Things to do
Explore Mexico’s history, nature, food, & culture
A bit of Mexican History
Mexico was the home to many great civilizations including the Olmec, the Maya, the Zapotec, and the Aztec. For over 3000 years before the Europeans arrived these civilizations flourished.
The Olmec civilization lasted from 1400 to 400 BC followed by the rise of the Maya culture. The Maya built many large temples and pyramids. The great ancient city of Teotihuacan was built between 100 BC and 250 AD. It was the largest city in the area and probably had a population of more than 150,000 people. The Aztec Empire was the last great civilization prior to the arrival of the Spanish. They came into power in 1325 and ruled until 1521.
In 1521, Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes conquered the Aztecs and Mexico became a Spanish colony. For 300 years Spain ruled the land until the early 1800s. At that time the local Mexicans revolted against Spanish rule. Father Miguel Hidalgo declared Mexico's independence with his famous cry of "Viva Mexico". In 1821, Mexico defeated the Spanish and gained full independence. Heroes of the Mexican revolution included General Augustin de Iturbide and General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna.
A guide to Mexico City
We want you to explore Mexico and all it has to offer! This map is broken into multiple layers with recommendations of places we have been throughout our visits.
Our recommendation is to save this link to the map so that you can have it on your phone and laptop.
Nearby places to explore
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San Miguel de Allende
Is a town ~4 hours from Mexico City. It is a vibrantly colored colonial town that is charismatic with its stone streets, overwhelming mirador vistas, historic gothic cathedrals, and breathtaking well-preserved architecture. Walking the streets of San Miguel de Allende makes you feel like you have stepped into one of its many charming postcards.
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Oaxaca
The state of Oaxaca (wah-hah-kah) has a special magic felt by Mexicans and foreigners alike. A bastion of indigenous culture, it’s home to the country’s most vibrant crafts and art scene, some outstandingly colorful and extroverted festivities, a uniquely savory cuisine and diverse natural riches.
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Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya, stretching from the south of Cancun over Playa del Carmen until Tulum, is one of the most charming destinations in North-America. Its pristine, white beaches, beautiful cenotes, archaeological sites, divers cuisine, restaurants, hotels, condos and resorts.
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Puebla
A place full of culture, charm, traditions, history, beliefs. The magnificent trace o the city has made up the legend that were the angels who did i. Puebla is a jewel of world’s architecture and has been able to adapt space and fill them with life and movement. It is located 85 miles away from Mexico City. The city is well stocked with modern and comfortable hotels, beautiful colonial buildings, and interesting museums.
