Need a romantic break from the city buzz? Whether you’re sipping wine in a colonial town or soaking in hot springs with a view, these getaways are perfect for reconnecting and unwinding.
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Day Trips from Mexico City:
1. Cacahuamilpa Caves
The Cacahuamilpa Caves is one of the largest systems of caves on earth and is “live,” meaning that groundwater is actively filtered through the system, and the formations inside the caverns are still growing. There are ninety large areas within the caves that natural rock walls divide, and twenty of them can be explored by visitors at Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park. These caves are found under a limestone mountain ridge called Cerro de la Corona.
One of the salons inside the caves is called “the auditorium,” and seats have been installed so that space can be rented out. Concerts and other special events have been held inside. Tours of the cave systems are offered on the hour and last for tour hours. Cacahuamilpa Caves Map
2. Cholula
Cholula is the oldest city in North America and has been inhabited by people since it’s inception. San Gabriel, one of the oldest Franciscan convents in the Western hemisphere, is located in Cholula, as well as Sanctuary of Nuestra Senora de Los Remedios, which was constructed in the 1500s and placed over the Great Pyramid. This pyramid can also be explored, including a maze of tunnels that go underneath or the paths on the outside.
Some of the popular activities in Cholula include exploring the Cosme del Razo Market and the Container District, where brightly colored cargo transport containers have been recycled into offices, bars, shops, art galleries, restaurants, and more. This urban concept was invented in Cholula by graphic design artist Gabriel Esper Caram and is now used all over the world.
3. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park
One of the world's largest caves systems is found in Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park, where visitors can tour the caves known for their immense caverns that range from 90 to 240 feet high. The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caves are still active with stalactites and stalagmites still forming today.
Part of the Sierra Made del Sur, these caves originally formed under the ocean millions of years ago but have been carved out by underground rivers in recent centuries. Guests can only visit the caves by booking a tour; however, visitors can explore on their own after the tour. A bathroom has been installed in the middle of the cave, and there is also an auditorium where musicians have performed.
There is more to do in the park than visit the caves, however. Visitors can also purchase tickets to go rafting, zip-lining, rappelling, and horseback riding. Getting to the National Park from Mexico City takes less than two hours and is accessible via public transportation. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park Map
4. Hidalgo
Hidalgo is a state within Mexico that can be reached in just 1 ½ hours by car from Mexico City. Among the capital city Pachuca, there are many other thriving towns and cities within the state that offer unique shopping, dining, and adventure activities, among many other attractions and local culture to explore. People love to learn the history of Pachuca in a fun way at the Rehilete Children’s Museum, which is open year-round. The Mining Museum preserves Pachuca’s mining history, and the Museum of Mineralogy provides an educational experience on mining minerals in the area. Archeological sites can be found in Tollan, Pachuca, Huapalcalco, Tula, and Xihuingo that are all within the Hidalgo borders. Most of the state’s lands are mountainous, with rolling hills and valleys, ponds, lakes, rivers, and alpine forests that are perfect for any outdoor activity. Hidalgo
Romantic Day Trips from Mexico City:
5. Izta-Popo National Park
The Izta-Popo National Park is revered as one of the most significant and beautiful in the entire world and is only a 2 ½ hour drive from Mexico City. Upon touring the park, visitors first see the great active volcano Popocatepetl, and Iztachihuatl, a dormant volcano, both of which can be explored. These two volcanoes are the second and third highest peaks in Mexico, consecutively. Hiking trails and roads lead to viewpoints and wind through the volcanoes and various mountains that are easily accessible. Near the entrance to the park sits a small museum dedicated to educating the public about the history and facts about the volcanoes and the area. One can even learn some historical facts a little folklore about the famous Hernan Cortes there. While traveling through the volcanoes, people can see the highest peak in all of Mexico, the Pico de Orizaba, which is another active volcano. Izta-Popo National Park
6. Malinalco
Malinalco is a picturesque city surrounded by large mountains, alpine forests, and lush flora, where many opportunities for outdoor adventures await. The city itself is quite old, and visitors love to immerse themselves in the local culture and unique experiences. The Mexica Shrine is an ancient place that memorialized warriors from years past and is open to the public year-round. There are many unique restaurants that serve the local cuisine that keeps people coming back. Cuauhtinchán is a museum that lies within the Texcaltepec Mountains that surround Malinalco. The museum provides many experiences and exhibits throughout the year, educating the public on the history of the area, along with wildlife exhibitions, as well. The downtown area is filled with cobblestone streets that take visitors to amazing eateries, shops, and other places that provide a cultural experience unlike any other. Malinalco
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Why is Mexico City a great location for day trips?
- Mexico City is the prime spot to take day trips to nearby historic landmarks and towns.
Best Time for Day Trips from Mexico City, Mexico
- November to April – Ideal for dry weather, clear skies, and exploring nearby ruins and towns.
- May to June – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for outdoor excursions.
- July to August – Rainy season but great for visiting museums, cultural sites, and natural wonders.
- September to October – Pleasant weather with vibrant festivals and colorful landscapes.
- Year-round – Great for quick visits to Teotihuacán, Puebla, and Taxco anytime.
Map:
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