Things To Do
in Coacalco

Coacalco is a vibrant municipality located in the State of Mexico, just northeast of Mexico City. Known for its rich culture and historical significance, it is home to a diverse population and a variety of local attractions. The area boasts a mix of urban development and traditional Mexican charm, making it a unique destination for visitors.

With its proximity to the bustling capital, Coacalco serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh fruits and traditional Mexican pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical Plaza de la Constitución to learn about Coacalco's history and admire the colonial architecture. Afterward, explore the nearby churches that showcase beautiful examples of local craftsmanship.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in traditional Mexican cuisine and enjoy a leisurely evening stroll through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the Parque Ecológico de Coacalco for a morning hike and enjoy the natural surroundings while observing local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby archaeological site of Teotihuacan, where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about the history of pre-Hispanic Mexico.

evening
:

Return to Coacalco for dinner at a popular taco stand, followed by a visit to a local bar for some live music and socializing.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$8
🚇Public Transport Ticket$1
🛒Grocery Shopping (per week)$30
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and history.
  • Delicious traditional cuisine available.
  • Proximity to Mexico City for additional attractions.
  • Traffic can be congested, especially during peak hours.
  • Some areas may feel less tourist-friendly.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Coacalco

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de la Constitución

A historic square surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Coacalco.

Parque Ecológico

A scenic park offering picturesque views of nature and local wildlife, ideal for nature photography.

Teotihuacan Ruins

An ancient archaeological site with stunning pyramids and structures, making for breathtaking photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coacalco

Coacalco offers a delightful array of traditional Mexican cuisine, perfect for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

Coacalco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacos de Barbacoa

Slow-cooked beef tacos, typically served with onions, cilantro, and a spicy salsa.

Must-Try!

Sopes

Thick corn tortillas topped with beans, meat, lettuce, and cheese.

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed poblano peppers topped with a creamy walnut sauce, traditionally served during the Independence Day celebrations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling local market offering fresh produce, meats, and a variety of cooked foods.

Street Tacos Stands

Various stands throughout Coacalco serving delicious and affordable tacos.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coacalco has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The rainy season occurs in summer, with brief but heavy downpours, while winters can get chilly, especially at night. Overall, the climate is suitable for year-round visits, with each season offering a different experience.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or warm hug is common; always greet people politely.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Mexican culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coacalco is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and keep valuables out of sight. It's also advisable to use registered taxis or rideshare apps instead of hailing cabs on the street. Stay informed about local news and follow advice from locals regarding safety.

Tipping in Coacalco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures with occasional rain; prepare for humidity and ensure to stay hydrated.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; a great time to explore local markets.

Winter

Cool and dry weather, perfect for enjoying warm traditional foods and festive celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Coacalco at Night

Coacalco has a lively nightlife scene with various bars, clubs, and live music venues. The atmosphere is friendly and casual, with a mix of local and international music. Popular spots include La Casa de la Cerveza for craft beers and El Patio for a mix of traditional and contemporary vibes. Many venues also host events and performances, making it a vibrant area to experience local culture at night.

Hiking in Coacalco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra de Guadalupe

A beautiful mountain range ideal for hiking, offering trails with varying difficulty levels and stunning views.

Bosque de Chapultepec

Although a bit further away, this expansive park in Mexico City has numerous trails and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Coacalco by plane.

Licenciado Benito Juárez International Airport

Located about 25 km from Coacalco, this is the primary airport serving Mexico City and the surrounding region, providing both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coacalco is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located. Sidewalks are available, and pedestrian crossings can be found at major intersections. However, outside the main areas, some streets may lack pedestrian infrastructure, making it advisable to exercise caution or use public transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families live in Coacalco, attracted by its affordable housing and good schools.

Working-Class Residents

A significant portion of the population works in industries and services in nearby Mexico City, contributing to a diverse community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Fútbol)

The most popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Baseball

Widely played and followed, baseball has a strong following in Coacalco and the neighboring areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Coacalco can be heavy, especially during rush hours, as many residents commute to Mexico City. Public transportation options include buses and the Metro, which are affordable and convenient, although they can be crowded. Rideshare apps and taxis are also available for easier navigation around the municipality.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coacalco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's recommended to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Mexican cuisine is often corn-based, some dishes may contain gluten, so it's best to inquire.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Coacalco is generally good, with various clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Public healthcare services are available, but private healthcare facilities offer higher quality services and shorter waiting times. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies when visiting.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide