonders, then Teotihuacan can’t be beaten. The town also hosts hot-air balloon excursions that take you high above the ancient ruins for a view that’s out of this world. 

When you go to Teotihuacan, bring plenty of water and sunblock. The UV rays are really strong and the grounds are largely out in the open. Take your time exploring the area. There are plenty of lesser-known sites within the grounds of Teotihuacan, so take your time to roam around. 

Recommended Teotihuacan tours 

Visiting Teotihuacan is an extremely popular Mexico City day trip. Many reputable local companies offer a day tour of the site, including pick-up and drop-off from your hotel. You can take the public bus from CDMX North Bus Station (Terminal del Norde) but it can be a bit awkward to get to the site using public transport depending on where you are staying in Mexico City as you will likely have to trek across the city first. Uber in Mexico City is affordable, but nothing beats exploring Teotihuacan with a knowledgeable local guide. A selection of reputable Teotihuacan tours is detailed below for your consideration. Book your place online, in advance to avoid disappointment!

• From Mexico City: Teotihuacan, hot air balloon ride and breakfast
• Teotihuacan small-group dawn tour from Mexico City
• Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine and Tlatelolco tour from Mexico City
• Skip-the-line ticket to Teotihuacan
• Teotihuacan early access and tequila tasting
• Afternoon tour of Teotihuacan from Mexico City 

Tepotzotlán 

1 hour north

Just an hour north of Mexico City is the Pueblo Mágico Tepotzotlán. Here, you can really feel you’ve escaped into history. 

In the town’s center is the beautiful Plaza Hidalgo. Surrounding this spacious plaza is the National Viceroyalty Museum and the 17th-century church Templo San Francisco Javier. Encompassing the plaza are tons of restaurants, bars, and gift shops. 

If you love architecture, you’ll love the nearby Tepotzotlán Aqueduct. This 18th-century aqueduct is over 400 meters long and was built to carry water from the nearby mountains to the town and its former Jesuit mission. In the area, you can enjoy all kinds of fun outdoor activities like zip lining and hiking. 

Exploring the area with a local guide can help you gain more history and context to the various sites that you see. You can also do a private tour that combines a trip to Tepotzotlán with visiting Tula and Teotihuacan. 

1 hour 30 minutes south

If you love ruins, arts & crafts, micheladas, and ice cream, then Tepoztlán is the perfect day trip from Mexico City. Known for the small temple ruins known as Tepozteco, the town has become synonymous with beautiful hikes and history. 

The Aztecs dedicated the town’s temple to the god of pulque Tepoztēcatl. Today, visitors can hike up the steep gorge and visit the small ruins overlooking the town and its surroundings. 

Pulque is the traditional alcoholic drink of Central Mexico and is made from the gooey fermented sap of the maguey plant. If you want to try it or are already a big fan, Tepoztlán is the perfect place to grab a cup or two. 

The Mexican food scene in Tepoztlán is incredible. Pre-hispanic dishes like roasted wild boar and roasted nopales (cactus) can be smelled all over the town. The weekend market is another amazing foodie destination worth visiting. However, the number one draw to the town for food lovers is the ice cream. Tepoztlán’s ice cream stands known as Tepoznieves serve dozens of exotic flavors of ice cream that are often said to be the best in Mexico. 

Cuernavaca 

The beautiful capital of Morales State is one of the most charming places to visit on a day trip from Mexico City. Cuernavaca, known as the ¨City of Eternal Spring¨ is famous for its architecture, food, and beautiful cityscape. The city originated several centuries before the Aztec Empire and has since become one of Mexico’s most important historical places. You can get lost in history by visiting ruins like the Zona Arqueológica Teopanzolco or the UNESCO-listed cathedral. If you love museums, visit the Museo Regional Cuauhnáhuac to see plenty of beautiful pre-Hispanic art, and then head over to the Museo Regional de los Pueblos de Morelos. 

In the famous Palace of Cortes, you can see spectacular vibrant murals by the esteemed Mexican artist Diego Rivera (the husband of Frida Kahlo). 

Many visitors love strolling through the green parks and avenues surrounding the Plaza de Armas. Here, you can take advantage of the city’s food scene and enjoy lively music and treats while taking in the fresh air. Cuernavaca’s climate is much warmer and wetter than Mexico City’s. Gardens and greenspaces are everywhere in the city. Some of the most famous include Borda Garden and Parque Ecológico San Miguel Acapantzingo. 

Cuernavaca is surely one of Mexico’s art hubs. For centuries, artists have come here seeking an escape from Mexico City. Today, it houses several famous art museums plus endless art stores and artisanal specialty shops. You can spend hours just exploring the wonderful art of this special city. 

Valle de Bravo, Estado de México

2 hours west

Heading west from the Mexican capital, you’ll pass stunning scenery that looks like it’s out of a storybook. Once you get to the Pueblo Magico of Valle de Bravo, you’ll see a beautiful lake surrounded by colorful buildings and towering trees. You can really live it up in this wonderful town. Whether you want to take a boat ride along the lakeshore or sample food at one of the town’s famous restaurants, you will have the best experience in this magical Mexico State town. 

For nature lovers, you can easily hike the Mirador la Peña trail or visit Velo de Novia Nature Reserve. Another wonderful outdoor location is the Reserva Estatal Monte Alto. Here, you can choose between several well-marked trails and explore the wonderful nature that surrounds the town. 

2 hours 30 minutes south

Few Pueblos Magicos are as beautiful as the hillside town of Taxco. Here, you can wander around the colonial architecture and the labyrinth-like network of winding narrow streets and passageways and gaze at the beautiful Santa Prisca de Taxco church. 

Simply taking the time to get lost and wander around on foot is one of the best things to do here. You can easily lose yourself for hours in the wonderful shops and silver stores, flower-covered buildings, and centuries-old architecture. Taxco is also a foodie’s paradise where you can enjoy all kinds of local food like the queso criollo cheese and stink bugs known as jumiles. 

The town was founded in the 16th century as a mining town. Today, it’s often called Mexico’s silver capital. You can still find plenty of shops that sell silver goods and jewelry. Make sure to visit the Museo de la Plateria. This popular museum is dedicated to the town’s mining past and offers a glimpse into what it was like living in Taxco during this time. 

Another major draw for tourists who visit Taxco is the holy week known as Semana Santa (Aka Mexican Easter). During this time in late March/early April, crowds gather to watch religious spectacles and processions throughout the town. 

Mexican street vendors set up their tianguis (stalls) on every corner and there are plenty of music and festivities to experience. 

Nevado de Toluca National Park

2 hours 40 minutes west

If you want to truly see nature in its raw beauty, then hit the road west from Mexico City to the beautiful volcano Nevado de Toluca. Mexico’s fourth-highest peak is a hiker’s paradise. You can enter the chilly alpine air and summit the tall volcano. You’ll be surrounded by nature and likely other hikers as you climb through one of Mexico’s most popular outdoor attractions. 

The well-marked trails take you around the crater of the extinct volcano. Along the way, you’ll see breathtaking views of central Mexico and the surrounding mountain ranges. At the summit, you can stare down into the massive crater and see the clear waters of the Laguna del Sol. 

Nevado de Toluca is cold, very cold! Pack enough warm clothes and hiking essentials for your trek to the top. Make sure to stock up on snacks, as there are no stores. This is adventure hiking at its finest, so be prepared for all-day trekking and some serious slopes. 

Bernal, Querétaro

3 hours north

Just over three hours north of the capital is Bernal, Querétaro. This town is a popular Pueblo Magico that draws tens of thousands of visitors a week. Once you visit Bernal, you’ll know why it made the list. It’s most famous for its 1400-foot rock monolith that stands high above the town. This towering natural structure is perfect for a long hike from the center of town. After your hike, make your way into the beautiful tree-lined streets surrounding the central plaza. 

Bernal is filled with food vendors, restaurants, and charming arts and crafts dealers. The town’s signature dish is the gordita, a thick corn tortilla stuffed with meat, vegetables, and cheese.

Bernal’s gorditas are usually made out of blue corn and cooked on a hot stone or comal. Besides its delicious gorditas, try the stuffed nopales. These grilled cactus pads are stuffed with vegetables, herbs, spices, and sometimes cheese. 

Santiago de Querétaro

3 hours northwest

The capital of Querétaro State is full of wonderful places to explore and things to experience. The city surrounds the Zenea Garden, where Spanish colonial architecture and historic buildings run along cobblestone streets. Buildings like San Francisco Church, Santa Rosa de Viterbo Church, and the 16th-century aqueduct, remind you of the incredible history of the city. Because of its architecture, culture, and history, the city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. 

Other places you should visit include the Querétaro Regional Museum, where you can see pre-Hispanic art and enjoy its beautiful architecture. Make sure to spend time walking around the city, visiting the wonderful boutique stores and cafes. If you love theater, check out a show at the historic Theater of the Republic. 

Many people don’t know that Santiago de Querétaro was once the temporary capital of Mexico after US troops invaded Mexico City during the Mexican-American War. It’s also where the famous Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed. This treaty gave a sizable chunk of Northern Mexico to the United States after the Mexican-American War. 

Tolantongo 

3 hours 30 minutes north

The springs, or Grutas de Tolantongo, are some of the most beautiful natural pools in Mexico. You can come here for a day and experience the wonderful natural surroundings and of course, the thermal hot springs. You can relax in dozens of hot spring pools, check out the thermal river, and explore a water-filled cave.

There are also tons of hiking opportunities and striking waterfalls to explore nearby. Once you’ve had your fill of the natural thermal water, you can relax and eat at one of the many restaurants and cocktail bars along the water’s edge. 

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

3 hours 40 minutes northwest

Few places in the world are as stunning as San Miguel de Allende. The drive is just under four hours and takes you through the beautiful rolling hills and farmland of Central Mexico. Once you reach the city, colonial architecture and the famous pink neo-Gothic church, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, will surround you. 

The city is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Pueblo Magico. It’s easy to see why once you enter the city. Its cobblestone streets are filled with festivities and excitement. Cultural landmarks like the main plaza and Jardín Allende are filled with musicians, street food vendors, and arts & crafts.

You can walk to almost every attraction in the city. Make sure to check out the Instituto Allende and the incredible Biblioteca Publica. You can find the best shopping at the Mercado de Artesanias, an open-air market filled with artisanal crafts and art. 

What makes San Miguel de Allende so popular, next to its architecture and culture, are its restaurants. The city’s specialties include salsa verde enchiladas, enmoladas, pozole, and much more. High-end dining is also very popular here. There are hundreds of restaurants and many chefs and food critics consider them to be some of the best in Mexico. San Miguel de Allende is also very, very safe and it is for this reason that so many international expats from across the world have decided to make the city their new home. 

Morelia, Michoacán

4 hours west

Morelia is the perfect long drive from Mexico’s capital. If you start early, you can still make this a day trip. On the way, you’ll drive through beautiful rural farmland, small towns, and photo-worthy natural areas like Cerro San Andrés. The area around Morelia is one of the world’s largest avocado-producing zones so stop along the way to grab some avocados from the small stands and markets on the way.  

Once you arrive, you’ll notice the city’s quaint vibe, stone fountains, and European colonial architecture. The city is perfect for walking around and visiting the 17th and 18th-century buildings with their pink stone exteriors. 

At the center of the city is the Plaza de Armas and the famous Morelia Cathedral. The charming streets are lined with restaurants and mom-and-pop shops selling local artisanal crafts and clothes that make excellent Mexican souvenirs . Make sure to grab a bite to eat from the small street food stands or check out one of the center’s charming cafes like Café del Teatro or La Guarecita Tostadores de Café y Cacao. 

Morelia is famous for its cuisine, and there are plenty of reasons why. When you can, try famous regional dishes like Michoacan Enchiladas, tamales, uchepos, and the most famous of all local specialties, carnitas. 

The city is also one of the best places in Mexico to experience the festivities of Dia de los Muertos. You’ll experience the entire city center filled with people in costumes, face paint, and elaborate floats. Marigold flowers and beautiful decorations cover the entire city center. If you’re visiting during this festive time, make sure to book your accommodation in advance.  

Hike Iztaccihuatl 

3 hours south Iztaccíhuatl is a 5,230 m dormant volcanic mountain that sits on the border between Puebla state and the state of Mexico, some 121 km southeast of Mexico City. The volcano, which lies within the Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park is the third-highest peak in Mexico and it makes for a rewarding hiking experience for those into nature and the great outdoors. Iztaccíhuatl means ¨white woman¨ in the Nahatual language because its snow-capped peaks are believed to resemble the outline of a pale woman sleeping. Local legend has it that Iztaccihuatl was a beautiful woman that fell in love with a warrior named Popocatepetl but died of grief when he was killed in battle. After that, the gods turned the two of them into volcanoes. You can now see the smoky peak of Popocatepetl from Iztaccíhuatl as it spews ash and lava. Locals like to joke that the two love birds continue to watch over each other to this day. Hiking the Iztaccihuatl volcano is not an easy feat but it is certainly a rewarding one. The time needed to get to the peak can vary depending on your physical fitness level, the weather, and the specific route you take. Normally, people ascend to the peak and back in 2 days, dividing each day into a couple of hours of climbing. 

However, if you are visiting on a day trip from Mexico City, you can of course just hike a partial trail at the base to say that you have experienced walking at Iztaccíhuatl. Before you start the trek, you need to register at the Iztaccihuatl-Popocatepetl National Park ranger station. The route takes you through luscious green pine forests, past glaciers, and alpine meadows. For safety, you might want to consider hiring a professional guide. 

Visit the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve 

A beautiful and unique phenomenon to witness on one of your day trips from Mexico City is the UNESCO-protected Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. If you happen to be traveling to Mexico between October and March each year, you can stop by to bear witness to the eight different colonies of gorgeous migratory butterflies that make the journey from the Rocky Mountains down to the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt pine-oak forests ecoregion every winter.

These pretty insects have been making this journey from Canada to Mexico for thousands of years. They travel in colonies of around 20 million insects (!) and break up their journey over several days, traveling several hundreds of miles at a time. Most adult monarch butterflies can only live for 3-4 weeks but a very special generation of this butterfly known as the ¨‘Methuselah¨ generation can live as long as 9 months. It is this species that store up fuel from the nectar they take from flowers and uses it to travel south for the winter.  

The protected area covers over 16,100 hectares and is just 50 pesos (circa $2.50 USD) to enter. As you walk among the flower and trees, you will see thousands upon thousands of orange and black monarch butterflies fluttering in the air. 

[Do keep in mind that this is a protected area. So, you should not touch the monarch butterflies or disturb them in any way, but observe and admire them from a respectable distance.] 

Hike up Cerro Ajusco 

One hour’s drive south

Cerro Ajusco (¨Ajusco Hill¨) is a 3,930 m lava volcano located just south of CDMX, in the city’s Tlalpan district. It is the highest point in the city and a great place to hike up in order to enjoy spectacular vistas and sunset views over the Mexican capital. There are numerous trails that you can choose from here, of varying lengths and intensities. One of the most popular options is a loop that starts and ends at the Albergue Alpino Ajusco hostel at the foot of the volcano. 

It takes you past the peaks of Pico de Águila (3880m) and Cruz del Marqués (3,936m) and takes approximately 5 hours to complete. You will see the Popocatepetl, Iztaccihuatl, and Nevado de Toluca volcanoes in the distance, as well as the glittering Mexico City skyline.

The Cerro San Miguel Trail is a shorter and less crowded option. It starts from the same place but leads you in the opposite direction and takes you up to the peak of Cerro San Miguel (3,785m). Last but not least, the Cerro Pelado Trail is perhaps the best choice if you are looking for an easy hike. It starts from the Rancho Magico theme park and leads you through ethereal-looking volcanic landscapes and gorgeous valleys as you make a gradual ascent to the top of Cerro Pelado (3,584m). The Cumbres del Ajusco National Park, where the Cerro Ajusco is located is a treat in itself. Besides hiking, you can enjoy horseback rides through the park, or just enjoy a simple picnic among the fir trees and mountain views with your travel companions. 

Huasca de Ocampo, Hidalgo State 

2 hours north 

Huasca de Ocampo in the state of Hidalgo is a charming town that awaits just two hours north of Mexico City. Traveling here feels almost like being transported back in time. Huasca de Ocampo is characterized by cobbled streets, colorful buildings painted in every color of the rainbow, and lively squares that act as rendezvous points for local residents to catch up and play cards with their friends. The town was the very first settlement in Mexico to be recognized as a pueblo magico back in 2001. I am willing to bet that even if you visit dozens of little towns and villages during your time in the country, Huasca de Ocampo will remain a firm favorite. Surrounded by the Sierra de Pachuca mountains, the nature outside of Huasca de Ocampo is as much of a highlight of visiting as the town itself. Just outside of the town, you can observe the breathtaking basaltic prisms. These tall columnar joints of basalt rock are a rare natural phenomenon that is only seen in a couple of other places around the globe – including the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland and the Devil’s Postpile in California.

A breathtaking waterfall cascades down the column which range in height from 75 to 150 feet.  They have been recognized as a natural wonder of Mexico (one of 13!) and were formed millions of years ago by the slow cooling of volcanic lava. You can also check out the Museo de Los Duendes (Museum of the Goblins) and learn a fascinating local legend about how Hidalgo residents believe that naked goblins play in and run through the forests surrounding the town. 

Full day tours of Huasca de Ocampo

• From Mexico City: magic towns and Basaltic Prisms tour
• Basaltic Prisms and Real del Monte tour from Mexico City

The Fireflies Sanctuary of Tlaxcala 

2 hours drive east The city of Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl awaits two hours to the east of Mexico City and can be a spectacular place to visit on a day trip from CDMX, particularly if you are traveling between June and August. These months mark the annual mating season for fireflies, who can be found in their millions in the forests around Nanacamilpa. Exploring the forest of the Santuario de las Luciernagas in the evening, when the skies are illuminated with the golden shimmer of millions of fireflies is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Mexico. Of course, you can also combine a visit to the firefly sanctuary with experiencing some of the other highlights of Tlaxcala. 

Head to the idyllic village of Val’Quirico, a Tuscan-styled village built to offer travelers a taste of Europe in the heart of Mexico. There is a fountain here called ¨La teta de abundantia¨ which is said to offer you wealth and abundance if you touch it, as well as excellent restaurants serving Italian, Mediterranean, and global-inspired cuisine. 

Tlaxcala is also home to La Malinche National Park (aka “Matlalcuéyatl¨). Surrounded by trees, wildflowers, and rolling green hills, it is a perfect spot for a walk or a picnic. 

Inside the park, you will find the extinct volcano La Malinche which is one of the oldest in Mexico. 

Final thoughts on the best day trips to take from Mexico City

You certainly won’t be short of things to do during your Mexico City itinerary but if you want to escape the chaos of the largest city in North America, plenty of exciting adventures await.  

Do you still have any questions or concerns about planning a trip to Mexico or embarking on these day trips from Mexico City? You might find these travel tips useful. 

Safe travels and enjoy Mexico! Xo 

Matthew Dursum

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Home » Travel Guides » Mexico » 15 Best Day Trips From Mexico City

15 Best Day Trips From Mexico City

Mexico’s capital has much to offer travellers, as the cultural and political hub of the country, though travellers shouldn’t expect beaches and ocean-side relaxing.

High-altitude Mexico City has great museums, fascinating ancient monuments, and much in the way of good eating and drinking to be explored.

Cosmopolitan and modern, visitors will definitely want to spend time familiarising themselves with all Mexico City has to offer before heading out to search beyond it.

However, there is so much to be explored within easy reach, that it would be rude not to take advantage of this.

Here are 15 of the best day trips to be taken from Mexico City.

1. Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan, City of the Gods, is an obvious first choice for a day trip from Mexico City.

The most well-known Meso-American site nearby to the capital, the Aztecs inhabited Teotihuacan from around the 13th century, though it’s a subject of debate who actually built it.

The Pyramid of the Sun is the third largest in the world, and can be climbed for some pretty epic views of the pyramid complex and surrounding scenery.

Stroll along to the smaller Pyramid of the Moon and find a good spot to watch the sunset, which lends an even more magical air to this impressive site.

To satisfy those who enjoy cultural activities, a day trip to visit the archaeological area of Cholula might be a good option.

Stop off first at the monastery of San Miguel in Huejotzingo, a good place to learn about the cultural history of Mexico, with their diverse influences from Arabic to Spanish.

Cholula also plays host to the world’s largest pyramid – by volume, rather than by height – which is certainly something to be ticked off the bucket list.

The colonial town of Puebla offers something a bit different: a true picture of Mexico’s colonial past, with its pretty tiled streets and impressive cathedral.

Puebla also gives insight into some of Mexico’s traditional industry, as visitors have the option to explore onyx and talavera factories.

Around two hours’ drive from Mexico City, Puebla is one of the most popular places to visit nearby.

It is also known for being a buzzing university town, and even more interestingly has an English castle deposited in the centre of its lake, the Ex-Hacienda de Chautla.

Most intriguing.

4. Volcano Hiking in Izta-Popo National Park

For those who fancy a more active day trip activity, hiking in Izta-Popo National Park is a great option.

If you feel like a change from the ordinary, head out to conquer the thankfully dormant Iztaccíhuatl volcano.

This day trip offers something totally different from the hectic streets of Mexico City: fresh air, breathtaking natural scenery, and a satisfying physical challenge.

At 5230m, Iztaccíhuatl is a fairly hefty challenge for the uninitiated, so think carefully before deciding how high you want to go.

A summit attempt is possible when you begin from the 4000 metre point, so the challenge is yours for the taking.

The views are well worth it.

Taxco is a pretty colonial town, located southwest of Mexico City in the state of Guerrero, renowned for its silver production.

Nicknamed the ‘silver city’, Taxco has a uniquely Old World atmosphere, with its colonial architecture and cute cobbled streets.

During your visit to the town, you can spend time admiring the artisanal silver crafts, peeking into the metal workshops, and learning about the history of the craft.

Another highlight of a Taxco visit is its large church, Santa Prisca, imposingly situated on the east side of the main Plaza, towering above the town.

6. Cuernavaca

Another attractive colonial town, Cuernavaca is the capital of the Mexican state of Morelos.

It is set in the foothills of the picturesque Tepozteco Mountains, south of Mexico City, and sits at an elevation of around 5000 feet.

Known as the ‘city of eternal spring’, Cuernavaca has many important monuments of note, which merit a dedicated tour if you want to learn more.

Marvel at the 16th century Palace of Cortes, now a museum, and then spend some time wandering through the walled monastery housing Cuernavaca Cathedral.

7. Cacahuamilpa Caves

From the town of Cacahuamilpa it is possible to visit the Cacahuamilpa caves, which are part of the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park.

These caves form the second largest cave system in the world.

For more than ten kilometres underground and up to 230 feet high, the tunnels snake in every direction, and the ever-changing rock sometimes morphs into recognisable shapes.

Try spotting fountains, faces, and even a cathedral among the stone.

Outside of the caves themselves, the national park has other forms of entertainment, including rock climbing and wandering around its gardens, but the caves are certainly the biggest draw.

The famous Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico are brought to life in Mixquic, where the rituals are laid out for all to see.

Streets carpeted with sawdust, altars hung with colourful cempasuchil flowers, dancers swaying in traditional dress to ancient songs: Mixquic truly embodies Dia de Muertos.

Surprisingly, this festival is not a sombre occasion despite the name: participants rather celebrate the lives of their loved ones, dancing, making offerings of fruit and bread, and painting their faces in a style now recognised around the world.

Mixquic is truly a fascinating day trip.

9. Tula and Tepotzotlan

The architecture of Tula and Tepotzotlan is perhaps some of the most impressive in Mexico.

Tula is famed for its Atlantes statues: more than five metres high and carved of stone, they provide an impressive welcome to the area.

Sadly the Tula people were pushed out by invading colonisers.

Tepotzotlan has fantastic baroque work displayed on its Jesuit church, the chapel of San Francisco Javier.

This impressive construction is inlaid with gold leaf, making it a striking sight.

There are also examples of the nuns clothing on display inside the building.

10. San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a safe, cosmopolitan, town, filled with buildings from the 17th/18th centuries.

The seat of Mexico’s cultural festivals of music and art, San Miguel de Allende has several UNESCO world heritage claims.

As you wander around downtown, you’ll get a stunning views of the city and its spires, and will get to learn more about the history of the place.

Don’t miss the Museum of Ignacio Allende, the Parish of San Miguel de Arcángel, San Francisco’s Temple and, Paseo del Chorro, each of which has its own important place in the history of the town.

11. Magical towns of Hidalgo

The towns of Real del Monte and Huasca provide a deeply interesting day trip from Mexico City.

First, head north to Real del Monte, an old mining town, where you can explore its streets and perhaps sample some of the Hidalgo cuisine.

Try pulque, a type of local bread.

Then move on to the ‘Pueblo Magico’, Huasca de Ocampo, where you will find the incredible Santa Maria Regla Canyon, with impressively tall – over 30m – basalt columns adorning its walls, and four waterfalls combining to feed the dam.

Afterwards, check out the Hacienda San Miguel Regla, which once housed the town’s most famous philanthropist.

12. Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

For a more unusual day trip from Mexico City experience, the Monarch butterfly sanctuary tour is a fantastic, fascinating off-beat option.

Before you scoff, or insist that butterflies are boring, know this: each year the butterflies migrate from Canada all the way down to Mexico.

If the idea of thousands of butterflies fluttering their way down the continent doesn’t impress you, I don’t know what will!

Take a tour around the sanctuary, learning about the life cycle of the butterflies, and then once you’re bored of educational diversions, head to the nearby Lake de Valle de Bravo, which provides opportunities for water sports.

13. Tlaxcala

A small state just east of Mexico City, Tlaxcala has many diverting options for the day tripper.

Its capital Tlaxcala City was heavily influenced by the Spanish colonisation, and as such provides a classic example of the picture-perfect colonial town: dusky orange buildings with white detailing around the sides.

Day trippers can take a look at the Franciscan monastery located up high at the edge of the town centre, no longer in use as a monastery but instead housing a museum.

There’s also the pretty San Jose parish church, the Tlaxcala museum of art, and the Capilla de los Indios to explore, as well as some fascinating archaeological ruins on the outer fringes of Tlaxcala state.

14. Santiago de Querétaro

One of the more chilled out day trips from Mexico is a visit to Santiago de Queretaro, capital of the state of Queretaro.

Known for being particularly safe and serene, Santiago de Queretaro has the usual offerings of architecture, museums and pretty streets to mosey around, but has an added bonus of being an up and coming area for wine – certainly one to watch.

The city’s historical centre was afforded UNESCO world heritage status in 1996, but another site worthy of note is its huge 18th century aqueduct, dominating the skyline around it.

Only around 50 minutes’ drive from Mexico City lies Toluca de Lerdo, the capital of the State of Mexico.

This is a great day trip option for culture vultures, as it is crammed full of fascinating and historic museums.

Covering topics as diverse as flora and fauna, arts, and Mexican Culture, Toluca de Lerdo provides a little educational boost for those who have grown tired of only embarking on relaxing pursuits.

One other highlight of the town is the Botanical Gardens, whose fantastic collection of stained glass windows provides an interesting companion to its abundant plants from around the world.

15 Best Day Trips From Mexico City:

• Teotihuacan
• Volcano Hiking in Izta-Popo National Park
• Cacahuamilpa Caves
• Tula and Tepotzotlan
• San Miguel de Allende
• Magical towns of Hidalgo
• Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
• Santiago de Querétaro

14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Mexico City

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Bryan Dearsley Updated Jan 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger spends several months each year traveling throughout Mexico.

Difficult though it may be to pull yourself away from the many fine historical sites of Mexico City , the area around this bustling capital contains many wonderful attractions worthy of day trips. While most of the best places to visit near Mexico City can be seen in a day, others are far enough away to require spending at least one or two nights there.

Regardless of the distance, most of these destinations are accessible via public transport or car. Guided tours of particular attractions of interest can also be arranged, either individually or as part of a package (customized tours are becoming increasingly popular), so you can enjoy some of the most beautiful countryside in Mexico, along with charming colonial towns and cities , Aztec ruins, cave systems , and some of North America's oldest historical sites easily and safely.

Discover all the best things to do near the city with our list of the top day trips from Mexico City.

Touring Teotihuacán

The aztec pyramid of tenayuca, touring the cities of puebla and cholula, tula and the tollán ruins, taxco de alarcon and the santa prisca church, grutas de cacahuamilpa national park, the mexican highlands: popocatépetl and iztaccíhuatl, the convent at tepotzotlán, the aztec ruins of malinalco, spanish-inspired morelia, san miguel de allende, valle de bravo, tlaxcala and cacaxtla, map of day trips from mexico city.

The largest Pre-Columbian site so far excavated in Mesoamerica, Teotihuacán (Náhuatl for "the place where man becomes God") lies 50 kilometers north of Mexico City and makes for an excellent day trip.

On the edge of the high-lying valley of Anáhuac and dating from around AD 600, this once-influential political, religious, and cultural center - now a UNESCO World Heritage Site - was reduced to ruins long before the arrival of the Spanish. There's much to see, from the museum with its displays and large model of the site to the four-kilometer-long Street of the Dead (Calle de los Muertos).

Other highlights include the Moon Pyramid ; the Citadel (Ciudadela); and the Temple of Quetzalcóatl , a large pyramid distinguished by its 366 sculptures, a rarity in a city in which very few stone sculptures have been found.

Also of interest is a rather chilling burial chamber with the skeletons of 18 priests murdered during a ritual sacrifice around AD 150.

For those who want to get a unique perspective of Teotihuacán, consider this Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan tour. Enjoy sweeping views over the valley and one of the best vantage points from which to view the historic pyramids. The tour includes a 30- to 50-minute flight in a balloon plus breakfast and round-trip transportation from Mexico City.

Just 12 kilometers north of Mexico City, and an easy day trip thanks to its proximity to the capital and its public transit networks, stands one of the country's most impressive pyramids, Tenayuca.

Dedicated to the sun cult, the core of this 13th-century building measures 31 by 12 meters across and eight meters high, while successive "casings" (the structure was re-clad every 52 years) saw the final structure measuring 66 by 62 meters across and 19 meters high.

The pyramid bears many similarities to Mexico City's Templo Mayor and was probably used for stargazing as it was aligned with heavenly bodies, a fact indicated by the existence of posts in the pyramid walls at the exact spot where the sun goes down on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes.

Highlights include the Serpent Wall (Coatepantli), which covers three sides of the building and comprises 138 serpent sculptures, and a vault decorated with skulls and skeletons symbolizing the setting of the sun.

Also worth a visit, and just three kilometers away, stands the 10-meter-high temple pyramid of Santa Cecilia Acatitlán .

A superb day trip option for those wanting to enjoy a smaller-city experience from Mexico City involves a scenic drive past famous Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes to Puebla and Cholula. While famous for its numerous beautiful old churches, the must-visit place of worship in Cholula is the Santa María de Tonantzintla , a unique Baroque-style edifice whose design was heavily influenced by the local indigenous populations.

Highlights include a look at the richly decorated interior (gold seems to be everywhere!), an indicator of the wealth of the congregation of this historic building. From here, it's an easy trip to Puebla. Referred to by locals as the "City of Angels," Puebla is a delight to explore, whether for shopping (it has a busy crafts market) or for grabbing a delicious traditional meal from a street vendor or restaurant.

The historic downtown core is also worth exploring, with notable features being the Plaza de Armas, the cathedral, and the Church of Santo Domingo.

Tour: A great way to experience these two cities is on the Puebla and Cholula Full-Day Tour from Mexico City , which includes a guided tour of these top attractions, a walking tour of Puebla's historical district, and samples of Mexican cuisine.

Two hours from Mexico City by road is the city of Tula, home to the remains of Tollán, the Toltec capital, and the perfect excuse for an excellent road trip.

Believed to have been influenced by the Maya civilization more than 1,200 kilometers away in Yucatán, this splendid ancient site was first inhabited around the early 7th century and in later centuries by the militaristic Toltecs, who adopted elements of the artistic skills of the Mayas. They attributed special significance to eagles and jaguars and are also believed to have instituted mass human sacrifices to appease the gods.

Excavations have revealed the city once covered 12 square kilometers and supported a population of 60,000 people. Highlights include a series of intricately carved columns, as well as colossal statues known as the Atlantes, now assembled on the platform of the temple pyramid and used to support the roof of the temple.

Also of interest, and providing a sense of the site's scale, is the main square with its five-story-high stepped pyramid on which the Temple of the Morning Star once stood, and the Burnt-down Palace (Palacio Quemado), formerly composed of several large rooms, columned halls, and courtyards and notable for its two Chac-mool sculptures and a wall with painted reliefs depicting a procession of richly adorned noblemen.

Set in a spectacular location on the side of a series of hilltops 170 kilometers south of Mexico City, Taxco is a popular tourist destination due to its colonial low tiled houses, tiny squares, quaint alleyways , and numerous secluded corners.

Highlights include visiting the beautiful Santa Prisca Church (San Sebastián y Santa Prisca), a picturesque place of worship in Plaza de la Borda, one of the town's smaller squares. Completed in 1758, this masterpiece of Churrigueresque architecture includes a main entrance flanked by a pair of Corinthian columns enclosing a row of sculptures and the Pope's triple crown. The building's elaborate ornamentation includes statues, weapons, foliage, shells, ribbons, and cherubim and is topped by a dome covered with blue and yellow tiles.

The interior is equally delightful with its superbly carved, painted, and gilded scenes depicting figures of apostles, angels, and saints in the middle of richly fashioned motives of flowers and birds.

Although located 160 kilometers to the south of Mexico City along an extremely windy route, a sightseeing trip to Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park - about 70 kilometers drive from the picturesque town of Cuernavaca - is well worth the effort.

The big attraction in this lovely park is the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caverns , one of the world's largest cave systems , along with a smaller network known as the Grutas of Carlos Pacheco. You'll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular subterranean landscapes anywhere, including long tunnels carved out by underground rivers, as well as a variety of fascinating dripstone formations extending through 16 chambers (one of the biggest is 80 meters wide and 77 meters high).

Since their discovery in 1835, numerous tunnels have been driven into the caves to a depth of more than 16 kilometers without even reaching the limits of the cave system. A variety of guided tours are available, including opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling.

Some of the most interesting scenery within an easy drive of Mexico City can be found in the volcanic belt that crosses Mexico from the Pacific to the Atlantic, forming the southern edge of the extensive Mexican Highlands.

In the early and middle tertiary period, enormous lava flows poured over the land, and during the second phase of eruptions, which began in Pliozän and continue to this day, the enormous mountains of Popocatépetl (5,452 meters) and Iztaccíhuatl (5,286 meters) came into being.

These two majestic snow-covered peaks of the Sierra Nevada form the mountain ridge separating the high valley of Mexico and the plateau of Puebla, and since 1994, Popacatépetl has frequently spewed forth fragments of rock, ash, and smoke.

In addition to these spectacular mountains are a variety of interesting manmade structures, including a number of 16th-century monasteries designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While an ascent of the volcanoes doesn't require great climbing ability, it's best to secure the services of a trained guide with the skills and equipment to ensure your trip is a safe one. A great option is to book an Iztaccíhuatl volcano hiking tour departing Mexico City. Highlights of these full-on 12-hour expeditions designed for outdoor enthusiasts include a three-hour hike to a point just below the 5,181-meter-high summit of the volcano, with plenty of chances to take in the amazing views of the surrounding area.

Also of interest (though part of a separate or alternative day trip is Popocatépetl-Iztaccíhuatl National Park , home to the Paso de Cortés (Cortés Pass), the route Hernán Cortés and his conquistadors took on November 3rd, 1519, as they marched from the coast of the Gulf of Mexico to Tenochtitlán.

Tepotzotlán, a pretty little colonial town located just 40 kilometers from downtown Mexico City, makes for an easy and fun day trip offering numerous points of interest. Once famous as a center for spiritual instruction, the town's most impressive buildings are its old convent, which now houses a museum of religious art (Museo Nacional del Virreinato), and a well-restored church considered to be one of the jewels of Mexican Baroque architecture.

The façade of the convent church, built between 1628 and 1762, is among the most outstanding examples of the Churrigueresque style in Mexico and is notable for the harmonious arrangement of its figures, niches, and sculptures.

Other highlights include its seven magnificent altars carved of wood and painted in gold, and a splendid octagonal room, the Camarín, one of the finest examples of Mexican High Baroque art, and exquisite ceiling art painted by local Indian artists.

About 95 kilometers southwest of Mexico City is the archaeological site of Malinalco on the Cerro de los Idolos (Hill of Idols). Perched 220 meters above the village of the same name, in a lovely region of green forests and rugged rock formations, this Aztec site is unique for having one of the very few rock-cut Pre-Columbian structures in Mesoamerica.

Highlights include the Templo Principal , hewn from the rock and also known as the House of the Eagle (Cuauhxicalli), used for the initiation of members of the religious military orders known as the Eagle Knights and the Jaguar Knights (evidence of carved jaguars are still visible on the staircase).

Also of interest is the entrance to the circular shrine, carved to resemble the jaws of a snake and flanked by a serpent-throne. Another worthwhile attraction is the much larger Building IV , partly hewn from rock, where a remarkable wooden drum (tlapanhuéhuetl) with finely carved figures and glyphs of the eagle and jaguar associated with the Messenger of the Sun was found (it's now in the museum in Tenango).

Although 290 kilometers west of Mexico City, Morelia, capital of the state of Michoacán, is worth spending a day visiting if you're looking for fine examples of early Spanish colonial architecture. The city was founded in 1541 on the right bank of the Rio Grande de Morelia, and has managed to retain its distinctive Spanish colonial character.

Begin your visit in the beautiful Main Square (Plaza de los Mártires or Zócalo). Lined on three sides by arcades, its east side is completely dominated by the magnificent 17th-century Baroque-style cathedral , built in pinkish-brown trachyte with a superb azulejo-decorated dome.

Its interior also contains several notable features, including the Neoclassical retablos, the silver font, a crucifix by Manuel Tolsá, an imposing organ built in Germany in 1903, and a number of paintings in the chancel and the sacristy attributed to leading Mexican painters of the early 18th century.

Also of interest is the nearby Clavijero Palace dating from 1660, as well as one of the country's last surviving aqueducts . A distinctive local landmark, the aqueduct was completed in 1789, measures 1,600 meters in length, and is supported by 253 arches.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Morelia

Although located some 270 kilometers northwest of Mexico City, the pretty town of San Miguel de Allende is worth taking the time to explore. Nestled on a hill and extending down into the pleasant valley below, this colonial town is well worth an extended stay in order to properly explore its attractive old houses with their patios and gardens hidden behind simple façades.

Along with its charming townscape, its beautiful surroundings and pleasant climate have attracted many foreigners, either as visitors or permanent residents, resulting in the town becoming a center of intellectual and artistic life (predominantly in the spheres of painting, sculpture, pottery, music, literature, and drama).

A highlight is the exquisite Church of El Oratorio de San Felipe Neri . Founded in 1712, its Indian features are clearly evident on its pink stone façade, particularly in the five statues of saints standing in niches. Also of interest is a painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe by Miguel Cabrera, along with 33 superb paintings detailing the life of St. Felipe Neri, also attributed to him.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

West of Mexico City sits a shimmering jewel wreathed in mountains. The lake town of Valle de Bravo is perched on the shores of the expansive Lake Avandaro , approximately 156 kilometers from Mexico City, roughly a two-hour drive.

The lake on which Valle de Bravo sits is manmade, but is truly spectacular to behold. Valle de Bravo is a popular weekend getaway for the well-heeled of Mexico City, who are drawn to the colorful country cabins, golf courses, hotels, and, of course, life on the lake.

While visiting Valle de Bravo, you won't want to miss the St. Mary's Chapel , known for its historic architecture and Spanish design. The archaeological museum is also a must, as it holds 300 pieces that come from the 3,000 archaeological sites found only in the State of Mexico. A handicraft market is popular, as well, for its souvenirs of wood, clay, blown glass, or wrought iron. And then there is the lake, known for water skiing, kayaking, speedboats, sailboats, and even catamaran tours.

Tour: This Discover Valle de Bravo tour gives a little taste of everything. It includes a visit to the Vero de Novia Waterfall, a beautiful waterfall with an impressive 35-meter drop. It also includes a visit to St. Mary's Chapel, a walk through the Barrio de Santa Maria Ahuacatlan, and a yacht cruise around the lake.

A laid-back escape for residents of Mexico City, the charming town of Cuernavaca is best known for its nickname, the "City of Eternal Spring." That's because the weather in Cuernavaca is always as close to perfect as it gets.

Located in the state of Morelos, Cuernavaca is recognized by its elaborate estates, wrought-iron gates, bustling restaurants, and walkable downtown streets. Cuernavaca makes a great homebase from which to explore the ruins of Xochicalco, a preserved fortified city that bears resemblance to many of Mexico's other Indigenous archaeological sites — Teotihuacan, the great Mayan cities, among others.

Cuernavaca is approximately 86 kilometers south of Mexico City and is easily accessible by road and bus.

The state of Tlaxcala sits directly to the east of Mexico City. Though not as often visited as other neighboring states, Tlaxcala provides a unique glimpse into the culture and heritage of Mexico. In fact, Tlaxcala played an important role in Mexico's history when Hernan Cortez forged an alliance with the Tlaxcalan people, which was the catalyst to the destruction of the Aztecs.

Tlaxcala is easily accessible by car or bus. Be sure to combine the visit to Tlaxcala with a stop at the ancient ruins of Cacaxtla. Cacaxtla is an Indigenous site that dates back to the Epiclassic period between 650-900 CE. Its rise to power came after the fall of Teotihuacan and Cholula. Here, you will be able to see some of the most beautiful mural paintings across many of the well-preserved temples.

More on Mexico

• Mexico City
• Copper Canyon
• Guadalajara
• Huasteca Potosina
• San Cristóbal de las Casas
• San Miguel de Allende
• 5-Day Mexico City Itinerary
• 10-Day Baja California Road Trip
• 10-Day Chiapas Road Trip
• 10-Day Copper Canyon by Train
• 10-Day Guanajuato Road Trip
• 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip
• 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip
• Cozumel Island
• Isla Mujeres
• Holbox Island
• Playa del Carmen
• Punta Allen
• Puerto Escondido
• Hot Springs
• Mayan Ruins
• Mountains and Valleys
• Wildlife Experiences
• Best Mexican Foods
• Best Mexican Movies
• Best Books about Mexico
• Mexican Artists
• Mexico Fun Facts
• Mexico Historical Facts
• Mexican Holidays
• Day of the Dead in Mexico
• Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico

22 Best Day Trips from Mexico City 2024

• by Jake Perry
• May 12, 2024

Are you looking for places to visit near Mexico City? Having spent lots of time exploring Mexico city and its outer vicinity, I’ve curated this list of best day trips from Mexico City .

Right smack in the very center of Mexico lies the sprawling, mega metropolis: Mexico City also known as CDMX (Ciudad de Mexico). Those who aren’t big on urban pursuits will be glad to know there’s a wide spectrum of day trip options ranging from mountain hikes to hot spring dips, from volcano treks to getting lost in pueblos magicos (magic towns).

CDMX is one of the biggest cities on Earth, so getting out for the day almost feels like you’re visiting another country. Its location in the heart of Mexico also means you can head off in any direction and see ancient Mayan pyramids, colonial towns, and even wildlife reserves, in less than two hour’s drive.

From the Michoacan monarch butterfly reserves to the firefly forests in Valle de Bravo, the colonial towns of Taxco to the Iztaccihuatl Volcano, here are our selections of the best day trips from Mexico City!

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Mexico City

Top things to do in teotihuacan, 2. go on a boat in xochimilco, 3. climb cerro ajusco, 4. explore the city of toluca, 5. wander around cuernavaca, 6. feast in pachuca de soto, mexico travel requirements, 7. see the tula ruins, 8. visit the mining town, mineral de monte, 9. experience the magic of tepoztlán, 10. see millions of monarch butterflies, 11. admire the basaltic prisms, 12. visit tlaxcala firefly sanctuary , 13. walk around puebla & cholula, 14. go underwater at las estacas, 15. hike in iztaccihuatl volcano, 16. get lost in taxco, 17. explore cacahuamilpa caves, 18. soak in grutas tolantongo, 19. see the peña de bernal, 20. hike in nevado de toluca national park, top things to do in san miguel de allende, 22. wander around morelia.

I’ve handpicked 22 of the best day trips from Mexico City and listed them in the order of how far they are, starting with the nearest day trip. I also included how to get to each place using public transport or in some cases, on day tours.

Mexico City Day Trips : 1+ Hour Away

1. see the teotihuacan pyramids .

• Travel time : 1 hour
• Price : Entrance is 80 MXN (US$4) for adults and free for children under 13 years old
• How to get there : Make your way to México Central Norte then from there get the bus from terminal 2 to Teotihuacan. Alternatively, take an Uber for around US$40/way or book an early-access tour that includes transfers .

The Teotihuacan Pyramids are at the #1 spot, and rightfully so because it’s one of the most impressive ancient ruins in Mexico. At just 1 hour outside Mexico City, Teotihuacan is surprisingly easy to visit on your own. Read my guide on visiting Teotihuacan .

The ancient site is home to the Pyramid of the Sun, one of the largest pyramids in Mesoamerica – and you can actually climb it! When you reach the top, the panoramic views of the Valley of Mexico are breathtaking. Other spots worth exploring are the mysterious Pyramid of Moon, and the forgotten Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

I went on a hot air balloon flight over Teotihuacan , it was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had in Mexic o. The tour ($152) included transportation from Mexico City, admission to Teotihuacan, an English-speaking guide, and a hot air balloon ride over the pyramids.   Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Climb the Pyramids

From the top of the pyramids, you’ll see a panoramic view of the Teotihuacan complex. The Pyramid of the Sun gives a stunning view of the Avenue of the Dead. Climbing up the steep steps got my heart beating out of my chest, but it’s worth the effort. 

Visit the Museums

I highly recommend making time to visit the museums, which are actually easy to miss. They have interesting exhibits and informative explanations, along with air conditioning, which can be a godsend on hot days. The  Teotihuacan Cultural Museum  (next to Gate 5) displays more than 600 artifacts found in the archaeological site .

Check Out the Palace of the Jaguars

Believed to be a meeting spot during the Teotihuacan civilization, this stone-built structure is home to many ancient mural art. Due to its location next to the Pyramid of the Moon, it’s said to be the most sacred place in Teotihuacan.

💡  TIP: After visiting Teotihuacan your stomach should be rumbling from all that walking. So be sure to stop off at La Gruta Restaurant for an unforgettable meal in a cave. 

• Price: Boats range from 200-400 MXN/US$10-20 per hour
• How to get there : Head to ​​Pino Suárez station and catch the train south to Tasquena. From here you can jump on the tram which takes you into the center of Xochimilco. Alternatively, book a tour that includes Xochimilco .

Located just an hour to the south, this is the second closest day trip from Mexico City. Xochimilco is Mexico’s answer to Venice, a city made up of ancient canals. The remnants of an Aztec transportation system, the Xochimilco canals are best explored by boat.

Colorful, traditional wooden boats called trajineras plow the waterways, bringing tourists into the water channels and past floating islands. You’ll often be serenaded by a mariachi band as you float down the canals. There are also vendors selling steaming tamales and giant jugs of beers on the boats. It’s all very carnival-like, with a fiesta atmosphere!

💡  TIP : The boat vendors will try to overcharge you by saying the price is per person. It is not. It is per boat. Make sure to book at the official ticket office.

• Travel time : 1:15 hours
• How to get there : This half-day tour includes transfers and a guide. Otherwise, jump on the train from Balderas and get off at Universidad. Then hail a cab to reach the start of the trail. It’ll cost around $200MXN/$10USD for the taxi journey each way.

With a steep climb of over 12,890 feet (3,900m), this day hike is an excellent day trip from Mexico City for avid hikers and the outdoorsy types. The lava domed Cerro Ajusco is part of Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco and the national park is crisscrossed with hiking trails and off-road biking paths.

One of the highest points on the Ajusco Volcano is the Pico de Aguila (Eagle Peak), a summit you can reach in approximately 2 hours. The trailhead starts at the Abrevadero restaurant and from here, it’s a steady uphill hike to the summit. The views from the top are incredible and on a clear day, you’ll get a perennial view of Mexico City. Follow the hiking route here .

💡  TIP : Make sure to wear sunscreen and take plenty of water as there is very little shade on the hike up. Avoid hiking alone for safety reasons. 

• Travel time : 1:20 hours
• Price : Book a tour from Mexico City for 2,350 MXN/US$115
• How to get there : Catch a bus from the Observatorio or Cuatro Caminos stations in Mexico City. Book your bus tickets here .The ride costs around 100-150 MXN/US$5-$7.50 and takes 1 hour. 

Toluca is the capital of Mexico state, and it’s brimming with both historical sites and modern culture. Much of the colonial architecture of the city still stands so it’s worth having a walk along the city’s streets to get your bearings and admire the buildings. 

Toluca was founded by the Matlatzincas and some of the preclassical structures built during this era still stand. A short distance from the center are the Calixtlahuaca ruins . The large ancient city was a powerful political capital before being conquered by the Mexica or Aztec empire in 1478

After exploring the ruins, make sure to try Toluca’s famous carnitas (slow-cooked pork) dishes. Some of the meat cuts are pretty unusual, but if you’re open to testing new textures, then try the pork intestines. I tried a pig snout taco here too; not something I plan on trying again if I’m being honest. 

• Travel time : 1:30 hours
• Price : Book a day tour for 1,000 MXN (US$50)
• How to get there: Head to Tasquena & San Lázaro stations in Mexico City to get a bus to Cuernavaca. The bus takes around 1 hour and drops you off outside Cuernavaca Casino. It’s about 200 MXN/US$10 each way. 

Known for its year-round warm weather, Cuernavaca is popular spot for Chilangos (as locals from Mexico City are affectionately called) on the weekends. There are plenty of things to do here including visiting the Palacio de Cortes, strolling through the Jardin Borda , or exploring one of the many nearby ancient ruins such as Xochicalco.

It’s easy to get from Mexico City to Cuernavaca and you can easily combine the day trip with a visit to Taxco and a mining town. We booked this day tour and were really happy with our guide. We were the only foreigners (the rest were Mexicans) and that felt special!

The city is eclipsed by the Tepozteco Mountains, just a short drive outside of the city. The hiking trails are perfect for those looking to immerse in nature.

• Travel time : 1:35 hours
• Price: Book a private transfer to Pachuca for 1,300 MXN (US$65)
• How to get there : From the Mexico City North station, you can take a bus directly to Pachuca de Soto. It costs about $160MXN/$8USD. Book your bus tickets here .

This is one of the best Mexico City day trips for foodies! Pachuca de Soto is a city located in the state of Hidalgo, just under two hours from Mexico City. It’s known for its colonial architecture and beautiful churches, but most importantly, traditional Mexican food.

Pachuca de Soto is famous for its chiles en nogada (stuffed poblano peppers in a creamy walnut sauce). Widely known as the national dish of Mexico , chiles en nogada is such a special treat, because it’s prepared with seasonal ingredients such as walnuts and pomegranate. It’s only available at the end of summer (August and September). Many of the local eateries serve this food, but my favorite is Mina La Blanca Restaurant.

I recommend combining this day trip with a visit to the Real de Monte and Pachuca . They are all the jewels of Hidalgo and make for a diverse Mexico City day trip that combines nature with culture and history.

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.
• Travel time : 1:40 hours
• Price : Entrance to Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl is 75 MXN/US$4
• How to get there : Take the bus from Mexico Central Norte to Tula De Allende which costs about 160 MXN/US$8. The ruins are a 30-minute walk from the city center or a taxi ride of 100 MXN/US$5. Alternatively, book this day tour from Mexico City .

A major historical hotspot, Tula de Allende was once the capital city of the ancient Toltec Empire. The main attraction here is the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, considered to be one of the finest examples of Toltec architecture. Four basalt statues of Toltec warriors stand on the top of the pyramid, making for a striking pose.

What Tula lacks in size and grandeur, compared to nearby Teotihuacan ruins , it makes up for in the intricacy of the carvings . It’s a relatively small archaeological site, but it has a dramatic setting. You can climb to the top of the pyramids and feast on phenomenal views of the sweeping Tula Valley beneath your feet.

Most people combine a visit to Tula with Tepotzlan. This day tour brings you to both and includes a guide and transfers from Mexico City. Skip to my section on Tepotzlan.

• Travel time : 1:50 hours
• Price : Entrance to Acosta mine is 55 MXN/US$2.70
• How to get there : Book a day tour here . From Mexico city North station, catch a bus to Pachuca then get a taxi to Mineral del Monte again for around $200MXN/$10USD.

Mineral de Monte (also known as Real del Monte) is a pueblo magico renown for its mines which were once used to extract silver and other minerals. These days the mines are no longer in operation but you can visit them and see what life was like for the miners back in the day.

The two main mains you can visit are Mina de Acosta and Mina La Dificultad . Both mines have museums showcasing their history, plus original 19th-century machinery. Dating from the 1850s, the Panteón Inglés is a cemetery with the graves of English miners and other town inhabitants. 

The English-style mining town is also famed for its traditional pastries and the English pantheon. You cannot leave without tasting the pasties (from the Cornish “pasti”), a flaky pastry that could be eaten on the go. Combine a trip here with visits to Pachuca and the Basaltic Prisms with this day tour .

• Price : Book a day tour for 970 MXN/US$48
• How to get there: Catch a bus to Tepoztlan from Mexico Taxqueña station on the outskirts of the city. The bus drops you off a little out of town and it’s about a 15-minute walk to the center, but the scenery on the walk is insane.

Tepoztlan, located just outside the large city of Cuernavaca, is yet another magic towns that many visit on day trips from Mexico City. It’s reputed as the birthplace of Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec feathered serpent god.

Tepoztlán’s most famous attraction is the Temple of Tepozteco . It sits on a clifftop in the Sierra de Tepoztlán that overlooking the city. The small and unassuming temple was built in homage to the Aztec god of pulque, Tepoztecatl. Pulque is Mexico’s oldest alcoholic beverage made from the pulp of cactus. The hike up to the temple is a proper workout, but the views from the top are definitely worth the climb.

Tepoztlan center is made up of narrow cobblestoned walkways, with papel picado (paper flags) often flapping overhead. It has a large market with lots of locally sourced produce, hand-crafted souvenirs, and many taco stands. I had some yummy roasted grasshoppers with my tahini-paste-ladened michelada at the markets and highly recommend them! 

Mexico city Day Trips: 2+ Hours Away

• Travel time : 2 hours
• Price : Entrance to the sanctuary is 80 MXN/US$4 or book a day tour for 1200 MXN/US$60
• How to get there : Catch a direct bus to Angangueo from the eastern bus terminal in Mexico City. From Angangueo, you can take a local bus or cab southwards, to reach the trail head of El Rosario.

This is a must-do day trip from Mexico City for nature lovers! Migrating monarch butterflies travel in colonies of about 20 million insects in Michoacan every November to March . It’s a sight to behold and truly one of the most spectacular natural wonders of Mexico .

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawling across an area of over 56,000 hectares. The two sanctuaries that are open to the public are El Rosario (near the town of Ocampo) and Sierra Chincua ( near Angangueo). It’s not easy to get to these sanctuaries, so I suggest renting a car or booking a day tour .

If you visit at the beginning of the season, there will be fewer tourists there. Plus, it’s the best time to visit Mexico City weather wise, and you get to experience Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico City ! Read my guide on how to see monarch butterflies in Mexico .

• Travel time : 2:20 hours
• Price : Entrance is 50 MXN/US$2.5 plus 100 MXN/$5 for the car park
• How to get there : You can catch the bus to Pachuca from Mexico City North then take a taxi to Huasca de Ocampo which will take around 30 minutes and cost just north of 400MXN/US$20.

The basaltic prisms of Santa María Regla are a series of columns formed by cooled lava. These geometric structures were formed 2.58 million years ago, when a volcano erupted and its lava cooled upon meeting the shallow river that used to flow here. You can admire the prisms from various viewpoints, but the best is from the waterfalls beneath.

They are part of the Comarca Minera, a UNESCO geopark with pools and all the facilities you’ll need. The prisms themselves are located just outside of town but there’s also a lot to see in Huasca de Ocampo itself, from ziplining across Peña del Aire to swimming in the trout lake at Bosques de la Truchas.

TIP : Huasca de Ocampo is a town that is a bit further than Mineral del Monte which in turn is next to Pachuca. It would be a good idea to make a weekend of it and stay overnight to visit all three places and their sights. 

• Travel time : 2:30 hours
• Price : Entrance to firefly sanctuary is 100 MXN/US$5 to 200 MXN/$10
• How to get there : You can catch the bus from Mexico City East to San Martin (1.5 hours). From there, take a taxi to the firefly sanctuary. Alternatively, book a day tour here .

Tlaxcala is the smallest state in Mexico, and yet it’s home to some of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Mexico. The main appeal of Tlaxcala, however, lies in the firefly sanctuary.

Every year, millions of fireflies flock to the Santuario de las Luciernagas ( Nanacamilpa   Firefly Sanctuary ) in droves during their mating season: from June to August . The entire forest gets lit up with the glow from these gorgeous tiny creatures and it’s absolutely stunning!

This natural phenomenon only happens during a short window of time, so you’ll need to time this day trip from Mexico City in summer if you really to see it! The light show is so consistent you can set your watch by it — the best viewing times are from about 8:30 to 9:30pm.

TIP : Technically, you’ll need to stay the night in Tlaxcala to experience the magic of the firefly sanctuary, but at 2.5 hours from Mexico City, it is still doable as a day trip for the hardcore travelers. Book this tour that includes a night’s stay in an hacienda!

• Travel time: 2:30 hours
• Price : Book a day tour for 1,150 MXN/US$56
• How to get there : Take the bus to Puebla from the eastern bus terminal in Mexico City. It takes around 2 hours and costs 160MXN/US$8. From Puebla, you can get to Cholula by taxi in under 15 minutes. 

Unknown to many, Cinco de Mayo (one of the most important Mexican holidays ) is largely celebrated in Puebla, as it commemorates a battle that took place right here. If you happen to be in Mexico City during Cinco de Mayo, we highly recommend taking a day trip to this brightly colored colonial town!

Puebla is a mid-sized city blessed with spectacular architecture and plenty of historical monuments. The most notable buildings are the Puebla Cathedral and the Palacio Municipal (Town Hall). Just outside of Puebla, Cholula is famous for having the largest pyramid in Mexico .

The Great Pyramid of Cholula is actually bigger than the famous Teotihuacan pyramids . However, unlike them, the Cholula pyramid is not visible as it’s covered by earth and grass. Even if you haven’t heard of it, you’d have seen pictures of the yellow Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios sitting majestically on top of the pyramid, backdropped by the snowcapped Popocatepetl Volcano.

• Price : Entrance is 460 MXN/US$23, activities cost more
• How to get there : Just outside of the city’s border is Mexico City Taxqueña station, catch a bus there to Chiconcuac and then a 30-minute taxi directly to Las Estacas Parque Natural. 

Visiting Mexico City in summer? Las Estacas makes a great day trip from Mexico City if you’re looking to escape from the heat. The natural park has a series of natural pools, springs, and even islands all formed by the Yautepec River. It’s all pristine, freshwater that flows through the park.

You can go swimming, scuba diving, zip lining, and camping here and easily spend the whole day here. There’s even an hacienda with restaurants and rooms to stay overnight.

• Price : Book a day tour for 1000 MXN/US$49
• How to get there : I would recommend booking a tour for this one. There’s no public transport that gets there. 

Iztaccihuatl, or “White Woman” in Nahuatl, is the third highest peak in Mexico . It’s easy to see why it got its name; when you look at it from afar, it really does resemble a woman lying down. Climbing the Iztaccihuatl Volcano is no mean feat, so we recommend hiking with an alpinist guide.

The best time to climb is between December and March as there is less chance of rain and the temperature isn’t too cold. You’ll need to trek for 3 hours to reach the snowcapped summit at 17,000 feet (5,200m) high. The air may be thin up there, but the views are not — soak up stunning views of Popocatepetl and the Valley of Mexico before descending the dormant volcano.

Mexico city Day Trips: 3+ Hours Away

• Travel time : 3:00 hours
• Price : Book a tour of Cuernavaca & Taxco for 1000 MXN/US$49
• How to get there : Head to Mexico Terminal Taxqueña to catch a bus to Taxco for roughly 280 MXN/US$14.

Taxco is a whimsical pueblo mágico that was put on the map thanks to its silver mines and jewelry. The town has a lot of character and it’s worth spending the day (or even two) exploring. There are lots of cute shops selling silver jewelry, as well as other souvenirs. You can visit the Casa Humboldt museum which is dedicated to the German explorer, Alexander von Humboldt. 

Considered one of the most beautiful magic towns in Mexico, Taxco is located on the hilly mountains of the state of Guerrero. The place is iconic for its Spanish colonial architecture, subservient of its red roof tiles and white painted walls. Plaza Borda is the town’s main feature, which is an 18th-century Santa Prisca church commonly referred to as ‘Zócalo’ by the locals. 

• Price : Entrance to caves is 75 MXN/US$3.75
• How to get there : You’ll first need to get to Taxco, and then from there, take another bus which costs around 30 MXN/US$1.50 or book a day tour for 2700 MXN/US$132  

You can easily combine a visit to Taxco with the Cacahuamilpa Caves, just 45 minutes away. Cacahuamilpa is the biggest cave system in Mexico and its magnificent stalagmite-covered walls sure do make you feel small. The caves are just a part of the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park — you’ll also be able to explore tumbling waterfalls, raging rivers, and scenic hiking trails. My favorite part was the boat ride through the underground river!

Get your admission tickets at the Park’s Visitor Center. It’s not possible to explore the cave without a guide; guided tours leave every hour and last about two hours.

• Price : Entrance is 150 MXN/US$7.50
• How to get there : It’s difficult to get here on public transport. You could grab a taxi but that will set you back 2300 MXN/US$120. We recommend renting a car or booking a day tour which will take you there and back from the city. 

Easily my favorite place on this list of Mexico City day trips! With warm water tumbling over calcified travertine pools and cascading down waterfalls, Grutas Tolantongo is home to some of the most beautiful hot springs in Mexico . Read our detailed guide to Grutas Tolantongo .

At three hours from Mexico City, these hot springs are a bit far for a day trip, but many locals only come for the day as the hotels here are overpriced and don’t accept advanced bookings (you need to show up and hope for the best).

Getting to this remote part of the country isn’t straightforward, as you’ll need to navigate steep mountain roads and hair-raising corkscrew bends to get here. So if you’re not confident driving here, your best bet is to book a day tour .

• Price : Entrance is 30 MXN/US$1.50
• How to get there: Catch a bus from México Central Norte station to Ezequiel Montes. From there, it’s a short taxi ride for 200 MXN/US$10 each way. Or book a day tour .

At 433 meters tall, Peña de Bernal is one of the world’s tallest monoliths and it looks really impressive up close. The monolith, composed entirely of pinkish-gray leucocratic-igneous rock, is thought to be over 65 million years old! It’s considered one of the 13 wonders of Mexico, so it’s certainly worth the 3-hour drive. 

The stunning monolith attracts rock climbers from Mexico and around the world, with a number of routes of varying degrees of difficulty. For the less adventurous, a moderately strenuous 30-minute hike will take you as far as you can safely scale the rock without ropes. Get started early to beat the mid-morning rush and fierce heat.

The town located next to the monolith, San Sebastián Bernal (better known as Bernal) is a picture-perfect pueblo mágico that’s definitely worth a visit. The town is home to the eloquently named Chapel of Souls and the Museum of the Masks. Both of which are good spots to stop off and have a look around.

• Price : Book a day tour for 2000-3000 MXN/US$100-150
• How to get there : It’s too far away and difficult to reach by public transport. Booking a tour is by far the only way to get there and back in one day.

The Nevado de Toluca is a stratovolcano located in central Mexico, just west of Mexico City. At an elevation of about 15,000 feet, it is the fourth highest peak in Mexico . The volcano is covered in snow most of the year and is a popular destination for mountaineering skiers and snowboarders. And you can find several hiking trails that lead to the summit.

It takes about 8-9 hours to hike this mountain so we strongly recommend booking a guided tour. If you’re looking to summit, check out this summit tour . If you’re just looking to explore the mountain range and the nearby lake, then this day trip would suit you.

21. Explore San Miguel de Allende

• Travel time : 3:30 hours
• Price : 1500 MXN/US$75 for the tacos and tequila tour
• How to get there : Take the bus from República De Perú in Mexico city directly into San Miguel de Allende. If you are going for just the day, rent a car or book a tour as this shaves 2 hours off the journey each way. 

Without a doubt, San Miguel de Allende is one of the prettiest cities in Mexico. Pastel colored colonial buildings and leafy green parks line the enchanting cobblestoned streets; church bell towers ring and the smell of jacaranda flowers fill the air.

Culturally, San Miguel de Allende is a treasure trove of historical sites. In fact, the entire old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Thanks to its location in the central highlands, it has an eternal spring weather, and the city is surrounded by wineries and  hot springs . It’s no wonder  Condé Nast Travellers Magazine  named it the “best city in the world” two years in a row!

Don’t let the small size of the old town fool you! There are so many things to do in San Miguel de Allende that I would suggest staying here for at least 1 or 2 nights. Check out our guide on where to stay in San Miguel de Allende .

Hike up to the Mirador

There are many viewpoints dotted around the town, but the Mirador undoubtedly has the best views over the city. The walk is around 15 minutes and at a slight incline, it’s walkable for all ages. You’ll get an awesome view of the city, and if you’re lucky enough to visit the town in spring, you’ll see the city coated in deep lilac from the sprouting Jacaranda flowers.

Admire the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel

All roads in San Miguel de Allende lead to the Parroquia de San Miguel. Sitting in the very heart of the city, the parish church is the icon and beacon of San Miguel de Allende. With a facade unlike any other church in Mexico, this landmark is characterized by its pink exterior and wedding cake towers designed by indigenous stone mason Zeferino Gutierrez.  Free entry.

Swim in La Gruta Hot Springs

Just 15 minutes outside the city, La Gruta Spa is blessed with natural hot springs, bubbling with curative waters that provide a glorious respite especially in cold winter months. The star attraction here is the cavern “La Gruta”. Entering through an entryway from the main pool, you’ll make your way through a white, narrow stone walkway that leads to a domed-shaped grotto where the source of the hot spring water is. Read my full guide on  how to visit la Gruta hot springs .

• Travel time : 4:00 hours
• Price : 60 MXN/US$3 to enter the cathedral
• How to get there : The bus takes about 5 hours so unless you’re staying overnight, I suggest taking a tour .

At 4 hours out of Mexico City, Morelia is really quite far and definitely deserves an overnight stay. The city is clustered with beautiful stone fountains and offers European architectural vibes throughout. Most colonial towns in Mexico are covered with brightly colored paint, Morelia on the other hand keeps the stones neutral throughout, which gives it a different feel to other likewise cities.

Read my recommended list of things to do in Morelia .

The iconic place to visit while in the city is Catedral de Morelia which is a Baroque-style, Roman Catholic cathedral that stands at the head of Plaza de Armas. The Cathedral is stunning both inside and out. To go inside it will only set you back $60MXN/$3USD too.

Mexico City lies in the very heart of Mexico and makes an excellent introduction to Mexico with world-class museums , top-notch restaurants, and gorgeous neighborhoods. I’m not usually a fan of big cities, but I absolutely fell in love with Mexico City.

There’s a ridiculous amount of things to do in the city, and the myriad of Mexico City day trips vary from mountaineering treks to cultural towns and wildlife sanctuaries. Don’t forget to check out our guide on where to stay in Mexico City and our recommended 5-day Mexico City Itinerary .

I hope you’ve got some inspiration from this article for the best day trips from Mexico City. Feel free to leave me a comment below, and I’ll get back to you with answers to any questions you may have.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico City, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• 5 Days in Mexico City Itinerary
• Best Time to Visit Mexico City
• Where to Stay in Mexico City
• 30 Best Museums in Mexico City
• Visiting Teotihuacan: Mexico City Pyramids
• Day of the Dead in Mexico City Events and Schedule
• Monarch Butterflies in Mexico
• 20 Natural Wonders of Mexico
• 15 Best Ancient Ruins in Mexico
• 10 Hot Springs in Mexico

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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4 thoughts on “22 Best Day Trips from Mexico City 2024”

Wow ! 🙂 This is probably the best site I have found with ideas and travel tips for Mexico ! Thank You Nellie, I have a trip already planned but after reading your blog and trip advise I know I will be back to Mexico again !

Wow thank you for your incredibly kind words! I’m extremely flattered.

Yeah, second the other posters comments. Really got me excited to visit now. Nice work.

Aww thank you!

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Mexico City Tours 2024

Discover mexico city’s food, culture, and history on our tours.

There are many activities to experience and places to visit while you are in Mexico City, such as exploring the city, museums, wrestling matches, Teotihuacan , and even theme parks! Plan your trip in Mexico City today by choosing a tour below.

Walking Tours in Mexico City

Explore the vibrant streets of Mexico City on our walking tours , where you’ll immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and flavors of this dynamic metropolis. Our expert guides will lead you through local markets, historic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks,palaces, and more.

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Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a guided tour of Mexico City is the best way to experience all that the city has to offer . With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a tour that fits your interests and budget. Book thes Best Mexico City tour 2024 today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

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• 💙Best Seller
• Map Marker Mexico City , Teotihuacán
• Tag Shared Tour

Teotihuacan Tour

Discover the magic of Teotihuacan and Basilica of Guadalupe with our Mexico City Tour! Explore the Pyramid of the Sun and Moon, walk through the ancient ruins. Then, visit the stunning Basilica of Guadalupe, one of the most important religious sites in Mexico.

• Special Offer 💰
• Map Marker Mexico City
• Hour Glass 11 hours , 6 hours

Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan with optional guided visit & Guadalupe Shrine One Day Tour

Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan at sunrise, and opt to upgrade your experience with a guided visit of the archeological site together with a trip to the famous temple of Guadalupe Shrine! Embark on a captivating one-day tour led by history, culture, and adventure!

Mexico City Pass

• Hour Glass 14 hours

Tolantongo Caves Tour

With this one day Mexico City tour you will have the unique opportunity to visit the Tolantongo Caves, a natural paradise located in the state of Hidalgo.

• Hour Glass 10 hours

Xochimilco, Coyoacan & Frida Kahlo Museum Tour

This is one of our most vibrant Mexico City tour! Visit the famous “Blue House” and admire the majestic architecture of the National Autonomous University of Mexico.

• Hour Glass 4 hours
• Tag Private Tour , Shared Tour

Tacos, Exotic Food & Local Markets of Mexico City

Part of Mexico City’s cultural heritage is the local cuisine and exciting market stalls. The markets especially are a picturesque view of the local life of Mexico City rife with activities and are a great attraction for tourists, chefs, and food enthusiasts worldwide. The markets in CDMX range from simple open-air stalls to grand malls several blocks large. We will be taking a look at some of the best in the city.

Palaces and Historical Buildings of Mexico City Tour

CDMX has a historical foundation from when it was the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan.  Today has many cathedrals and palaces that you can still find scattered around the city. With this Mexico City tour you will visit the National Bank, the Post Building, The National Museum of Art, and the Bellas Artes Palace.

• Hour Glass 11 hours

Taxco, Cuernavaca & Prehispanic Mine Tour

Take a full-day trip out of Mexico City to admire Taxco, a unique colonial town famous for its silver works, visit the only pre-Hispanic mine and live an incredible experience with this Mexico City Tour.

• Special Offer

Puebla, Cholula & Tonantzintla Day Trip Tour

Join us on a full-day tour to the two beautiful and important historical sites of Cholula and Puebla, about two hours from Mexico City. Enjoy amazing views, food, and culture.

San Miguel De Allende City Tour From Mexico City

Visit one of the main colonial cities in Mexico: San Miguel de Allende in Guanajuato. See impressive architecture, the beautiful market, and historical landmarks.

• Hour Glass 8 hours

Teotihuacan Early Morning Half-Day Tour

Visit Teotihuacan, the “City of the Gods”, early in the morning on a half-day tour, avoiding in this way the tourist and the heat of the sun when visiting the archeological zone. Enjoy a full guided tour around the place and, then, participate in a Tequila tasting!

• Hour Glass 2 hours

Mexico City at Night Tour with optional Access to Torre Latino

Visit the most emblematic places of CDMX on this Mexico City Tour. See how the city changes when the buildings are illuminated and take amazing photos.

• Hour Glass 6 hours

Mexican Night: Lucha Libre, Mariachi & Tequila

Come have fun, get excited, and feel the passion of the best wrestling in the world, Mexican wrestling in Mexico City! Get firsthand experience with this amazing sport, let the Mariachi dedicate a song for you in Garibaldi square, and learn about Mexico’s favorite drink: tequila on this Mexico City Tour.

• Combo Tour!
• Hour Glass 2 days

Teotihuacán & Basílica de Guadalupe + Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo

Make the most of your trip to Mexico City with this Super Saver tour that includes the main attractions in the city and its surroundings in two days.

• Monolingual
• Hour Glass 5 hours

Chapultepec Castle & Anthropology Museum Tour

Live the experience of visiting America’s only real castle. Chapultepec Castle houses the most representative historical heritage of Mexico.

Tour to Tula, Teotihuacan & Tepotzotlan from CDMX - Small Group

Enjoy a small group tour to Teotihuacan, the “City of the Gods”; Tula, the capital of the Toltec Civilization; and the Magic Town of Tepotzotlan in only one day departing from Mexico City!

Teotihuacan Afternoon Half-Day Tour

Visit Teotihuacan, the “City of the Gods”, in the afternoon and admire the beautiful views that the sun offers! Enjoy a full guided tour at this impressive location together with an expert guide, learn everything about these pyramids, and culminate your experience with a Tequila tasting!

• Hour Glass 1 hour 15 minutes

Capital Bus Mexico City Night Tour

Embark on a nocturnal tour of the enchanting Mexico City aboard a comfortable double-decker bus, and let yourself be captivated by the magic that unfolds as night falls! This is the perfect tour to get to know the city if you are visiting it for just a few days.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Day of the Dead, legends & ghosts all year round

Enjoy a unique experience in the heart of Mexico learning about popular legends and ghosts! Visit emblematic sites of Mexico City while you listen to the long-living stories that took place on its streets.

• Hour Glass 9 hours

Volcanoes Small Group Tour

Explore the landscape of Mexico’s impressive volcanoes as you take in the amazing panoramic views and snap awesome photos of your surroundings.

• Hour Glass 12 hours
• Tag Private Tour

Las Estacas Natural Park Private Tour from Mexico City

Escape from the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Las Estacas , a breathtaking natural park located in Morelos, Mexico. This private tour is perfect for couples, families and friends seeking a day of relaxation and adventure. Embark on a captivating journey surrounded by nature!

Chapultepec Park By Bike Guided Tour

Being the biggest urban park in America, visiting Chapultepec Park might be quite an odyssey. Fortunately, we will give you a bike and a professional guide so you could get to know this wonderful park!

Queretaro, Guanajuato & San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City

Venture on a captivating two-day tour from Mexico City and immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of Queretaro, Guanajuato, and San Miguel de Allende. With accommodation provided, this adventure allows you to explore the essence of these three enchanting cities.

• Hour Glass 3 hours

Contrasts of Mexico City’s Neighborhoods Cable Car & Bus Private Tour

The ancient style, tradition, and cultural heritage of Mexico City were not abandoned through the years but have been imbued in the city structures and people. With this guided tour, you will be able to enjoy different neighborhoods of the city and see the cultural and lifestyle differences between them.

Combo: Taxco and Prehispanic Mine & Puebla and Cholula Tour

Make the most of your visit to Mexico City with this two-day tour that takes you to see four of the top-visited cities outside of Mexico’s capital city.

Guadalupe Shrine Tour

Visit the Basilica of Guadalupe, one of the most visited sites in the world and an important religious building in Mexico. Learn about its history.

Teotihuacan Early Access & Prehispanic Mexico City Tour

Discover the secrets of Pre-Hispanic Mexico through a historical tour of the Museum of Anthropology and the Templo Mayor Museum, two sites that complement each other and reveal the pre-Hispanic secrets of central Mexico.

Also have the opportunity to make it a two day tour adding a visit to Teotihuacan

National Museum of Anthropology Tour

Explore the National Museum of Anthropology, a national museum of Mexico. It’s the largest and most visited museum in the country with amazing exhibits.

Fireflies Sighting Tour in Tlaxcala with snacks

Live a unique experience only available for two months a year hiking among one of the most magical creatures on the planet, the fireflies.

• Only once a year!

Day of the Dead Tour

Live firsthand the tradition that has not died in Mexico City, and celebrate with us on November 1st, one of the most representative festivities of our city: the Day of the Dead! Choose the option that best suits you and create unforgettable memories.

• New experience!

Flamenco Dinner Live Show in Mexico City

Enjoy and feel with this night activity that will awaken all your senses!

• Hour Glass 1-6 hours , 6 hours

Skip the line to Teotihuacan

Save time and take advantage of this unique option with by buying your entrance ticket to Teotihuacan and skip up to 1 hour lines in the sun.

Mexico City PRIVATE Tours

Private tour to teotihuacan, tlatelolco & basilica of guadalupe.

Join us on a full-day tour of three of the most important places in Mexican culture. Enrich your experience with a private heritage interpreter guide who will get you closer.

Private Tour to Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum

This is one of our most colorful tours, for not only will you visit the famous “Blue House”, but you will also meet the majestic architecture of the National Autonomous.

Private Tour to Volcanoes

Head on a journey to “La Joya” in the famous “Paso de Cortés” Duration 11 Hours About You will have the chance to check on the impressive landscapes.

Private Tour to Taxco & Prehispanic Mine

Take a full-day trip out of Mexico City to admire Taxco, a unique colonial town famous for its silver works

Private Tour to Magical Towns from Mexico City

The tour begins in the magical town of Real del Monte, where we will cross its streets, having about 4 hours to taste (at your own expense) the delicious pastes,

• Hour Glass 13 hours

Freixenet Wine Cellar & Pena de Bernal Private Tour

While you are in Mexico City, do not miss the opportunity to visit a Freixenet Wine Cellar in Queretaro in a completely private tour! Learn about the winemaking process of this renowned beverage and enjoy food and wine tastings.

Private Tour to Anthropology Museum

Come explore its one-of-a-kind collections and learn about the history of Mexico. The largest and most visited museum in the country.

Private Tour to Puebla and Cholula from Mexico City

Join us on a full day tour to the two beautiful and important historical sites of Cholula and Puebla, just about two hours from Mexico City.

Private Tour to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City

While you are in Mexico City, do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the main colonial cities of Mexico: San Miguel de Allende, in Guanajuato.

Private City tour through Prehispanic Mexico

Private tour to chapultepec castle & anthropology museum, private tour to teotihuacán early access from mexico city.

Visit Teotihuacan “City of the Gods” in the early morning, before the tour groups from Mexico City begin to cram the place Duration 8 hours About Enjoy this impressive archaeological.

Private Tour to Teotihuacan in the Afternoon

Visit Teotihuacan, the “City of the Gods”, in the afternoon, and enjoy the different changes of hue in the sky as the afternoon advances.

Private Tour to Xochimilco & Coyoacan

This is one of our most colorful excursions, not only because of the visit to the famous quarter of Coyoacan but also because of the majestic architecture of the National.

Private Tour to Guadalupe Shrine

Private tour to Basilica of Guadalupe, one of the most visited sites in the world and an important religious building in Mexico.

Private Tolantongo Caves

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Private Tolantongo Caves Tour from Mexico City, a natural paradise located in the state of Hidalgo.

Chapultepec Castle Private Tour

Enjoy a private tour of Chapultepec Castle, including the National Museum of History and the Alcázar. An expert guide will take you through Mexico’s rich history, with free time for photos and panoramic views of Mexico City.

Private Tour in 2 days: Teotihuacan & Pre-Hispanic Mexico City Tour

Make the most of your trip to Mexico City with this Super Saver tour that includes the main attractions in the city and Teotihuacan.

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Mexico Tours from Mexico City

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10 best Mexico tour packages from Mexico City

Compiled by

Melissa Mexico travel expert at TourRadar

Authentic Central Mexico

Mexico colonial cities, a taste of mexico city, city break, mexican stroll (12 destinations), mexico real food adventure, colonial mexico, premium mexico city to oaxaca, viva mexico tour - 11 days, mexico city to oaxaca: pottery & aztec pyramids, classic mexico adventure.

• In-depth Cultural
• Walking Adventure
• Dine at historic Cafe de Tacuba
• Tour Frida Kahlo's iconic home
• Discover ancient pyramids at Teotihuacan

• Educational
• Christmas & New Year
• See Guadalajara's top attractions
• Explore the Basilica de Guadalupe complex
• Tour San Miguel de Allende's landmarks

“We saw beautiful cities and learned so much about Mexico. Everything was arranged for us, yet it was just the two of us, and we had the flexibility to explore on our own.”

• Sightseeing
• Dine at Bellini with panoramic city views
• Explore Mexico City's historic center
• Cruise Xochimilco's canals on a trajinera

“The guides were knowledgeable and the activities were fun & interesting. The perfect short trip.”

• Coach / Bus
• Explore Mexico City's historic center and Zócalo
• Discover Oaxaca and the ancient city of Monte Alban
• Enjoy a trajinera boat ride in Xochimilco

“Excellent guide and motor coach.”

• Food & Culinary
• Take cooking classes from locals
• Go on a 'taco crawl'
• Explore the markets of Oaxaca

“The food element of the tour (given it was a food tour) was excellent where there was sufficient group activities and food tasting.”

• Stroll through Morelia's UNESCO sites
• Discover Guadalajara and taste Tequila

“We really enjoyed the trip to Mexico. The hotels were quality places. The people in Mexico were nice.”

• Explore Mexico City with a local guide
• Tour the archaeological site of Cholula
• Visit Oaxaca's colorful markets and historic sites

“Perfect itinerary. Hotels were great.”

• Navigate through Sumidero Canyon
• Discover the pyramids of Teotihuacan

“The tour program was really interesting. We are happy with the tour and this adventure, thanks!”

• Explore the ancient city of Teotihuacan
• Meet your CEO and group in Mexico City
• Visit the Alebrijes Artisan Community in Oaxaca

“Loved it and my sister and husband want to go too now!”

• Tour the Mayan ruins of Palenque and Chichen Itza
• Explore ancient Teotihuacan and its pyramids
• Meet your group and CEO in Mexico City

“Seeing the pyramids was great, but seeing the modern cities and real people is also great.”

Tours starting from Mexico City

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5 Best Day Trips from Mexico City

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you have a little extra time during your trip to Mexico’s capital, you might want to explore some of the towns and cities that sit just a few hours away and offer history, art, culture, and spectacular beauty. You can learn more about Mexican history, visit archeological sites, try a variety of foods, and explore impressive landscapes. Our top five Mexico City getaways offer something for all tastes—including a town dedicated to the production of silver, and a place known as the "city of eternal spring." How can you go wrong?

Click the link to read our complete Mexico City guide.

Great Pyramid of Cholula Arrow

The Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the New World. When the Spanish arrived, they built a church and covered the pyramid. Parts of the pyramid have since been excavated, notably, these tunnels discovered in 1931. The tunnels offer a fascinating look into how the pyramids were built and made bigger every 52 years. You can explore the tunnels, which span five miles, alone but if you want to know more about what you're seeing, you can hire a guide.

Divará Arrow

Divará is a pretty, shabby chic restaurant with a turquoise and white color scheme, murals on the walls, and rustic furniture. There's a quaint little rooftop area with seating too. Come here for Mexican breakfasts and Italian-focused lunches and dinners. Mexican pastries and fruit are delicious and well-priced in the morning. A standard selection of drinks served in Mason jars matches the shabby-chic vibe.

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Arrow

This iconic yellow church with a mosaic dome was built in the 16th century above the Great Pyramid of Cholula. It's one of Cholula's most important landmarks, so a variety of visitors, including some pious people praying and spending time in reflection. It's worth visiting the church even if just for the view of Cholula from outside. (At the time of writing, the church was closed due to earthquake damage, but the outside is still open for visitors.)

La Quinta Luna Arrow

A stunning, colonial building with Moorish arches, La Quinta Luna exudes a sense of history and tradition. Thick walls painted an elegant red surround an inner courtyard that all seven guest rooms look out onto. There's no room service, but breakfast is included in the rate and has excellent coffee. The whole place feels old, elegant, and unbelievably relaxing. It's particularly popular with couples.

Na'an Cocina Estacional Arrow

Modern, clean lines and low-strung Edison bulbs give this restaurant a contemporary feel. The food is seasonal and locally sourced so the menu is always changing. Regardless, the dishes are consistently delicious and well-presented (they're often topped with edible flowers). To drink, there's a great selection of cocktails, Mexican craft beers, and wine, as well as flavored waters and non-alcoholic infusions. This is the place to go for high-end Mexican cuisine in Cholula.

Container City Arrow

Cholula is a university town and unsurprisingly, Container City is popular with students. The crowd skews quite young, especially at night, but there are also older groups of friends in the mix too. Similar to a food truck concept, this place is colorful, laid-back, and has a youthful vibe. The food and drink varies from bar to bar but you'll generally find beer, shots, and cocktails to drink and bar food like tacos, guacamole, and chicken wings to fill up on.

Mirador de Cristo Taxqueño Arrow

Located above Taxco, this statue of Christ attracts visitors seeking impressive views over the mountainous town. Not everyone knows about this lookout point so it's not uncommon to have the place to yourself, even if the town is bustling with tourists. You can get there and back in 30 minutes—it's a quick trip for a rewarding view.

S Caffecito Arrow

S Caffecito is a cozy, friendly place with wood-beam ceilings and lots of plants. Despite being close to the main square, it can be a little hard to find. The food is an interesting mix of Italian and Mexican cuisines, and you'll find freshly made pastas alongside flavor-packed Mexican breakfasts. Some dishes, like mole lasagna, take the fusion theme to a whole new level.

Rosa Mexicano Arrow

Rosa Mexicano is relaxed and peaceful but not too informal. You'll be caught off-guard by the rooftop with views overlooking the city. The tourist-heavy crowd is mostly couples, though there are some families scattered about. Come here for high-quality Mexican food with international options and plenty of flair.

Hotel Agua Escondida Arrow

Right in the heart of downtown, this welcoming hotel sits in a colonial building and has traditional Mexican decor. The rooms are decorated traditionally with dark wood bed frames, rustic-looking furniture, and touches of color here and there. The standard-size rooms aren't particularly spacious, but they're still a good size.

Parroquia de Santa Prisca y San Sebastían Arrow

The Parroquia of Santa Prisca is a baroque-style church that was the tallest building in the country when it was built in the 18th century. Many visitors to Taxco (who aren't just there to buy silver) come to see the church, especially those who seek out architectural wonders and religious sites.

Centro Joyero Taxco Arrow

This is a large center filled with different stands selling locally produced silver jewelry—it's a lot of jewelry under one roof! Before you buy anything, check out a few stalls and their prices to get a feel for who's offering the best value (and what the average price is). That said, most of the stands are very reasonably priced so you don't need a lot of money to come away satisfied.

Los Placeres Arrow

Set in a charming old building in the center of Malinalco, Los Placeres has a kind of shabby chic look and a beautiful outdoor patio. The slightly peeling paintwork and rustic doors is all in the name of beauty. The menu adheres to the slow food movement and offers an inventive take on Mexican food. Some favorites include pulled pork with sweet plantain and hibiscus flower quesadillas. Leave room for dessert.

La Casa de Valentina Arrow

The cool, bohemian vibe of La Casa de Valentina will hit you right when you walk in. The walls are filled with art and the whole place is at once relaxed and intriguing. The food is truly delicious. There's a selection of bistro-like foods, like artisanal hamburgers, pastas, salads, and some baked goods. It's a perfect place to get a quick bite after a day of sightseeing or to waste away a lazy afternoon.

Cuauhtinchan Archaeological Zone Arrow

This beautifully restored archeological site was used primarily as a ceremonial center to initiate and train Aztec warriors. It's a popular tourist attraction that certainly lives up to its hype, especially for anthropology, archeology, and history enthusiasts. You can buy tickets at the entrance when you arrive and though you don't need a guide, one might be helpful in bringing the place alive.

Casa Alamillo Arrow

About a five-minute drive from the center of town and at the end of a quiet street, Casa Alamillo is surrounded by an incredible backdrop of mountains. It is almost like the hotel is within the cliff. There are only four rooms here and each has a lot of privacy. It's popular with couples but it's also great for families looking to rent out the whole place to have to themselves. The pool is beautiful and like everything here, has a stunning view. The hotel spa will force you to relax even more. Breakfast is included and made with locally sourced ingredients; lunch and dinner are available upon request.

Sanctuary of Chalma Arrow

Home to a black Christ, this church is the second most-visited pilgrimage site in Mexico after the Basilica of Guadalupe. A lot of pilgrims come here to see the black Christ, but there's a decent sprinkling of tourists from all over. If you go on a day when there are less visitors (i.e. not the weekend), you'll be able to explore the church more thoroughly.

Museo Universitario Dr. Luis Mario Schneider Arrow

You'll pass this small museum on your way back to town after seeing the Cuauhtinchan archeological site. The collection explains more about the indigenous history of Malinalco as well as the local agriculture and traditions. It's small but well-curated and informative. You can see the whole museum in 30 minutes or less, so it's a great place to deepen your understanding of the local history.

Las Casas B+B Hotel Arrow

This trendy boutique hotel in the heart of Cuernavaca attracts a young, well-heeled crowd from Mexico City, the U.S., and Europe. The rooms are modern and spacious with stark white walls and contemporary design features. They all come with A/C, a flat screen TV with cable, bathrobes, and speakers. You may want to sneak the Malin and Goetz bath goodies in your suitcase.

L'arrosoir d'Arthur Arrow

L'Arrosoir D'Arthur is part bar, part cafe, and part restaurant. It has a funky, vintage feel with a mix-and-match design (you can't miss the bike hanging from the ceiling). There's a reasonable selection of artisanal beers and cocktails. Since it's also a cafe, there's a good selection of tea and coffee, too. The food is authentic French, but come here in the morning for the hearty breakfasts.

Casa Rivera Arrow

Set in a colonial house that was once the home of the famous Mexican comedian Cantinflas, this restaurant has a deep blue facade that'll lure you in to see more. The interior is beautifully decorated with murals on the wall and replicas of artwork by Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. There's also seating outside by the pool, which is a great place to take advantage of Cuernavaca's delightful weather.

Museo Robert Brady Arrow

The house of American painter Robert Brady is a love letter to Mexico that's been left as it was when he died in 1986.

Jardín Borda Arrow

This is a beautiful garden set behind the walls of an art gallery/museum. Parts of it are beautifully manicured while others feel more untamed. Take in the art exhibitions before exploring the gardens and letting yourself get distracted by all the beautiful surroundings. It's nice for kids but there isn't a lot of space for them to run around.

Mercado de Artesanias y Plata Arrow

This is a small market in central Cuernavaca selling handmade clothes, crafts, and gifts mostly from the state of Morelos. The priceshere are really good, so you can essentially buy whatever you can fit in your suitcase. Small souvenirs like woven bracelets and keyrings make good gifts for family and friends back home.

El Tepozteco Arrow

Located at the peak of a hill, this archeological site consists of a small pyramid dedicated to the god of pulque, an ancient alcoholic drink made from the agave plant. Once you've caught your breath from the climb up, let yourself be impressed by the pyramid and the surrounding view. Many people claim to feel a sense of magical energy when they're here.

Hotel Boutique Casa Fernanda Arrow

This small boutique hotel is within walking distance from the center of Tepoztlán. You'll feel a sense of calm as you approach the hotel and its beautiful gardens. Each of the 12 rooms has a slightly different design, but all are spacious and light with a contemporary feel and interesting design features. Red tile floors with designer rugs juxtapose well with the the stark white walls and light wood bed frame. The rooms feel cool and are extremely comfortable.

Los Colorines Arrow

This restaurant ranks among the most colorful Mexican restaurants in the world. It's a feast for the senses with pink walls, multicolored Mexican flags and piñatas hanging from the ceiling, and chairs painted vibrant hues of blue, green, and yellow. There's a relatively small selection of Mexican dishes here but they're all well-made with high-quality ingredients. Don't leave without having a tortilla—you can see them being freshly made in the back of the restaurant.

Tepoznieves Arrow

Nieve means snow in Spanish, and a nieve is a type of ice cream similar to sorbet. This 120-year-old shop serves over 100 flavors of nieve, though we recommend Zapote Negro (an unusual, chocolatey fruit) paired with coconut. The staff is friendly and happy to let you try different flavors before you settle on a decision. Anyone who visits Tepoztlán has to try a Tepoznieve.

Mercado Artesanal de Tepoztlán Arrow

This vibrant open market that runs along Avenida de la Revolución is a lovely place to stroll and see a whole selection of Mexican handcrafts. Everyone who visits Tepoztlán will likely wander through this market at some point. Don't leave without checking out the stores behind the stalls and having your aura photographed.

Jacaranda Mojito Bar y Cafe Arrow

Jakarandá is a great place to enjoy a drink when the sun gets too intense. It gets pretty lively at sunset and is mostly filled with twenty- and thirty-something out-of-towners from Mexico City, Puebla, and abroad. You'd be remiss not to order a mojito—frappe or on the rocks.

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Mexico City on a Budget: 10 Must-See Spots

Updated September 11, 2023

Mexico City is packed with amazing places to visit—and they don’t have to break the bank. Here’s our list of 10 completely free Mexico City must-see spots for budget travelers.

#1: El Museo Soumaya (The Soumaya Museum)

The ultimate must-see Mexico City museum, Museo Soumaya is absolutely free to enter. That’s right—for zero pesos , visitors can experience one of the most extensive collections of pre-Hispanic, Mexican, and European art in the entire world. From Rodin sculptures to Diego Rivera , to Mesoamerican jewelry, this museum has it all.

And it’s not just the art that makes Museo Soumaya one of the best places to visit in Mexico City; its architecture is absolutely iconic as well. Twisting out of the earth in a burst of glittering silver tiles, it’s totally one-of-a-kind.

#2: El Zocalo (The Main Square)

El Zocalo , the huge public square in Centro Historico (Mexico City’s historic downtown), is the heart of Mexico City and the perfect stop for budget travelers. Many of Mexico City’s main tourist attractions are located around the Zocalo, including the Palacio Nacional (where the president works) and Catedral Metropolitana (the city’s main cathedral). These are also free to enter.

But the coolest thing about El Zocalo? So much amazing people watching! Seriously—this is where the locals gather for demonstrations, celebrations, holidays, and pretty much everything else. No matter when you decide to visit Mexico City, there’ll be something going on at El Zocalo. So find somewhere to sit and watch the world go by!

#3: The Epic Monuments

Mexico City’s rich history is reflected in its amazing monuments. And while the city is home to innumerable spectacular landmarks, these two are the ones you absolutely must see:

El Angel: Perhaps the most iconic of all Mexico City landmarks, The Angel of Independence—more commonly called El Angel —is a must-see for, well, everyone. Free to visit, this massive column-and-statue looks just as good during the day as it does at night. Though honestly, it may be even better at night. We’re suckers for lit-up landmarks.

Monumento de la Revolucion: Just east of the ultra-rad San Rafael neighborhood, the Monumento de la Revolucion is another must-see for budget travelers. It’s huge (larger than the Arc de Triomphe), beautiful, and historical (there are heroes of the war of independence buried in its crypt). Plus, if visitors do want to splurge $3–$4 USD, the view from the top is pretty sweet as well.

#4: Plaza Garibaldi

Just north of Centro Historico, Plaza Garibaldi is one of the best places to see in Mexico City. Why? Mariachi, baby! This public square is a gathering point for mariachi bands and mariachi lovers—if you want to be serenaded alongside the locals, this is the place to go.

That said, certain parts of the plaza can be a bit touristy. Oh, and once you’ve had your fill of music, don’t forget to head to the nearby Mercado San Camilito for some unreal delicious (and budget-friendly) street snacks.

Pro tip: Mexico City is safe on the whole, but Plaza Garibaldi can get sketchy at night.

#5: The rad Roma neighborhood

Full of color, amazing art, and plenty of artisan coffee, Roma is a must-see Mexico City neighborhood for anyone who wants a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture—and there are a ton of activities that are perfect for budget travelers as well. 

A couple of our favorite things in Roma:

The Street Art: One of the best non-touristy activities in Mexico City: checking out all the street art that Roma has to offer. Color, color, everywhere!

The Galeria OMR: If Roma’s street art brought a smile to your face, you’ll love the Galeria OMR . The gallery is free to visit and is just as colorful as the street art outside.

El Mercado Medellin: Get a second wind by visiting the Mercado Medellin , an indoor market packed with food stalls. Here, visitors can fill up on tons of street food, ice cream, and more.

#6: El Museo de la Medicina Mexicana (The Museum of Mexican Medicine)

Tucked in the Palacio de la Escuela de Medicina (translation: Palace of the School of Medicine) the Museo de la Medicina Mexicana is not for the faint of heart. At this one-of-a-kind museum, you can see graphic examples of diseases, an entire room full of human embryos in various stages of development, and… a lot more crazy stuff. It’s amazing. And gross.  

While this museum is definitely among the most unusual things to see in Mexico City, it’s also a great choice for budget travelers since it’s totally free to enter.

Pro tip: If you just recoiled away from your screen in horror, fear not—Mexico City has tons of other museums with significantly less gore.

#7: Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park is one of the gems of Mexico City, budget travel or no. Twice the size of New York’s Central Park, the Bosque de Chapultepec has a zoo, a castle , and a lake, not to mention numerous monuments and pieces of public art. Oh, and the zoo is totally free except for a few special exhibits, so make sure you don’t miss it!

#8: The chill Condesa neighborhood

Condesa is another must-see neighborhood for its mix of awesome culture and possibly-even-more-awesome nature—particularly Parque Mexico. With great trails and tons of green space, this amazing taste of Mexico’s famous nature also a favorite spot for Condesa’s canines (dog watching > people watching).

And if you’re wondering where to eat that won’t break the bank, you’ll be happy to know that Condesa has some of the best tacos in town. Zip over to the Chilpancingo metro stop (in Conesa) for a mouth-watering breakfast, lunch, or dinner that won’t put a dent in your wallet.

#9: The Mexico City Metro

And speaking of metro stops, no matter which of these awesome places to go in Mexico City you’re trying to visit, the metro is the way to do it. It only costs 25 cents per ride, and interestingly, it’s packed with its own must-see sights. 

A few free Mexico City Metro wonders:

• The Tacubaya Station murals: At the Tacubaya metro stop, don’t forget to look up: the ceiling is painted with massive, gorgeous murals depicting the earliest days of Mesoamerican history.
• The Polanco Line 7 stairs: Get jaunty and jog up the stairs here—they’re painted like a piano keyboard! Perfect place for an Instagram shot if you ask us.
• The Pino Suarez altar: When constructing this metro stop in the 1960s, engineers unearthed a huge Aztec altar to the god of wind. And amazingly, they left it there! Today, you can walk past this amazing piece of history while changing trains. Crazy, right?

#10: Diego Rivera Murals at the Palacio Nacional

The Palacio Nacional is definitely a must-see for visitors to Mexico City. And (you’ve guessed it!) it’s free to enter. The best part? Diego Rivera murals line the second floor with powerful, vivid depictions of Mexico’s history. You probably won’t run into the president, but you never know. He *does* have offices here.

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Mexico City Stopover

3 days | discover the ancient history behind mexico’s modern metropolis.

Navigate your way through Mexico’s enormous and vibrant capital on this jam-packed Short Break Adventure. Set out on a city tour and learn the history surrounding the sights of one of the biggest cities in the Americas. Wander the stalls of Mercado de San Juan and be overwhelmed by the incredible array of produce on display. Venture out of the city and experience the incredible Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan with a knowledgeable local guide, then be welcomed into a family home to share some authentic dishes bursting with local flavours. In your spare time, simply chill out with a tequila or two and let this city’s ambience take over.

Trip overview

• Bring 700 years of history back to life as your expert local guide shares history and hotspots from around Mexico City – one of the biggest cities in the Americas!
• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral – the biggest cathedral on the continent. Then, see one of Diego Rivera's (the lover of Frida Kahlo) most famous murals at Museo Mural.
• Head out of Mexico City to learn about Teotihuacan culture, from pre-Hispanic pyramids to modern handicrafts.
• Explore local towns and visit two independent, family-run businesses where you can pick up authentic, locally made (or grown) souvenirs such as tequila, candy and cacti.
• Feast on a delicious dinner in a Mexican family home, with food sourced straight from organic farms and cooked with local flavours (and a whole-lotta-love)!
• On Short Breaks, you maintain a good level of independence and freedom, with the added bonus of having the details sorted out for you. You’ll have lots of free time and you won’t be accompanied by a Trip Leader. This means that all included activities and tours will be run by different local Intrepid partners, and these may operate independently from each other. The included activities and transfers will operate on a join-in basis, which means that you could have your Adventure all to yourself, or others may join you along the way. If you would prefer to travel in a group with a dedicated Trip Leader, just get in touch with your booking agent and they will take you through some alternatives.
• On Day 3 of this trip, you’ll need to check out of your hotel before you start the day's activities. Your luggage will be stored in the luggage room of the hotel.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico City. Check into your hotel this morning, where a welcome pack will be waiting for you. This will include all the information you need for your Short Break Adventure. If you have free time today, why not venture into the streets and check out this incredible city where modern meets ancient. Although crowded and smoggy, D.F. (Distrito Federal) offers a great variety of impressive museums, galleries and architecture, along with exciting night life and delicious street food. Why not head to the Zocalo – the city's huge central square – to see Aztec ruins and architecture or relax in one of the many parks, plazas and gardens.

There are no meals included on this day.

• Mexico City - Frida Kahlo Museum (entrance fee) - MXN263
• Mexico City - National Museum of Anthropology (entrance fee) (Closed Mondays) - MXN95

Pick up the rest of your travel mates today and head out of town by public transport, experiencing how locals move about this crowded city. Hop off at the archaeological area of the Teotihuacan pyramids and explore the grounds. Visit the Moon Pyramid, the Calzada de los Muertos (Dead Pass), and the 63-m-high Sun Pyramid – the tallest and most spectacular in the area. Next, head to a nearby village and stop by a family-run business where you’ll learn about obsidian – the material that the Teotihuacan people use to make their tools, idols and decorations. You’ll also get to sip pulque (an ancient sacred drink), considered by some as the great-grandfather of tequila! After working up an appetite, be welcomed into a family home for a memorable lunch where you’ll be served authentic dishes bursting with local flavours and plenty of Mexican hospitality. After lunch, head back to Mexico City.

• Hotel (1 night)
• Hidden Teotihuacan & Lunch with the locals

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

Have breakfast this morning, then take some time to refresh and pack before checking out of your hotel. You can leave your luggage here this morning. Your guide will pick you up from the hotel at 10 am for a journey of exploration through Mexico’s capital. Let your expert guide bring 700 years of history back to life as you uncover little-known facts and hidden hotspots, from Aztecs to art, in one of the biggest cities in the Americas. Head into the heart of Mexico City – the Plaza de la Constitucion – and hear about the remains of an ancient city located under the modern metropolis. Visit iconic sites like the Templo Mayor and the Metropolitan Cathedral – the biggest cathedral on the continent – and see one of Diego Rivera's most famous murals at Museo Mural. Head to the fresh food stalls at Mercado San Juan and shop for snacks and souvenirs. Wander through the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes), then head back to your hotel, where your trip will come to an end.

• Mexico City Tour - Urban Adventures
• Mexico City - Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) (entrance fee) (Closed Mondays) - MXN84

Avoid booking a transfer out of the city before 3 pm today and ensure all flights are booked after 5 pm. If you’d like to extend your stay in Mexico City, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

2 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Public bus, Metro

Hotel (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. On Check-In to your hotel there will be a Welcome Pack waiting for you, with all information you need for your Short Break Adventure. 2. This Short Break Adventure is a ‘join in’ group departure, which means you are not accompanied by an Intrepid group leader. Instead, our local representative in each location will fill this role and the configuration of any fellow travelers in the group might change during the trip. This trip will run with a minimum of one person, so you may be joined by other travelers booked on the same date as you, or you may be on your own. 3. If your Short Break Adventure starts on a Sunday, please note the activities on Days 2 and 3 will be switched as the Museums are closed on Mondays.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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• Destinations

Cancún or Cabo: Which Mexico Destination Is Better for You?

We break down the beaches, nightlife, food, and more to help you choose the one that best fits your travel style.

Cancún and Los Cabos are two of the most sought-after beach destinations in Mexico. Los Cabos sits at the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortés, and has a drier climate than tropical Cancún, set on the Caribbean coast. Picking one to visit largely boils down to your personal preference: Do you like the idea of desert surroundings (Los Cabos) or tropics (Cancún)?

Both are very accessible from the U.S., have a wide range of hotel and resort styles, offer plenty of activities, and feature some of the best restaurants in the country. Each destination is unique, so we broke them down by several categories — beaches, activities, food, nightlife, and more — to help you discover which is a better fit for your next Mexican retreat.

How to Travel to Cancún and Los Cabos

Travelers from the U.S. East Coast and Midwest would have a shorter flight to Cancún, while those from the western U.S. would have a shorter flight to Los Cabos. That's the easiest way to look at it, though not without exceptions. Cancún and Los Cabos' International airports are two of the most connected in Mexico, no matter where you're coming from.

You can fly directly to Cancún from more than 40 airports in the U.S., with the majority being on the East Coast. New York, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Chicago are just some cities that offer direct flights. Los Cabos receives direct flights from more than 20 U.S. cities, with some of the most frequent coming from cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Dallas.

Beaches in Cancún and Los Cabos

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Many of the best beaches in Mexico are in these two destinations. Cancún has soft white sand that extends into the gently lapping, crystalline sea. The Cancún Hotel Zone alone is a 14-mile sugary stretch, which does not even account for the city's smaller beach destinations. The beaches in this part of Mexico have warm water for a longer portion of the year and are generally the most welcoming for swimmers of all levels.

The best beaches in Cancún are likely found right in front of your resort, especially if you're staying in the Hotel Zone. Another Cancún beach area to consider is Costa Mujeres, a 30- to 45-minute drive north from the airport. The resorts on this beach are much quieter than in the Hotel Zone.

Los Cabos beaches are more golden in hue and backed by the cobalt-colored Pacific. If beach time is important to you, note that many of the options in Los Cabos are not suitable for swimming because of strong currents. While some beaches are protected by sheltered bays, Los Cabos has many exposed stretches of coastline that make swimming in the ocean unsafe. This is why the infinity pool game in Los Cabos is so strong — you can still have that unparalleled ocean view and vibe, but from the security of a pool.

If you want a swimmable beach in Los Cabos, consider Playa el Médano, Playa del Amor, Playa Palmilla, or Playa Chileno. Of course, if you're exploring the eastern coast of the Baja Peninsula, which faces the calmer Sea of Cortés, you'll find many more options for beach swimming.

Activities in Cancún and Los Cabos

You can expect an array of things to do in Cancún and Los Cabos, including spa treatments, golfing, water sports, and thrilling excursions. The differences are subtle but could make or break a vacation, depending on your interests.

Cancún is very much a tropical destination, surrounded by thick jungle that spills out to the Caribbean Sea. But it's also one of the most built-up places in Mexico — one that was created specifically for tourism. As a result, you'll find a juxtaposition of ancient and cosmopolitan. The Hotel Zone is replete with high-end shopping malls filled with recognizable designer labels, whereas the thick jungle reveals the secrets of the Yucatán's ancient past — Mayan ruins . From Chichén Itzá to Tulum to Cobá, it's possible to travel back in time to see how the peninsula's Indigenous people lived.

The city is also close to some of Mexico's best cenotes, the underground rivers and caves that played a crucial role in Mayan mythology and religion. Today, they are mysterious, otherworldly places to dive or swim, either on your own or via a tour. Cancún's location on the Yucatán Peninsula opens it up to water sports and island hopping — Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox , and Isla Contoy are right off the coast. ATV tours, zip lining, and dirt biking are popular things to do in the jungle.

Los Cabos' landscape is very different, which changes the range of activities. It has the benefit of being at the southernmost base of the Sierra de la Laguna range, where the mountains meet the desert. Nearby is Cabo Pulmo National Park on the Sea of Cortés, which offers ATV trails, horseback riding, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Hosting one of the biggest marlin fishing tournaments in the world, Los Cabos is a major deep-sea fishing destination. Whale watching is also a huge draw, as blue whales migrate to the Sea of Cortés every winter to give birth. Many of the boat cruises and adventure tours launch from Cabo San Lucas, which has one of the largest, most exclusive marinas in Mexico. On the streets of San José del Cabo, you'll enjoy a thriving arts scene, with an entire district that hosts weekly walks and gallery events. And, of course, you'll find a slew of surf beaches up and down the Baja Peninsula.

Both Cancún and Los Cabos are within driving distance of many small towns in Mexico worthy of day trips or quick overnights. Near Cancún, explore the sleepy fishing village of Puerto Morelos or the haute, bohemian design of Tulum . Escape even farther south to Bacalar to visit one of the largest freshwater lakes in Mexico. While in Los Cabos, travel up the Pacific coast to the eclectic and mystical Todos Santos , or venture farther north to La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur.

Food in Cancún and Los Cabos

Regional specialties make Mexican dining a constant adventure. Seafood is important on the coast, with shellfish, marlin, tuna, and octopus taking center stage. And, of course, you'll find tasty tacos everywhere you go.

Cancún cuisine focuses on traditional Mayan ingredients and recipes, like slow-roasted pork, or fish steamed in banana leaves. In Los Cabos, you'll find special seafood dishes like smoked marlin, Mexican chocolate clam, and comida de pobres , a fish soup made with beans and rice.

Dining experiences can also differ. While both destinations are resort-centric, Los Cabos offers many more opportunities to venture off resort property to a fine-dining restaurant. Cabo San Lucas has some of the most dramatic oceanfront dining options, like Sunset Monalisa , which serves a decadent five-course tasting menu. There's also El Farallon at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, a cliffside restaurant that serves seafood alongside some of France's finest Champagnes.

San José del Cabo is one of the best places in Mexico for farm-to-table experiences. Just outside the city are three beautifully designed restaurants that source their ingredients on-site: Acre , Flora Farms , and Tamarindos .

Nightlife in Cancún and Los Cabos

When you picture nightlife in Cancún or Los Cabos, visions of Señor Frog's and cheap tequila may swirl through your head. You wouldn't be wrong — both have raucous reputations thanks to spring breakers, but those preconceived notions don't define the destinations.

Cancún tends to be more party-heavy year-round, with bass-thumping beach clubs and discos like Coco Bongo . Cabo San Lucas sports a similar energy, particularly in the spring, but San José del Cabo is heralded more for its smaller bars, cafes, and restaurants that feature toned-down live music.

Is Cancún or Los Cabos More Affordable? 

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

Generally, Cancún is known to be a more affordable option because it has a larger variety of accommodations. You're more likely to find a good deal, especially if you stay in the downtown area instead of the pricier Hotel Zone. Los Cabos is full of more luxurious, all-inclusive resorts that carry higher price tags.  

Safety in Cancún and Los Cabos

The U.S. State Department urges Americans to exercise increased caution while traveling to both Quintana Roo , the state where Cancún is located, and Baja California Sur, where Los Cabos is. That said, by and large, travel is safe in both places. Travelers who abide by local laws and don't go searching for trouble are likely to have a positive vacation experience, as is true with most destinations around the world.

Hotels in Cancún and Los Cabos

Cancún specializes in all-inclusive resorts at practically every price point. Many are outfitted with bars and restaurants and offer lots of entertainment options; some properties have prime beachfront real estate on the country's most beautiful swimming beaches. Others are on the smaller, more boutique side, like Nizuc Resort & Spa and Live Aqua , the latter being one of the best all-inclusive, adults-only resorts in Mexico. If you want variety in a single location, Cancún will not disappoint.

Los Cabos has several large all-inclusive resorts as well, though it tends to specialize in luxury offerings — think the One&Only Palmilla and Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal . Smaller, boutique, and design-forward hotels include Acre and El Ganzo .

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Tracking Hurricane Francine

By Matthew Bloch ,  William B. Davis ,  Madison Dong ,  Judson Jones ,  John Keefe and Bea Malsky

Francine was a Category 1 hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico Wednesday afternoon Central time, the National Hurricane Center said in its latest advisory .

The hurricane had sustained wind speeds of 90 miles per hour. Read our coverage here .

Precipitation intensity

Forecast path for Francine

Where will it rain.

Flash flooding can occur well inland and away from the storm’s center. Even weaker storms can produce excessive rainfall that can flood low-lying areas.

Where is flooding possible?

Storm surge is the ocean water pushed ashore by the storm’s winds and has historically been the leading cause of death from hurricanes. If the surge occurs during high tide, it can have far-reaching effects.

What does the storm look like from above?

Satellite imagery can help determine the strength, size and cohesion of a storm. The stronger a storm becomes, the more likely an eye will form in the center. When the eye looks symmetrical, that often means the storm is not encountering anything to weaken it.

Francine is the sixth named storm to form in the Atlantic in 2024.

In late May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted that there would be 17 to 25 named storms this year, an above-normal amount .

This season follows an overly active year, with 20 named storms — including an early storm later given the official name of “Unnamed.” It was the eighth year in a row to surpass the average of 14 named storms. Only one hurricane, Idalia, made landfall in the United States.

Typically, the El Niño pattern that was in force last season would have suppressed hurricanes and reduced the number of storms in a season. But in 2023, the warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic blunted El Niño’s usual effect of thwarting storms.

The warm ocean temperatures that fueled last year’s season returned even warmer at the start of this season, raising forecasters’ confidence that there would be more storms this year. The heightened sea surface temperatures could also strengthen storms more rapidly than usual.

To make matters worse, the El Niño pattern present last year is also diminishing, most likely creating a more suitable atmosphere for storms to form and intensify.

Hurricanes need a calm environment to form, and, in the Atlantic, a strong El Niño increases the amount of wind shear — a change in wind speed and/or direction with height — which disrupts a storm's ability to coalesce. Without El Niño this year, clouds are more likely to tower to the tall heights needed to sustain a powerful cyclone.

Sources and notes

Tracking map Tracking data is from the National Hurricane Center. The map shows probabilities of at least 5 percent. The forecast is for up to five days, with that time span starting up to three hours before the reported time that the storm reaches its latest location. Wind speed probability data is not available north of 60.25 degrees north latitude.

Wind arrivals table Arrival times are generated from a New York Times analysis of National Hurricane Center data. Geographic locations use data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Natural Earth. Time zones are based on Google. The table shows predicted arrival times of sustained, damaging winds of 58 m.p.h. or more for select cities with a chance of such winds reaching them. If damaging winds reach a location, there is no more than a 10 percent chance that they will arrive before the “earliest reasonable” time and a 50 percent chance they will arrive before the “most likely” time.

Radar map Radar imagery is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration via Iowa State University. These mosaics are generated by combining individual radar stations that comprise the NEXRAD network.

Storm surge map Storm surge data is from the National Hurricane Center. Forecasts only include the United States Gulf and Atlantic coasts, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The actual areas that could become flooded may differ from the areas shown on this map. This map accounts for tides, but not waves and not flooding caused by rainfall. The map also includes intertidal areas, which routinely flood during typical high tides.

Satellite map Imagery is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Japanese Meteorological Agency via the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Precipitation map Data for multi-day forecasts or observed rainfall totals are from the National Weather Service. The 1-day forecast is from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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