Mexico’s Colonial Heritage

Tailor made tours

SUMMARY

12 Days

Mexico

A Journey Through Mexico’s Colonial Heritage

This captivating 12-day tour takes travellers deep into Mexico’s colonial past, uncovering the rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture of the country’s most enchanting cities. From bustling Mexico City to the colorful streets of San Miguel de Allende and the mariachi rhythms of Guadalajara, this journey blends history, art, and local traditions for an unforgettable experience.

Explore Mexico City and Ancient Ruins

The adventure begins in Mexico City, where visitors explore the historic Zócalo, the grand Metropolitan Cathedral, and the iconic National Palace adorned with Diego Rivera’s murals. A visit to the awe-inspiring Teotihuacán Ruins, home to the majestic Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, offers a glimpse into Mexico’s ancient past. Furthemore, take a full-day excursion to Puebla with a stop at Cholula, home to the world’s largest pyramid base. Puebla’s charming streets, decorated with traditional talavera tiles, offer a fitting farewell to this incredible journey.

Colonial Gems and Independence Landmarks

Then, travel to the colonial town of Querétaro, known for its stunning aqueduct and charm, before arriving in San Miguel de Allende. This UNESCO-listed town captivates with its vibrant streets, historic churches, and artistic ambiance. Moreover, the tour continues to Guanajuato, a city of underground tunnels and colorful alleyways, where history comes alive in every plaza and passage.

Baroque Beauty and Cultural Treasures

Next, continue overland overland to Zacatecas. Admire the breathtaking baroque cathedral and panoramic views from La Bufa Hill, descending by cable car to the historic center. Evenings in Zacatecas are filled with music and festivity. Following this, travel to Guadalajara, the birthplace of mariachi and tequila. On the way, visit Tlaquepaque, a hub of traditional crafts, and Tequila, where travellers witness the time-honored process of making Mexico’s most famous spirit.

Markets, Monuments, and Natural Wonders

The route leads to Pátzcuaro and Morelia, where colonial splendor meets indigenous traditions. Visitors explore vibrant markets, stunning plazas, and, in October, the breathtaking Monarch Butterfly Reserves. Finally, back in Mexico City, with time for independent exploration, with Coyoacán and the Frida Kahlo Museum as must-visit highlights.

HIGHLIGHTS

Explore Mexico City’s historic landmarks, including the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, and National Palace.
Visit the awe-inspiring Teotihuacán Ruins and climb the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon.
Wander through the charming colonial streets of San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato.
Discover the baroque beauty of Zacatecas and ride a cable car over the historic center.
Experience the birthplace of mariachi and tequila in Guadalajara, with visits to Tlaquepaque and Tequila.
UNESCO World Heritage Listed city of Zacatecas
Enjoy a cultural excursion to Puebla and Cholula, famed for its talavera tiles and historic charm.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Mexico City

Arrive in Mexico City and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to settle in and explore at your own pace.

Day 2 Mexico City

Discover the heart of Mexico City on a full-day tour. Visit the Zócalo, the grand Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace, home to Diego Rivera’s famous murals. Later, explore the awe-inspiring Teotihuacán Ruins, where the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon stand as timeless marvels of ancient Mesoamerica.

Day 3 Mexico City/San Miguel Allende

Travel to Querétaro and admire the striking Aqueduct, the historic Santa Clara Convent, and the charming colonial center. Continue to San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO-listed gem, for an afternoon tour of its colorful streets and stunning architecture. Overnight in this enchanting city.

Day 4 San Miguel Allende/Guanajuato

Begin the day in Dolores Hidalgo, the cradle of Mexico’s independence, and stroll through its picturesque central plaza. In the afternoon, arrive in the beautiful city of Guanajuato, nestled in a scenic valley. Explore its winding cobblestone alleyways, historic plazas, and underground streets on a guided city tour.

Day 5 Guanajuato/Zacatecas

Leave in the morning for the UNESCO World Heritage city of Zacatecas, famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the exquisite baroque Cathedral and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from La Bufa Hill, descending by cable car to the historic center. In the evening, experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere with live music along the Callejoneada.

Day 6 Zacatecas/Guadalajara

En route to Guadalajara, stop in Tlaquepaque, a lively town renowned for its handcrafted art and traditional markets. Arrive in Guadalajara, the birthplace of mariachi and tequila. In the evening, visit Plaza de los Mariachis for an unforgettable live music experience.

Day 7 Guadalajara

Discover Guadalajara’s rich heritage with a morning city tour, including the Government Palace, Cathedral, and Plaza de la Rotonda. Then, travel to the town of Tequila to learn about the fascinating distillation process of Mexico’s most famous spirit and enjoy a tasting session.

Day 8 Guadalajara/Morelia

Head to Pátzcuaro, a charming town founded in 1534 on the shores of Lake Pátzcuaro. Explore its vibrant market and the lively Quiroga Plaza. Continue to Morelia, known for its stunning colonial architecture. If visiting in October, don’t miss the chance to witness millions of Monarch butterflies in the nearby reserves.

Day 9 Morelia/Mexico City

Visit Morelia’s magnificent 18th-century Cathedral, an exquisite example of Churrigueresque-style architecture. Explore the local market before returning to Mexico City for the night.

Day 10 Mexico City

Enjoy a free day to relax or explore at your leisure. A visit to the bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán, home to the famous Frida Kahlo Museum, is highly recommended.

Day 11 Mexico City

Embark on a full-day tour to Puebla, stopping en route at the archaeological site of Cholula, home to the world’s largest pyramid base. Explore Puebla’s charming streets adorned with iconic talavera tiles and discover its vibrant plazas and historic sites. Return to Mexico City in the afternoon.