19 Amazing Day Trips from Mexico City in 2023

Looking for the best day trips from Mexico City? Here are a few ideas for you!

Even though Mexico City has so much to see that you could virtually spend an entire year exploring and never have to do the same thing twice, it’s also worth checking out a few of its nearby destinations if you ever feel like escaping the noise for a while.

Growing up in Mexico City, I never really realized how impressive the city’s location is.

Within a short drive, you can virtually find yourself on a snowy mountain if you go east or you can find yourself in a tropical climate if you go south!

Thanks to the city’s centric spot, there are tons of incredible day trips from Mexico City that you can take.

Even though it would be impossible to list them all, here are some of my top recommendations for first-timers in the city.

Best day trips from Mexico City

1. Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is an ancient city located about 50 kilometers northwest of the city.

You can easily get there by car, public transportation, or through a tour, making it one of the easiest day trips from Mexico City. 

The biggest attractions in Teotihuacan are the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, which is connected by the Avenue of the Dead (note that as of 2023, climbing the pyramids is no longer allowed). 

Back in the day, Teotihuacan was one of the largest and most influential cities in pre-Columbian America, with a population of over 100,000 at its peak in the 5th and 6th centuries CE.

Still, despite its importance, much about the city remains a mystery, including its origins, its decline, and the people who built it.

You will also find smaller buildings and temples scattered along as well as a museum where you can see all kinds of cool stuff that’s been found during excavations like jewelry, ceramic figures, and obsidian tools.

I highly recommend combining your visit to Teotihuacan with a tasting tour – the most popular ones involve tequila, but make sure to also ask to taste pulque! 

For the ultimate experience, you can also book a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, which provides beautiful views of the ruins as well as the surrounding areas.

👉🏼 How to get to Teotihuacan from Mexico City

From Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte, you can take a bus that will take you directly to entrances 1 and 2 of Teothihuacan. Buses leave every few minutes (you can purchase your ticket at the counter).

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr and 25 minutes

🏆 Top Teotihuacan Tours from Mexico City

✔ Teotihuacan Early Access Tour with Tequila Tasting

4.5 ⭐ 4,491 Reviews

Get early access to Teotihuacan and join an archeologist who will tell you fascinating facts about every symbol and mural found on the site.

Afterward, enjoy a liqueur tasting of tequila, mezcal, and pulque.

Really well organized and Lilly was super knowledgeable about the pyramids and explained well. I learned a lot. Thank you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leah_J, May 2023

✔ Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco & Tequila Tasting Tour

5.0 ⭐ 5,152 Reviews

This is one of the best tours in Mexico City as you won’t just visit the pyramids but also stop at other important historical sites while you’re at it (Tlatelolco and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe). 

Wonderful tour. We saw so much! Christian our tour guide was wonderful and very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend this tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sharona_S, May 2023

✔ Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan, from Mexico City

5.0 ⭐ 1,121 Reviews

Soar above Teotihuacan on a magical sunrise hot air balloon tour that will give you a full view of how vast the archaeologist site really is!

Was an amazing experience. Tour was well organized from start to finish.. had to wake up real early but it was so worth it

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ John_O, Jun 2023

2. Puebla (+ Cholula)

Puebla and Cholula are two gorgeous cities close to Mexico City that are located right next to each other and can be visited in a day if you start early.

Taking a day trip to Puebla from Mexico City is an excellent way to escape the bustle and hustle This city is known for its incredibly picturesque center and cobblestone streets which are filled with gorgeous baroque buildings and colorful houses. 

Must-see attractions in Puebla include the beautiful Puebla Cathedral, the historic Zocalo main square, the colorful and vibrant Callejon de los Sapos street, the fascinating Amparo Museum, and the stunning Rosary Chapel, to name just a few.

As a tip, the food here is considered some of the best in Mexico, so you may find yourself eating everything you find as you explore the city.

Mole poblano, tamales, and cemitas are just a few must-try dishes. 

If you happen to visit Puebla during August or September, don’t miss out on trying Chile en Nogada, a dish that is only available at this time of the year to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day.

It’s a traditional dish from Puebla that consists of peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds and parsley.

The colors of the dish, green from the pepper, white from the sauce, and red from the pomegranate seeds, represent the colors of the Mexican flag!

Cholula is another city that is very similar to Puebla but has its very own atmosphere.

Two of the best universities in Mexico are found here, so it has a very young vibe. Hip cafés, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants are all a thing here! 

Cholula is actually a popular getaway for young people in Mexico City because it provides a great combination of nature and inexpensive nightlife, so you may want to consider staying overnight here if you’re into that!

Aside from that, Cholula is home to The Great Pyramid of Cholula, an archaeological site and one of the largest pyramids in terms of volume in the world.

Interestingly, there’s a church right on top of it, which was built by the Spanish when they arrived in the region.

👉🏼 How to get to Puebla from Mexico City 

You can find buses from Mexico City to Puebla from tons of staties around the city, including TAPO, Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte, Taxqueña, and even the airport. TAPO station is the most centric one if you’re staying in neighborhoods like Roma, Polanco, Condesa, and others.

Distance from Mexico City: 2hrs and 15mins

🏆 Puebla Tours from Mexico City

✔ Puebla , Cholula & Tonantzintla Day Trip

4.5 ⭐ 891 Reviews

Take a full-day trip to Puebla from Mexico City alongside a guide.

You’ll get to marvel at the city’s beautiful historical center, try delicious food, visit a colorful craft market, and check out Cholula’s main attractions.

Our tour guide Ruben and driver Juan Carlos were both great. The tour was conducted in both English and Spanish but Ruben did a great job balancing the bilingual history lessons. My favorite part was the free time in Puebla. It was a good amount of time where I was able to shop and eat some delicious food without being rushed. Bring your sunscreen and some comfortable walking shoes!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Christopher_S, May 2023

✔ Private Tour to Cholula & Puebla

5.0 ⭐ 33 Reviews

If you prefer a private tour, this is a fantastic way to combine a visit to Cholula and Puebla in a flexible way.

You will get picked up at your hotel and taken to the major attractions in both cities, including Cholula’s archaeological site, several churches and temples, and more.

Great trip . Enjoyable Friendly guys We even stopped to eat local food In Puebla . The guide’s knowledge of the history , details well explained! Beautiful scenery . We definitely had a blast !

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Freddy_P, Aug 2022

3. Xochimilco

Xochimilco isn’t exactly a day trip per se because it’s located within Mexico City’s boundaries in the southern part of it, but because the city is so huge, taking there can take an hour or more from downtown.

The canals of Xochimilco are the last remnants of the extensive transportation system created by the Aztecs, making them one of the most iconic attractions and a must on all Mexico City itineraries.

These days, you can explore the canals on trajineras, which are colorful boats that navigate the canals and chinampas with local cuisine, live music, and lots of tequila included on your ride!

Along the way, you’ll find tons of islands and attractions to check out. If you’re into all things creepy, make sure to ask to be taken to Isla de las Muñecas (Island of the Dolls), where you’ll find hundreds of dolls hanging from trees, on the ground, and more.

As a tip, if you’re a foodie, make sure to make a stop at Mercado 377 and try the chileatole, freshly milked flans, and sweet corn gorditas.

If you love plants, don’t miss out on visiting Cuemanco, which is one of the most iconic markets in Mexico City where you’ll find all sorts of plants and flowers!

👉🏼 How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City 

Since Xochimilco is located within the city, you can easily get there by taxi or Uber.

If you prefer using public transportation, take the metro to Taxqueña Station and then change to Tren Ligeron until you reach the Xochimilco station.

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr

🏆 Xochimilco Tours from Mexico City

✔ Xochimilco, Coyoacán and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour

4.5 ⭐ 3,713 Reviews

This is one of the best Mexico City tours if you’re short on time as it combines a visit to the famous Frida Kahlo Museum and time spent strolling the colonial neighborhood of Coyoacan before you embark on a trajinera to explore the waters of Xochimilco.

You will also visit at Visit a cooperative shop where you can buy beautiful Mexican crafts.

The entire tour was educational and memorable. I have nothing more to say other than the entire tour was memorable.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sheila_B, May 2023

✔ Private City Tour in Kahlo, Coyoacán & Xochimilco

5.0 ⭐ 140 Reviews

Experience the renowned Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) and then take a stroll through the streets of Coyoacán, making stops at various places like the Mercado, the Parroquia de San Juan Bautista, the Plaza Centenario, Cafe Avellaneda, and Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles.

Afterward, take a boat tour through the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco. 

The historical stories told by our guide Patricia and the diversity offered in this package from nature, and culture, to art and history. We were so well cared for by our guide Patricia… she was awesome!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yania_G, May 2023

✔ Teotihuacan & Guadalupe Shrine + Xochimilco, Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Combo Tour

4.5 ⭐ 290 Reviews

In a two-day trip, this tour offers visits to six of the city’s most popular sites alongside a local expert.

Get immersed in ancient history at Teotihuacan and Tlatelolco, discover the Guadalupe Shrine, visit Xochimilco, learn about art in Coyoacan, and tour the Frida Kahlo Museum.

This tour is an excellent way for first-time visitors to get acquainted with Mexico City’s top cultural and historic attractions without having to worry about logistics!

This was a great experience! The day trip to the pyramids and Guadalupe shrine was stellar. Good pacing and riding in the bus was very comfortable. I loved seeing Xochimilco (bring small bills/coins for treats on the boat ride) and the Friday Kahlo tour.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Victoria_L, Dec 2022

4. Tepoztlan

Tepoztlán is an incredibly charming pueblo magico located just 50 miles (80 km) away from Mexico City.

Here, you’ll find cobblestone streets, beautiful surrounding mountains, and a mystical atmosphere that will hook you from the get-go.

One of the main attractions in Tepoztlán is the Tepozteco, a mountain that houses a pyramid dedicated to the god Tepoztécatl at its peak.

To get there, you’ll have to hike a trail that takes about an hour and a half, but the spectacular panoramic views during the climb make it totally worth it.

Moreover, Tepoztlán is also known for its cultural and spiritual events like meditation workshops, and yoga retreats as the area is believed to have healing properties.

If it’s possible, you may want to consider staying in Tepoztlan for a night or two.

It’s one of my favorite weekend trips from Mexico City for wellness – you’ll find plenty of stunning boutique hotels here that are perfect to get away from everything and reconnect with nature.

Tip: Don’t miss out on trying itacate, a local dish from Tepozlán which is a sort of gordita stuffed with different ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables.

👉🏼 How to get to Tepoztlan from Mexico City

You can take a bus to Tepoztlan from the Taxqueña bus station. Buses leave every 20 minutes or so (you can purchase your ticket at the counter).

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr

🏆 Tepoztlan Tours from Mexico City

✔ Tepoztlan Magico!

3.5 ⭐ 5 Reviews

This day tour to Tepoztlan will have you walking through the cobbled streets of the town and learning all about its esoteric and prehispanic treasures.

You will also get the option to hike to the top of Tepozteco to check out the archeological site.

We had the tour today with Juan Carlos. He is a thoughtful and considerate driver and tour host. We toured the beautiful small town and then we hiked up to see the Pyramid. He hiked with us and we all shared the views and the beautiful spring day from the top by the Pyramid. We had very good street food and went to see the church. Juan is peaceful to travel with. We felt like we were taken to Tepoztlan by a friend. we will recommend this escorted trip to others!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Mar 2023

5. Taxco 

Taxco is another beautiful pueblo magico located about a 2-and-a-half-hour drive away from Mexico City and will make you feel as though you were transported back in time.

Here, you’ll find winding cobblestone streets, beautiful colonial houses painted in white and red, and lots of historical buildings and Baroque-style churches.

Taxco is commonly nicknamed the “silver town” because of its silver production and jewelry creation.

You’ll find tons of shops all over selling stunning artisan silver jewelry and I highly recommend visiting a workshop as well in order to learn all about its creation as well as the importance of this mineral for Taxco’s history.

👉🏼 How to get to Taxco from Mexico City

The easiest way to get to Taxco is to take a bus from the Taxqueña terminal.

Alternatively, you can also head over to Observatorio station and take a bus to Taxco, but this route is a little slower as it makes two stops at Ixtapan de la Sal and Grutas.

Distance from Mexico City: 2hrs and 30 minutes

🏆 Taxco Tours from Mexico City

✔ Cacahuamilpa Caves and Taxco: Private & Small Groups From Mexico City

⭐ Reviews

This tour is a wonderful choice as you will get free time to explore the streets of Taxco independently as well as visit the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa, a series of cave tunnels and grottos close to Taxco.

You will finish the day by taking the cable car up to a hill for beautiful panoramic views of Taxco.

Caves are a natural geologic wonder. Taxco is beautiful. Our driver Javier spoke excellent english and answered my many questions about sites along the road. A great change of pace from the CDMX metropolis.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jonathan_M, Nov 2022

✔ Silver City of Taxco: Full-Day Tour from Mexico City

4.0 ⭐ 20 Reviews

This tour will have you exploring Taxco and its main sights like its Baroque-style church and also give you free time to explore independently.

You will also make a short stop at Cuernavaca along the way, so you can check out two cities in one go!

The guide was knowledgable and helpful. Taxco was magnificent and not to be missed. The silver jewelry was a exquisite and provided a tremendous value. The driver was courtesy and a pleasure.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steve_T, Jan 2023

6. Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is known for its pleasant climate, beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and variety of cultural attractions. 

It’s often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild and comfortable weather throughout the year, making it the perfect place for a day trip from Mexico City if you want to escape the crazy weather the city sometimes has!

Even though it’s pretty small, Cuernavaca is a gem for those who want to dive deep into colonial history and pre-Hispanic architecture as the city is home to a myriad of museums, churches, and rather unknown archaeological sites.

If you’re interested in history, you’ll find Xochicalco and Teopanzolco on the outskirts of Cuernavaca.

Both are pre-Hispanic sites that offer a unique insight into what life was like back then and they feel more authentic compared to more famous archaeological sites around Mexico.

👉🏼 How to get to Cuernavaca from Mexico City

Take a bus from Taxqueña Terminal to Cuernavaca. Buses leave every few minutes and you can purchase your ticket directly at the counter.

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr and 25 minutes

🏆 Cuernavaca Tours from Mexico City

✔ Taxco, Cuernavaca and Prehispanic Mine from Mexico City

4.5 ⭐ 421 Reviews

Visit both Cuernavaca and Taxco on a full-day tour from Mexico City.

Activities include exploring an authentic pre-Hispanic mine, browsing artisan silver markets, and checking out the main attractions in both cities.

Very well organized tour. Tour guide Mar is the best. She explained in both English and Spanish. Bus driver is also very nice person. Very good experience

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Srinivasulu_G, May 2023

7. Real del Monte

Once a silver mining hub in central Mexico during the 16th century, Real de Monte was one of the most important towns in the country.

These days, Real de Monte is considered one of the best day trips from Mexico City if you want to visit a pueblo magico that is not as popular yet for foreigners.

While here, you’ll find charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lots of English-style houses. 

Moreover, you will also be able to check out plenty of interesting museums like the Museo de Minería, where you can learn about the mining history of the area and how English immigrants influenced the local culture.

Close to Real del Monte, you will also find the Basaltic Prisms, which are a series of towering rock formations made of basalt columns that are surrounded by lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls.

Tip: Make sure to pack warm clothes for Real the Monte as it can get pretty cold even during the summer months!

👉🏼 How to get to Real del Monte from Mexico City

Head over to Terminal Central del Norte and take a bus to Pachuca (it leaves every 30 minutes).

Once in Pachuca, take a taxi to Mercado Benito Juarez and you’ll find a small bus terminal there where you can find buses to Real del Monte.

Alternatively, when you reach Pachuca, you can just take a taxi directly to Real de Monte (30 minutes or so).

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr and 45 minutes

🏆 Huasca de Ocampo & Real del Monte Tours from Mexico City

✔ Pueblos Magicos & Basaltic Prisms Private Tour

4.5 ⭐ 25 Reviews

This tour will have you wandering the streets of Real del Monte and learning all about its mining past before heading over to the Balsatic Prisms in the Huasteca de Ocampo to check out Hidalgo’s biggest natural wonder.

The guide I had, Liliana, was excellent. She was super kind and informative. She spoke in English while there was another guide that spoke to those who only understand Spanish. We also had another that drove the bus for us. The guides were very kind and the trip was great. Really interesting places to visit! Definitely worth seeing.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nathan_G, Jun 2022

✔ Real del Monte and Basaltic Prisms: Private Tour From Mexico City

5.0 ⭐ 2 Reviews

Explore Mineral del Monte and Huasca, another pueblo magico close by that is also a treat to visit. Afterward, you’ll get to visit the Basaltic Prisms and its waterfalls to end the day.

8. Tlaxcala

Tlaxcala is a tiny state known for its rich history and culture.

It was one of the first regions in Mexico to be conquered by the Spanish, making it one of the best day trips from Mexico City for history buffs.

Tlaxcala is known for its traditional art and crafts, including textiles, pottery, and jewelry and if you’re an avid foodie, you’ll find lots of interesting dishes here like escamoles (ant larvae) and mixiotes (meat cooked in a traditional maguey leaf wrap).

In addition to its colonial history and a few archeological sites, Tlaxcala is home to several natural attractions, including the La Malinche National Park and the Xicohtencatl Volcano.

If you’re visiting during June, Tlaxcala becomes a popular destination from Mexico City because this is when firefly mating season takes place.

At this time, you’ll be able to visit the Tlaxcala Firefly Sanctuary, a protected area that homes thousands of fireflies that light up the forest and create a magical experience. 

There are tours available to and from Mexico City to see the fireflies, but if time allows, I recommend booking a glamping tent or cabin to stay the night in the forest.

👉🏼 How to get to Tlaxcala from Mexico City

You’ll find buses to Tlacapa at the TAPO bus station in Mexico City. Buses leave every 15 minutes, so you don’t need to book a ticket in advance.

Distance from Mexico City: 2hrs 

🏆 Tlaxcala Tours from Mexico City

✔ Fireflies Sanctuary, Culinary Experience,1-night at Historic Hacienda Hotel

4.0 ⭐ 1 Review

Head out on a nighttime adventure to see thousands of fireflies in the heart of the forest near Tlaxcala before joining a cooking class with a local chef and tasting pulque. You will get to spend the night at the historic Hacienda Hotel. so plan two days for this adventure. 

Please note that this tour is only possible during the summer when it’s firefly mating season.

9. Valle de Bravo

Valle de Bravo is a picturesque town located about a two-hour drive from Mexico City.

Here, you’ll find cobbled streets, cute adobe houses, and a humongous lake where you can spend the day enjoying water sports such as sailing, water skiing, and kayaking or simply sitting by at a lakeside restaurant to enjoy the views.

Aside from the lake and its charming downtown, Valle de Bravo has tons of natural attractions nearby where you can hike. All in all, this is one of the best Mexico City Day trips for a mix of culture and nature.

👉🏼 How to get to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City

Several bus companies like Zinabus and Excelencia offer multiple daily routes to Valle de Bravo from the Observatorio bus station.

Distance from Mexico City: 2hrs and 30 minutes

🏆 Valle de Bravo Tours from Mexico City

✔ Magic Town Valle de Bravo from Mexico City

Spend the day enjoying the best Valle de Bravo has to offer, including a walking tour through its cobblestone streets, a yacht ride over the lake, and a visit to Velo de Novia Waterfall which has a 115 feet (35 meters) drop.

10. Queretaro

Queretaro is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture as well as its delicious food, young atmosphere, and wine.

A day trip from Mexico City to Queretaro is all about strolling its historic center, which is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and checking out its mansions, churches, and convents that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Aside from that, the state of Queretaro is known for its wine production and there are several wineries located just outside the city that you can check out if you start your day early.

My favorite winery near Queretaro is Donato because it’s very small and offers short tours with lunch included.

👉🏼 How to get to Queretaro from Mexico City

You can reach Queretaro by bus from several bus terminals in Mexico City, including Terminal Central del Norte, Taxqueña, Observatorio, Patio Santa Fe, and the Airport.

Buses are incredibly frequent so you don’t need to worry about booking in advance.

Distance from Mexico City: 2.5hrs – 3hrs

🏆 Queretaro Tours from Mexico City

✔ Private tour to Queretaro and San Miguel de Allende leaving CDMX

4.0 ⭐ 9 Reviews

Start the day early to reach San Miguel de Allende and explore its beautiful historic center alongside a guide who will tell you everything you need to know about the city and its history.

You will also make a stop in Queretaro along the way.

We had a wonderful tour with Juan Carlos! He was very knowledgeable about the region, and gave us a ton of information about Queretaro/San Miguel De Allende. I highly recommend it.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ OSCARLOPEZ, Mar 2022

11. Bernal 

Bernal is a colorful pueblo magico located just two and a half hours north of the city, making it another ideal day trip from Mexico City.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can climb to the top of the rock formation or go hiking in the surrounding areas but if you’re more into culture, you’ll love strolling the cobble streets lined by colorful houses under it. 

Moreover, Bernal is the starting point of Mexico’s Ruta del Queso y el Vino (Wine and Cheese Route).

This area of Mexico is known for its excellent wine production and a day trip should give you enough time to tour a vineyard or two. My favorites include De Cote, La Cava de Marcelo, and Freixenet.

👉🏼 How to get to Bernal from Mexico City 

There aren’t any direct buses to Bernal, but you can take one to Ezequiel Montes from Terminal Central del Norte (Flecha Amarilla and ETN run this route). Once in Ezequiel Montes, you can take a local bus to Peña de Bernal.

Distance from Mexico City: 2.5hrs – 3 hrs

🏆 Bernal Tours from Mexico City

✔ Traditional Cheese and Wine Tour in English

5.0 ⭐ 10 Reviews

This tour leaves from Queretaro, so you can combine it with a trip to this city.

You will get to join an expert guide and visit a cheese farm to get to know their cheese cellar and join a fantastic tasting tour paired with wine.

Afterward, you will take a guided tour of Freixenet, one of the most famous vineyards in the region where you will learn about their winemaking processes and join a sommelier for a tasting.

Had a great time. Our guide Allejandro was incredibly knowledgeable about the area’s history, as well as the modern ins and outs of the city. The cheese was great, as was the wine (though only one glass was complimentary with the tour – “quality over quantity”), and Bernal is a beautiful city. Recommended for folks who want a broad experience of the surrounding area.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jacob_S, Mar 2022

✔ Freixenet Cellar Tour & Peña de Bernal from Mexico City

4.0 ⭐ 9 Reviews

Leaving from Mexico City, you will be taken to Bernal and have free time to explore its streets before heading over to Freixenet to tour the vineyard and join a tasting session.

12. San Miguel de Allende

Ranked as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Miguel de Allende is a bit further away compared to other day trips from Mexico City, but it’s still very much worth the early wake-up!

San Miguel de Allende or “San Mike”, as we Mexico City locals call it, is an incredibly colorful city filled with a rich culture, beautiful architecture, and a thriving arts scene.

You can spend the day checking out local art galleries, visiting museums, or simply gawking at the architecture you’ll find all over (don’t miss out on the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, a neo-gothic church that towers over the city).

In addition to its cultural attractions, San Miguel de Allende is also known for its culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants serving traditional Mexican cuisine as well as international dishes.

👉🏼 How to get to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City

ETN buses run daily routes from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte. Reserving online in advance is recommended, especially on weekends.

Distance from Mexico City: 3hrs and 30 minutes

🏆 San Miguel de Allende Tours from Mexico City

Going from San Miguel de Allende to Mexico City in one day by bus can be too much of a hassle. Although I am a fan of do-it-yourself trips, in this case, you will probably be better off with an organized tour with a direct bus

✔ San Miguel de Allende Tour from Mexico City

4.5 ⭐ 193 Reviews

Start the day early and drive to San Miguel de Allende, where a local guide will get you acquainted with the architecture and attractions of the city.

Then, you’ll get a few hours to stroll its beautiful cobblestone streets on your own before heading back to Mexico City in the evening.

Our tour guides were great in explaining and answering our questions. Ruben and Dani were very patient and attentive. They gave us time to take photos and also explaining things to us. The driver was great in getting us to our stops.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Janice_C, Jun 2023

13. Iztaccihuatl & Popocatepetl 

Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl are two impressive volcanoes located near Mexico City.

Iztaccíhuatl, also known as “The Sleeping Woman” because of its shape, is the third-highest peak in Mexico, with a height of 5,230 meters above sea level.

On the other hand, Popocatépetl, “The Smoking Mountain” in the Nahuatl language, is one of the most active volcanoes in the country, with a height of 5,426 meters above sea level. 

Both volcanoes are part of the Izta-Popo National Park, better known as “Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatepetl National Park”.

Here, you can spend the day hiking over several trails in the forest to get wonderful views of the volcanoes or if you have a bit more time, you can also brave the challenge and summit one of them!

Keep in mind that trekking climbing Popocatepetl requires a decent fitness level and previous mountaineering skills and overnighting at the top inside a camping tent is part of the adventure (so you cannot do it as a day trip). 

If you don’t have the time or skills, though, there are various trails that will have you hiking either volcano without necessarily having to reach the top that is just as satisfying!

Moreover, it’s important for me to mention that Popocatepelt, which is still active, does have activity from time to time.

While it hasn’t had a violent eruption since 2000, it does spit ash frequently, so it’s important to check if hiking is safe before planning your trip. 

Moreover, I would not recommend attempting to summit without a guide. These hikes are not to be taken lightly and can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

👉🏼 How to get to Iztaccihuatl & Popocatepetl from Mexico City

Take a bus from the TAPO bus terminal to the town of Amecameca, which is the closest village to the volcanoes. Once here, you can take a taxi to Paseo de Cortés.

Distance from Mexico City: 3hrs and 30 minutes (including transfers)

🏆 Iztaccihuatl & Popocatepetl Tours from Mexico City

✔ Iztaccihuatl Volcano Hike with an Alpinist from Mexico City

4.0 ⭐ 210 Reviews

Join an expert guide on a three-hour, intermediate hiking trail that ends a few thousand feet below the summit of Iztaccihuatl.

You will get beautiful panoramic views of the volcano, surrounding valleys, and the mighty Popocatepelt from there.

Had such a good time! Our guide (Ramy, truly the best) was super nice and accommodating to everyone. The views were awesome. Would recommend.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lyle_R, Jan 2023

✔ Mountaineering Iztaccihuatl

5.0 ⭐25 Reviews

If you want to go all in and conquer Iztaccihuatl, this option is great.

You will spend a day acclimatizing at Paseo de Cortes before leaving at 2:00 am in order to reach the peak by midday.

Great people, the guides are super friendly and have great experience. They put our safety ahead of anything, which made the experience a lot more enjoyable

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jul 2021

✔ Trekking Through The Volcanoes

5.0⭐ 17 Reviews

If you want to experience the volcanoes but don’t necessarily want to submit them, this tour is a great option.

You will get to hike between both volcanoes across the forest with glorious views of both peaks with every step you take.

From the get go our guide Alan gave us all the information on the tour. Over 20 years mountaineering experience so a real pro. Once there the tour is a 3.5 hour hike with amazing views of both volcanoes, specially floored by the Popocatépetl. A couple of moderate climbs that compounded with the altitude can leave you winded but Alan was very understanding and waited for us to catch our breath to keep going. Totally recommended.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Adrian_C, Dec 2022

14. Las Grutas de Tolantango

Located just 130 miles (209 km) from Mexico City, Las Grutas de Tolantango are a series of caves and natural swimming pools amid a mountainous landscape.

Here, you can spend hours swimming in warm sulfur waters that are said to contain healing properties, not to mention you can also take a break from relaxing and visit the La Gruta de las Palomas, an underground cave that allows you to walk through tunnels filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

👉🏼 How to get to Las Grutas de Tolantango from Mexico City

While there are no direct routes to Grutas de Tolantongo from Mexico City, you can take a bus from Central de Autobuses del Norte to the town of Ixmiquilpan.

Once there, take a local bus or taxi to Mercado Morelos and walk towards Iglesia San Antonio. You can find buses to Grutas de Tolantongo there.

Distance from Mexico City: 4hrs

🏆 Las Grutas de Tolantango Tours from Mexico City

✔ Full-Day Tour Exploring the Waters of Tolantongo

⭐ Reviews

Meet at the Angel de Independencia at 6 am in order to start driving to Grutas de Tolantongo, with breakfast in the town of Actopan included along the way.

Once there, you will get several hours soaking up in the hot springs, with the option to go on a ziplining adventure if you wish to.

You will also get to visit the caves and have lunch next to the river!

The tour led by Damian and Alex was very well organized. Instructions were clear, the guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and outgoing. The activities they had planned for us (outdoor pools, cave, and the river) were very beautiful and scenic! Would highly recommend this tour!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Maggie_L, Jun 2023

✔ Incredible Tolantongo Caves from Cdmx

4.0 ⭐ 112 Reviews

This group will allow you to spend lots of free time enjoying the hot springs and have the option to take a zip line tour as well.

This incredible trip is full of fun, adventure and pure natural wonder. Everything about this trip was great. You will be amazed at the mountain views, the warm pools and springs, and the natural surroundings. Our guide; Fernando, was fantastic. He helped with every part of the trip. I highly recommend doing this excursion with this company. Muchas Gracias!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nancy_W, May 2023

✔ Hot Springs in Tolantongo Full-Day Tour with Breakfast

4.5 ⭐ 30 Reviews

Make your way to Tolantongo and stop for lunch in the town of Ixmiquilpan.

Once you reach the park, you’ll get free time to swim, enjoy the hot springs, and take a zip tour before returning to Mexico City in the evening.

Eduardo the tour guide was super nice and the places we went to was absolutely amazing! The natural sauna to the natural pools and waterfall was just stunning.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Benjamin_W, Mar 2023

15. Pachuca 

Known as the “Wind City”, Pachuca is a smaller city north of Mexico City in the Mexican State of Hidalgo. It has a lot to offer if you’re a history or soccer buff (I wouldn’t recommend visiting otherwise). 

Here, you’ll find plenty of important historical attractions, including Casa Rule and the Reloj Monumental, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

Pachuca is also known for its inexpensive nightlife and traditional cantinas. You can spend a few hours sipping beer and enjoying hidelguense food like pastes mineros, which are meat, chicken, or bean-filled empanadas that are a culinary tradition of the region.

Pachuca is a short drive away from Real del Monte, so you can visit both places in one go as a day trip from Mexico City. 

Additionally, Pachuca is a short drive away from El Chico, a beautiful national park located that features stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and camping areas.

👉🏼 How to get to Pachuca from Mexico City

Getting to Pachuca from Mexico City is very easy. Just head over to Terminal Central del Norte. From there, you can take a bus to Pachuca city center (they leave every half an hour or so, so you don’t need to reserve your spot in advance).

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr and 30 minutes

16. Malinalco

Malinalco is one of my favorite places in Mexico and a day trip here from Mexico City is something I recommend everyone does!

Here, you’ll find tons of nature, culture, and beautiful architecture, not to mention the village and its surrounding mountains are believed to contain mystic properties.

It was once a hidden gem not even most Mexico City locals knew of, but it’s been gaining popularity in recent years.

Getting lost in Malinalco’s cobblestone streets is reason enough to visit, but you’ll also love its archaeological site located at the top of a mountain (yes, hiking is required to reach it!).

Moreover, the town is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls, which offer opportunities for hiking, and other outdoor activities.

👉🏼 How to get to Malinalco from Mexico City

Distance from Mexico City: 1hr and 45 minutes

17. National Park Cumbres del Ajusco

This is one of the coolest Mexico City day tours because it shows just how incredible this city is!

You’d usually expect to have to leave a city in order to visit a national park, but Mexico City has one right inside the city!

Cumbres del Ajusco is a mountainous national park located in southern Mexico City that offers tons of outdoor activities and impressive landscapes.

Even though you’re still in the city, you’ll feel as though you’re worlds away!

Here, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Some of the trails I recommend for first-timers include the Deer Trail and the Pine Trail, which will take you through pine and oak forests.

If you are a cycling enthusiast, you will find several routes of varying difficulty in the area, such as the Ajolotes Route and the Rabbit Route.

These routes will take you through winding roads and challenging hills to test your cycling skills.

Moreover, if you visit during the winter, there’s always a chance that it will snow here!

👉🏼 How to get to NP Cumbres del Ajusco from Mexico City

Take a bus to San Miguel Ajusco from Metro Universidad Station. Once there, you can take a local taxi to the entrance of the national park. You can also use Uber.

🏆 National Park Cumbres del Ajusco tours from Mexico City

✔ Half Day Private Tour to Pico del Águila in Ajusco

5.0 ⭐ 9 Reviews

Hike to the top of Pico del Águila, the highest point in Mexico City at 12894 feet (3,930 meters) above sea level.

The hike takes anywhere between 2 and 4 hours depending on your pace and you’ll get to wind through mountain paths and various types of forests. 

What a great day! Guido Armando was great! And the hike was super challenging I’m the best way. Highly recommend!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bobbie_N, May 2022

✔ Horseback, Food & Wine – Authentic & VIP Experience

⭐ Reviews

Get to know the Mexico City countryside by hopping on a horse and riding across the beautiful landscapes and forests of the Ajusco.

The horses are part of a ranch and very well taken care of!

For lunch, you’ll get to taste wine and enjoy a Mexican barbeque at the ranch surrounded by stables and horses.

We loved our time with Yunuen at his family’s ranch. It was a wonderful day from start to finish, with tasty quesadillas upon arrival and a delicious lunch after the ride. The horses are beautiful and very user friendly, I was comfortable enough to trot a bit at the end! A bonus was hanging out with Yunuen’s ADORABLE son, Killian – he was really a highlight of our time. Definitely recommend this.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Randy_S, May 2023

18. Toluca (+ Metepec)

Toluca is what I’d describe as an industrial hub near Mexico City and even though it doesn’t have a ton of attractions, it does home to a few cultural and historical buildings as well as the mighty Nevado de Toluca.

A few attractions you can check out include the Cosmovitral Botanical Garden which features stunning stained glass murals on the ceiling and a variety of exotic plants from all over the world as well as the Toluca Cathedral in the historic district.

Moreover, Nevado de Toluca is usually the main reason most people visit Toluca.

It’s a gorgeous volcano that contains two crater lakes (Lago del Sol and Lago de la Luna).

The entire area is surrounded by lush forests and offers various hiking trails for different levels.

If you visit in December, January, or February, you may get to see snow here too!

While you can technically drive to the craters, you can also take the tougher route and hike to the summit of the volcano, which reaches an elevation of 4,680 meters above sea level, making it the fourth-highest peak in Mexico.

Metepec is located right next to Toluca.

It’s a pueblo magico that has a beautiful historical center and is known for its baroque architecture churches and its ceramic production, particularly the iconic “Tree of Life”.

Don’t forget to visit the Museum of Clay, where you will learn about the local techniques and traditions of this art.

👉🏼 How to get to Toluca from Mexico City

Zina buses leave every 15 minutes from Mexico City to Toluca from the Observatorio bus station.

You can buy your ticket at the counter and hop on the next available bus and don’t need to make reservations online in advance.

🏆 Toluca Tours from Mexico City

✔ Hike at Nevado de Toluca Volcano

5.0 ⭐ 50 Reviews

Hike the fourth tallest peak in Mexico alongside an expert mountain guide.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to glorious views of two crater lakes.

Please note you need to be in good shape as this is a pretty challenging, 5-mile (8-kilometer) trek!

You need to bring your own hiking shoes, but trekking poles and accident insurance are included in the cost.

Hi everyone! First I want to say a big thank you to ecotura. Secondly I want to recommend to everyone this trip with them. VERY organised, and kind. I was a solo traveller but I was not the only one. I felt 100% safe with them. Also I was the only one who did not understand spanish and our guides tooke care of me and translated always to me. I could ask anything they answered with so much kindness. A huge thank you again!!!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Brigitta_K, Dec 2019

✔ Toluca and Pueblo Mágico de Metepec from Mexico City

5.0 ⭐1 Review

Check out three destinations in one go. You will first visit Toluca to check out the Cosmovitral Botanical Garden and eat lots of food before continuing to Metepec to check out a family-owned clay workshop.

To end the day, you will make a stop at San Mateo Atenco, which is known for its footwear production

19. Tula & Tepotzotlan

Thanks to their close proximity, Tula and Tepotzlan are two destinations north of Mexico City that you can visit in one single day as they are small and easy to explore.

First, Tula is an ancient city located just 85 km north of Mexico City where you’ll find the archaeological site of Tula Grande, which was the home to the atlantes and the pyramid of Quetzalcóatl. 

These magnificent stone structures will allow you to learn more about Toltec history and culture and you can also visit the Tula Museum to delve deeper into the history of the area.

Next, Tepotzotlán (not to be confused with Tepoztlán) is a picturesque pueblo mágico located just 28 miles (45 km) north of Mexico City.

Here, you will marvel at the cobbled streets, colorful houses, and lively squares.

One of the main attractions of this place is the National Museum of the Viceroyalty, which houses a magnificent collection of art and history from the colonial era in Mexico.

👉🏼 How to get to Tula from Mexico City

Buses to Tula leave frequently from the Terminal Central de Norte bus station.

Distance from Mexico City: 2hrs

🏆 Tula Tours from Mexico City

✔ Private Tour: Tula and Tepotzotlan Day Trip from Mexico City

5.0 ⭐ 22 Reviews

This tour will take you to Tula and give you time to explore the archeological site and learn about the Toltec Empire that once existed here.

Afterward, you will visit Tepotzotlán and its famous baroque-style convent.

Ramon was an amazing tour guide. He was so knowledgeable and fun. My family had a wonderful time trekking around Tula and Tepotzotlan. We learned about the history and culture of the Toltecs and the Spanish Conquest in great detail. It was our best tour! Thank you! Christian was also an excellent driver.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Elaine_R, Dec 2022

✔ Private Tour: Pyramids of Teotihuacan and Piramides of Atlantes de Tula

5.0 ⭐ 13 Reviews

This private tour will take you to see both Tula and Teotihuacan, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace and time. Lunch is included in the price tour.

A really great day seeing two amazing sites. Our driver and guide were timely, knowledgeable and good company. Everything ran to plan and we have great memories of our time at these important monuments.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Michael_D, Feb 2023

How to get around Mexico City and its surroundings?

To get around Mexico City and its surroundings, you have several options:

🚗 Renting a car in Mexico City

If you feel confident enough to drive within the city and highways in Mexico, renting a car is definitely the best way to do day trips from Mexico City if you prefer to do things independently.

🚍 Taking the local bus

All of the day trips from Mexico City listed on this post are easy to do on local bus.

Plenty of companies like ADO, Ombibus, Primera Plus, and others offer frequent routes to these destinations throughout the day are and pretty comfortable to ride.

My only advice is to keep in mind that Mexico City has several bus stations and each one offers different routes. 

For instance, if you’re going to destinations south of Mexico City, you will find routes to those places in the Taxqueña terminal, while Terminal del Norte serves routes towards the north and so on.

Make sure to check where your bus leaves from when planning your day trip to avoid any surprises and disappointments!

✔ Booking a tour

If you want to take a stress-free day trip from Mexico City, booking a tour is the easiest choice as you won’t have to worry about logistics.

Some tours offer full guided visits where you’ll get to learn a ton from local guides, while others give you a lot more freedom to explore on your own but take care of things like food and transportation.

What should I pack for a day trip from Mexico City?

Since climates vary, choosing what to pack depends on where you’re going (some places like Toluca and Real de Monte can get pretty chilly while others like Cuernavaca and Taxco are much warmer). 

As a rule, I always recommend packing somewhat light clothes for the day as well as a light sweater in case it gets chilly + a slightly heavier one for the evenings, just in case.

When is the best time to visit Mexico City?

The best time to visit Mexico City depends on what you want to get out of your trip!

The weather is pretty mild throughout the year, but you may want to avoid visiting during June and July which is the “heaviest” part of the rainy season.

Other than that, you may want to consider cultural events like the Day of the Dead, which takes place at the end of October and the beginning of November, or the Jacaranda season, which happens during the spring and the city turns purple when thousands of jacaranda flowers blanket the streets.

All in all, there is no high or low season in Mexico City for tourism yet, but if you want to avoid massive crowds, you may want to visit the city during Semana Santa (the Mexican version of spring break).

This is when many people get a break from school and work and travel to other parts of Mexico for vacation, so the city feels significantly emptier.

How many days is ideal for Mexico City?

Ideally, you’ll want to spend at least three days in Mexico City. This will give you enough time to check out most of the major attractions.

However, the city is incredibly vast, so you could actually stay for weeks and still barely get to scratch the surface! For a sweet spot, I’d say 7 days is a great timeframe to see the attractions but also give you time to soak up the local life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips from Mexico City

Mexico City is an amazing destination in itself, but it also acts as a wonderful place to base yourself in order to discover the best central Mexico has to offer!

In a short time, you can be in so many different places, be it climbing a snow-capped active volcano, soaking up at a pool amid tropical plants, or checking out a colorful village filled with history.

From the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan to the colorful town of Taxco, there are plenty of options for day trips from Mexico City that will give you a chance to explore the rich history and culture of Mexico.

The charming town of Puebla is famous for its delicious cuisine and stunning architecture, while the natural beauty of the Xochimilco canals and the Basaltic Prisms make for a unique experience. 

Wherever you choose to go, it can sometimes be hard to believe there are so many vastly different spots so close to each other and I think that’s what makes Mexico City one of the best destinations to truly get to see how varied a country Mexico is.