13-Day Mexican Cultural Heartland Tour: Mexico City, Puebla, San Cristobal, Guanajuato, Patzcuaro, Guadalajara, Queretaro | Ticket Admission Included

What you'll experience

Highlights

13 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Mexico City

   Welcome to Mexico city!
   On arrival, transfer to hotel and free time. You will receive information about the start of the circuit during the afternoon.
   Note: The schedules you will find in this itinerary are approximate. The guide, depending on the situation and in order to improve the development of the circuit, may adjust the schedules.
   Note: All mentioned hotels below are for your reference only, you might also check-in other same-level hotels.
    

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Casa blanca(Lafragua 7, Tabacalera, Cuauhtémoc)
2. 2

   Day 2 — Mexico City

   08:30 a.m.- Today we have a fantastic day acquaint ourselves with Mexico. We include a sightseeing tour of the city. We will visit the Plaza of Three Cultures, and the historic centre in which the Zócalo (main square) and its Metropolitan Cathedral stand out, the main Aztec temple, Chapultepec Park, the "Paseo de la Reforma" Avenue and the other main avenues of this impressive city.
   At the end of the visit we travel to the BASILICA OF GUADALUPE, the most visited Catholic temple in the Americas where the Virgin of Guadalupe is found. There we will be able to explore the old basilica dating back to the 18th Century and also the modern temple.
   In the afternoon we travel to the neighbourhood of XOCHIMILCO, a wonderful place with its canals and semi-floating gardens. Here we include a ride in a "trajinera", one of the boats festooned with flowers.
   18:00 p.m.- Return to the hotel
   21:00 p.m.- We include a transfer to the Plaza de GARIBALDI, with its many bars, restaurants and bars where tacos and tequila are served and the Mariachis sing. Dinner is included in a traditional restaurant.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Casa blanca(Lafragua 7, Tabacalera, Cuauhtémoc)
3. 3

   Day 3 — Mexico City - El Oro de Hidalgo - Mina de las Dos Estrellas - Tlalpujahua - Pátzcuaro

   Total distance covered: 372 km.
   Scenery: We'll cross the central mountains of Mexico, passing through forested valleys filled with pine and oak trees, in a region where nature and mining history intertwine.
   
   07:30 a.m. – Departure from Mexico City. We'll leave the capital behind and head into the lush landscapes of the State of Mexico. A scenic mountain road will lead us to our first destination.
   11:15 a.m. – El Oro de Hidalgo. Arrival at this Pueblo Mágico, a town that flourished during the gold and silver mining boom. Its streets echo a European past, with elegant architecture such as the Juárez Theater and the old train station. You'll have time to stroll through its charming historic center.
   12:30 p.m. – Departure from El Oro de Hidalgo. We'll continue toward a remarkable example of the region's mining heritage.
   13:25 p.m. – Mina de las Dos Estrellas. We'll visit this fascinating site museum, located within an old mine, where we'll learn about the lives of gold miners and the technological advances of the era (tickets included).
   14:30 p.m. – Departure from Mina de las Dos Estrellas. We'll journey through mountainous terrain, temporary home to the monarch butterfly.
   15:00 p.m. – Tlalpujahua. Arrival in this charming Pueblo Mágico in the state of Michoacán, known for its year-round Christmas spirit and handmade blown-glass ornaments. Don't miss the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, with its stunning pink stone baroque façade. You'll have time for lunch and to wander its cobbled streets, lined with shops full of Santa Claus figures all year long.
   16:30 p.m. – Departure from Tlalpujahua. We'll travel through mountain landscapes and Purépecha lands on our way to the final stop.
   18:30 p.m. – Pátzcuaro. Arrival in one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico, where pre-Hispanic heritage blends with colonial architecture. Its tree-lined squares, namesake lake, and bustling artisan markets create a truly unique atmosphere. Free time to start exploring this gem of the Michoacán highlands.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Best western plus posada don vasco(Av. Lázaro Cárdenas 450, Centro)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Pátzcuaro - Morelia - Cuitzeo del Porvenir - Guadalajara

   Total distance covered: 362 km.
   Scenery: We'll travel through the heart of western Mexico, surrounded by gentle hills, cultivated fields, and scenic lakes, discovering towns rich in history and monumental cities.
   
   08:30 a.m. – Departure from Pátzcuaro. We'll leave behind this colonial gem and head toward one of the most important capitals in the country, crossing the characteristic landscapes of the Michoacán highlands.
   09:30 a.m. – Morelia. Arrival in the capital of the state of Michoacán, considered one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico thanks to its stunning pink stone architecture. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with majestic baroque buildings and leafy plazas. Highlights include the Cathedral, built in the tablerado baroque style with twin towers over 60 meters tall, Plaza de Armas, and its university—one of the oldest in the Americas, founded in 1540. You'll have free time to stroll and enjoy lunch at one of its traditional restaurants or cafés.
   14:00 p.m. – Departure from Morelia. We'll head to one of the Pueblos Mágicos located near Lake Cuitzeo.
   14:45 p.m. – Cuitzeo del Porvenir. Arrival in this charming town on the shores of Mexico's second-largest lake, known for its rich history and architectural heritage. We'll visit the stunning former Convent of Santa María Magdalena, a 16th-century masterpiece with Plateresque and Franciscan influences. You'll have time to wander its cobbled streets and soak in the serenity of this traditional setting.
   15:45 p.m. – Departure from Cuitzeo del Porvenir. We'll continue toward Jalisco, passing through agave fields, plateaus, and rural landscapes typical of western Mexico.
   19:00 p.m. – Guadalajara. Arrival in the capital of the state of Jalisco, one of the most vibrant cities in Mexico and birthplace of national icons such as mariachi and tequila. Its historic center features a mix of colonial architecture, lively plazas, and a unique cultural atmosphere. Accommodation and free time to begin exploring this dynamic metropolis.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel plaza diana(Agustín Yáñez 2760, Arcos vallarta, 44130 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico)
5. 5

   Day 5 — Guadalajara - Tequila - Guadalajara

   Total distance covered: 140 km.
   Scenery: We'll journey through the fertile valleys of the state of Jalisco, with sweeping views of the blue agave fields—recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their cultural significance in tequila production.
   
   09:00 a.m.- In the morning, we'll take a panoramic tour of Guadalajara, a city that blends modernity with deep-rooted traditions. We'll explore its elegant historic center and admire landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza Tapatía, the traditional San Juan de Dios Market, and the impressive Hospicio Cabañas (admission included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing murals by José Clemente Orozco.
   12:00 p.m.- Guadalajara - Departure from Guadalajara. We'll travel by road toward the picturesque town of Tequila, birthplace of one of Mexico's most iconic beverages.
   14:00 p.m.- TEQUILA. Arrival in this colorful town that preserves its traditional charm with cobbled streets, vibrant facades, and surrounding agave plantations. We'll visit the renowned Mundo Cuervo distillery, where we'll learn about the artisanal process of tequila production (admission and tasting included). After the visit, you'll have time to explore the town, browse its local shops, and enjoy lunch at one of its traditional restaurants.
   Note: On arrival in Tequila, the big bus cannot enter to the city centre, so you will have to walk for about twenty minutes.
   Note: In High Season, the appointment to the Distillery can be in the morning, so the order of the visits on this day will be reversed without affecting its content.
   15:30 p.m.- Departure from Tequila. We'll begin our return journey to the Jalisco capital, once again enjoying the scenic agave landscape.
   17:00 p.m.- Guadalajara –Arrival with free time to continue exploring the city, do some shopping, or enjoy its lively nightlife.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel plaza diana(Agustín Yáñez 2760, Arcos vallarta, 44130 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico)
6. 6

   Day 6 — Guadalajara - Guanajuato

   Total distance: 275 km
   
   08:00 a.m.- Guadalajara –Departure-.
   13:00 p.m.- GUANAJUATO – Arrival-.
   Note: It is forbidden by law the entry of tourist buses into the historic centre.
   On arrival, walk down to the Pípila viewpoint, time for photos. Afterwards, we will take the cable car ride to the centre. Free time to have lunch. After lunch, we will visit this beautiful university city declared World Heritage Site, its steep slopes, its narrow streets, its temples. We included a visit to this beautiful university city and World Heritage Site, with its narrow, steep streets and churches. Followed by free time. Visitors who are interested can visit the impressive "Mummies' Museum".
   17:30/18:00 p.m.: Transfer by sprinter vehicle to the hotel.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Holiday inn express guanajuato(Euquerio Guerrero 120, Col. Burocrata, 36250 Guanajuato, GTO, México)
7. 7

   Day 7 — Guanajuato - Dolores Hidalgo - San Miguel Allende - Atotonilco - Queretaro

   Total distance covered: 170 km.
   Scenery: Attractive mountain scenery between Guanajuato and Dolores Hidalgo.
   
   08:30 a.m.- Guanajuato –Departure-. We travel through impressive mountain landscapes.
   10:00 a.m.- DOLORES HIDALGO, the birthplace of Mexican independence. Visit to the church where the priest "Hidalgo" cried out for independence.
   Note: It is forbidden by law the entry of tourist buses into the historic centre.
   11:30 a.m.- Dolores Hidalgo –Departure-.On the way, we will visit the Sanctuary of ATOTONILCO, known as "Sanctuary of God and the Patria", a World Heritage Site (sometimes we will not be able to visit its interior due to the retreats that take place).
   13:30 p.m.- SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, a beautiful city with colonial architecture and cobbled streets, declared a World Heritage Site. Time to explore.
   Note: It is forbidden by law the entry of tourist buses into the historic centre. In this case, the alternative is to walk for about 15 minutes or take public transport.
   17:00 p.m.- San Miguel de Allende –Departure.
   18:30 p.m.- QUERÉTARO –Arrival in this beautiful city, famous for its stunning colonial center, its lively Plaza de Armas, and its vibrant pedestrian streets and restaurants.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Doubletree by hilton queretaro(Av. Luis Vega Monrroy 410, Colinas del Cimatario)
8. 8

   Day 8 — Querétaro -Tula - Puebla

   Total distance covered: 337 km.
   Scenery: We'll cross the central Mexican highlands, surrounded by cultivated fields, rugged hills, and volcanic landscapes.
   
   08:00 a.m. – Departure from Querétaro. We'll begin our journey southward, entering regions rich in history and cultural heritage.
   10:00 a.m. – Tula. Arrival at the archaeological site of Tula (admission included), the former capital of the Toltec civilization—precursors to many Mesoamerican traditions. Among its most remarkable structures are the Atlantes, four-meter-tall stone warrior figures that symbolize the military power of the Toltecs. The site also includes the remains of pyramids, palaces, and intricately carved columns that reveal the sophistication of this ancient culture.
   11:30 a.m. – Departure from Tula. We'll continue by road to one of the most iconic colonial cities in Mexico.
   14:15 p.m. – Puebla. Arrival in this UNESCO World Heritage city, renowned for its exquisite cuisine (home of mole poblano), colonial baroque architecture, and traditional Talavera pottery. Highlights include its grand Renaissance-style Cathedral—one of the most imposing in the Americas—and the Zócalo, a lively central square surrounded by arcades. Free time to enjoy lunch and explore the historic center.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Four point by sheraton puebla(Blvd. Hermanos Serdán 102, Real del Monte, Heroica Puebla de Zaragoza)
9. 9

   Day 9 — Puebla - Monte Albán - Oaxaca

   Total distance covered: 340 km.
   Scenery: We'll cross the southern mountain ranges of Mexico, passing dramatic highland landscapes, fertile valleys, and rural villages where ancient traditions are still alive.
   
   07:30 a.m. – Departure from Puebla. We'll leave the capital of the state of Puebla behind as we enter Oaxaca, a region known for its rich cultural, archaeological, and culinary heritage. The journey will take us through mountains, canyons, and sweeping natural scenery.
   13:15 p.m. – Oaxaca. Arrival in the capital city of Oaxaca, renowned for its harmonious architecture and strong Indigenous identity. After lunch, we'll head up to one of Mexico's most iconic archaeological treasures: Monte Albán. Located 400 meters above the Oaxaca Valley, this ancient ceremonial center was the capital of the Zapotec civilization for over a thousand years. We'll explore its platforms, pyramids, ball courts, and ornately decorated tombs while learning about the worldview and structure of this great civilization (admission and guided tour included).
   
   After the visit, we'll return to Oaxaca for a panoramic tour of its historic center, recognized as a World Heritage Site. We'll admire its stunning Cathedral, the Church of Santo Domingo, and the lively plazas and colonial streets brimming with life. You'll then have free time to continue enjoying the unique atmosphere of this city, also celebrated for its handicrafts, mezcal, and diverse traditional cuisine.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Oaxaca real(Calle de Manuel García Vigil 306, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, OAX, México)
10. 10

    Day 10 — Oaxaca - San Pablo Villa de Mitla - Tuxtla

    Total distance covered: 505 km.
    Scenery: We'll venture along one of the most scenic routes in southern Mexico, crossing the Oaxaca highlands, the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, and lush tropical landscapes that lead us to the heart of Chiapas.
    Important Note:
    Due to landslides caused by heavy rains, the main road to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec has sections closed to traffic. Consequently, alternative routes will be taken, which will extend the usual travel time. Therefore, departure from Oaxaca will take place earlier than scheduled, and breakfast will be provided in a Lunch Box format.
    
    06:00 a.m.- Oaxaca- Departure from Oaxaca. We'll begin a day rich in cultural and natural beauty, traveling along roads that connect two states deeply rooted in the country's Indigenous heritage.
    07:15 a.m.- SAN PABLO VILLA DE MITLA. Arrival in this Pueblo Mágico, known for its ancestral traditions and distinctive adobe-and-stone architecture. It's also famous for preserving remnants of the Zapotec culture. We'll have time to walk around the Church of San Pablo, built in the 16th century atop an ancient ceremonial platform, and stroll through its rustic, charming streets.
    08:15 a.m. – Departure from San Pablo Villa de Mitla. We'll continue southeast, crossing the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a key region in Mexico's geography and culture. Lunch will be included en route.
    18:45 p.m. – Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Arrival in the capital of Chiapas, a modern and dynamic city that blends urban life with natural beauty in its surroundings. Accommodation.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Fiesta inn tuxtla fashion mall(Panamericana 651 C, El Retiro)
11. 11

    Day 11 — Tuxtla - Sumidero Canyon - Chiapa del Corzo - Zinacantan - San Juan de Chamula - San Cristobal

    Total Distance: 100 km
    Landscapes: spectacular
    Notes: We recommend you to take appropriate waterproof clothing for the speedboat ride.- The visit of the towns of Zinacantán and San Juan can take place on Wednesday or Thursday morning (according to opening times of the church of San Juan).
    
    08:30 a.m.- Tuxtla - Departure.
    09:00 a.m.- We will explore the SUMDERO CANYON. Travelling by boat, we will travel for more than 1 hrs up this impressive canyon which is almost 1 km deep and 14 km long.
    10:45 a.m.- Sumidero Canyon.- Departure.
    11:00 a.m.- Next, we will walk through CHIAPA DEL CORZO, a white traditional and cultural colonial site. Time for a stroll and a coffee.
    11:45 a.m.- Chiapa del Corzo. Departure. We enter into the center of the Mexican Mayan culture. We discover 2 beautiful villages inhabited by the Tzotzil Indians.
    12:45 p.m.- In ZINACANTAN we can admire the dresses worn by the women and also their small loom workshop-shops.
    13:45 p.m.- Zicacantan.- Departure.
    14:15 p.m.- SAN JUAN CHAMULA we will be surprised by their church that mixes Christianity with pre-Columbian traditions. Time for lunch.
    15:45 p.m.- San Juan Chamula.- Departure.
    16:15 p.m.- We continue to SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS. Free afternoon in this beautiful colonial city founded in 1528.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Diego de mazariegos(Profa. María Adelina Flores 2 Zona Centro, 29200 San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas, México)
12. 12

    Day 12 — San Cristobal - Mexico City

    Transfer From San Cristóbal to the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. We take flight to México City (included). Arrival, transfer from the airport to the hotel and accommodation.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Casa blanca(Lafragua 7, Tabacalera, Cuauhtémoc)
13. 13

    Day 13 — Mexico city

    Breakfast. End of our services. Transfer from the hotel to the airport not included.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

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