Whether travelers are looking for colonial gems, delicious traditional Mexican food or simply a chance to unplug, the many towns near Mexico City have something for everyone. And Mexico's fast, comfortable and safe buses make escaping the big city for a quick trip and getting back in time to catch a flight home a stress-free experience.
Taxco, Guerrero
This former silver-mining town, located about 100 miles southwest of Mexico City, exudes charm with it's narrow cobblestone streets and white-washed houses with red-tiled roofs. Built on the side of a mountain, visitors should expect a good workout after walking through the famed, steep streets of Taxco. Visitors who don't have much more than a weekend to spend must, at least, check out these places and things to do:
- Visit the Parroquia de Santa Prisca or Santa Prisca Parish for an example of extraordinary tile work, awe-inspiring ornamentation including gold-covered altarpieces and historic frescos.
- Buy some silver jewelry. The silverwork in Taxco, considered the best in the country, can be found throughout the town, as silversmiths have a long tradition in the area. Visitors can even see some unique silver pieces in the Silverwork Museum or Museo de la Platería Antonio Pineda.
- Ride the cable car for an unforgettable aerial view of the famed white-washed houses with red-tiled roofs. The ride ends at the Hotel Monte Taxco, a good place to grab lunch or drinks and enjoy the view.
Getting to Taxco from Mexico City
Depart from the city's Tasqueña bus terminal. Buses leave five times throughout the day from 6:30 am to 7 pm. Cost is $124 Mexican pesos. Estimated travel time is 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
Puebla City, Puebla
This colonial town boasts beautiful architecture, high-quality talavera or traditional ceramic pottery, and delicious cuisine like the famous mole poblano. Puebla is the reason the holiday Cinco de Mayo is celebrated. On May 5, 1862, French invaders tried to overtake the city, but were defeated in what became known as the Battle of Puebla. There's plenty to see and do in Puebla:
- Head to the heart of Puebla, the zócalo or town square. Here visitors can enjoy a walk around the gardens and spot the beautiful talavera work found in almost every historic building there. Take some time to pop into the restaurants that dot the square for some drinks and a chance to absorb the local vibe. Then, step into Puebla's majestic cathedral, built in the 1500s.
- Taste buds tend to explode in this culinary capital, so visitors must try some specialty dishes like chiles en nogada or stuffed pepper in a walnut sauce. This seasonal treat is often eaten during the month of September in honor of Mexico's Independence Day. The colors of the Mexican flag are all represented--the green chile, a creamy white sauce and sprinkled on top is red pomegranate.
- Shop for high-quality talavera markets and boutique stores all around town.
Getting to Puebla from Mexico City
Buses depart from the Tasqueña bus terminal every 30 minutes beginning at 6:05 am. Cost is $120 Mexican pesos. Estimated travel time is 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Nancy Flores - My freelance work, which ranges from writing articles, producing and editing online video and shooting photos, focuses on Mexican travel, ...
