Colonial Mexico

Shady leafy plazas, baroque churches, narrow cobbled streets, colonial architecture, pastel coloured buildings and an abundance of good hotels and exploratory experiences make Colonial Mexico a must for those looking to discover the real Mexico away from the glitz and glam of Cancun.

Colonial Mexico is the name we have given to the gorgeous towns and cities in the central highlands where the locals have a real sense of national pride due to the important role these places played in the Mexican Revolution. These cities and towns are also abundant with Spanish influences and you cannot walk far without seeing the blend of traditional Mexican customs with Spanish influences.

Enlarge Map +

What are the best cities to visit in the region?


Driving past volcanoes or through cactus farms between these towns is an experience in itself before you actually get inside the cities that you could spend a lifetime exploring. Here are our favourite places to visit. For further ideas for your Mexican Holiday please just ask as we love to share our ideas and expertise with anyone that will listen!
 
  • Oaxaca is a truly gorgeous historical city that boasts some of the best food in the entire continent. Oaxaca has a very distinct and rich traditional feel thanks to the extensive indigenous population of the city and area. These influences can be seen in the local attire, the traditional markets, the local handicrafts and more. Oaxaca also boats a large cathedral and a couple of pretty churches where people congregate in the evening. Outside of Oaxaca there is also so much to explore depending on your interests.  Monte Alban, an ancient site is an absolute must. Drive out to the artisans that specialise in black pottery art, alejibres and other local art and crafts that have been passed down the generations. For those that like alcohol then we know a couple of local small time distillers that will invite you to their farm and let you try the increasingly trendy Mezcal. Oaxaca is one of our favourite Mexican cities.
  •  
  • Puebla is famed for its ceramic tiles, its 70+ churches and the town of Cholula where you will find a church built upon the largest pyramid in Mesoamerica. Puebla also boasts some fantastic museums, our favourite being the International Museum of the Baroque. The Biblioteca Palafoxiana is also well worth a visit-this library is the oldest library in Mexico that was founded in 1646.
  •  
  • San Miguel de Allende is one of the most popular colonial cities that boasts a stunning UNESCO protected historical centre, first class museums that frequently exhibit art from some of the most well established global artists and a collection of scrumptious restaurants all within easy walking distance of the centrally located boutique hotels. Away from the crowds of the city you could trek the Camino Real- a route that Spanish Conquistadores used to transport their looted treasures or if you are looking for something a little more relaxing then we highly recommend a visit to a vineyard or Tequila farm to learn about some of the regions popular exports.





  • TALK TO ONE OF OUR EXPERTS


    Call
    Email
    Chat

    Map of Mexico

    Map of Mexico Mexico - Colonial Mexico Mexico - Mexico City Mexico - Riviera Maya Mexico - Yucatan Peninsula
    Odyssey Travels Tanzania Odyssey Asia Odyssey South America Odyssey