Metepec

Day Trips

Start your morning with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Metepec, where you'll encounter colorful murals and artisan shops. Stop by the iconic San Juan Bautista Church, a stunning example of colonial architecture, and take in its intricate details. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, savoring dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros.

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Museo del Barro for a deep dive into the local craft of pottery and the rich cultural history of Metepec. Afterward, take some time to explore the picturesque Plaza Benito Juárez, where you can relax and people-watch while enjoying a refreshing drink from a street vendor. Don’t miss the chance to shop for unique handicrafts and the famous tree of life sculptures that the region is known for.

As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring traditional Mexican cuisine, such as mole or tamales. After dinner, experience the lively atmosphere of the town by wandering through the streets as local musicians play traditional songs. Conclude your night with a sweet treat from one of the many dessert shops, sampling local specialties like cajeta or flan.

Begin your day at the bustling artisan market, Mercado de Artesanías, where you can browse a variety of handmade crafts, textiles, and ceramics. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with color and creativity. Treat yourself to a breakfast taco filled with local ingredients as you explore the stalls.

In the afternoon, participate in a pottery workshop where you can create your very own piece of art, guided by skilled local artisans. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the craftsmanship that Metepec is famous for. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the market to admire the various artworks and perhaps purchase a few unique souvenirs.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a nearby eatery, where you can try local specialties such as quesadillas or enchiladas. After your meal, visit a local art gallery to appreciate the works of contemporary Mexican artists and soak in the creative energy of the town. End your night with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the beauty of Metepec at night.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Parque Nacional Nevado de Toluca, a stunning natural reserve just outside of Metepec. Prepare for a morning hike through the scenic trails, surrounded by magnificent pine trees and breathtaking views of the mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the park.

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, taking in the fresh mountain air and stunning views of the volcanic landscape. Spend the afternoon exploring the park further, perhaps visiting the crater lakes of Laguna del Sol and Laguna de la Luna for some incredible photo opportunities. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore more of the park's extensive trails.

Return to Metepec in the evening and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a cozy restaurant specializing in regional dishes. Reflect on your day over a glass of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit, while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the town. As the night deepens, find a local bar or café to unwind with live music or a friendly game of cards.

Begin your day with a visit to a local family home to learn about traditional cooking methods and ingredients used in Mexican cuisine. Participate in a cooking class where you can prepare classic dishes like tamales or mole under the guidance of a skilled chef. Enjoy the delicious aromas as you work alongside your hosts, gaining insights into their culinary traditions.

After your cooking class, sit down to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared, savoring the flavors that embody the local culture. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Centro Cultural y Recreativo, where you can engage in various cultural activities, such as dance or music workshops. Take time to appreciate local art displays and perhaps even join in on a community event.

In the evening, return to Metepec and explore one of the local food markets for a casual dinner experience. Sample a variety of street foods, from tacos to elotes, while mingling with locals and enjoying the vibrant ambiance. As the night winds down, consider visiting a nearby plaza to enjoy live performances and local festivities.

Start your morning by visiting the Museo de la Vida y Cultura, where you can learn about the fascinating legends and myths that shape the cultural heritage of Metepec. The exhibits will immerse you in stories that have been passed down through generations, giving you a deeper understanding of the local identity. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café, featuring local pastries and coffee.

In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour through the town, stopping at significant landmarks tied to local legends, such as the church of San Juan Bautista and the nearby sculptures depicting traditional stories. Engage with your guide as they share enchanting tales that bring the history of Metepec to life. Spend some time at a local bookstore or artisan shop to find books or crafts that reflect these stories.

As night falls, enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its ambiance and traditional dishes inspired by local folklore. After your meal, enjoy a storytelling session at a local café where you can listen to captivating tales from community members. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap, perhaps a traditional drink like pulque, while discussing the stories you’ve learned.

Take a short drive to Toluca, the capital of the State of Mexico, and start your day with a visit to the impressive Cosmovitral Botanical Garden. Marvel at the stunning stained glass artwork and lush gardens that create a serene atmosphere. Grab breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local specialties like chorizo and fresh tortillas.

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant downtown area of Toluca, visiting the historic Plaza de los Mártires and the iconic Cathedral of Toluca. Discover local crafts and delicious food at the Mercado de la Merced, where you can indulge in authentic street food and shop for handmade goods. Don’t forget to try the famous Toluca-style tacos while you're there!

As evening approaches, return to Metepec and unwind with dinner at a charming local restaurant, enjoying traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Metepec, where you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and perhaps catch a live music performance. Conclude your day by sampling some local desserts at a nearby café, tasting the flavors of the region.

Start your day early with a scenic drive to Valle de Bravo, a picturesque lakeside town known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Upon arrival, enjoy a breakfast by the lake, where you can indulge in fresh fruit and local pastries while soaking in the serene views. After breakfast, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the lake.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike along the trails surrounding the lake, where you can enjoy stunning vistas and the lush greenery of the area. Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Afterward, visit the charming town center of Valle de Bravo, filled with artisan shops and quaint cafés.

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant overlooking the lake to enjoy dinner while watching the sky change colors. Savor local dishes that highlight the flavors of the region, such as fresh fish or mole. After dinner, take a stroll along the lakeshore, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as the stars begin to twinkle overhead.

If your visit coincides with a local festival, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as the celebrations kick off in the morning. Enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and vibrant parades that showcase the rich culture of Metepec. Indulge in local street food as vendors set up their stalls, offering everything from tamales to sweet treats.

Spend the afternoon participating in festival activities, including workshops on local crafts, dance lessons, and culinary demonstrations. Engage with local artists and performers, learning more about their traditions and artistry. Take plenty of photos to capture the vibrant colors and joyous spirit of the festival.

As night falls, find a spot to watch the evening festivities, which often include fireworks, music concerts, and more dance performances. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery close to the festivities, where you can taste dishes inspired by the celebration. Conclude your day by joining the locals in a dance or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere as the festival continues into the night.