This secret colonial city in Mexico has cheap prices and is still undiscovered

Most tourists know Mexico for its pristine Caribbean coastline, world-class hotels and ancient Mayan heritage, but as anyone who dares to venture off the tourist trail knows, this is just the tip of the iceberg – or should we say pyramid?

From the snow-capped hills surrounding Puebla, to the lush valleys of Oaxaca, to the golden sandy beaches of the Gulf, Mexico has much more to offer then just parties and mojitos by the pool.

We could write extensively about the hidden gems of our southern neighbors. Trust us, here Travel off the pathwe spent years Helping Americans discover the true Mexico beyond the surface level, but An city ​​continues to fly under the radar:

Discover Orizaba, Mexico’s last true hidden gem

Orizaba, a beautiful colonial treasure in the state of Veracruz, a short hour and a half drive inland from the capital of the same name, offers both culture And affordable prices if you are looking for an alternative to the all-inclusive holiday model.

Founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, at the foot of the towering Pico de Orizaba (known in the local indigenous language as Citlaltpetl), it is home to a virtually intact 19th-century cityscape, lush parks and vibrant public markets.

The most prominent building in the city, Palacio de Hierr, d is an iron-made palatial structure directly inspired by French and Belgian public buildings, designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel– the same man who sketched the Eiffel Tower!

The European links don’t stop there: inside there are five different museums, including one beer museum and the Raíces de Orizaba gallery, which describes the founding of the city. Take it easy on the local brew, though, because you’ve got plenty of sightseeing ahead:

When traveling to Mexico feels more like you are in Europe

Around the historic center, which deserves UNESCO World Heritage status, you will also come across the monument, if you ask us Teatro Ignacio de la Llaveinaugurated in neoclassical style in 1875. Even if you don’t attend a show, visit for its architecture only it’s worth it.

Don’t get us started on the abundance of Nice churches spread across the timeless colonial core of Orizaba:

The most important thing is without a doubt Cathedral of San Miguel Arcangelthe main cathedral. It is known for combining elements of Baroque and Neoclassical, and is easily distinguished from the rest thanks to its style yellow-orange exterior and rising chimesR.

Just east of the center, in the quaint Omiquila district, a 15-minute walk from the cathedral, you’ll find the visually striking Santuario de Santa María de Guadalupe. The portal is decorated with ornate elements churrigueresque style, and the interior is just as detailed.

Finally, don’t miss the Parroquia de San José de Graciaa former Franciscan monastery with Gothic cloisters and an Old World atmosphere.

Beautiful nature all around

If you like beautiful walks, join us Paseo del Rio is an absolute must: a promenade along the Orizaba River, which passes historic bridges, some dating back to the 16th century, colonial facades and open-air art galleries.

To get a little perspective, take locals teleferico Cerro del Borrego, one of the highest peaks in the vicinity of the city. With an altitude of up to 1,500 meters, it offers a breathtaking panorama of Orizaba and the mountain-flanked valley in which it is located.

There are also hiking trails that start at the foot of Pico de Orizaba, including the popular waterfalls route. A 6.2 mile round trip, it reaches two beautiful mountain slopesas well as areas of pristine highland forest.

That being said, we highly recommend it in return for try it yourself; book a walking tour, which is average about $145 per person. While there are tourist-friendly trails, no one knows these mountains better than the locals.

The last thing you want is to have an accident while south of the border in a remote mountain.

How affordable is Orizaba?

A major appeal of Orizaba compared to many hotspots on the Mexican coast is its affordability. No matter how good an all-inclusive package you get for Cancun, you know that prices in loco will always be high because the city is literally built around tourism.

In Orizaba, prices still reflect local purchasing powerand let’s be honest: most Mexicans aren’t exactly top earners.

A top attraction for foodies in the city is Mercado Melchor Ocampo, an indoor market full of street food and stalls selling local produce. Orizaba is famous tacos de bistecfound everywhere, are usually priced around the price MX$15–20 each (approximately USD$1.10).

The popular gorditas de chicharrón prensado are thick corn cakes filled with pressed pork, and they are just as cheap, costing around MX$25-30 (USD$1.59).

As for a cantina-style meal, it will cost you anywhere between $9.47 and $24.30 (when ordering multiple dishes and drinks). A place that tourists and locals alike love is Bocoles, which serves Huatesca dishes.

When it comes to hotels, Budget your trip found that downtown stays range from $57 to $106 per night. On average, a 3-night visit to Orizaba costs $171 in accommodation.

Can’t get enough of Mexico? Check out these other alternative destinations in Mexico that are just as beautiful (and cheap to visit).