Top Mexico City Day Trips

There are plenty of options for exciting day trips from Mexico City. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best experiences available right now:

• Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco, and Tequila Tasting Tour
• Xochimilco, Coyoacán, and Frida Kahlo Museum
• Teotihuacán Early Access Tour with Tequila Tasting
• Hot-Air Balloon Flight Over Teotihuacán from Mexico City
• Teotihuacán Private Tour from Mexico City

Many cities are within easy driving distance of Mexico City, and therefore ideal as day-trip destinations. Cuernavaca is a popular historical destination with pleasant weather, while San Miguel de Allende is a favorite among snowbirds for its gorgeous architecture and art scene, plus great dining. There are also a few “magic towns” close to Mexico City, including Metepec and Tepoztlán. And if ancient cities are on your radar, you can’t miss the ruins of Teotihuacán.

It depends on your preferences. You certainly can do day trips alone—especially to nearby spots such as Xochimilco—though you may have to navigate confusing public transportation that takes a long while to reach your chosen destination, as well as deal with a potential language barrier. For places including Teotihuacán, Tolantongo, and Taxco, organized tours are much more convenient, given that they typically include round-trip transfers and optional add-ons, such as tequila tastings or lunch.

For history and archaeology, visiting the UNESCO–listed pyramids of Teotihuacán is a must—the ancient structures still captivate to this day. Plus, tours to the pyramids often stop at the Basilica and Tlatelolco in Mexico City, both historical hot spots in their own right. Aside from Teotihuacán, colonial Puebla and the silver town of Taxco are other favorites.

The UNESCO–listed pyramids of Teotihuacán are located roughly 1–2 hours from Mexico City, depending on the traffic. It’s relatively easy to get there by bus, but the routes aren’t always the safest; so, if you want to visit, taking a guided tour is a good idea (and you’ll get the insight of a local guide). Plus, you can often add on optional extras, such as artisan workshops or tequila tastings for a well-rounded day out.

Though there are lots of places in CDMX where you can escape the city without leaving the city—think: Chapultepec Park—nature comes into its own beyond the capital’s boundaries. Head over to the Nevado de Toluca for a spot of hiking, or dip into the outdoor pools of Tolantongo. To save your tired legs, round-trip transportation is typically provided on nature-focused trips.

Without doubt, Puebla is a top destination if you want a day trip from Mexico City that effortlessly combines food and culture. This colonial city is known for stellar regional cuisine, striking architecture, and a fascinating history. Closer to the capital—in fact, within the capital—is Xochimilco, a southern neighborhood where you can ride colorful canal boats and eat locally grown produce. Look out for tours that offer market visits and tastings.

Yes, absolutely. Puebla is a popular day-trip destination from Mexico City and easily reached on organized tours. Many excursions even combine Puebla with a stop at neighboring Cholula, a university town with a hilltop church and fields full of Mexican marigolds (in season). Meanwhile, Taxco is a great spot to explore in just one day, known for its winding streets, compact historic center, and silver products.

Mexico City day trip prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Teotihuacán, Guadalupe Shrine, and Tlatelolco Full-Day Tour
• Teotihuacán Early or Afternoon Access Guided Tour with No Crowds
• Teotihuacán Exclusive Tour with Cave Restaurant and Basilica
• Full-Day Teotihuacán and Basilica Guadalupe Tour
• Teotihuacán Tour with Cave Restaurant, Tlatelolco & Basilica

There are many day trips from Mexico City available throughout the year. If you’re visiting in October, you can take day trips to experience the Day of the Dead festivities in nearby towns, such as Morelia. Winter is a great time to head to Teotihuacán for the day, as the temperature will be lower and more pleasant for exploring outdoors. However, plan tours in advance if you’re visiting in the busy summer months, as excursions can book up.

Before booking a day trip from Mexico City, research tours that suit your group’s interests—history lovers will enjoy visiting Teotihuacán for the day, while adventure-seekers might prefer a hot-air balloon ride or a trip to Tolantongo. Review what’s included: meals, drinks, and transportation may be offered, but inclusions vary. Consider tour length too, as some excursions last all day and require significant travel time.

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for dusty cobblestone streets, which are common in many parts of Mexico; dress in layers, as the temperature can change if you’re out for a full day; and pack sun protection, including sunscreen and a sun hat. Some tours include drinks and snacks, but check your tour’s itinerary to see what you might need to pack yourself and any extra expenses to anticipate. If water isn’t provided, bring plenty.

Most visitors find 3–5 days enough time to check out Mexico City’s top attractions, which leaves plenty of time for a day trip or two. (Although, some would argue that there’s no such thing as too long in this lively metropolis.) If you have more time, you can easily take multiple day trips to destinations such as the Teotihuacán archaeological site, the floating gardens of Xochimilco, or the waters of Tolantongo.