Things To Do
in Taxco de Alarcón
Taxco de Alarcón is a picturesque colonial silver-mining town perched on steep, cobbled hills in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. Its narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings and red-tile roofs cluster around a dramatic baroque church, Santa Prisca, which dominates the skyline. The town is famous for its silver workshops and jewelry markets, where artisans have worked for generations.
Taxco combines rich colonial architecture, lively markets and scenic viewpoints that reward visitors who climb its steep streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or huevos a la mexicana. Afterward, wander through the cobblestone streets of Taxco, admiring the beautiful colonial architecture that dates back to the 16th century. Visit the stunning Santa Prisca Church, an architectural gem that showcases a blend of baroque and indigenous styles.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your exploration by visiting the Taxco Silver Museum, where you can learn about the history and craft of silver mining in the region. Take some time to shop for exquisite silver jewelry and handicrafts in the many shops lining the streets. Don’t forget to relax in one of the quaint plazas, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps a refreshing drink.
As the sun begins to set, find a rooftop terrace or restaurant to enjoy dinner with breathtaking views of the city illuminated by evening lights. Savor authentic dishes like mole or tacos de cecina while soaking in the ambiance. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the plaza, taking in the lively evening atmosphere filled with music and local artisans.
Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café before heading to the ancient silver mines of Taxco. Join a guided tour of the nearby mines, like the Cacahuamilpa Caves, where you can learn about the history of silver mining in the region. The stunning cave formations will leave you in awe as you discover the deep roots of Taxco's silver heritage.
After the tour, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, tasting regional specialties that reflect the area’s rich culinary traditions. Spend the afternoon at the local market, where you can find a wealth of silver products, from intricate jewelry to decorative items. Engage with the artisans and learn about their techniques and stories behind their crafts.
As evening approaches, return to the historic center and choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, focusing on local flavors. Opt for a traditional dish such as pozole, accompanied by local mezcal for a true taste of the region. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit streets and enjoy the lively evening performances often found in the town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful colonial architecture and strong artisanal silver tradition
- Compact town with atmospheric cobblestone streets and excellent photo opportunities
- Good day-trip access to caves and nearby natural attractions
- Friendly local markets and artisan workshops
- Very steep, cobbled streets can be challenging for those with mobility issues
- Limited nightlife and fewer modern amenities compared with larger cities
- Cash is often required and some services may be sporadic on off-season days
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias / Muchas gracias" - Thank you / Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Taxco de Alarcón
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic baroque façade, ornate towers and bustling plaza — best for architecture and street-life photos, especially in morning light.
Cobblestone streets, stairways and colorful facades create atmospheric compositions; capture locals and artisans at work.
Multiple viewpoints around the town offer panoramic shots of red roofs and surrounding mountains, excellent at sunset.
Close-up shots of artisans, tools and finished silverwork convey local craft traditions and textures.
Dramatic cave interiors with stalactites and stalagmites; bring a tripod and use allowed lighting for long exposures.
Food in Taxco de Alarcón
Taxco de Alarcón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty hominy and meat stew (often pork) served with cabbage, radish, lime and chile — common in family-style restaurants and markets.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meats traditionally prepared in earth ovens or pits; seek it at weekend markets or specialist eateries.
Corn masa parcels in various fillings (sweet or savory) and atole (warm corn drink) — a classic breakfast or snack from street vendors.
Stuffed peppers and mole sauces influenced by Guerrero and central Mexican cooking — available at mid-range restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce, prepared food stalls, tortillerías and vendors selling tacos, tamales and pozole; a great place to try authentic flavors at low prices.
Taco stands, grilled meats and antojitos in the evenings; look for busy stalls where locals eat for the best experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are valued—say 'hola' or 'buenos días' when entering shops or interacting with vendors.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets or during religious events; show respect at churches and during festivals (dress modestly for religious sites).
Bargaining is common in markets and with some artisans—be friendly and reasonable; fixed-price shops typically don’t haggle.
Safety
Tipping in Taxco de Alarcón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 10–15% in restaurants if service isn’t included, small change for taxi drivers (round up), and a few pesos for hotel porters and housekeeping. For tour guides and drivers, tip depending on service and group size.
Cash (Mexican pesos) is king for markets, small shops and taxis; many mid-range restaurants and tourist shops accept cards but expect a minimum purchase. ATMs are available in town but can run low on cash during busy weekends—withdraw in advance. Inform your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures and dry days make spring ideal for exploring streets and viewpoints; Holy Week can be busy with domestic tourists.
Warm to hot afternoons and occasional afternoon thunderstorms; summer (June–August) is the rainy season — pack a light rain jacket and expect lush surrounding hills.
Mild weather and fewer crowds after the high-summer season; September includes Independence Day festivities which can be lively.
Cooler nights (sometimes chilly) and dry conditions make winter comfortable for walking — mornings can be crisp, so bring layers. Holiday periods like Christmas and New Year attract visitors.
Taxco de Alarcón at Night
Hiking in Taxco de Alarcón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, steep hikes to viewpoints and the Cristo statue give excellent panoramic views of the town and surrounding valley; accessible from central streets with well-marked stairways.
Trails and guided routes around the impressive cave system combine easy walking paths and more rugged trails in surrounding hills; the caves themselves have guided tours that include walking through large chambers.
Various trails connecting nearby villages and viewpoints provide options for half-day hikes and mountain-biking; hire a local guide for routes off the beaten path and for safety on unmarked tracks.
Airports
How to reach Taxco de Alarcón by plane.
The main international gateway to central Mexico; approximately 2.5–3.5 hours by car to Taxco depending on traffic. Many travelers combine a Mexico City arrival with ground transport to Taxco.
Closer to the Pacific coast, about 2.5–3 hours’ drive to Taxco; useful for travelers combining beach destinations with Taxco visits.
Smaller international airport west of Mexico City, roughly 2.5–3 hours by road; can be convenient for some domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are mestizo (mixed Indigenous and Spanish heritage) and form the backbone of the town’s cultural and economic life.
Skilled silversmiths and artisans, some family-run for generations, are a prominent demographic and key to Taxco’s identity.
Tourists from other Mexican states and international visitors, particularly at weekends and during holidays, contribute to the town’s seasonal population fluctuations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Mexico and widely followed locally, with informal matches in open spaces and local leagues.
Traditional Mexican rodeo-style events and horse-related sports are part of regional cultural life and appear at festivals.
Outdoor sports take advantage of the hilly terrain around Taxco; local routes are popular with active visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taxco de Alarcón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited in traditional eateries; ask for bean, cheese or vegetable-filled tamales, quesadillas (request no lard), salads and vegetable soups. Larger restaurants and cafés are more likely to accommodate requests.
Vegan choices are more limited; seek out markets for fresh fruit, beans, rice and vegetable dishes and explain restrictions clearly. Bring snacks if you rely on strict vegan options.
Corn-based items (tortillas, tamales, pozole) are naturally gluten-free, but confirm cross-contamination and ask about breaded foods. Small eateries may not be familiar with the term—use clear explanations.