How to Spend a Week in Central Mexico: A Travel Guide

Central Mexico is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling metropolis of Mexico City to the colonial charm of Queretaro, from the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan to the colorful canals of Xochimilco, there is something for everyone in this diverse and fascinating area.

If you are planning to visit Central Mexico, you might be wondering when is the best time to go, what to see and do, and how to get around. In this article, we will answer all these questions and more, based on our own experience of spending a week in Central Mexico last September.

When to visit Central Mexico

According to Two Wandering Soles, a travel blog that specializes in sustainable and adventurous travel, the best time to visit Mexico depends on what you want to see and do. They break down the seasons and the pros and cons of each one, as well as the best places to visit during each month.

For Central Mexico, they recommend visiting between September and November, when the weather is mild and pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. They also mention that September is the month of the Independence Day celebrations, which are a great way to experience the Mexican culture and patriotism.

We chose to visit Central Mexico in late September, and we were very happy with our decision. The weather was perfect, not too hot or cold, and we only had a few rainy days. The skies were clear and blue, and the sunsets were stunning. We also enjoyed the festive atmosphere of the Independence Day, which was marked by parades, fireworks, and parties.

What to see and do in Central Mexico

Central Mexico has a lot to offer for travelers of all interests and tastes. Here are some of the highlights that we enjoyed during our week-long trip:

– Mexico City: The capital and largest city of Mexico, Mexico City is a vibrant and cosmopolitan place that combines modern and traditional elements. It is also a cultural and historical hub, with many museums, monuments, and landmarks to explore. Some of the must-sees in Mexico City are the Zocalo, the main square and the heart of the city; the Palacio Nacional, the seat of the government and a showcase of Mexican art and history; the Catedral Metropolitana, the largest and oldest cathedral in Latin America; the Templo Mayor, the ruins of the main temple of the Aztec empire; the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, the most visited museum in Mexico and one of the best in the world for its collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts; the Chapultepec Park, the largest and most popular park in the city, home to the Chapultepec Castle, the National History Museum, and the Chapultepec Zoo; and the Frida Kahlo Museum, the former residence and studio of the famous Mexican painter and her husband Diego Rivera.

– Teotihuacan: Located about 50 km northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is an ancient city that was once the largest and most influential in Mesoamerica. It is famous for its monumental pyramids, the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, which are among the largest in the world. The site also features the Avenue of the Dead, a long road that connects the main structures, and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, a complex decorated with serpent heads and feathered plumes. Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of Mexico.

– Xochimilco: A suburb of Mexico City, Xochimilco is known for its network of canals and artificial islands, called chinampas, that date back to the pre-Hispanic era. The canals are a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, who can rent colorful boats, called trajineras, and enjoy a leisurely ride along the water. The boats are often accompanied by vendors, musicians, and mariachis, who add to the festive atmosphere. Xochimilco is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to experience the traditional and rural side of Mexico.

– Queretaro: A city in the central state of Queretaro, Queretaro is a charming and elegant place that boasts a well-preserved colonial architecture and a rich history. The historic center of Queretaro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a delight to explore on foot. Some of the highlights are the Plaza de Armas, the main square surrounded by arcades and mansions; the Aqueduct, a monumental structure that consists of 74 arches and spans 1.3 km; the Templo de Santa Rosa de Viterbo, a baroque church with a distinctive twisted tower; and the Casa de la Corregidora, the former residence of Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, a heroine of the Mexican independence movement.

– San Miguel de Allende: A town in the state of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque and romantic place that attracts many artists, writers, and expats. It is famous for its colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and colorful festivals. The main attraction of San Miguel de Allende is the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, a neo-Gothic church that dominates the skyline with its pink spires. Other points of interest are the Jardin Principal, the main plaza and the social center of the town; the Mercado de Artesanias, a market that sells handicrafts and souvenirs; and the Fabrica La Aurora, a former textile factory that has been converted into an art and design center.

How to get around Central Mexico

The best way to get around Central Mexico is by bus, which is cheap, comfortable, and reliable. There are many bus companies that operate between the main cities and towns, and the tickets can be bought online or at the bus stations. Some of the most popular bus companies are ADO, ETN, Primera Plus, and Flecha Roja.

Another option is to rent a car, which gives you more flexibility and convenience, but also more responsibility and cost. The roads in Central Mexico are generally in good condition, but you should be aware of the traffic rules, tolls, and parking fees. You should also have a valid driver’s license, an international driving permit, and a credit card.

A third option is to join a tour, which can save you time and hassle, but also limit your freedom and choices. There are many tour operators that offer day trips or multi-day packages to the main attractions of Central Mexico, and the prices vary depending on the quality and the itinerary. Some of the reputable tour companies are Amigo Tours, Turibus, and Wayak.

Central Mexico is a wonderful destination that offers a variety of experiences and sights for travelers. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in this region. We hope that this article has given you some inspiration and information for planning your own trip to Central Mexico, and that you will enjoy it as much as we did.

Related posts:
Best Time to Visit Mexico: When to Go & When to Avoid!
Two Week Mexico Itinerary – Exploring Central Mexico – Eternal Expat