Captivating Cities and Culture of Mexico - 9 Days

Welcome to Mexico! Upon your arrival in Mexico City, we'll arrange your transfer to the hotel, allowing you to settle in and relax after your journey. This first day offers you some free time to explore or unwind at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, our guide will get in touch to ensure you have all the necessary details for the adventures that lie ahead. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city as you acclimate to your new surroundings. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On day two, we will start our exploration of Mexico City with a comprehensive sightseeing tour. Our journey will take us to the Plaza of Three Cultures, showcasing Mexico's rich history through its pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern architectural influences. We'll then explore the historic centre, where we can admire the impressive Z�calo (main square), the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Aztec Main Temple. As we drive along Chapultepec Park and the iconic Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, you'll experience the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.

Following our tour, we will visit the Basilica of Guadalupe, the most visited Catholic shrine in the Americas, revered for the Virgin of Guadalupe. We will have the chance to explore both the 18th-century old basilica and the contemporary modern temple.

In the afternoon, our journey leads us to Xochimilco, a delightful neighbourhood famous for its network of canals and floating gardens. Here, we will enjoy a relaxing ride on a "trajinera," a flower-adorned boat offering a unique perspective of the area.

As evening approaches, we will transfer to the lively Plaza de Garibaldi, renowned for its vibrant nightlife filled with bars and restaurants where you can indulge in tacos and tequila while listening to the lively tunes of Mariachi bands. We'll enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant before concluding the day's adventures.

We begin our adventure today with a visit to El Oro de Hidalgo, a delightful Pueblo M�gico. Once a key mining hub in Mexico, this town has been shaped by its gold and silver mines, attracting investors and workers globally. You'll notice a unique blend of heritage reflected in European-style structures, such as the historic train station and the elegant Teatro Ju�rez. Our journey then leads us through scenic hills and forests, home to migrating monarch butterflies during winter, to the Mina de las Dos Estrellas. Now a museum, this former mine offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's mining legacy and cultural history.

Next, we proceed to Tlalpujahua, another enchanting Pueblo M�gico in Michoac�n. This town captivates with its magnificent Baroque sanctuary and charming cobblestone streets, and is renowned for its artisanal Christmas ornaments. You might find Santa Claus figures gracing its many shops. Enjoy some leisure time here to wander and perhaps grab a bite to eat. Our day concludes in P�tzcuaro, renowned for its beautiful colonial architecture and rich pre-Hispanic roots. This city, famed for its lively artisan markets and distinctive ambience, promises an unforgettable experience.

Our journey today takes us to Morelia, the capital of Michoac�n and a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning pink stone architecture. As we wander through its historic centre, you'll encounter the grandeur of the Cathedral, the vibrant Plaza de Armas, and the distinguished university, which dates back to 1540. After some free time for you to continue exploring and enjoy lunch, we proceed to Cuitzeo del Porvenir, situated alongside Mexico's second-largest lake. Here, you have the opportunity to visit the Ex-Convent of Santa Mar�a Magdalena, a remarkable example of 16th-century Plateresque architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the quaint cobblestone streets, flanked by historic buildings, before our journey carries us onwards to Guadalajara. As the capital of Jalisco, Guadalajara is a lively colonial city renowned as the birthplace of Mariachi music and Tequila. We anticipate arriving in the evening.

This morning, we embark on a tour of Guadalajara, a dynamic city where colonial charm complements its modern energy. We will explore the historic centre, marvel at the grandeur of the cathedral, and wander through the bustling market and Tapat�a Square. Our visit includes entry to the Caba�as Hospice, a UNESCO World Heritage site characterised by its remarkable architecture. After immersing ourselves in the city's treasures, we head to the town of Tequila. Here, we�ll delve into the craft of tequila at the Mundo Cuervo distillery, with a guided tour and tasting included to enrich your understanding of this celebrated Mexican spirit. You'll have some free time to explore Tequila's picturesque streets and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Our day concludes as we journey back to Guadalajara.

We begin our journey today by travelling to the state of Guanajuato, where we expect to arrive around midday. This afternoon, join us as we explore this enchanting university city, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its steep inclines and charming narrow streets, Guanajuato is a picturesque city rich in history and culture. Our tour includes visits to several notable churches, providing a glimpse into the city's architectural splendour. We will also enjoy a cable car ride, which offers spectacular views from El P�pila, allowing you to capture the vibrant landscape sprawled beneath. Prepare to be captivated by the city's beauty and its unique blend of historical significance and architectural charm.

Today, we journey through the splendid mountainous region to Dolores Hidalgo, a town steeped in history as the cradle of Mexican independence. Our exploration continues to the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, a site affectionately dubbed the "Sanctuary of God and Country" and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Please be aware that sometimes the sanctuary�s interior may be inaccessible due to retreats. We then move on to San Miguel de Allende, another World Heritage treasure, celebrated for its exquisite colonial architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets. You�ll have the opportunity to wander and soak up its unique atmosphere. Later in the day, we proceed to Queretaro, famed for its grand colonial centre, bustling Plaza de Armas, and vibrant restaurants and pedestrian streets, offering a lively end to our day.

We will set off for Tula, the ancient heart of the Toltec empire, where entrance to its archaeological site is on the agenda. The highlight of this remarkable site is the Atlantean figures � striking, four-metre-tall statues of warriors standing guard. Additionally, you will encounter the pyramids, palaces, and intricately carved columns that reveal the advanced nature of this pre-Hispanic civilisation. Our journey will then lead us to Puebla, a city steeped in history with a rich culinary heritage, known for its colonial architecture and traditional ceramics. Here, you�ll find the breathtaking Renaissance-style cathedral and a vibrant main square. Our next stop is Val'Quirico, where the architecture, inspired by Europe, specifically resembles Italy's Tuscany and exudes a medieval charm that promises to whisk you away to a different era. We aim to return to Mexico City by approximately 8:30 p.m.

After breakfast, your journey concludes in Mexico City. While this marks the end of our organised services, please note that the transfer from the hotel to the airport is not included. Enjoy any remaining time you have in this vibrant city, whether for some last-minute shopping, a leisurely stroll, or a final taste of local cuisine before you depart.