Things To Do
in Naucalpan de Juárez
Naucalpan de Juárez lies just northwest of Mexico City, blending modern malls with leafy residential neighborhoods and quick access to urban and natural escapes. The municipality centers around busy corridors like Plaza Satélite and Lomas Verdes, framed by parks, plazas, and cultural spots. It serves as a gateway to nearby hills, historic towns, and the broader metro area of the State of Mexico.
Visitors will find a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to CDMX sights and a wide range of dining options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Naucalpan Cathedral, enjoying the serene atmosphere as the morning light streams through the stained glass. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Plaza de la Constitución, where you can take in the vibrant local life and perhaps grab a coffee at a quaint café. Don't forget to admire the historic architecture that surrounds you, giving a glimpse into the town's rich heritage.
In the afternoon, head over to the Museo del Caracol, known for its unique spiral architecture and fascinating exhibitions on local history. Spend time immersing yourself in the stories of Naucalpan's past, from its pre-Hispanic roots to modern developments. As you exit, explore the local artisan market nearby for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a traditional Mexican restaurant, where you can savor authentic dishes like mole or tacos al pastor. After your meal, take a leisurely walk back to the Plaza de la Constitución, where you can enjoy live music or dance performances that often take place in the evenings. The vibrant atmosphere will give you a perfect end to your day in the heart of Naucalpan.
Begin your morning with a hike in the Sierra de Guadalupe, where you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views of the valley. The fresh mountain air invigorates you as you trek along well-marked trails, keeping an eye out for native wildlife. Be sure to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
After your hike, visit the nearby Parque Nacional Sierra de Guadalupe, where you can explore additional trails or take a guided nature tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna. The park is a great spot for a leisurely afternoon, with opportunities for bird watching and photography. Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the stunning natural beauty around you.
In the evening, return to Naucalpan and unwind at a local taquería, where you can indulge in a variety of delicious tacos and refreshing aguas frescas. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar or lounge for a taste of the vibrant nightlife, perhaps enjoying live music or a traditional dance performance. This evening out will give you a taste of how locals celebrate their culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧺Groceries for one week | $25-60 |
| 🚇One-way ticket (local transit) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good access to Mexico City and nearby sights
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and green spaces
- Diverse dining options and shopping centers
- Traffic on major avenues during rush hours
- Urban sprawl can feel crowded in peak times
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está la estación de metro?" - Where is the metro station?
Places to Visit in Naucalpan de Juárez
Visit one of these nice places.
A large urban park with water features, trees, and sculptures—great for nature shots, reflections, and family portraits.
Iconic circular plaza and surrounding modern architecture; ideal for architectural and urban landscape photography, especially at dusk.
Street-level views along a busy thoroughfare with colorful storefronts and dynamic street scenes; a good place for candid photography of daily life.
Food in Naucalpan de Juárez
Naucalpan de Juárez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasoned pork cooked on a vertical spit, sliced thin and served on small corn tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
Must-Try!
Oval masa cakes stuffed with beans or cheese, typically topped with salsa, cilantro, onions, and cheese.
Corn tortillas filled with squash blossoms and cheese, pan-fried until crisp and golden.
Hearty hominy stew with pork or chicken, garnished with shredded cabbage, radish, onion, lime, and chili paste.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets across Naucalpan offer fresh produce, salsas, tortillas, and ready-to-eat snacks; mornings are best for the freshest selections.
Street stalls around busy avenues provide quick bites like elotes, quesadillas, and fresh fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake or a brief kiss on the cheek among friends; greet shopkeepers politely with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.'
Polite conversation is valued; avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces and show appreciation for local customs and vendors.
Casual-smart attire is appropriate in most venues; public displays of respect in religious or cultural sites are encouraged.
Safety
Tipping in Naucalpan de Juárez
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave around 10-15% if service is not included. In casual street stalls or markets, rounding up is common but not mandatory. Tipping for taxis or rideshares is appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely accepted, and many larger establishments also take cards and mobile payments. Carry small denominations for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with possible afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take shade breaks. Evenings are mild and pleasant for walking around plazas.
Mild to warm days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor photography and sunset strolls. Occasional dry air can feel crisp toward late evenings.
Milder days and cooler nights; temperatures drop after sunset. Light layers are useful; indoor venues offer comfortable warmth.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming greenery; great for outdoor activities and market hopping. Afternoon showers can occur, so carry a light umbrella.
Naucalpan de Juárez at Night
Hiking in Naucalpan de Juárez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular nearby park offering various trails, viewpoints, and picnic spots ideal for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Naucalpan de Juárez by plane.
Major international gateway in Mexico City; accessible by road or ride-hailing from Naucalpan.
Nearby airport offering domestic and some international flights; about 1–1.5 hours by car depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families reside in Naucalpan due to parks, schools, and safe residential areas.
Close proximity to CDMX employment hubs makes Naucalpan a popular base for commuters.
Several educational institutions in and around the area attract students and interns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and informal games are common across neighborhoods.
Played informally in parks and community centers; courts and leagues are widely available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naucalpan de Juárez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most taquerías and markets. Look for bean-based fillings, cheese, rice dishes, and vegetable sides; when in doubt, ask for no meat stock or lard in cooking and request plant-based oils.