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When people think of a getaway to Mexico, the first thing that comes to mind might be the luxurious five-star resorts and turquoise seas of Cancun, the romantic historic center and scenic boardwalk of Puerto Vallarta, or perhaps the bustling streets and vibrant markets of CDMX.
We love a do-nothing vacation in the Mexican Caribbean, and we splurged year exploring every culturally different neighborhood of Mexico City – it truly is the most incredible city in the world.
Still, like Travel off the pathwe are literally in a moodIt is a name for ourselves by going outside the box and highlighting lesser known places where more casual tourists usually sleep. When it comes to Mexico, it is no different.
For example, did you know that one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico is just a 50-minute drive north of CDMX, and that it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site right?
Is Tepotzotlán the most beautiful town in Mexico?
Tepotzotlán may sound like yet another unpronounceable native city name to the curious tourist who occasionally plays with Google Maps on the outskirts of the CDMX metropolis, but really they should be zooming in, not zooming out.
It’s a small municipality of about 67,000 residents and one of the most culturally important (yet underrated) destinations in all of Mexico. Why, you may ask?
It happens to preserve one of the best examples of colonial architecture in the country. That’s why UNESCO decided to take it under its wing, and in all honesty, can you blame them? How beautiful is this Jesuit complex really?
Built by a Roman Catholic priesthood in the early 17th century, the Temple of San Francisco Javier is undoubtedly the most spectacular example of Mexican Baroque architecture, or whatever they call it locally. churrigueresque.
A baroque masterpiece
It is the tallest building in the colonial center, which consists largely of one- to two-story buildings, and it has a striking red-gray facade, made of volcanic rock.
The tower rises vertically as an ornately sculpted column, stacked with statues of saints, angels and religious symbols, but the real showstopper is the interior: with altars completely covered in gold leaf carvings and beautiful sacred art. it is nothing less than a feast for the eyes.
Right next to the church you will find the second most impressive structure in the Jesuit complex: the former College of San Francisco Javier. Once an important educational and missionary training center, it has now opened as the landmark National Museum of the Viceroyalty.
The museum houses remains from the Spanish period and is housed in the largely intact structure of the 16th century campusand in addition to admiring ancient relics, visitors can:
- Stroll through serene monasteries and courtyards
- Visit the original dormitories and refectory
- Explore the old library
- Relax in the well-maintained gardens and courtyards
If you’re wondering who was responsible for the spread of Christianity in central and northern Mexico, the missionaries who were once based at this college played a key role in it. Needless to say, Tepotzotlán has both directly and indirectly contributed to shaping the country’s current identity.
A picturesque colonial center
In addition to the Jesuit complex, you should not miss the beautiful colonial center surrounding it. There’s a reason why Tepotzotlán is a UNESCO World Heritage Site Pueblo Magico.
This is a Mexico-specific designation that recognizes some of the country’s most historically and architecturally relevant municipalities, and given the way Tepotzotlán retained much of its colonial layout and atmosphere, it’s no wonder it’s included.
The central square, or Plaza del Pueblois located right opposite the Jesuit Church and is surrounded by colorful colonial buildings with arcades. Behind this are a series of cafes, traditional canteens and quirky souvenir shops.
From the square there is a maze of narrow, winding cobbled streets on either side Spanish era mansionswith the famous wooden balconies and clay tile roofs, and scattered throughout the place, you may see small chapels hidden in alleys, romantic stone fountains and ancient gates.
Great traditional food
During the weekends, craft markets are popping up left, right and center, selling handmade crafts, textiles, pottery and sweets. For our fellow dear friends, you can’t leave without trying the fudge-like one jamoncilloor pulque based borrachito.
CDMX is already a Food Mecca of the highest order, but if you look for it truly authentic native Mexican flavorsthen you’ve come to the right place:
Tepotzotlán is the top Mexican destination to try antojitoseither as a meal at the table or as a quick bite from one of the stalls on the square, and carnitasslow-cooked meat served in local, tasty sauces. Even them chapels (the infamous Mexican locusts) are nationally famous.
For colonial-style dishes with an indigenous touch, head to Hosteria del Convento: from American favorite enchiladas en mole to well-prepared antojitos that go well with a fresh, cold drink. the place to go when those food cravings strike.
Check local safety guidelines before flying
You know what we’re going to tell you now.
Before you go ahead and book the next flight, be quick 15 second destination control on the traveler dashboard.
The main concern for Americans heading south of the border is safety, especially after the recent increase in crime across Mexico in recent weeks.
By typing the name of your destination into the Traveler Dashboard, you will not only get security guidelines, but also all the following information, collected in clear, easy-to-read language. Need to open different tabs, from different sources:
- Admission requirements
- Mandatory fees (if applicable)
- Customs rules
- Current travel advice (safety warnings)
- Recommendations for hotels and excursions
Try it yourself here.
