Colonial cities, tequila country and pacific coast

Welcome to Mexico ! Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and head to your hotel. In the evening, take your first steps in the vibrant capital.

Overnight stay at a hotel in the historic district.

Start your day by visiting a must-see: the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a major pilgrimage site in Latin America. Next, head to Teotihuacan, the ancient “City of the Gods,” where the majestic Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon stand tall. This archaeological site impresses with its vastness and the richness of its pre-Columbian heritage. Finally, back in Mexico City, take a stroll through the historic center: the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace adorned with frescoes by Diego Rivera, and the ruins of the Templo Mayor will immerse you in the capital’s fascinating history.

Overnight stay in a hotel in the historic center.

Today, your self-drive tour takes you westward. Along the way, stop in Tula, an ancient Toltec city renowned for its impressive Atlantean statues. If time permits, also stop in Querétaro. This remarkable city, with its rich classical heritage, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. A cultural stop that enriches the journey. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in San Miguel de Allende, a colonial city with paved streets and timeless charm. Every detail evokes a bygone era. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, this colorful city captivates visitors with its artistic atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle.

Overnight in a hotel in San Miguel de Allende

After breakfast, head to Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way, stop in Dolores Hidalgo, the birthplace of Mexican independence. It was here that the famous “Grito de Dolores” was launched in 1810, a historic call to revolt against Spanish colonization. Arrival in Guanajuato and city tour. Gradually, you’ll descend along a scenic road toward this former mining town, nestled in a steep-sided valley. With its winding alleys, tunnels, and colorful houses clinging to the hillside, Guanajuato immediately charms visitors. Be sure not to miss a visit to the historic center: the El Pípila monument, the Museum of the Inquisition, and the Temple of San Cayetano. Every corner of the city bears witness to its rich colonial and mining past.

Overnight in a hotel in Guanajuato

Early in the morning, you’ll set off for Morelia, the capital of the state of Michoacán. This colonial-style city has managed to preserve a beautiful architectural harmony, with its pink-stone buildings and its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout the day, you’ll discover the Baroque cathedral, with its slender towers and finely decorated interior; the regional museum, housed in a former monastery; and the Colegio de San Nicolás, one of the oldest universities in the Americas. Plus, the city center is easy to explore by foot. Take the time to wander through its small tree-lined squares, admire its elegant facades, and browse the many shops selling local crafts.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Morelia

In the morning, depart for Lake Pátzcuaro. You’ll board a boat for the crossing to Janitzio Island, famous for its monumental statue of José María Morelos and its steep, narrow streets lined with adobe houses. Along the way, you’ll see traditional boats and fishermen handling their large round nets, an iconic scene of Michoacán. Afternoon: Tour de Pátzcuaro. Back on dry land, you’ll head to Pátzcuaro, designated as a Pueblo Mágico. Additionally, a stop in Tzintzuntzan allows you to further explore the region. Finally, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic center: the House of Eleven Patios, the shaded plazas, the lively markets… The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and steeped in authenticity.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Pátzcuaro

Guadalajara, the birthplace of mariachis and tequila. In the morning, drive to Guadalajara, the country’s second-largest city and the birthplace of many symbols of Mexican identity: tequila, mariachis, rodeos… To start the tour, take a stroll through the historic center, featuring its 17th-century cathedral, the Plaza de Armas, and the Palacio de Gobierno, where you can admire the frescoes by painter José Clemente Orozco, notably the striking portrait of Miguel Hidalgo. Then, explore the adjacent squares, art galleries, and numerous colonial buildings.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Guadalajara

Tlaquepaque: A Deep dive into Mexican Crafts. This morning, head to Tlaquepaque, a village in the periphery of Guadalajara known for its crafts and friendly atmosphere. The pedestrian street Calle Independencia, lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll notice the colorful decorations hanging in the streets, mariachi performances, and works of art made of ceramics, blown glass, or carved wood. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Overnight stay in a hotel in Guadalajara

This morning, you’ll leave Guadalajara to head to the village of Tequila, nestled in the heart of a landscape designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site: fields of blue agave stretching as far as the eye can see. The village’s name is now inextricably linked to the national drink, which has been produced here for centuries. Take a walk through the village center: its quiet alleyways, its lively zócalo, the old public washhouse, or the small Casa Sauza museum, where you can learn more about the history of distillation. If you wish, you can visit a traditional distillery to discover the different stages of tequila production, from the field to the tasting (optional).

Overnight stay in a hotel in Tequila

Today, you’ll explore Guachimontones, a little-known but fascinating archaeological site located in the hills around Teuchitlán. Unique in its kind, it features circular pyramids, remnants of the Teuchitlán civilization that lived here long before the arrival of the Aztecs. The site offers a beautiful view of the lagoon, and the ruins bear witness to advanced skills in irrigation, architecture, and obsidian craftsmanship.

Overnight in a hotel in Tequila

This morning, we set off for a completely different atmosphere: Puerto Vallarta, located between the Sierra Madre mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, the landscape shifts from agave fields to tropical forests, and then to the first beaches. We’ll settle into this charming seaside town, where cobblestone streets run alongside white houses with red roofs and contemporary art galleries. The waterfront, known as the Malecón, comes alive in the evening with its modern sculptures, street performers, and spectacular sunsets.

Overnight in a hotel in Puerto Vallarta

Enjoy this day at your own pace. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place to relax: lounge on the beach, swim in the warm waters of the Pacific, stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, or savor fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean. You can also choose an optional activity: a boat trip to the Marietas Islands, snorkeling, a visit to the coastal villages to the south, or a day in the jungle to observe tropical wildlife.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Puerto Vallarta

Another free day to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta. Why not explore the Gringo Gulch neighborhood, made famous by Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, or simply enjoy a cocktail on the beach? A final walk at sunset along the Malecón will be the perfect opportunity to say goodbye to this city nestled between the sea and the mountains.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Puerto Vallarta

See you later, Mexico!

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll depart from the hotel and head to the Puerto Vallarta airport. Return your rental car.