Mexico-bound travelers looking for unique experiences and off-the-beaten-track destinations will find lots to love in the Pueblos Magicos. These designated “Magical Towns” are recognized for their historical, cultural and geographical significance.
With more than 130 towns and small cities now part of the countrywide Pueblos Magicos program, Mexico has plenty of spots to satisfy a variety of tastes. But since every Pueblo Magico is so different, how do you choose which one to visit?
Clients heading to some of the nation’s bigger tourism destinations can often find enticing options that make for rewarding side trips or day trips. Other travelers may choose the Magical Town first and build their trip around it. For inspiration, Visit Mexico offers a variety of road trip itinerary suggestions that include stops at multiple Magical Towns.
Here are 10 great Pueblos Magicos in Mexico, with a brief introduction to what makes each so special.
1. Bacalar
Nature lovers are especially fond of this town in the southern part of Quintana Roo thanks to postcard-perfect natural attractions like dramatic, swimmable cenotes and the vibrant Lagoon of Seven Colors.
Getting There:Bacalar is about 25 miles from Chetumal and 130 miles from Tulum.
2. Cholula
Travelers interested in ancient architecture should consider a trip to Cholula, which is home to Tlachihualtepetl — known as the Great Pyramid of Cholula, a pre-Hispanic structure that reportedly has the largest base of any pyramid in the world. Just as striking is the gall of the European colonizers who built a Catholic church atop the pyramid. Guided tours take visitors deep inside the pyramid’s tunnels.
Getting There:Cholula is about 8 miles from Puebla and 80 miles from Mexico City.
3. Dolores Hidalgo
Mexico’s first “cry of independence” took place here in 1810, securing this scenic town’s place in history. Today, visitors can learn more at the Independence Museum and the former home of Miguel Hidalgo, the priest and Mexican independence leader.
Getting There:Dolores Hidalgo is about 34 miles from the city of Guanajuato and about 28 miles from San Miguel de Allende.
4. Mazamitla
Tequila and Ajijic may be Guadalajara’s more well-known Magical Towns, but Mazamitla deserves serious consideration as a side trip, too. This picturesque village is tucked into the Sierra del Tigre mountains, a region that’s sometimes called “Mexican Switzerland.” Cabins with fireplaces provide comfy accommodations, while exciting outdoor activities include ATV tours and hiking.
Getting There:Mazamitla is about 84 miles from Guadalajara.
5. Patzcuaro
This historic town sits on the banks of Lake Patzcuaro, one of the best places in Mexico to partake in ceremonies related to Day of the Dead, as well as Semana Santa, the holy week leading up to Easter. Both events include a variety of celebrations and traditional activities that provide a fascinating look at local culture.
Getting There:Patzcuaro is about 36 miles from Morelia.
San Cristobal de la Casas is located in the central highlands of Chiapas, Mexico.
Credit: 2022 Mark Chesnut6. San Cristobal de las Casas
Located in the central highlands of the state of Chiapas, San Cristobal de la Casas is a perfect place to immerse yourself in indigenous traditions while visiting markets, churches and cultural venues like the Museum of San Cristobal de las Casas. Guided tours take visitors to even smaller nearby towns for additional experiences with indigenous culture.
Getting There:San Cristobal is about 37 miles from Tuxtla Gutierrez.
7. Sisal
Located in the state of Yucatan, Sisal offers an array of activities that connect travelers with the region’s natural beauty and Mayan traditions. Visitors can spot crocodiles at El Palmar State Reserve; wander the halls of the House of the Empress Carlota, which once hosted Mexico’s only empress; and sample tasty local cuisine like "tikin xic" (grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves).
Getting There: Sisal is about 34 miles from Merida.
8. Tepoztlan
Hikers love this Magical Town since it’s located at the foot of El Tepozteco National Park. A trek up the mountain rewards visitors with spectacular views and a close-up look at the remains of El Tepozteco temple. The 16th-century Former Convent of the Nativity, meanwhile, houses an impressive museum.
Getting There: Tepoztlan is about 50 miles from Mexico City and 16 miles from Cuernavaca.
Tepoztlan is located about 50 miles from Mexico City.
Credit: 2022 Mark Chesnut9. Tequila
It’s easy for fans of tequila to justify a pilgrimage to its birthplace. A variety of distillery tours at facilities like Mundo Cuervo and Casa Sauza provide a peek inside the production process of the legendary spirit, and travelers can even sleep in barrel-shaped cabins at Matices Hotel de Barricas.
Getting There:Tequila is about 40 miles from Guadalajara.
10. Xico
Located in the hills of the state of Veracruz, this quaint town is an especially interesting place to visit in July, when celebrations to honor patron saint Santa Maria Magdalena fill the streets. Year-round, a small museum showcases colorful traditional costumes, and visitors can take an easy hike to two beautiful waterfalls just outside town.
Getting There:Xico is about 14 miles from Xalapa.
