Highlights Aztec Pyramids at Teotihuacan, Guadalajara, Morelia, Mexico City.

Mexico Colonial Cities Map

Mexico Colonial Cities

Central America > Mexico | 9 days

Trip Code: CMCMD

Highlights

Aztec Pyramids at Teotihuacan, Guadalajara, Morelia, Mexico City.

Rediscover Mexico’s colonial and cultural heritage by exploring the most picturesque towns in the Americas. Far from the tourist crowds of the beach resorts lies the charming and vibrant cobblestone streets filled with eclectic culture. From the bustling plazas and fiesta boat rides to the Frida Kahlo Museum and artisan markets, experience an authentic local scene that provides a perpetual festival celebrating traditional music and dance.

B - Breakfast | L - Lunch | D - Dinner

Day 1 Arrive Mexico City (D)

Today we can arrive in Mexico City at any time. There are no planned activities other than a group orientation meeting, so we can check into our hotel and enjoy the city. After our meeting, our tour leader will take us to an authentic Mexican restaurant to try some local dishes.

Day 2 Mexico City (B,L)

Today we will venture away from the hustle and bustle of the historical center and into the suburb of Coyoacan - a lively bohemian and artistic culture - once home to Leon Trotsky, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Here we can take a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum and see some of her paintings as well as get a glimpse into her interesting life. We will then continue south to Xochimilco, the location of an extended series of canals that were once the famous hanging gardens of the Aztecs. We will board our own "trajinera," a long narrow boat with a long table and chairs and experience our own Mexican picnic alongside local families in their own boats. Local floating vendors have food for sale and perhaps we will be able to find a mariachi group on a nearby boat.

Day 3-4 Guadalajara (2B)

Today we will travel to Guadalajara - the birthplace of mariachi music, tequila and sombreros - and enjoy an orientation walk through the area. We will also spend some time later in the evening strolling along the "Mariachi Plaza". On day 4 we will visit the artisan center of Tonala which features stores selling locally made products from more than 400 workshops. Aside from admiring and buying these wares, we will also enjoy demonstrations of different crafts. Popular items in this town include blown glass, wrought iron, ceramics and paper-mache.

Day 5-6 Morelia (2B,2L)

Today we will visit the nearby town of Tequila to learn how this famous beverage is distilled from the Blue Agave plant and even try a sample! Later in the day we will arrive in the city of Morelia. On day 6, we will tour around the fascinating city of Morelia - a UNESCO World Heritage site and capital of Michoacán - one of the first Spanish cities in Mexico. Here we will visit the Casa de las Artesanias (the House of Handicrafts), where arts and handicrafts from all over the state are displayed and sold; venture upstairs and maybe be lucky enough to see the artisans demonstrating their skills. We will take the time to explore this well-preserved colonial city and enjoy the atmosphere with a coffee in one of the many cafés around the zócalo, or main square.

Day 7-8 Mexico City / Teotihuacán (2B,1L)

Today we will return to Mexico City and take in the world-renowned Anthropology Museum with a guided tour followed by free time to explore the vast collection housed within its walls. The following day, we will visit Teotihuacán, the Aztec site of the awesome Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and Mexico’s largest ancient city. Mexico City is a fascinating multi-layered megalopolis home to an endless list of cultural wonders, the largest plaza (the Zócalo), the Zona Rosa, and many historic Aztec sites and a vibrant street life at all hours.

Day 9 Depart Mexico City (B)

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Pricing

Joint booking prices (per person)
Additional Payments
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International airfare is not included
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Trip Overview

StartFinish
ex Mexico City
What's Included
Tour of Coyacan district - Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum - Xochimilco floating fiesta boat ride with picnic lunch - Walking tour of Guadalajara and visit to Mariachi Plaza - Tour of Tonala artisan center - Guided tour of the town of Tequila with a visit to an agrave plantation and distillery - Morelia tour with Casa de las Artesanias studios - Visit the Anthropology Museum - Tour of Teotihuacan ruins
Group Leader
Discovery Adventures guide, local guides
Group Size Notes
Max 15, Avg 10
Meals Included
8 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 1 Dinner
Transport
Van, Mini-bus, Boat, Walking
Accommodation
Comfort hotels (8nts)
Meal Budget
Allow $145-190 USD for meals not included.
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops on tour.