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The Complete Travel Guide to Taxco, Guerrero | Mexico

One of the best hidden gems that I ran into while traveling in Mexico was the mountain town of Taxco de Alarcon in the state of Guerrero. Three hours south of Mexico City, this off-the-beaten-path destination is easy to get to, yet relatively undiscovered. It is well worth straying from the international tourist trail for. I actually stumbled into Taxco by accident. Originally, I planned to go back to Mexico City after Tepoztlan but was late in arriving to Cuernavaca’s bus station. I missed my bus. Not wanting to wait too long to get anywhere, and not really having a set plan, I decided to just catch the next bus and go to Taxco de Alarcon.

Yeah, I’d only have to wait another hour or so for a bus to Mexico City, but whatever. I’ve stopped trying to make sense of my spontaneous thought processes. I had never been to the state of Guerrero before, and I’d been to Mexico City about five times. I’m always down for a new adventure. It was my fourth month in Mexico but I’d basically only revisited some of my old favorite places. I settled in San Cristobal for about two months, Tulum for a month, and Oaxaca for the other month. It was time for something new. Taxco was the lucky winner of my game of bus roulette.

Actually, I was the lucky winner of my game of bus roulette. Taxco de Alarcon was an absolute dream. I actually shed a tear as my bus rolled into the city around golden hour. The city was more beautiful than I could have imagined. Taxco was easily one of the most unique places I’d ever seen. The city of white was built into the side of a mountain, and the stacks of Mediterranean-style buildings was something I never expected Mexico to have.

I hopped off the bus, strapped my two backpacks around me, and began the strenuous hike up to the Zocalo and to my hostel. After nearly a month on the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca , the altitude of Taxco was absolutely kicking my ass. I weaved my way through the narrow alleyways, dodging the Volkswagen Beetle taxis and market stalls. I arrived at my hostel, the only one that showed up online, and settled into my dorm room which I had all to myself.

Perks of straying off the beaten path. $10 for an entire room to myself right in the center of downtown. Things would only get better from there, as Taxco quickly became one of my favorite destinations in all of Mexico.

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How To Get To Taxco de Alarcon

Where To Stay in Taxco

The Best Things To Do in Taxco

Where To Eat and Drink in Taxco

Things To Know Before Going to Taxco

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How to get to taxco.

For how easily accessible Taxco is, it’s surprising that it isn’t on travelers’ radars. It is just a three-hour direct bus from Mexico City. It’s even closer if you were already visiting the nearby towns of Cuernavaca, Tepoztlan, or Toluca beforehand.

How To Get To Taxco From Mexico City – Getting to Taxco from Mexico City is as simple as it gets. Being only a few hours away, you can catch a bus from Terminal Sur, also known as Terminal Taxqueña after Taxco itself. The buses leave very frequently. Unless it’s a holiday, you should have no problem turning up to the bus terminal and finding a seat on the next bus out.

I actually got to Taxco through Cuernavaca as I was coming from Tepoztlan. If you are leaving from Cuernavaca, you’ll need to go to the Estrella Blanca bus terminal. Make sure to specify Estrella Blanca when taking a taxi to the terminal, as there are multiple bus stations in Cuernavaca.

Oh, and before you go, make sure to have good travel insurance handy whenever you’re out adventuring. I use SafetyWing to keep me covered throughout my travels.

Despite not being firmly on the backpacker trail, there are some hostels in Taxco. I stayed at Amate Hostel and Hostal Casa Taxco. Both are within two minutes walking distance from the city center. I like to stay in hostels for the social atmosphere, but I know they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Taxco is a very cheap place to visit, and there are plenty of budget-friendly hotels and Airbnbs in Taxco.

Amate Hostel

This is a budget-friendly option for travelers simply looking for a place to sleep. It costs 200 pesos ($10) for a bed in a shared dorm. When I went, I was the only person staying in the dorm for the three nights I was there. The perks of going off the beaten path, hey? Don’t expect much from this hostel in the way of amenities. It’s very basic, but the owners are incredibly friendly, welcoming, and helpful. They gave me a huge list of recommendations for Taxco. It included things to do, foods to try, local places to eat and drink, and their WhatsApp in case I needed anything else.

Hostal Casa Taxco

Just a minute away from Taxco’s main plaza is Hostel Casa Taxco . This amazing hostel is a bit pricier, at nearly 300 pesos for a dorm bed, but it is worth the money. The view from the terrace alone is worth it. Unlike Amate Hostel, there are common areas and other amenities, making it possible to meet travelers, make friends, and hang out outside of your room. I loved my stay here and would absolutely stay here again. Jess was extremely helpful and welcoming during my entire time in Taxco.

Things to do in Taxco de Alarcon, Guerrero

Taxco is more than just a pretty face, but I will admit it is one of the prettiest faces out there. I never got tired of the views in Taxco. I admittedly spent more time enjoying the view from a nice terrace than actually adventuring. The COVID-19 Pandemic played a part in that, as many things were closed. Low demand for tours forced tour agencies to stop offering certain tours an daily departures. Many of the things within the city were also closed, including churches, museums, and cultural centers. However, there is no shortage of things to do in Taxco, even if it just involves exploring the city’s quaint alleyways or taking in a view from the rooftops.

Teleferico (Taxco Cable Cars)

If you haven’t had your fill of views in Taxco, you can take to the skies. Catch the Teleferico up to Montetaxco Hotel for even more killer views. It costs 65 pesos for a one-way ticket, or 95 pesos roundtrip. I took the one-way and regretted it. The walk down the steep, slippery cobblestone roads was brutal and seemingly endless. Just book the roundtrip ticket.

Okay, now that you’re up here, check out the Montetaxco Hotel . The view from here is absolutely stunning, and one of the best that you’ll find in all of Taxco. The prices at the restaurant are pricier, but you can still find things on the menu for less than $5. Have a cup of coffee or a green juice and take in some marvelous views.

The Prehispanic Mines (Mina Prehispanico de Taxco)

Taxco is known for its silver, and a big part of Taxco’s history revolves around its Prehispanic mines . There is a very fascinating museum in town that will give you some insight into Taxco’s mining history. Doesn’t sound all too interesting? It is. The cool thing about this museum is that it actually includes the mine itself, so you’ll be exploring this Prehispanic mine rather than just reading about it.

Cristo de Taxco

In almost every Latin American mountain town, you will find a big Jesus statue at the top of the mountain. Taxco is no different. Despite there being no shortage of views to be found in Taxco, arguably the best view will be from the Jesus statue. It’s a tough hike, especially taking into account the high altitude of Taxco. Thankfully, you can catch a colectivo. Just look for one that says Casahuates or Cristo, and ask them to drop you off close by.

Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

I’m not normally the biggest fan of caves, since a lot of them feel pretty similar. All the stalactites and stalagmites and cave formations are cool, but once you’ve seen them once, it really takes a lot to blow you away. The caves of Cacahuamilpa definitely blew me away. I’ve never been to a cave so large and spacious. A lot of the caves I’ve visited are cramped and damp and leave you just wanting to get out by the end of the visit.

Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa is worth the visit, and I was actually sad to leave the cave when we were done. These caves are huge, and one could explore up to 6.8 kilometers into the cave, although our guide said that would take 14 hours. We went two kilometers deep, in awe at the cave’s vast chambers and cave formations. It’s only about 40 minutes away from Taxco, and you can catch tours from the city if you don’t feel like doing things yourself.

Mil Cascadas

If you are looking for something more outdoorsy, a trip to Mil Cascadas (A Thousand Waterfalls) is warranted. It is one of the hidden gems near Taxco. No matter how many waterfalls I visit, I’m always down to explore another one (or thousand). You don’t just go hike and see the waterfalls either. If you’re up for an adventure, you can go canyoning and rappel down the waterfalls.

Pozas Azules de Atzala

A quick colectivo ride from Taxco’s main street will take you to some of the most beautiful swimming holes you’ll ever dive into. You can catch the colectivo in front of the Coppel store on the main road, and ask them to drop you off at the Pozas Azules . This is one of the best hidden gems in Mexico, internationally speaking. The locals love to spend the day here, so bring your bathing suit and towel and dive into these turquoise pools.

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Historical Tour of the City

Taxco has a lot of history, culture, and some very unique traditions, one of which I’ll talk about in the next bullet point. When I was watching the sunset from one of the churches, an older local came up to me and asked if I wanted to know a little bit about the city. I knew he’d want a tip at the end, but since Taxco was devoid of travelers, I hadn’t really spoken to anyone else in a week. I figured I’d entertain the guy, and he ended up actually entertaining me quite a bit. There is a lot of cool stuff about Taxco, from its mines to its religious traditions.

Holy Week in Taxco (Semana Santa)

Speaking of religious traditions… If you’re lucky enough to be in Taxco during Semana Santa (Holy Week), you’ll find one of the most unique and brutal traditions in the world. Back in the day, self-punishing was a sign of penitence and repentance. While that has kind of gone by the wayside in most of Latin America, it still exists in Taxco.

During Holy Week, three groups of worshippers, the Animas, Flagelantes, and Encruzados make a pilgrimage through the city of Taxco in painful and brutal style. The Animas walk tied together with chains around their feet, with their bodies bent at 90 degree angles, and having to hold candles as the hot wax melts over their hands. The Flagelantes carry a heavy wooden cross, often 100 pounds or more, throughout the city. Occasionally, they do stop. However, when they stop, they whip their backs bloody. The Encruzados carry a 100-pound bundle of thorns on their back. Their journeys are about five kilometers, and absolutely ghastly to even think about.

For those of you that have been following along, it’s no secret that San Cristobal de las Casas won my heart. So far, Taxco is the closest thing I’ve found to San Cristobal. A smaller town up in the mountains, with beautiful views all around and an excellent food scene. Taxco knows how to do food right, whether it’s local or international. However, I definitely recommend sticking to local. I’ve had good sushi and great Italian while I was here, but I never had a Mexican meal that disappointed.

Rosa Mexicana – This restaurant has one of the best views in all of Taxco, and some great food to go with it. The food isn’t unreasonably priced, although I always stuck to the more affordable breakfast menu whenever I came here. The chilaquiles here were fantastic, and aside from the classic salsa rojo and salsa verde, they had a number of other options. With the best Wi-Fi I found in town, I also came here whenever I needed to get some work done. Not a bad workplace, eh?

Mercado de Tetitlan – Once I had my first meal at the mercado, I never wanted anything else. For about $2-3, you could have some authentic and delicious Mexican food. It’s only a minute’s walk away from the center to get to the dining area of the market, and you can fill yourself up for the entire day here if you wanted to. I started every day with either chilaquiles or pozole verde, and a cup of delicious cafe de olla.

MonteTaxco – If you want to treat yourself, this is where you need to go. The view from here is absolutely stunning. All things considered, the food isn’t too expensive either. $20 will get you a nice meal here, but you’re really paying for the view. I got a basic meal of huevos rancheros for $4 since I’m ballin’. on a budget. Genuinely though, I could have stayed here all day and enjoyed the stellar vistas.

Susheria – Right in the main plaza of town, you’ll find a Mexican sushi place that is honestly pretty damn good. You can get a sushi roll for about $5, which is still half the price you’d pay in the U.S. for a basic ass California roll. They’ve also got poke bowls and great cocktails here. If you’re tired of Mexican food, this is an excellent option.

Del Angel Inn – For stunning views of the city with great food to boot, Del Angel Inn’s restaurant is a must-visit. You’ll get the gorgeous panoramic view above, as well as a view of Santa Prisca Cathedral from right at its doorstep. Located just outside the main plaza of Taxco, it’s a can’t-miss spot for a meal with a view.

La Bambina Cerveceria – Come here for the beers with a view. There are a few different Bambina’s in town, but the one that I think is the best is the one that’s close to the Convent. It’s got a cute terrace with umbrellas, and you know I love me a good terrace with a view.

Bar Berta – This is apparently a very important historical establishment here in Taxco, and no visit to Taxco is complete without having a Berta at the birthplace itself. What is a Berta ? Well, it’s a tequila and honey cocktail that originated in Taxco. Sounds pretty damn good to me. You’ll find Bar Berta right in the city center.

Scaffecito – Scaffecito has a cozy vibe with lots of books, a nice garden, and very close to the center of town. Up a narrow alleyway and tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. Great vibes, great food at reasonable prices. You can easily fill yourself up here for less than $5. If you’re not up to doing much that day, it’s easy to lose a few hours here working, reading a book, or just vibing out to the chill tunes in the garden.

Pozoleria Tia Calla – One of the must-try dishes in Taxco de Alarcon is their pozole blanco. Talk to any local and they’ll let you know that the best pozole can be found at Tia Calla. There are actually two locations. One is on the main road and the other is in the main plaza. No matter which you visit, Tia Calla has amazing food at very affordable prices.

Street Food in Taxco – Like most cities in Mexico, Taxco has a bustling street food scene. It’s not quite at the level of munchie meccas like Mexico City and Oaxaca, but it does exist. Gorditas, barbacoa, and of course, tacos al pastor are some of the main offerings of Taxco’s street food scene. While most of the restaurants in the city shut down pretty early during COVID, most of the late night eats were the taquerias and street stalls.

Things To Know Before Visiting Taxco

Like I said, I went pretty blindly into my visit to Taxco. I didn’t know much about the city, and had hardly heard of it. If you’re an experienced traveler with a lot of Mexico and Latin America under your belt, Taxco isn’t too different. You’ll be fine. However, there are still a few things that you should probably know beforehand.

Do You Need Spanish To Get By in Taxco?

While English is good enough to get by in most of touristy Mexico, it is definitely a lot less common in Taxco. If you want to get an immersive experience in this region, try to pick up some Spanish. Hardly anyone I spoke to was fluent in English, and Taxco proved to be a great refresher for the Spanish that I was slowly losing in gringo hotspots like Puerto Escondido and Tulum .

Another thing is the altitude. Taxco is pretty high up in the mountains, reaching elevations as high as 2,000 meters. It’s easy to run out of breath here. Between the constant uphill climbs and thin air, just be a bit more careful with pushing yourself. Your calves are going to get a great workout, and it’s surprising that the Tasqueñas don’t all have killer glutes.

Is Taxco Safe to Visit?

Lastly, safety. I’ve heard mixed things about the safety of Guerrero state. Cartel activity does exist in this state, but I think for the most part, Taxco is excluded. Acapulco is a big hotspot, and the capital of Chilpancingo is as well. However, being a smaller town, I don’t think Taxco attracts too much attention. Is Taxco safe to visit? I wasn’t sure at first, but by the end, I absolutely loved the city and felt welcomed by its people.

The only safety issue I have with Taxco is how narrow those streets are. It’s a miracle more people don’t get hit by cars or motorbikes. I mean, there are no sidewalks. The streets are barely wide enough to fit two cars, and many of the two-way streets should definitely just be one way streets. Seeing VW bugs haul ass down slippery cobblestoned streets gave me indescribable anxiety.

That’s really all I’ve got on safety in Taxco. Same goes for everywhere you go. Keep your wits about you and don’t make yourself a target to petty thieves. Just to be safe, make sure to have good travel insurance handy whenever you’re out of the country. I use SafetyWing to keep me covered throughout my travels.

Taxco is an incredible city, and one that did not take long to win me over. It only took a few days for me to start feeling at home in the city. As usual, I kept extending my stay in Taxco, and have no doubt that I’ll be back to visit this magical city again one day.

Buy Me A Beer!

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

My Complete Mexico Itinerary

Also, I’ve finally published my jam-packed Mexico backpacking itinerary , spanning 77 pages and 33 of my favorite travel destinations in Mexico. This ain’t your ordinary itinerary, and it’s guaranteed to make sure you go off the beaten path and experience the best of Mexico. Shop below.

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

By popular demand… Here is the complete itinerary for one of my favorite countries in the world, Mexico. In this 77-page guidebook, I cover 30 of my favorite Mexican destinations, including how to get to each city, where to stay, and the best things to do in each city. I also include tidbits of useful information like things to know before going to Mexico, as well as my favorite party destina…

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14 Things to do in Taxco: Mexico’s Most Beautiful Town

Just three hours’ drive south of Mexico City lies one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets: the quaint, picturesque colonial town of Taxco. Nestled in the mountains of the state of Guerrero, the town has preserved its 16th-century charm and is renowned for its silver mining and jewelry-making tradition.

Considered one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Magicos” , its cobbled streets, white-washed houses, red tile roofs, and stunning Baroque architecture make Taxco a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.

In this post, we’ll be exploring the 12 best things to do in Taxco, from visiting historical landmarks, taking nearby day trips, buying silver, and enjoying the impressive food scene

How to get to Taxco from Mexico City

One of the easiest ways to reach Taxco is by taking a bus from either Mexico City’s southern bus terminal, Taxqueña, or from Cuernavaca. The journey takes approximately three hours from Mexico City, while it takes less than two hours from Cuernavaca.

There are plenty of bus services available every day of the week, offering frequent departures to Taxco. Traveling by bus is not only convenient but also provides a comfortable and affordable option for exploring this charming town.

Best Things to do in Taxco

Explore santa prisca church.

Santa Prisca Church (also the Templo de Santa Prisca) is one of the most impressive and well-known landmarks in Taxco, really the centerpiece to the city as it can be seen from almost everywhere. One of the most popular things to do in Taxco is to simply enter the church and enjoy the peace and quiet.

This stunning Baroque church is a masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship, built in the 18th century by Jose de la Borda, a wealthy silver miner.

The church is located in the center of town, and its façade is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and learn about its history and significance.

We highly recommend climbing to the top of the church for 100 pesos to get an epic view of the town (pictured below). Not many people know about this, and it will be completely empty at the top. Just ask the staff and they will let you know how to get up.

Wander around the Zocalo

The Zocalo is the main square in Taxco and is the hub of the town’s social life. It’s surrounded by restaurants, shops, and historical buildings, and is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is home to a beautiful fountain, and its benches provide a great spot for people watching.

Take a Cable Car Ride

For stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains, take a cable car ride up to the top, known as the Teleferico de Taxco. It’s a swiss-built cable car, so if you’re worried about safety, that should reassure you.

The ride takes you from the center of town up to the top of the mountain, where you can take in panoramic views of the town and the countryside. The cable car closes at 7pm, so make sure to get down before then, or you might have to walk!

From there you can head over to the famous Hotel Montetaxco (just 2 min walk away) and take a dip in the pool, have lunch, or just enjoy the stunning vistas. The cable car is an exciting way to see the beauty of Taxco from a different perspective.

Discover the Prehistoric Mines of Taxco

Mina Prehispánica de Taxco is a newer attraction in the city of an underground silver mine that was only discovered in 2012, underneath of a nightclub! It’s a unique experience and for sure one of the most underrated things to do in Taxco.

For a fee of $150 pesos per person, visitors can take a tour of the mine, which includes a free shot of flavoured mezcal after the tour.

During the tour, the guide provides a detailed history of the incredible mines below, mostly in Spanish. The mine itself is impressive, with gold, silver and many other elements covering the cave walls. The tour takes around 1 hour to complete, and at the end you’ll emerge atop a neat hotel with a pool and interesting artwork.

Walk Around the Narrow Streets

One of the highlights and best things to do in Taxco is simply discovering the picturesque backstreets en route to the popular sites and attractions. All throughout the town, you’ll find numerous multi-story houses, most of which are adorned with white siding with balconies and vibrant floral arrangements.

The dazzling array of white structures perched on the hillside will instantly transport you to a Mediterranean destination…with the delightful twist of the white Volkswagen Beetle taxis adding to the charm!

Enjoy a Drink at a Rooftop Bar

Taxco has a number of rooftop bars with beautiful views of the town. They’re a great place to relax with a drink and take in the sights. One of our favourites is Rosa Amaranto (pictured below), which is a restaurant with one of the best views in all of Taxco.

Some other popular rooftop bars include La Terraza (epic view of the church below),Sky Bar at Hotel Montetaxco and Mirador del Hotel Agua Escondida. Exploring all the amazing rooftop bars is for sure one of our favourite things to do in Taxco.

Visit the Christ the Redeemer Statue

things to do taxco christ redeemer statue

The Christ the Redeemer (or El Cristo Panoramico)statue provides a stunning view of the city of Taxco from its lofty position atop a hill. If you have already experienced the birds-eye view from the cableway of Hotel Montetaxco, it may not be necessary to make the trek up the hill to visit the statue, as the views are similar from both locations.

If you have the time and don’t mind a little exercise, visiting El Cristo Panoramico is a great idea. You can either take a taxi there and back for 120 pesos, or you can choose to hike up to the statue and enjoy the spectacular views, although you’ll be tired when you arrive. No matter how you arrive, it’s one of the best things to do in Taxco.

Attend a Festival or Event

Taxco hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Guitar Festival in March and the Silver Fair in November. These events are a great opportunity to experience the town’s culture and traditions, and are one of the funnest things to do in Taxco.

The most famous festival in Taxco is the Holy Week (Semana Santa) procession, which features elaborate floats and costumes and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Although Semana Santa festivities have become more subdued in many other parts of Mexico, Taxco remains steadfast in its traditional celebrations, which involve graphic reenactments of Biblical events.

For an authentic Semana Santa experience, Taxco is an especially remarkable destination. As part of the Procession of the Souls of Purgatory, men dressed in black robes carry holy wooden crosses and sculptures from churches in Taxco and neighboring villages through the streets of the city.

Explore the Cacahuamilpa Caves

Located just 35 minutes north of Taxco, the Cacahuamilpa Caves are a must-visit attraction. The caves are enormous, with towering stalactites and stalagmites. There are also guided tours available. The entrance fee to the caves is currently 100 MXN pesos and it’s definitely worth it as the caves stretch for over 2km underground.

We recommend taking this tour here which is a full day all inclusive tour, that begins and ends in Mexico City.

Try the Local Cuisine

Taxco has a rich culinary tradition, and there are a number of local dishes that you should try while you’re there. Some of the must-try dishes include pozole, tamales, and mole. Pozole is a traditional soup made with hominy, pork, and spices.

Tamales are steamed corn masa filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and chili sauce. Mole is a complex sauce made with chili peppers, nuts, seeds, and chocolate, and is often served over chicken or pork.

Visit the Silver Markets

Taxco is known for its silver jewelry, and the town has a number of shops and markets selling handmade silver pieces, making it one of the most popular things to do in Taxco.

The Silver Market is a great place to browse for unique jewelry, and you can find everything from simple silver studs to intricate bracelets and necklaces. Be sure to bargain for the best prices!

Cascada De Cacalotenango

Nestled amidst a coniferous forest, only 20 minutes west of Taxco lies a breathtaking 80-meter waterfall, which offers a spectacular landscape. The waterfall is sourced from the Plan of Fields creek, which originates from the surrounding hills. Visitors can explore the area’s scenic trails on long walks or take a more relaxed approach by horseback riding. This natural wonder offers an ideal setting for ecotourism activities and adventure sports.

To reach the waterfall from Taxco city, visitors can take the Taxco – Ixcateopan de Cuauhtémoc state road, which covers a distance of 7 kilometers. With its serene surroundings and natural beauty, this waterfall is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Take a Day Trip to Iguala

Iguala is a nearby town that’s worth visiting if you have some extra time. It’s home to the Palacio de la Plata, a beautiful neoclassical building that was once a silver trading center. The town also has a number of historic churches and colonial buildings.

Visit the Casa Borda Cultural Center

The Casa Borda Cultural Center is a beautiful 18th-century mansion that has been converted into a cultural center. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, and concerts throughout the year. The center is named after Jose de la Borda, the wealthy silver miner who built Santa Prisca Church. * This attraction is temporarily closed. *

Where to Stay in Taxco?

William hotel de diseño.

Situated in the heart of Taxco de Alarcón amidst the enchanting winding streets and charming Spanish-style houses, the William Hotel de Diseño is a delightful accommodation option. The hotel features an à la carte restaurant, as well as rooms equipped with air conditioning and complimentary WiFi.

Each room is appointed with wooden furnishings, tiled floors, and a flat-screen cable TV. At the onsite restaurant,El Americano, visitors can indulge in American-inspired cuisine, while JUCU Bar serves up signature cocktails and snacks. The hotel is located a mere 300 meters away is the San Sebastián Church.

Hotel Agua Escondida

This colonial-style hotel, situated merely one block away from Parroquia de Santa Prisca Church, boasts an array of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool and a rooftop terrace affording panoramic city views. The on-site spa offers an extensive range of massage and beauty treatments, including options such as a Hot Stone Massage and a chocolate exfoliating body wrap.

The cozy rooms offer scenic views of either the street or the hotel patio. Each room comes equipped with cable TV, a telephone, and complimentary bottled water. The private bathroom features a shower and complimentary toiletries.

On-site you’ll find the La Hacienda restaurant, which serves a variety of Mexican and international cuisine, while a buffet is available on Sundays. For a refreshing beverage, guests can head to Café Punta del Cielo, the rooftop café.

Hotel Cielito Lindo

If you’re looking for a more budget-style accommodation, we recommend Hotel Cielito Lindo , which is not to far from the center of town (800 meters) so you can easily discover the best things to do in Taxco.

The hotel offers guests a comfortable stay with its range of amenities, including a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can enjoy a drink at the bar and chill at the pool during their stay.

Things to do in Taxco Summary

Taxco is a charming and historic town that offers visitors a wealth of cultural and recreational activities. From exploring the town’s winding streets and colonial architecture to visiting its many museums and churches, there is plenty to see and do in Taxco.

The town is also a great place to shop for unique silver jewelry and other handicrafts. Visitors can take in the stunning views from the town’s cable car or enjoy a refreshing dip in the nearby waterfalls. With its lively nightlife and bustling marketplaces, Taxco is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich culture and heritage of Mexico.

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12 things to do in Taxco – Complete travel guide

Posted on January 6, 2020 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on May 8, 2021

Taxco, a Pueblo Magico (Magical Town), is an important silver-mining hub and a paradise for tourists. Located in a mountainous area, the village is beautiful. Picture narrow paved streets, winding up and down, passing through traditional white and red houses. Every corner is stunning and every edifice worth a look. Taxco is also known for its surroundings: lush forests and breathtaking landscapes. Spend a day walking around town, exploring one of the region’s most beautiful caves or go for a swim in turquoise waters. Read on to discover all the best things to do in Taxco.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Things to do in Taxco and places to visit

Taxco is known for being an important silver-mining center . Everywhere you’ll go, you’ll find small shops making and selling jewelry. It’s the perfect place to do some shopping.

Visit religious edifices

Church of Santa Prisca: Taxco’s main baroque church from the 1750s, considered one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico;
Ex-convent of San Bernardino de Siena: originally built in 1592, it was destroyed to be rebuilt in 1804, adopting the Neo-Classical style;
Capilla de Los Barrios

Holy week’s celebration statues

If you come by these statues without knowing what it is, you’ll probably think something weird is going on here (I surely did). During the Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Taxco, some people wearing a hoody (to keep their anonymity) join a procession to repent from their sins, hurting themselves. There are three categories of pennants: the crucified (only men, carrying a huge tree tronc filled with spikes), the spirits (women bound at the hands and feet by heavy chains) and the floggers (they carry a heavy cross and take breaks to whip themselves).

That’s what these statues represent, probably still weird even once you know what it means.

Taxqueño Christ viewpoint

The best place to get a panoramic view of the whole city. From there, you can see all the main buildings and churches.

For a nice view, you can also take the cable car (95 pesos for a round-trip). You’ll get more or less the same view from where the line ends, so you don’t have to do both. If you don’t have a car, the easiest option is to take the cable car and skip the Christ.

Pre-Hispanic Mine

This mine is the first pre-hispanic mine discovered in Mexico. Built by the Chontales in the 15th century, it was kept hidden so the Spaniards wouldn’t find it. It was rediscovered in 2013 when the hotel above it started renovation work.

You can now visit it, it had been well restored and adapted to tourism. The part you visit is 40-meters below ground level. You do the visit with a guide, who will explain everything about mining and the Chontales culture and history.

The mine is open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 150 pesos. Most guides don’t speak English.

William Spratling Museum

William Spratling opened the first silver workshop in Taxco in 1930. There, you’ll find some items from his private collection and some of the designs he made.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM (3 PM on Sundays). The entrance fee is 55 pesos.

Museum of Religious Art

Even if you’re not into Religious Art, this museum is worth visiting. The building is stunning, a perfect example of traditional architecture. It also explains everything about the history of Taxco. A guide is included (tip expected but not mandatory), I’m not sure they speak English though.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 PM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 50 pesos,

Ex-Hacienda El Chorrillo

Built between 1525 and 1534, under Cortes’ order, this hacienda is now part of an art school. It was built to extract silver, with an intricate and unique system, using water, salt, and mercury. You can visit it and admire one of the city’s oldest buildings.

Silver workshops

Taxco is famous for producing silver and jewelry, prices are incredibly low. You can buy some pieces and check out a workshop, where they’ll show you their craft. At every corner, you’ll find small shops selling silver and local crafts. There’s also a small handicraft market behind the Santa Prisca Church.

Things to do around Taxco

Pozas azules de atzala.

Visiting the Pozas Azules (Blue Pools) is one of the best things to do in Taxco. The place is peaceful and stunning. The water is at its bluest during the dry season. During the rainy season, the water is muddy, but the waterfall is spectacular.

There you can swim in the pools, zip-line and sample some local food. There have changing rooms but no lockers. You’ll have to walk a bit to reach the entrance, some kids will offer to guide you, that’s not necessary.

To get there, take a colectivo from the Coppel on Plateros Street, there’s one every 30 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at the pozas. To get back, just wait where you were dropped off. Don’t forget to ask when the last one is. The fare should be around 30 pesos. It takes around 30-45 minutes to get there.

The entrance fee is 50 pesos, add 200 for the zipline.

Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

The Cacahuamilpa Cave is another one of the best things to do in Taxco, you cannot miss it. The cave is known for its impressive rock formations and for being one of the largest cave systems in the world. The part you can visit on foot is around 2km (1.2 miles) deep. You can also arrange for a more adventurous exploration.

For the classic route, a mandatory guided tour leaves every hour from 10 AM to 5 PM. It costs 80 pesos per person. The tour is around 2 hours long. To get there take a bus Flecha Roja from the main bus terminal in Taxco. They leave every 45 minutes.

Taxco Itinerary

The minimum I recommend staying there is 2 days/1 night, but you can easily spend more time there and take your time.

On the first day, if you arrive in the morning you can visit Taxco city and in the afternoon go to the pozas. The next day, head for the cave, then on to your next destination.

If you have a car or hire a guide, you can visit everything in a day if you don’t have much time. If you really don’t have time, you can join a day tour from Mexico City .

What to eat in Taxco

Taxco is famous for its Pozole, a type of corn and pork soup. It’s a typical dish, served all over Mexico, usually during special events. Taxco is known for making the best one. I recommend going to Tia Calla, in one of the corners of the main square (it’s a bit hard to find, you have to take stairs going down).

Where to stay in Taxco

Definitely try to stay in the city center/historical part of town. A guesthouse would be the perfect choice if you want a more authentic experience. Here’s a couple of accommodation you can check out:

Posada Joan Sebastian: small budget posada offering a dorm and basic rooms, great view from the terrace.
Hotel Posada Spa Antigua Casa Hogar: small but comfy rooms, great view over the city, friendly owners.
Posada de la Mision: Taxco’s most famous hotel, not in the center, but the mine is there and the cable car nearby. The best view of the city. Great decoration (a bit out-dated at times, but clean), large rooms, pool, bar, and restaurant.

How to get to Taxco

From Mexico City, you can take a direct bus from Taxqueña, the Southern bus station.

To get to Taxco from Cuernavaca, take a bus at the Estrella Blanca Bus Station (near the city center), there’s one every hour.

Is Taxco safe?

Guerrero state is known for not being the safest place in Mexico. This being said, Taxco is touristy, so the government tries to make it as safe as possible. I would say, it’s safe to go to Taxco as well as the pozas and the cave. I was there alone and felt safe all the time, these parts are not dangerous, unlike the rest of Guerrero. In the city, you won’t have any problems, to visit outside, if you want to feel safer, just hire a local guide to tour you around. You can contact one of the many travel agencies in Taxco to arrange it.

Related articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico:

Mexico City 4-day Itinerary
Best destinations to visit in Mexico
Cuernavaca – A weekend getaway from Mexico City

San Antonio of Padua convent, Izamal, Yucatan, Mexico

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Taxco Travel Guide: What to Do in Taxco, Mexico

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links

After hiking 12 miles among the erupting volcanos in Izta-Popo National Park last weekend, Daniel and I decided to plan something much more relaxing for our next getaway from Mexico City.

A two-day trip to the village of Taxco (also known as Taxco de Alarcon) and the Pozas Azules (blue pools) was exactly what we needed.

This mountainside town was relaxing, quiet, beautiful, and pretty much just every positive adjective under the sun. And the best part is, it’s only three hours away from Mexico City!

If you’re looking for a weekend escape from Mexico City, follow this step by step guide to plan a trip to Taxco!

How to Get from Mexico City to Taxco

The trip from Mexico City to Taxco is really easy.

Busses depart daily from the Terminal Central del Sur (Taxqueno) and cost 225 pesos / 12 usd.

Some lines that run the route are Estrella del Oro, Costa Line, and ADO. This routes from Mexico City to Taxco don’t run super often so it’s a good idea to check the timetables on their websites the day before you go and plan accordingly.

Once you get on the bus the travel time is about three hours or a bit more or less depending on the traffic. When you arrive, it will drop you off at the Taxco Terminal which is only a ten minute walk from the Zocalo central square.

If you don’t want to go on your own, click here to book a guided tour to Taxco and Cuernavaca.

Pretty streets and greenery in Taxco

Where to Stay in Taxco

Before you book accommodation, you need to decide how long you’re going to stay in the city.

Daniel and I decided to go on a Saturday morning and leave Sunday afternoon and this was honestly plenty of time – I recommend spending between 24 to 48 hours in Taxco, Mexico.

We opted for only one night, but we loved our stay at Hostel Casa Taxco . It had a rooftop terrace and was just steps from the main square. Plus, it was super clean and quiet.

Click here to book your stay at Hostel Casa Taxco!

If you book somewhere else, just make sure you’re as close to the main square (Zocalo) as possible. That’s where all the best food and bars are and the city is built on a mountainside so if you stray too far you’re going to be stuck walking uphill a lot.

I found accommodation prices in Taxco, Mexico to be surprisingly pricey, so try to book in advance if you can. We paid 660 pesos / 35 usd for a private room w/ a shared bathroom and it was the cheapest option available in the city because we booked the day before we went.

Click here to see all hotels and hostels in Taxco.

Beautiful views are pretty much everywhere when walking through Taxco

Where to Eat and Drink in Taxco

Eating and drinking in Taxco is great because the food is amazing, the views are stunning, and the prices are incredibly affordable – almost every meal we had was under 100 pesos / 5 usd each.

It’s safe to say I enjoyed eating my way through Taxco, and these are top restaurant recommendations in the city!

Rosa Mexicano for Breakfast

We woke up on Sunday morning and headed straight for breakfast at Rosa Mexicano.

The view is beautiful from their terrace and the food was great and priced well. We had the waffle with chocolate sauce for 69 pesos / 3.65 usd and the chilaquiles meal with orange juice and coffee for 129 pesos / 7 usd.

Just two things to keep in mind: the terrace isn’t open for seating until 9:30 am, but if you get there beforehand (like we did) you can sit right by the open doors and still get a view.

Also, they put bread on our table when we sat down and then charged us for it, which isn’t a big deal but is just a personal pet peeve of mind. So watch out for that, but otherwise enjoy the food, prices, and views at Rosa Mexicano.

Panoramic view of Taxco from Rosa Mexicano Restaurant

View from the terrace at Rosa Mexicano

S Caffecito for Lunch

For lunch on Sunday we ate at S Caffecito . This place is a bit up off the main square and was built into a restored home. The tables surround an open courtyard with trees and greenery and book shelves line the walls.

The food is an Italian/Mexican fusion and just like everything else in Taxco, Mexico, it was super cheap.

We got the mole lasagna, caprese salad with crostini and two fruit drinks for 200 pesos / 10.50 usd with the tip. We also tried to get the cheesecake but they we’re out! Noooooo.

Del Angel Inn for Lunch

When we arrived in Taxco on Saturday our first stop was a late lunch at Del Angel Inn. The terrace was just steps from our hostel and the main square so it was an easy choice.

Although the food wasn’t the best we had in the city, the view was awesome (are you sensing a trend here) and the service was really great. They even had a live mariachi band.

We got the chicken fajitas for 170 pesos / 9 usd (Daniel loved them, I thought they were just ok) and the ravioli for 99 pesos / 5 usd. Each meal also came with bread, butter, chips, and salsa which definitely got the meal off on the right foot.

I also saw some groups splitting giant pitchers of margs to start their day drinking early and they definitely had the right idea. If we had been in the mood, this is the place I would pick for some drinks in the sun.

view of Taxco, Mexico from Del Angel Inn

View from the terrace at Del Angel Inn

La Bambina Casa Roja for Dinner

This place has the best chicken wings! Hot, crispy, flavorful goodness for only 80 pesos / 4 usd?

Yes, please! La Bambina Casa Roja is just off the main square and the lively bar makes this restaurant a great place to start the night with food and a few drinks.

Taxco, Mexico is famous for a soup dish called pozole and Tia Calla is the place to get it when you’re here.

Even our hostel owner recommended it for a cheap and delicious meal. It’s right on the main square and one of the most popular places to eat in the city. I didn’t make it here, unfortunately, but if you go comment below and let me know how dumb I am for missing out!

Yolotl Tap Room

Yep, even teeny tiny Taxco has a brewery!

If you’re looking for craft beer made right in town this is the place. The owner speaks English and will be happy to tell you about his different beers on tap. If you’re a beer lover, the Yolotl Tap Room is a great place to start or end your night.

Terrazza 360

Straight from the recommendation of a local and onto my to-do list.

Our waiter at Del Angel Inn grew up in Taxco and told us it was one of his favorite bars, so we visited for iced coffee and a few afternoon beers. Coronas are only 25 pesos / 1.30 usd here and cocktails range from 40 to 80 pesos each.

Of course, the main reason why you need to visit Terrazza 360 is to enjoy the absolutely amazing views of the city while you get buzzed!

Top 4 Things to Do in Taxco, Mexico

The number one best thing to do in Taxco is relax and enjoy the view of the picturesque town (it seriously felt like stepping into Europe).

We arrived on Saturday at 1 pm and spent the afternoon eating a late lunch, getting coffee, and terrace hopping for a few beers. However if you want more, here’s pretty much everything else there is to do in this sleepy tourist town.

1. Shop for Silver

Taxco, Mexico was founded by Hernan Cortes in 1529 and was built around the abundant silver mines in the mountain.

It quickly became known for producing high-quality silver products and Taxco jewelry is still famous today. There are dozens of shops all around the main square and winding cobblestone streets selling silver pieces.

I’m not going to lie, I didn’t have any interest in the products so we didn’t shop around and I can’t tell you how the selection was. When I was researching our trip, though, I read that you need to be careful not to be ripped off and make sure you always ask if it’s real silver from the area.

The village of Taxco is dotted with silver shops

2. Check out the View from Cristo Rey

You’re not in Latin America if there’s not a giant Jesus statue staring down at you, and Taxco stays true to form with their own Cristo Rey above the city.

We went for sunset to check out the view and it was amazing. Watching all the lights come on was magical… it’s the perfect place to enjoy my favorite time of day, those moments when everyone’s gearing up for the evening and it’s just so full of potential.

To get there, wave down any taxi driver and ask him to take you to Cristo Rey.

The cost should be around 40 to 50 pesos / 2 usd for the trip. Afterward, there may be some drivers at the top who can take you down, but if they’re all waiting for other groups ask one to call a friend. A kind driver offered to for us and a taxi appeared to take us down in five minutes.

Watching the lights come on at Cristo Rey

3. Take the Teleferico

If the Cristo Rey wasn’t enough for you, you can also take the teleferico (cable car) up to a viewpoint for some more stunning vistas. This one is a bit out of the way outside the city and costs 90 pesos / 4.75 usd round trip.

We stuck with Cristo Rey because it was closer and easier to get to, but if you want to see the city from afar and from below the mountain instead of above, consider adding this to your Taxco to-do list.

Pozas Azules, natural pools in Taxco, Mexico

Enjoying the Pozas Azules

4. Visit the Pozas Azules

The Pozas Azules are located only five miles from Taxco, which sounds great, right?

Because of the winding mountain roads, unfortunately, it still takes 40 minutes by collectivo to get to them. However, they’re so unique and beautiful that you definitely make the extra effort.

These natural pools are in a forest with green trees, dappled light, and the most stunning clear blue waters.

They cost 30 pesos / 1.50 usd to enter and there are about five different swimming holes with waterfalls, jumping platforms, and hanging vines. The water was cold and refreshing, and the vibe was nice (if a bit crowded) on a Sunday afternoon.

There’s also plenty of food stalls to get a snack, a cheap meal, or a few beers to enjoy.

Click here to visit the Pozas Azules with my step-by-step guide.

It’s Time to Plan a Trip to Taxco

I can’t recommend this quaint and quiet colonial city enough.

It’s been one of my favorite getaways during our entire eight-week stay in Mexico because it’s just so different from everything else I’ve experienced here!

Awesome views, good food, and relaxing vibes await you in Taxco, Mexico and you definitely shouldn’t miss it.

Ready to go? Click here book your stay in Taxco!

This article is part of the Miscellaneous Mexico City series. Read the rest below:

Mexico City Travel Guide: What to Do in Mexico Cit

8 Best Places to Live in Mexico: Ranked

How to See the Monarch Butterfly Migration in Mexico

12 Things to do in Mexico City at Night (On Any Budget)

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How to Visit the Strange and Splendid Toy Museum in Mexico City

The Gringos Guide to Xochimilco Boats in Mexico City

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16 Things To Do in Taxco On A Trip From Mexico City

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

My friends and I took a trip to Taxco from Mexico City and fell in love with this cultural, charming place. There are so many lovely things to do in Taxco that I’ve been raving about it ever since! In this blog, I’m going to share my tips including how to get from Mexico City to Taxco and where to eat, shop, drink and stay.

Visiting CDMX? Check out my 5 day Mexico City itinerary

Taxco is a small town with less than 1,000 residents. It’s incredibly pretty and idyllic but still feels local, unlike those UNESCO towns that have become artificially perfect. Amongst the colonial buildings are bustling markets where locals pick up their groceries and eat authentic Mexican dishes for a handful of pesos.

Another thing I liked? It doesn’t receive a huge amount of foreign tourists which keeps prices low. Taxi rides across town cost 30 pesos and you can drink cocktails for half the price of Mexico City. If you’re in the mood for an indulgent weekend and a spot of shopping, this is the place!

TAXCO QUICK LINKS Hotels & apartments: Booking.com Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico / Mexican Spanish phrasebook Activities: GetYourGuide Getting there: bus, car hire or day tour

Where is Taxco?

Taxco is a town in Guerrero state, 170km to the west of Mexico City.

Is Taxco safe?

While some foreign travellers have reservations about visiting Guerrero because of the US department advising against travel there, Taxco is a very safe part of the state. Our time in Taxco was idyllic and trouble-free. I haven’t heard of any travellers having issues.

Although I travelled with friends, I have no doubt Taxco would be a suitable place for solo travel in Mexico , although possibly not overly social as there are no backpacker hostels.

Getting to Taxco from Mexico City

Hiring a car in Mexico City : driving to Taxco would work out cheaper than visiting by public bus, especially if there’s a group of you. Use Rentalcars.com to find the best price. Bus: We caught the bus from Taxqueña (Terminal de Sur) in the south of Mexico City. The journey takes 2 hours 20 minutes providing there’s no traffic and drops you in the centre of Taxco. Book your tickets on Check My Bus . Expect the journey to cost around 600 pesos return.

Taxco from Mexico City as a day trip

There are places like Xochimilco and Teotihuacan that can easily be visited as a day trip. While it’s possible to travel from Mexico City to Taxco and back as part of a day trip, it’ll be rushed. Like Puebla and Tepoztlan, it’s best to stay overnight if you can. If you have just one day allotted for Taxco, I would recommend a GetYourGuide day tour to Taxco and Cuernavaca . You’ll be picked up from your accommodation which will save you travelling to Taxqueña terminal to catch a bus from Mexico City to Taxco. With almost 5 hours on the bus, it would be stressful to see Taxco in 1 day by public transport.

Where to stay in Taxco

There are plenty of places to stay in Taxco. I recommend…

Budget: Capital O Hotel Cielito Lindo Mid-range: Boutique Pueblo Lindo Self-catering apartment: Habitación Céntrica y acogedora

Browse all Taxco hotels, guesthouses and self-catering apartments on Booking.com .

How long to spend in Taxco?

We spent just one night in Taxco, leaving Mexico City at 8am and returning by 10pm the following day. This gave us the best part of 2 days in Taxco which was long enough. Any longer and you might run out of things to do in Taxco, but if you feel like relaxing, a couple of extra nights would be perfect.

Things to do in Taxco

Although I love the capital, one of my top Mexico City tips is to escape the hustle and bustle in favour of quieter cities. The best thing to do in Taxco is get up late, wander the cobbled streets at your leisure and do little more than sip coffee, eat authentic Mexican food and admire the architecture. However, if you’re feeling more energetic, there are hillside climbs and natural waterfalls to bathe in.

In this blog, I’ll run through all the top things to do during a trip to Taxco from Mexico City!

Take the cable car

I hadn’t seen cable cars in any other Mexican cities so jumped to take a ride. The views from Taxco Cableway are immense. The bright yellow cars can be boarded from this point , about a 20-minute walk from the city centre. With so many hills and cobbled roads in Taxco, even short walks are a bit of a mission. You can catch a cab instead and pay just 35 pesos. Taxco Cableway costs 100 pesos return, a high price point when you consider the ride takes barely 5 minutes. However, the views are incredible, both as you ascend and from the top.

Indulge at Hotel Montetaxco

Once you reach the top of Taxco hill via the Cableway, you’ll be at one of the most luxurious locations in the city. You have a couple of options here. You can do what we did and check out the views for free, or you can head into the bar and restaurant to dine with a backdrop of Taxco. Obviously, prices are inflated here but not outrageously so. You can eat chilaquiles for 120 pesos which isn’t terrible when you consider the location. Alternatively, you can stay over at Hotel Montetaxco . Rooms start from 1,200 pesos a night per 2 people which isn’t bad at all. This includes access to the swimming pool, golf course, tennis court, steam room and gym. You can reach the city by 10-minute drive or via the cable car. If you’re in the mood for a luxurious stay and lazy days with beautiful views, I don’t think you can beat this place.

Shop for silver

I don’t know how I’ve made it 800 words into this blog without mentioning the thing that puts Taxco on the map: silver! Silver in Taxco has traditionally been mined from the local area and crafted into jewellery onsite. The industry spans a long history: locals would have paid the Aztecs with silver in exchange for protection. Times have changed but the industry hasn’t. One of the best things to do during a trip from Mexico City to Taxco is shop for silver jewellery and other silver goods. I bought a beautiful sterling silver ring with a blue stone for just 160 pesos. There’s quirky, as well as traditional, jewellery. We saw earrings with unicorns, Peppa Pig and household items like microphones, shovels and tools. The silver jewellery of Taxco can be quite odd but that’s all part of the charm.

Shop for handicrafts

I knew about Taxco’s silver history before visiting but didn’t realise how many other things there would be to buy. We spent less time at silver shops and more time browsing colourful markets and boutiques selling gorgeous clothes, bags, cushion covers, trinkets and more. If you’re taking a trip from Mexico City to Taxco, you should make the most of the cheaper prices in Taxco. You could decorate a whole house without breaking the bank! Agatha boutique just off the main square is one of the best places to shop for clothes. A couple of my friends bought beautiful handmade dresses with Mexican floral prints. For 500 pesos you’ll get a gorgeous new outfit.

Journey up to El Cristo Panoramico

This Jesus statue looks over Taxco from a lofty position on the hillside. If you’ve already travelled up to Hotel Montetaxco via the cableway, you might not want to visit the statue since the views are similar from both.

But if you have time, why not? There’s no entrance fee to reach the El Cristo Panoramico and you’ll pay just 120 pesos return for the 30-minute drive there and back by taxi. Alternatively, you can hike up to the statue if you’re feeling energetic. The views would certainly be worth it!

Eat at Rosa Mexicano Restaurant

One of the best things to do in Taxco is eat! We had a fantastic meal at Rosa Mexicano Restaurant . It was truly one of the tastiest meals I’ve had in Mexico and it wasn’t even particularly expensive, although perhaps I’m too used to the high prices of food in Roma and Condesa . As we waited for a table on the beautiful patio overlooking a panoramic view, we joked that we would probably take one look at the menu and have to leave. We assumed the premium location meant premium prices but nope, we ate delicious main dishes for only 100 pesos!

I can vouch for the jamaica mole enchiladas which were rich and flavoursome with a tangy aftertaste of hibiscus. I also tried the pink mole enchiladas which were subtly creamy with a hint of sesame. They weren’t bright pink but more of a pale pink-orange, made with rose mole which is a speciality dish from Taxco. We washed the meal down with margaritas and finished by sharing some desserts. The chocolate volcano and passionfruit cheesecake were amazing! We paid 300 pesos each for everything.

Related read: 36 best Mexican foods to try

Frappes at Santo Cafe

Did you come all the way to Taxco to drink frappes at an Insta-friendly cafe? It may not be the most cultural thing to do in Taxco but we had a great time here, especially since it was very hot during our March visit and we needed to cool down. As well as the colourful Mexcian flags hanging from the ceiling, an Insta wing mural to pose with and a 3D flower wall, the best thing about Santo Cafe is the frappes. These cost 45 pesos and come topped with whipped cream, chocolate sauce and edible staws. They were so good we came back two days running. Don’t miss the amazing crafts shops upstairs which sell some of the prettiest purses and bags I saw in Taxco. Santo Cafe can be found beside Taxco’s main square.

Try a berta

When we found out that Taxco had a signature cocktail we knew we should have it for cultural reasons, obviously!

Lime, honey and tequila make up a Berta cocktail. I didn’t love them: they were overly sweet and didn’t have much flavour besides the honey. I’m glad we tried them but I switched back to margaritas for the rest of the weekend (and my life)…

Sip on a sundowner

On the topic of cocktails, another unmissable thing to do in Taxco is visit a rooftop bar. As a scenic city, it’s hardly surprising there are lots of these around. One of the best places for a sundowner is Hotel Montetaxco where you can watch the sun sink behind Taxco. For a rooftop drink closer to the centre, I would suggest visiting one of the bars around the main square. From any of their balconies, you can look down and people-watch over the busy square with a marg in hand. Expect to pay around 75 pesos a cocktail.

Get lost in the backstreets

One of my favourite experiences in Taxco was walking to the Cableway and accidentally exploring the backstreets on the way. There are so many charming multi-story houses, many painted white with balconies and colourful flower displays. The sea of white against the hillside reminded me of Greece… with the adorable addition of Volkswagen Beetle taxis!

Visit Santa Prisca de Taxco

Another of the most impressive things to do in Taxco is visit this enormous colonial church built by one of the richest mine owners in the 18th century. The interior is a little underwhelming in comparison but since entry is free, it’s worth a quick visit while visiting Taxco from Mexico City.

Eat ice cream at Tepoznieves

There’s no debate when it comes to the best ice cream in Taxco. Tepoznieves is a type of ice cream born in Tepoztlan, another scenic town not far from Mexico City. As I learnt while visiting, there’s fantastic food in Tepoztlan and the ice cream is no exception! At Tepoznieves, you can try various milk and fruit flavours including rose petal, coconut gin, passionfruit, mezcal, mango and funky ones like nopal (cactus). For an environmentally friendly – and delicious – option, forgo the styrofoam cup for a flower-shaped cone bowl. Tepoznieves is in the central square of Taxco. Two scoops of ice cream will cost just 40 pesos.

Brunch at La Intriga

Chilaquiles La Intriga mexico city to taxco weekend

We ate a tasty brunch at La Intriga Taxco . This pretty cafe is bright and colourful with hot pink tablemats and muted blue tables and mugs. We ate outside but the interior is a sight to behold with an enormous ceiling hanging made from papel picado flags. The highlight was, of course, the chilaquiles made with salsa verde, cheese, cream and frijoles.

Museum of Religious Art

As one of the oldest colonial buildings in Taxco, this museum is worth a visit for its pretty pastel tiles alone. It’s built in Moorish style with Islamic influence which was stylish in Spain during the colonisation of Mexico. I only saw the museum from the outside since my friends and I were more in the mood for food and cocktails than museums during our gals weekend away. However, if you’re an art fan, head inside for just 20 pesos.

Eat queso malinalli

If you know me, you’ll know I love cheese! So of course I enjoyed this dish. Marinated cubes of oozy cheese are melted into a flavoursome sauce and topped with cilantro. I usually hate this herb but it wasn’t overpowering. Despite having never seen queso malinalli in Mexico before, we noticed it on almost every Taxco restaurant menu. Trying it is certainly one of the best things to do in Taxco for foodies.

Pozas Azules de Atzala

Pozas Azules de Atzala , translating as Blue Pools, are located out in the countryside, a 40-minute drive from Taxco. To visit, agree a reasonable rate with any local taxi driver or board a cheap and cheerful collectivo from outside Coppel Platero s . Entry costs 100 pesos per person and you can spend a couple of hours swimming in the various pools. We were lucky on the journey back to Taxco because our collectivo driver stopped and let us explore Cascada de De Cacalotenango , a beautiful waterfall!

Thanks for reading these things to do in Taxco!

I hope you have a better idea about visiting Taxco from Mexico City. I have such fond memories of exploring this charming city. Since I visited in early March 2020, it became one of my final travel memories before a long drought, then I returned in 2022 to make new memories!

Check out my other Mexico blogs:

The perfect 2 day Puebla itinerary
How to get to San Miguel de Allende and what to do there
Where to eat in Roma and Condesa, CDMX
A guide to Coyoacan, Mexico City
Solo female travel to Mexico City
Where to eat and drink in Coyoacan
Guide to visiting Queretaro wine region
How to visit Xochimilco, Mexico City
How to celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca
How to visit Hierve El Agua, Mexico
The perfect Guadalajara itinerary

VISITING MEXICO? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices. Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world). For hotels and apartments, I use Booking.com . They have a wide range of accommodation for all budgets, plus the loyalty programme gives you discounts and upgrades. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . Hostels in Mexico are great for meeting other travellers. To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. I use GetYourGuide for tours & activities when I don’t want to travel solo. I also check Viator as they often have fun & unique options. EatWith – your one-stop for Mexico food tours, cooking classes and hosted meals with local chefs and foodies. The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico . Need to top up your Spanish? Bring a Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips from 10+ years of travel!

See you next time for more adventures,

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

3 thoughts on “ 16 Things To Do in Taxco On A Trip From Mexico City ”

Thank you! This was so very helpful 😁

This was so helpful! Do you have any tips on how to get around the silver market without a translator? Or do you know of any translators?

Hey, I think some people will speak English there. You will make it work!

Taxco Travel Guide

There’s a hidden gem located not too far from Mexico City that many travelers miss.

The sleepy town of Taxco, nestled between lofty mountains and famous for its silver jewelry production, is one of the best places to experience Mexico’s quaint charm, Spanish colonial architecture, and rich history.

While many of Mexico’s pueblos magicos— towns recognized as magical by the secretary of tourism—suffer from over-tourism, there’s something raw and untouched about Taxco.

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Besides the day trips from Mexico City which host a handful of international travelers, Taxco belongs to the locals, chatting with their neighbors and flipping gorditas on hot comales (a smooth-flat griddle used to cook tortillas).

If you want to experience Mexico’s beauty in its truest form, we recommend planning a trip to this colonial town filled with winding cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and red-tiled roofs.

Getting to Taxco

Just a two and a half hour drive from Mexico City, Taxco is an easy overnight trip from the capital. You can choose to hire a private driver—which will be helpful when exploring the surrounding area—or you can catch a bus from Mexico City’s Taxquena terminal.

Tickets cost around 600 pesos (about $24 USD) for a roundtrip.

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What to see and do in Taxco

When visiting Taxco, you can see most of the sights by foot or if you get tired, you can hail an adorable Volkswagen Beetle taxi.

If you’re interested in visiting other tourist sights outside the town, you can negotiate a rate with the local taxi drivers. You’ll find prices will be much lower than Mexico City since there is less foreign tourism in Taxco.

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Browse the city's silver market

Once upon a time, Taxco was the only place in Mexico to extract silver and turn it into beautiful jewelry. This history long predates colonialism, beginning in the Aztec times. Fun Fact: During this time, silver goods were used during religious ceremonies and presented as gifts to the gods.

While the Taxco mines are now empty and the silver is sourced a few hours away, one thing remains the same—the people of Taxco are incredible artists.

Taxco’s silver markets are a maze to navigate, but worth exploring. You’ll find dozens of rooms and tunnels lined with silver earrings, rings, brooches and more. While bargaining isn’t widely practiced in Taxco, the prices are low to start with—especially if you purchase large quantities.

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Bathe in Pozas Azules de Atzala

A 40-minute drive from Taxco will take you to one of Guerrero’s natural world wonders. This idyllic waterfall cascades down a steep cliff creating natural blue pools otherwise known as las pozas azules . Once you’ve swum in these cold but crystal-clear waters, you can take a walk through the jungle, making sure to keep an eye out for wildlife including butterflies and birds.

You can either drive to Pozas Azules or catch a minibus leaving from Coppel Plateros every half hour. On weekends, the pools can be busy so it’s best to leave early. Entrance is just 30 pesos (about $1.20 USD). Don’t forget to bring a bathing suit!

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Find Jesus (not like that!)

For an impressive panoramic view of Taxco, type the words “ El Cristo Panorámico ” into Google Maps. This stone statue of Jesus located on a hilltop was built in 2002 and although, he's only 9 feet 8 inches tall, you can still see him from anywhere in Taxco.

While it is possible to hike the hill and see the statue up close, you’ll want to get an early start to beat the heat. Or you can take a taxi for about 120 pesos (about $5 USD) roundtrip, including the waiting time. No matter which way you decide to make the pilgrimage, we guarantee the views will be spectacular.

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Taxco’s central square is dominated by Santa Prisca Church , built by one of the richest mine owners in the 18th century. Its ornate and elegant spires are quite the contrast to the hectic, atmospheric market stands that surround it. You can enter the church for free or simply admire it from the outside.

While visiting the main square, make sure to also take time to browse the unique textiles, clothes, and souvenirs.

Pro-Tip: Sample all the unique ice cream flavors at Tepoznieves . Some of our favorites include rose petal, mezcal, coconut gin and nopal (cactus).

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Eat breakfast at Del Angel Inn

By far the best place to eat breakfast in Taxco is Del Angel Inn , a rooftop terrace restaurant overlooking Santa Prisca Church. The food may not be the cheapest. but the chilaquiles topped with salsa verde, cheese, and a fried egg are delicious.

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Ride the cable car to hotel montetaxco.

If you’re not excited about the idea of hiking up the hill to see El Cristo Panorámico , we recommend exploring Taxco’s beautiful mountain views by cable car.

To do so, you’ll need to visit Montetaxco , a hilltop hotel that is worth the visit even if you’re not staying overnight. The resort includes a bar and restaurant with panoramic views of Taxco. We also recommend grabbing a bite to eat or enjoying a few cocktails during sunset before heading back down.

A roundtrip costs 95 pesos (about $4 USD).

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Museum of Religious Art

Art and history fans visiting Taxco will want to swing by the Museo De Arte Sacro Virreinal . This pastel pink building is also known as the Humboldt House, named after German scientist, Alexander Von Humbolt, who once spent the night there. At the museum, you can browse Baroque art, religious paintings, and scenes of daily life from centuries ago.

Try the signature cocktails

The locals will advise you to try Taxco’s signature cocktail. A “berta” contains tequila, lime and honey. The mix of lime and honey is the perfect balance of sweet and sour, while the tequila is a reminder you're in Mexico! You’ll find them on every bar menu in Taxco.

Where to stay in Taxco

Hotel Montetaxco : While you’d expect this luxurious hotel to blow the budget, the prices are reasonable. Rooms start from 1,200 pesos a night (about $55 USD) which includes access to the pool, spa, gym, and cable cars. This is a great option for families with kids who want to keep busy. Upgrade for a room with a view.

Boutique Pueblo Lindo : At this charming boutique hotel, you can expect bright, spacious rooms with Mexican art and hot pink details. The highlight is breakfast on the terrace which doubles up as Rosa Mexicano Restaurant (highly rated on Google ). Couples will love this romantic venue.

Santa Prisca : For budget travelers, you can’t beat this guesthouse in the heart of Taxco. The price tag is low as 700 pesos a night (about $28 USD) but still includes a clean and cozy double or twin room, Mexican-style breakfast, fantastic views of Taxco, and a fully stocked bar.

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How long to spend in Taxco

Many tourists visit Taxco on organized day trips from Mexico City; however, keep in mind that this involves about 5-hours of travel.

We recommend spending at least one night in Taxco, which would give you time to enjoy the city at your leisure and more importantly, to eat more!

A second day would allow you to fully explore Taxco and also take a half-day trip to Pozas Azules de Atzala .

If you're looking for a place to relax and unwind after a busy period of traveling, you could also spend several days soaking up Taxco while reading a good book from any of the charming cafes.

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About the Author

Rose munday.

Rose is a travel writer and blogger from the UK. She gained a degree in Communications and Media from the University of Leicester before beginning her world travels. She has a passion for exploring places through her stomach which makes Mexico the perfect base. Rose has been living in Mexico City for six months and hopes to be there for much longer. When she's not discovering the best taquerias in Mexico City, she's working on her blog.

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Taxco Guerrero Mexico Travel Guide:

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Planning a trip to Taxco, Guerrero? Look no further. This complete guide includes everything you need to know about this quaint town near Mexico City, things to do, where to stay, and many practical tips.

The Pueblo Magico of Taxco Guerrero, Mexico is a quaint small town known for the ancient silver mining tradition, its winding roads, and colorful old VW Beetles hurtling around.

I have visited Taxco in Guerrero and spent almost a week there as a solo traveler and loved it. I enjoyed all the amazing things you can do in town and surroundings and in this post, I will tell you all about it.

Taxco, Guerrero is in fact the only place in Mexico where silver was extracted, turned into beautiful precious jewelry, and sold to all the shops in Mexico and all over the world.

So now you know that if you are vacationing in Mexico and want to buy some original silver jewelry make sure it comes from Taxco so that you will have the finest piece.

However the Pueblo Magico of Taxco – Mexico is not only famous for its silver mines, but for its’ hilly and winding narrow cobblestones roads, its numerous churches, convents, and haciendas witness its sad history of conquest and religious subjugation, the natural beauties of the surroundings and much more.

Where is Taxco? Check out this Taxco Mexico Map

Before planning to go there I was told by some friends that it was the most beautiful Pueblo Magico in Mexico, and now that I have been able to experience it, I totally agree with them.

Below you will find everything you need to know to appreciate this little town as I did and enjoy it to the fullest.

VISIT TAXCO GUERRERO MEXICO

Taxco at a glance, geographical location.

Taxco de Alarcon is located in the State of Guerrero, Mexico, 177 km south of Mexico City and 243 km north of Acapulco (on the coast).

Central US (UTC – 6

Summer: Central US (UTC -5)

Taxco offers an ideal temperature, mild all year round. The maximum is 27ºF in summer and 17ºF in the coldest time.

If you feel cold, no worries, just walk around the city with its steep roads and you will warm up immediately ;).

Rainy season is normally from June through September.

Visit Taxco - The complete guide to Taxco - Guerrero - Boundless Roads

TAXCO HISTORY IN A NUTSHELL

The origin of the name taxco (full name taxco de alarcon).

There are different versión on the origin of the word Taxco. The first one says that it comes from the Nahuatl word Tlacheco meaning the place where they play with a ball.

Another version says that the word Taxco comes from Tatzco which means the father of water, which could be possible as the village is enclaved right in the stratum of the Atzatzin hill.

De Alarcon comes from the popular Mexican screen player and writer Juan Ruiz de Alarcon who was born in the city.

TAXCO DE ALARCON HISTORY

Before the Spanish invaded the city , the main center was not where Taxco is now, but at about 12 km south, where different civilizations were living peacefully together, Matlazincas, Chontales y Tlahuicas and it was the found the most important settlement of the prehispanic civilization.

It’s now called Taxco el Viejo the old Taxco (Taxco el Viejo),

Where is now the actual city of Taxco, precisely where the Parroquia of Guadalupe is situated, it was called Tetelcingo.

When the Spanish arrived , sent by Hernan Cortes, in 1522 they were looking for a pond, to mix with copper and build cannons.

The prehispanic civilizations were already into mining and they extract different kinds of metals used uniquely to create objects for their religious rituals.

Cortes’ soldiers went back to their leader with a sample of what they found.

When Cortes realized that the white minerals were the precious silver he sent another expedition to explore the entire region.

The Spaniards then settled and inhabited the territories where is now the city of Taxco while the indigenous civilization stayed in the old Taxco and surrounding territories while was exploited by the conquerors to search for silver.

For the next 200 years, despite the precious discoveries, Taxco stayed in the shadow until Francisco and Jose’ de La Borda arrived from Spain in search of fortune.

And so they found it.

It’s a fact that they continue with the exploitation of the population, however, we cannot deny that they have also provided the city with the infrastructure and important buildings of the city itself, financing among others the Santa Prisca temple, and the water pipes.

It was not until William Spratling , an American artist, moved to Taxco in 1920, that silversmithing, the art of working silver, was enhanced so as to become a real profession and source of income for many locals.

The silver jewelry out of silver started to be exported to the USA and that was the beginning of a new era for the old mining town.

Its fame was spread all over the world and tourism started to flourish, together with the production and commerce of precious silver jewelry and ornamental objects.

The sources of this information come from Wikipedia , Taxcolandia, and a conversation I had with a guide in the Museo de Arte Virreinal.

HOW TO GET FROM MEXICO CITY TO TAXCO MEXICO

Getting to Taxco, either by car or bus is an experience in itself. I arrived on a bus from Toluca and the entire road winding through the lush vegetation wrapping the mountains is just breathtaking especially when you look down the slope and you thank God you are on the hillside of the road and not by the cliff, you know…?

The bus driver seemed a little too confident but, as positive as I am I was sure he knew what he was doing.

You will see from a distance tons of white buildings and red rooftops so close to each other it looked as if it was fake, like a cartoon picture.

I was coming from Guadalajara so my best option was to get to Toluca and hop on another bus to Taxco.

However, if you are coming from Mexico City to Taxco the trip is straightforward. Here below some detailed information

From Toluca to Taxco (80 pesos – 4 USD)

Flecha Roja a bus every 40 minutes from 6.40 am to 8.20 pm on Bus line

Taxco is normally a common destination for a 2 or 3 days trip from Mexico City both for locals and tourists alike. It’s only a 2.5 hrs beautiful bus ride and busses in Mexico, I have to tell you, are amazing, better than a first-class plane, very spacious and with your own entertainment screen. Not all of them but the majority of the bus line. They are normally named “oro” (meaning gold) or luxury.

From Mexico City to Taxco (around 250 pesos each way – 13 USD) you find different lines:

ADO plus /Estrella de Oro from the bus station Taxqueña it takes you to the bus station Taxqueña.

Here is the schedule from Mexico City to Taxco : 6.45 aam,7.05 am, 8.05 am, 9.10, 10.05, 12.35, 19.05

From Taxco back to Mexico City 7.35 am, 10.05 am, 16.30, 17.05, 19.05

Costa Line leaves from Central Sur Bus station every 20 minutes from 6.05 am until 1 pm and then every hour until 8 pm. The return to Mexico City is from 6 am every 30 minutes to one hour and the last bus is 8 pm.

From Acapulco to Taxco by ADO 280 pesos each way (14USD)

8.30am, 11.05am, 1.35 pm, 3.35 pm, 6.05 pm
Return – 5 am, 6am, 9.20 am, 13.20, 16.30, 18

Please keep in mind that the schedule and price can change without notice. Therefore always double-check with the bus company.

HOW TO MOVE AROUND TAXCO

When you arrive at Taxco, you are welcomed by a very busy main road that cuts the hilly town into two parts.

Cute kids will approach you asking if you need a taxi and of course, you do as you wouldn’t want to carry all your stuff up the steep roads.

A lovely white VW beetle is there ready to take me to my hostel.

You actually see lots of them at your arrival running around like crazy as if you could expect some crash any minute.

And I had the same thought when my ride took off (literally).

The slim wrinkled guy, so proud of his cute little car, pushed down on the gas pedal in order to make it up to the hilly lane, careless of the car coming down.

I just closed my eyes and prayed for the best, while my bags, roughly tucked into the missing right front seat space, were swinging right and left, up and down.

I was sure I would see them flying out the door anytime soon.

Despite all odds, we arrived safely at my destination instead, my hostel, whose doors were closed (but this is for another story), and the kind driver was also making sure I was ok there.

It was a 10 minutes ride and cost me only 25 pesos ( just more than a dollar).

VW Beetles are a sort of icon in Taxco and you will see them constantly flitting around while you are peacefully walking, looking up, admiring the quirky town.

To reach the points of interest in Taxco you don’t really need a taxi, unless you are tired of all the steep roads, especially at the end of a long day of exploring.

During my stay, I had a few occasions where I needed a ride, and of course, I jumped on one of the funny beetles instead of what they call a “luxury” taxi, which is nothing more than a more modern car. Where is the fun, otherwise?

If you wish to get out of Taxco and visit the nearby natural wonders, like Pozas Azules waterfalls or Cola de Caballo , the caves of Cacahuamilpa, or Miles Cascadas you will hop on a “pecera” (fishbowl) or combi, which are minivan connecting the nearby towns.

But I will explain more in detail in separate articles.

VISIT TAXCO WITH ONE-DAY ORGANIZED TOURS

If you are short of time or you don’t want to be bothered getting to Taxco on your own, you can always join organized tours to Taxco de Alarcon, from either Mexico City or Acapulco .

This way a knowledgeable guide will take you to all the most interesting places to visit in one day and you can avoid worrying about bus schedules and lines.

Here below I am sharing the most highly reviewed tours.

✅ Cacahuamilpa caves and Taxco from Mexico City

✅ Taxco private or group tour from Acapulco

✅ Taxco Prehispanic Mine and Cuernavaca tour from Mexico City

THINGS TO DO IN TAXCO DE ALARCON

Here I am going to talk about all the things you can do in Taxco. It’s a small place but there are so many things to do in this historic silver mining town.

The proof is that I was going to stay there for just a couple of days and I ended up staying 5.

So hold on tight and check out the long list.

1. WALK AROUND TAXCO

Walk around the narrow roads starting from the zocalo and winding around, look up and check out the beautiful old building and the rooftop terrace but also look down and see how the cobblestone roads are nicely decorated.

But… SAFETY TIP : avoid walking alone in too isolated narrow lanes.

Taxco is made of viable winding roads and the so-called “ callejones ” which are small lanes made of stairs, for most of the time where cars cannot circulate.

The ones around the Zocalo are just fine, and I actually recommend visiting and get lost around there, but there are some isolated zones further away from the center that I would avoid.

2. VISIT THE ZOCALO AND THE CHURCH OF SANTA PRISCA

When you visit a colonial city in Mexico the first place you want to go is the Zocalo , which is the main square, which is normally made of a park of any size, a church, or a cathedral and restaurants (normally the most touristic) around it.

This is basically a standard structure and Taxco looks exactly the same, with the difference that from the zocalo you can also admire the beautiful buildings framing the cute small square.

A big and stylish TAXCO sign is placed in the middle of the plaza beside a kiosk and iron benches are there for you to relax from all the walking you have done.

I loved to hang out in the Zocalo in the evenings where people of any age, use to dance at the rhythm of traditional Latin songs while foreigners were trying to keep up with correct steps.

Around the plaza, you would find interesting restaurants, some of which with rooftop terraces with breathtaking views over the city. I loved La Parroquia , right in front of the church on three different levels and a rich menu (including vegan and vegetarian options)

I also used to have breakfast at La Punta del Cielo Cafe ‘, when they just open, around 8 am, and the plaza is still waking up, a few people around, more beetle taxi, looking for clients to the sun is shily hiding through them and you can take some beautiful pictures of the church.

A gelato place Tepoznieve is located right opposite the church for a fresh afternoon break or after lunch dessert.

3. VISIT THE MUSEO DE ARTE RELIGIOSA DE LA EPOCA VIRREINAL ALSO CALLED CASA HUMBOLDT

This was one of the best museums in Taxco for me.

The name is a little misleading because it’s not only about religious art , it’s about Taxco history , therefore a very interesting visit.

The entrance is only a symbolic 20 pesos (1 USD) and you will get to have a guided tour of the place.

It’s a small house, with a collection of paintings, statues, and pieces of furniture from the past, each one evoking a moment of the history of Taxco.

The place is quite small and it’s a short tour but definitely worth it. Of course, you can tip the guide at the end.

Opening hours

From Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6 pm (Monday Closed)

Entrance fee

$20.00 Pesos (1USD)

Calle Juan Ruiz de Alarcón 12 (761) 622 5501

4. VISIT THE MONUMENTO AL CRISTO REY

It’s a humongous statue of Christ on top of the hill overlooking Taxco, the highest point in Taxco.

You could walk up and it’s would be a great hike although some roads could be a little isolated.

I got a taxi to get there. They ask you about 60 pesos.

They will ask you if you want them to wait for you but it’s not necessary as there is a taxi station right there or you can walk down.

I would recommend walking down with somebody, not alone. The taxi drivers I met told me it was safe to walk down , but I would be careful anyway.

I was lucky to meet a nice couple and I tagged along. We talked our way down the Zocalo and it was a very pleasant walk.

The view you get from the terrace around the statue is breathtaking and if you are a photographer you would want to get there before the sunrise and see it from up above.

Maybe ask a taxi to take you and wait for you in this case .

5. VISIT THE CASA MUSEO FIGUEROA

Mr. Figueroa was an American painter who moved to Taxco with his Mexican wife and bought this house where he filled it with all his art and other interesting pieces of art and furniture which he donated to the government when he died.

The house has also an interesting history in itself and if you decide to pay a visit a knowledgeable guide will take you through all the rooms, the art, and history.

If you can fit it into your schedule it’s a great way to spend one hour of your time in Taxco.

The museum is also called Casa de Las Lagrimas (house of tears) for the sad history that’s behind the property before being purchased by the painter, the latest owner.

From Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 6 pm

$30.00 Pesos (1.5USD)

Calle de Guadalupe 2, 40200 Taxco de Alarcón, Guerrero Tel. Contacto. 01 762 622 003

6. MUSEUM OF ARCHAEOLOGY WILLIAM SPRATLING

William Spratling was an American designer and artist who lived in Taxco from 1929 and gave an impulse to the silver craftsmanship with the opening of the first workshop.

He had also a passion for archeology and he was an avid collector of prehispanic objects.

He donated all pieces of his collection to the UNAM and after his death left all the remaining of the collection to the population of Taxco.

The museum is an exposition of these pieces and was naturally named after the generous artist.

Unfortunately, I have missed it but if you are interested in history and curious about archaeology you should definitely check it out.

7. WALK UP TO THE PAROQUIA DE GUADALUPE FOR AN AMAZING VIEW OF THE CITY

It’s a nice exercise from the Zocalo walking uphill until you reach the church.

The building has no particular charm but the view will make your jaw drop.

I liked it even better than the view from the Cristo statue because it’s closer to the church and you can still see the details and yet have an overview of the city.

I went there a few times, one of which in the night when I discovered it while I was looking for a great view for a night shot of the city.

I felt very lucky and this picture below is the result.

Then I went back in the morning, very early to catch the sunrise, but this time I took a beetle taxi to get there on time and although it wasn’t spectacular, it’s nice to walk around the city so early when traffic is not so noisy and fewer people on the street.

It’s so calm and you feel like you have the city all to yourself.

8. WALK UP TO THE MIRADOR AND SANTUARIO DE OJEDA

This is another small church among the many scattered around the city.

It’s another amazing view, this time more facing toward the sunrise.

It’s actually a better view than Guadalupe although it’s a little lower.

I literally bumped into it while I was wandering around one day.

The place is a little isolated though, so I would definitely go with somebody and during daylight.

9. HAVE BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL ROSA MEXICANO TERRACE

Besides its fancy colorful rooms, this cute little hotel, which will show on top of my favorite hotels in the Taxco list, boasts a stunning view from its restaurant terrace.

So, picture yourself sipping your coffee and savoring your delicious breakfast while looking at the gorgeous Santa Prisca church , and all the red rooftops and white buildings scattered around the green hill under a blue sky, the sun warming your back just enough while illuminating the entire scene with the perfect morning light.

Soft music playing.

That was the best morning in Taxco for me.

You can also go for lunch or enjoy a delicious romantic or solo, (as I would do) dinner.

10. TAKE A RIDE ON THE TELEFERICO

I didn’t do it, I admit, but it should be worth it. It’s only 90 pesos return (4.5) and for sure you will enjoy the full view of the entire city and surroundings from there.

11. VISIT THE OLD MINE OF TAXCO AND HAVE LUNCH AT THE ICONIC HOTEL LA MISSION

Taxco jewelry history has sad stories to tell, stories of exploitation of the prehispanic population who have been enslaved by the Spanish conquerors in order to work in the mines in atrocious conditions.

Fast forward 500 years, in 2014 while the hotel la Mission was refurbishing the bar, they have discovered this old mine which has been hidden by the Chontales civilization, so that the invaders wouldn’t see it.

Now the old iconic hotel La Mission offers tours to find out more about the history and legends of the mine.

After the tour, you can relax in the lovely restaurant of the hotel enjoy lunch or dinner looking at a spectacular view of the city.

12. WALK AROUND THE MARKET

You cannot miss it as it extends for pretty much a quarter of the city, right below the Parroquia of Santa Prisca going through Calle Pajarito, Callejon Menendez, and more.

It’s a beautiful colorful experience even if you don’t have to buy anything.

However, you can get freshly cut fruits and local dishes, sweets, or pieces of art and craft. I had my fruits, freshly cut and wrapped up for my bus trip.

13. SHOPPING AMONG THE THOUSANDS OF TAXCO JEWELRY MANUFACTURERS TIENDAS

As we were just mentioning despite its sad history, Taxco is now worldly famous for the old silver mining and craftsmanship and although there are no more active mines now, the silver craftsmanship stayed in the soul of the Taxco inhabitants who maintain the artisan tradition live and still creates beautiful jewelry and silver decorative object sold all over the world.

It’s actually the only city in Mexico that produces original high-quality silver goods. Merchants from all over the world come here to shop for their retail and if you are buying some silver product that comes from Taxco you are guaranteed quality and originality.

Or you can come here and buy it directly from the artisan.

Walking around the city you will find thousands of shops and market stalls selling the most beautiful pieces all unique.

I didn’t have an interest in silver shopping as I am traveling with my backpack well and other bags but that’s another story, and the last thing I want is a shining object to carry, let alone to wear.

However, I reckon the prestige and beauty of the products.

On a Saturday you will see the main road packed with stalls for the silver “Tianguis” (market), attracting a lot of local tourists or vendors to buy the precious object for personal or commercial use.

WHAT TO SEE IN THE SURROUNDINGS OF TAXCO GUERRERO

Besides visiting museums, buying custom silver jewelry, and all the interesting things you can do in Taxco, your visit to Taxco doesn’t finish there. There is much more to explore in the surroundings and I am going to tell you everything you can do, including a few things that I didn’t.

14. VISIT THE POZAS AZULES DE ATZALA

The Pozas Azules de Atzala ( blue pools) are natural pools created by a river close to the town of Atzala about 40 minutes from Taxco.

The place has been equipped to facilitate the visit and people use to go and spend the entire day there, which makes it always a very busy place.

In fact, my high expectation was a little turned down when I so so many people in the pool as I thought it took away the magic. But I found a way to enjoy the pools on my own.

Check out my full guide to the Pozas Azules to learn more

15. HIKE TO CACALOTENANGO WATERFALL

An amazing waterfall 180 mt tall (540 feet). But also the hike is very special. I will tell you all about it in another post.

A funny note: When I hiked this fall I asked the guide what was it called and she said Cola de Caballo which means horsetail.

I asked whether there was an official name also and he insisted that Cola de Caballo was the only name.

Now that I am writing this post and I am doing some research to make sure I am not writing BS I found out that the real name is Cacalotenango. I had a laugh.

It definitely sounds like a more “official” name to me. No matter what the name is anyway, the waterfall is beautiful and you should take some time to visit 😉

16. THE SPECTACULAR CAVES OF CACAHUAMILPA (NAMED AFTER THE PARK WHERE THEY ARE LOCATED)

I wasn’t undecided whether I should go or not up to the very last minute when I arrived and saw such a long line waiting at the entrance.

But my low expectations were totally exceeded when I entered these spectacular places.

I have never seen such a big cave on earth. You walk for about 2 km inside and their height is up to 70 mt.

The rock formations with majestic stalactites and stalagmites are out of proportion.

You can get a local bus and pay for your own entrance, or, if you prefer to be comfortable and not have to think about anything else rather than enjoying the tour, you could just book a tour and get to the

17. MIL CASCADAS

Mil Cascadas means one thousand waterfalls, situated about 1 hour from Taxco by Combi. I have missed this one, unfortunately. If you have time to check it out, let me know how it goes;)

WHERE TO STAY IN TAXCO DE ALARCON GUERRERO

Taxco Hotels’ offer is huge and versatile.

You will find many beautiful properties, the majority of which are beautiful old colonial houses that have been turned into hotels, some completely renovated and yet conserving the same vintage charm.

And because I love hotels and I have a weakness for luxury properties, as you may already know, I used some of my time to visit hotels while in Taxco.

Hotel Los Arcos

This beautiful old house has been refurbished and turned into a hotel without losing the charm of the old colonial mansion, with thick columns, red brick walls, and the original tiling on the floor.

The rooms are very spacious with simple local wooden furniture and classical finishings.

It’s located right behind the Zocalo and right after the Museo de Arte Virreinal. They have a delicious restaurant, Sotovento, which I wholeheartedly recommend.

✅ Check availability and rates of Hotel Los Arcos on Booking.com | Expedia

La Casa de Laurel

This cute little property located just a few steps behind the church of Santa Prisca and almost in front of the Museo de Arte Virreinal offers beautifully decorated rooms with fine finishings and linen and a rooftop terrace with stunning views.

The only issue with this hotel is that the majority of the rooms are very dark since they don’t have a window or if they do is on an internal patio with no light.

So, if this is a matter of importance to you, when you book make sure you ask for a room with external windows, normally located on the top floor.

✅ Check availability and rates of La Casa De Laurel Hotel on Expedia

Hotel Pueblo Lindo

A beauty. Pueblo Lindo is probably my favorite hotel in Taxco. I have seen the hotel by pure chance when I was looking for the restaurant Rosa Mexicano, which has been highly recommended by a friend I met in Taxco.

I have even spoken about it in the things to do in Taxco.

The restaurant is part of the Pueblo Lindo hotel and it fits very well both for the style and the awesome service.

Hotel Pueblo Lindo has been designed around a fancy heated pool where you can relax after spending your day exploring around.

The rooms are just precious, graciously decorated with fine Mexican objects and art pieces.

Some rooms have internal views others boast amazing views of the city, just like the terrace of the restaurant, that you should definitely visit at least once, no question.

✅ Check availability and rates of La Casa De Laurel Hotel on Booking.com | Expedia

Hotel Agua Escondida

This luxury property is located right in the Zocalo, like you couldn’t get closer. The tiny Hotel door leads you to huge elegant spaces including the reception area with interesting expositions of artworks.

The spacious rooms are furnished in a very simple Mexican style with wooden furniture and lovely decorations on the walls.

The highlight of this hotel is the main rooftop terrace (as they have many), where you can enjoy a lovely dinner while enjoying the views of the city and the surrounding area.

✅ Check availability and rates of Agua Escondida Hotel on Booking.com | Expedia

Hotel Mi Casita

This tiny hotel is located right behind the above-mentioned Agua Escondida, just off the main square. It was a private house turned into a hotel, hence the name Mi casita, meaning my little home.

From the pathway leading to the 9 rooms, you enjoy amazing views of the entire city and its special architecture.

The interior decoration is very much looked after in every single detail, from the cute little colorful objects to the multicolored textiles on the immaculate white linen brightening up the room.

It’s definitely a great option, especially for a solo traveler, you will just feel at home.

✅ Check availability and rates of Mi Casita Hotel on Booking.com | Expedia

De Cantera y Plata Hotel

I didn’t have the privilege to visit this stunning property as when I learned about it I was running out of time. Besides, it is located a little far away from the town center, which makes it the perfect place to chill and forget about everything else.

I have read the reviews and seen the stunning pictures and it really looks like the place I would want to go to if I wanted to relax and rejuvenate my senses while looking at the unbeatable views.

De Cantera y Plata hotel is rated one of the most stunning places to stay in Taxco, however, you need to consider that if you want to be close to the city and explore the surrounding it might be not so practical. It’s definitely an ideal place to go back to when you finish your tours, though.

✅ Check availability and rates of De Cantera y de Plata Hotel on Booking.com | Expedia

WHERE TO EAT IN TAXCO GUERRERO

The culinary offer in Taxco is huge and most of all very Mexican. You have the chance to try all the Mexican special dishes but also international plates and of course Italian. Those Italians are everywhere 😉

Here is the list of the restaurants I have tried and loved:

La Parroquia Restaurant and Bar – Right in the Zocalo, besides amazing views from its terrace, it offers a huge menu with different options, locals, and internationals including some vegan or vegetarian dishes.

Tia Calla Pozoleria – Here you can find the best pozole in town and if you are vegan you can have a delicious plate of boiled vegetables marinated in vinegar. Amazing. Locates right by the Zocalo (main square) beside the Church of Santa Prisca

Rosa Mexicano – This is a great restaurant located on a beautiful terrace on the premises of the Hotel Pueblo Lindo with a stunning view of the city and the surrounding hills. I went there for my last breakfast in Taxco and I enjoyed every bit of it.

El Adobe – located a few steps from the church of Santa Prisca in the Zocalo, this lovely restaurant looks quite posh from the outside but is actually very simple.

The service is not exactly brilliant, but the food is great and if you manage to find a table by one of the windows you get nice views of the town.

I managed to have a vegetarian meal with a delicious mushroom soup and roasted potatoes with cheese. However, their menu is quite large and varied.

Sotavento – Located by the Hotel Los Arcos, just behind the Zocalo, they offer impeccable service and a great menu with local and international dishes. I had only one plate of veggies and salad as I wasn’t really hungry. It’s also a local’s favorite.

Cafe Punta del Cielo – I had a couple of breakfasts there, nothing special, although the coffee’ was very good.

The pastries are not freshly backed but they were all right. Service is great though and the location is also special, right by the main square (Zocalo)

Tepoznieve – I didn’t go there but if you feel like an ice cream that’s the place, right by the Zocalo

Visit Taxco Guerrero: Frequently Asked Questions

What does taxco mean in english.

There are various accounts regarding the etymology of the word Taxco.

One account suggests that it originates from the Nahuatl term “Tlacheco,” which translates to “the place where they play with a ball.”

Another version proposes that the term Taxco is derived from “Tatzco,” meaning “the father of water.”

This explanation seems plausible considering the village’s location nestled within the stratum of the Atzatzin hill.

What is Taxco Mexico known for?

Taxco is famous for its silver mines and skilled artisans who have been creating exquisite silver jewelry and handicrafts for centuries. The city is considered one of Mexico’s primary silver production centers, and its silverwork is highly sought after worldwide.

How many days do you need in Taxco?

It depends. Some people just want to get the feel of the town and make it a day trip from Mexico City.

Others spend a couple of days enjoying the colonial town atmosphere and visiting the surrounding natural wonders.

If you have the time and love exploring 4 days would be great although most people spend one or two days.

How do I get to Taxco?

Taxco is well connected either with Acapulco or Mexico City by bus. If you have a car also, the roads offer a beautiful scenery of the countryside.

Is Taxco Guerrero Mexico safe?

I felt very safe in Taxco, exploring the city and moving around its surroundings by local bus.

Is Taxco a day trip from Mexico City?

Yes, a visit to Taxco makes it a great day trip from Mexico city whether you want to go on your own by public busses or you want to join an organized tour from Mexico city. You are going to love it!

Visit Taxco Guerrero: before you go…

Now that you know all about Taxco, here I am going to leave you with other travel guides of central Mexico for more travel inspiration.

Hidalgo Travel Guide
Las Grutas de Tolantongo Complete Guide
Amazing things to do in Guanajuato
The Complete Guide to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
Is Mexico City worth visiting?

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Jun 12, 2023
10 min read

Taxco, Mexico | Things to do in this Off-the-Beaten Path Pueblo Magico

Updated: Jun 13, 2023

The town of Taxco de Alarcon in the state of Guerrero is quite possibly one of the most charming Mexican towns we have visited to date! Although it is renown for its silver production and Semana Santa celebrations , this off-the-beaten path Mexican colonial city is bursting with charisma and character. Here you’ll find beautiful architecture, including the beautiful rose-colored Santa Prisca church, white-washed buildings and hilly cobblestone lanes that are filled with numerous Volkswagen Beetle taxis. Taxco is all about the quaint details. It was these details that exceeded all our expectations and left us swooning over this Pueblo Magico. While it might not be on the radar of many international travelers, it is one that should be added to your list, as there is plenty to see and do while visiting!

How to Get to the Pueblo Magico of Taxco?

While Taxco, may not have its own international airport, it is a city that is fairly accessible from Mexico City. Departing from Mexico City, it is a 2.5-3 hour drive through the mountains to get to this city. While you could rent a car or take an Uber, there are numerous options by bus to get there as well.

We decided to go the bus route. We took a short Uber ride from the Mexico City Airport to the Mexico City Taxquena Bus Station. There are two bus companies – Estrella de Oro or Costa – that transit between Mexico City and Taxco several times a day. We took Estrella de Oro. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online from sites like clickbus.com.mx but you can also purchase them at the bus terminal. However, it is important to note, the price does increase if purchasing them too close to departure. [For instance, we had to pay the adult fare for the kids because we were too close to departure. On the return trip, we purchased them several days in advance and then received the child price.] Tickets seem to range from about $180-230 MXN ($10-14 USD) per person.

Although the some information states it takes about 2.5 hours, it is actually closer to 3 hours via the curvy mountain roads. (Therefore, if you have anyone who gets carsick be prepared for that.) The buses were all large and modern and had a toilet on them as well.

Once arriving at the Estrella de Oro bus station, you can either walk into the Old Town or get a taxi depending on where your accommodation is located. Taxco is known for its hills, so be prepared for that in regards to luggage. However, that being said, sometimes it can be faster to walk up narrow lanes vs. taking a taxi that will have to take you all the way around.

[NOTE: We did look into a Taxi or Uber to take us directly from CDMX Airport to Taxco, and quotes on Uber were coming in around $200 USD for the trip on the particular date that we were traveling.]

Pueblo Magico of Taxco, Guerrero, Mexico

How Many Days Should I Plan to Visit Taxco?

While we stayed for a week in Taxco due to the Semana Santa “Holy Week” celebrations, if you’re visiting other times of the year then you wouldn’t need to stay that long. Overall it depends on your travel style, but I would recommend staying at least 4 nights and 3 full days in the area. This will give you ample time to explore the town, as well as take some day trips out to nearby attractions.

There are many other people who do it in much less time and even as a day trip, but my opinion is you’d miss so much by shortening it to a day trip.

THINGS TO DO IN TAXCO, MEXICO:

Zocolo & santa prisca cathedral.

Without a doubt, if you’re visiting Taxco you’ll visit the Zocolo of this beautiful town along with the prominent Santa Prisca Cathedral, which can be seen from MANY points around the town. While the outside of the church is beautiful, the inside sanctuary is ornate and gorgeous as well. There is also the option of climbing the bell tower to see the Zocolo and city from above.

Santa Prisca Cathedral in Zocolo of Pueblo Magico Taxco, Mexico

The Zocolo is always abuzz and a great place to observe people as it is a central gathering place for many Taxco residents and vendors.

Mercados de Plata (Silver)

Taxco is probably best known for its production of silver. Whenever we mentioned we were going there, it was the first thing that all Mexicans would mention. As the Spanish conquered the new world, Taxco became Spain’s primary source of silver and precious metals that were shipped back to the crown. While the silver mines were eventually exhausted and closed, silver is still an important industry to the city (in addition to tourism). There are many silversmiths who call Taxco home and sell their art and goods in many of the shops and markets around the city. It is supposedly one of the cheapest places to buy silver goods as well.

Mina Preshispanica de Taxco

Due to the important part of history that silver played in Taxco, there are many historical references to it. Mina Prehispanica de Taxco is an old silver mine that now serves as a place for tourists to come learn about this unique history. This particular mine remained hidden for years and was just rediscovered in 2014 wen the hotel was repurchased by a Mexican family. Upon doing renovations they discovered a hole in the ground which was the mine. Through historical research they believe the locals hid the mine when the Spanish explorers started to make their way to Taxco.

Tours are offered several times a day and are all Guided Tours that last about 1 hour long. They are mainly offered in Spanish, unless special arrangements are made. Our guide did speak English, so he tried to share a few facts regarding the history, historical mining techniques and geology in English with us as the tour happened. The tour takes you from the hotel down a mining shaft to the mines underground. There are several stairs to climb and it wouldn’t be accessible for those with mobility limitations.

Cost: $160 Pesos (about $9 USD) per person. It also includes soft drink or water at the end (or you can purchase other drinks) to enjoy near the hotel poolside. Children under 7 years old were free.

El Cristo Panoramic Viewpoint

This viewpoint takes you to the Christ statue that overlooks the white-washed buildings of Taxco.

The easiest and most efficient way to get to the viewpoint is to take one of the colectivos from the Old Town or a taxi; OR it might be a perfect opportunity to try out one of the iconic Vokswagen Beetle taxis. Most taxi drivers will give you about 15 minutes to checkout the viewpoint and then take you back down to the Old Town, as there isn’t much up at the top other than the viewpoint and some vendors.

Teleferico de Taxco

Going up to the Cable Car is another thing to do on most lists. However, just be aware there is no specified viewpoint upon arriving at the top – so the best views of the town are as you ascend and descend.

Cable Car in Taxco, Mexico - one of Mexico's Pueblo Magico towns.

The Cable Car takes about 10 minutes to ascend 175 meters and over a distance of 800 meters. The cable car is owned by the MonteTaxco Hotel, but non-guests can take the cable car. At the top, you’ll find some shops and food places, but otherwise not really a lot of options. The main eating option being the MonteTaxco Hotel, where you can sit on the patio with a view of the pool. (Non hotel guests cannot get access to the pool.)

Cost: $95 Pesos round-trip ($5.50 USD) and children over 2 years old were $65.00 MXN ($3.72 USD) round trip. The base of the cable car is just a few meters from the Ex Hacienda El Chorrito and the cable car runs Sunday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but make sure to always confirm times ahead of visit.

Wander the Streets and Mercados of Taxco, Mexico

This was honestly one of my favorite things to do in Taxco – it seemed like every little corner or alley would surprise you with what you found. If you enjoy visiting local markets, Mercado Tetitlan, is tucked away at the base of the Old Town and consists of many different levels of food stalls and vendors. The prices are the best you’ll find for food, as it is where all the locals go. The market area can be reached via Camino de Tetitlan or taking any of the alleyways down from Cuauhtemoc Road or Camino Don Miguel Hidalgo.

And for some unique and tasty churros, check out CHU CHO churro where you can decide which dip and up to 3 toppings you’d like to add to your churro treat!

Chu Cho Churros the tastiest churros in Pueblo Magico of Taxco, Mexico

DAY TRIPS FROM TAXCO, MEXICO

Pozas azules de atzala.

A day trip to Pozas Azules de Atzala to see these natural aqua pools is a great way to cool down and spend a day in nature at this off-the-beaten path location just outside of Taxco. Although the water is cool, we stayed and enjoyed the spot much longer than I anticipated we would.

Day Trip from Taxco, Mexico - the Poza Azules

Getting There:

The most budget friendly & efficient way is to take the colectivo from Coppel Plateros in Taxco. Look for the one that has ‘Pozas Azules’ in the front window. The colectivo is first-come first-serve and it departs when full. The cost is approximately 35 pesos per person for the 40-minute ride. Be forewarned, the roads are curvy, so if you get car sick, take some medicine ahead of time and sit towards the front.

Spot to collect Colectivo to Pozas Azules in Taxco, Mexioc

Admission: $100 MXN pesos per person or ½ price for children. The pools are open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 7 days per week. However, be aware there are extra costs once you enter, such as renting tables/chairs to sit at, bathroom, food, lifejacket rentals, as well as options to tip a guide to take you to the upper pools and a zipline.

Other Important Info:

There are several natural blue pools to explore and swim in, but they are COLD! Despite the cooler water temps, we spent all day there and the kids found some areas to play on the rocks in some of the lower pool areas. While there aren’t a ton of international tourists, it is a popular spot for many Mexican tourists to visit and can get crowded. We experienced less crowded pools in the morning hours prior to noon.

Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

This National Park cave system is another great day trip option just 40 minutes outside of Taxco and is one of the largest cave systems in the world. We have visited several different cave systems and the size and grandeur of this one was very impressive.

Getting There: While there are organized tourism tours offered Taxco, it is possible to travel independently to the National Park. The Flecha Roja Bus leaves from the Taxco Costa Bus Station every couple of hours throughout the day. (Ticket price is $47 MXN pesos one-way.) The bus drops you at the intersection & then you’ll have to walk about 10 minutes to the entrance of the Grutas.

Tour Information: Tours begin at the top of the hour from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., so likely you’ll have to wait for a tour to start upon arriving & purchasing a ticket.

Cost: $150 Pesos per adult or $100/child.

You are required to enter the cave with a guide and group. The tour is Spanish-speaking and can last up to 2 hours. Although I can’t understand Spanish, I didn’t feel this hindered my visit as it was still impressive to see the size and natural beauty of the cave. From my limited understanding, there was some history, geographical information, as well as some stories about what certain rock formations resembled. At the end of the tour, you can return at your own pace, but the cave formations aren’t lit up like when going through with the guide. The cave pathways can be slick from the condensation, so wear good shoes and watch your footing.

NOTE: There is limited to no cell signal from the bus stop to the cave, but wifi is available for purchase at the ticket booth.

MAIN LEARNING: Get an early start to the day if taking public transportation to the cave.

The most stressful part of the visit was trying to get information about the timing of the return bus. Hardly anyone spoke English at the Taxco bus station or at the caves, so I had to piece together information. I talked to some English-speaking visitors to confirm we’d be okay to start the 5 p.m. tour and get back to the bus in time, which the last bus is just before sundown. However, we reached a point in the tour where the guide mentioned something about “no regresso”; then my ‘English-speaking friends’ left the tour early without saying anything to me. I decided to play it safe and leave as well. Therefore, make sure you arrive earlier in the day, to give you a buffer of multiple return buses.

Mil Cascadas

This is another day trip outside of Taxco – about 45 minute drive – and is a series of waterfalls and pools. The name literally means 1000 waterfalls and from what I read it accurately describes the spot. Similar to Pozas Azules the water is chilly year-round; but it still sounds like an impressive spot. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the opportunity to visit as our daughter got sick partway through our stay in Taxco, but most recommend going to visit with a tour group, although there are options on traveling there independently as well.

Is Taxco Safe to Travel to?

If you look at a Travel Advisory Map of Mexico, it becomes quickly apparent the state of Guerrero falls under the “Do Not Travel” status amongst several country’s state departments due to increased levels of crime. Simply Guerrero is not without its issues, but we personally didn’t have any issues and felt safe during our stay in Taxco. In fact, if you read the U.S. State Department’s Travel Advisory closely, you see that the U.S. government does allow its employees to access the area via Hwy. 95D and stay in downtown areas of Taxco, which are mainly the areas we stayed in. There is a strong police presence within the city of Taxco as well, but likely even increased due to the Semana Santa celebrations taking place. However, it is ultimately an individual decision.

Make Sure to Put Taxco on Your List of Places to Visit in Mexico

There is definitely no shortage of things to do and see in Taxco, which is truly a hidden gem in Central Mexico. I can guarantee that after visiting Taxco, you’ll leave charmed and in awe of the colonial history and feel of this very special Pueblo Magico. Taxco is definitely a place we want to return one day!

North America

A Guide to Taxco: Mexico’s Most Magical Pueblo Mágico?

Last Updated on: 16th December 2023, 08:32 pm

Mexico is home to 177 Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns) that were chosen for things like their scenery, history or architecture. But what, many wonder, is the most magical town of them all? In the following Taxco guide, we’ll be covering what makes this former silver mining town in Guerrero a top contender.

Silver mining existed in the area since pre-Hispanic times, though the town as we know it today was founded by none other Hernán Cortés. And over the years, numerous men grew wealthy from the mining industry, gradually leaving their mark on Taxco’s skyline.

The most famous among them was José de la Borda (1700-78), once the richest man in all of New Spain. And he used his wealth to commission the Santa Prisca Church – both Taxco’s top architectural highlight and one of the most beautiful churches in all of Mexico.

While Taxco’s mining industry eventually fizzled out, the city is still closely associated with silver. That’s largely thanks to its talented silversmiths, who sell a wide variety of silver goods at countless shops throughout town.

But one doesn’t need to be in the market for silver to enjoy Taxco. Its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and beautiful vantage points make it one of the most beautiful towns in the country.

Taxco Guide Contents

Walking the streets, the church of santa prisca, the museum of religious art, museo casa figueroa, hiking to cristo rey.

Accommodation & Transport Info

One of the best things to do in Taxco is to simply walk around. Surprises await you as you make your way through back alleys, discovering beautiful architecture and scenic vantage points by accident.

The hilly town’s traditional architecture and overall ambiance are remarkably well-preserved. Just be forewarned – traversing the steep and narrow streets of Taxco is definitely a workout.

While we’ll be covering the town’s main highlights in the Taxco guide below, there are a few minor landmarks to keep an eye out for as you wander around.

As mentioned, Taxco is renowned for its silversmiths, and this is largely thanks to an American silversmith named William Spratling who moved here in the 1920s to set up workshops. The William Spratling Museum, however, has unfortunately been closed for quite some time.

Just nearby, though, you’ll encounter a statue of Juan Ruiz de Alarcón (1581-1639), an influential Taxco-born playwright.

Near the town square, or Zócalo, is the Casa Borda, named after the wealthy miner mentioned above. Now home to the local Cultural Center, it doesn’t have a whole lot to offer tourists, though inside you’ll find some interesting modern art sculptures crafted from silver.

While not a landmark per se, another unique feature you’ll notice in Taxco is that many of its local taxis are old Volkswagen Beetles. Oddly enough, they don’t look too out of place when juxtaposed with the Pueblo Mágico’s traditional architecture.

The Church of Santa Prisca, located right beside the town square, is arguably one of Mexico’s most stunning buildings. Constructed in the 18th century, it’s a prime example of Mexican Baroque architecture.

The mastermind behind the project was mining magnate José de la Borda, who used his immense wealth to fund its construction. Work began in 1751, and the church was finished eight years later.

Though once the richest man in New Spain, Borda was nearly bankrupt by the time the church was complete, which was also partly due to his mines running dry around the same time.

Interestingly, the main architect of the project remains uncertain, but the main candidates are Diego Duran and Cayetano de Siguenza.

Given Taxco’s geography, the church was built as a relatively narrow structure due to the lack of flat land. But the architects made up for it with height. In fact, it was the tallest building in Mexico upon its completion.

Stepping inside, you’ll find nine ornately carved wooden altarpieces that were designed by an artist named Isidoro Vicente de Balbas. The paintings, meanwhile, were done by Don Miguel Cabrera.

Notably, upon the church’s completion, José de la Borda’s own son, Manuel de la Borda, served as the head priest.

The Museum of Religious art is one of Taxco’s top attractions – both for its contents and for its architecture. The building is also known as the Museum of Viceregal Art or Casa Humboldt, after the German naturalist Alexander Von Humboldt who spent the night here in 1903.

The building dates back to the 17th century and its facade was built in the Mudéjar, or Moorish style that many Spanish architects brought to the New World.

As you explore the museum, be sure to take the time to enjoy the excellent views from its spacious terrace.

The Spanish ruled Mexico from 1521-1821, and accordingly left behind a lot of art. And many of the most remarkable pieces from this period in Taxco are now held in this museum which opened in 1991.

Highlights include a model of a Manilla Galleon, the ship that transported goods between Acapulco and the Philippines, as well as an Agnus Dei, or ‘Lamb of God’ tabernacle from 1735.

You’ll also find pieces of clothing belonging to José de la Borda, along with Baroque furniture and carvings.

The museum’s most rare artifact is the ‘Funeral Tumulus.’ Typically made of wood, these objects were elaborately painted and featured spaces for floral arrangements.

They started to be used in the funerals of both Europeans and high-ranking natives from the 16th century. But as they were typically discarded after the ceremony, no surviving examples were thought to have existed.

That is, until 1988, when an 18th-century Funeral Tumulus was discovered in a storeroom at Santa Prisca during restorations. Its beautiful paintings spread across three levels represent different aspects of death.

While Taxco is renowned for its beauty, the town has also become known for a self-flagellation ritual that some outsiders might find unsettling.

Though not very common today, self-flagellation has been practiced in various Christian societies for centuries. And when the Spanish introduced the practice to Mexico, native residents of Taxco linked it with their ancient blood-letting rituals, resulting in a syncretic bloody tradition that has survived to the present.

On display at the museum are mannequins and photographs revealing what one would see at a typical Holy Week procession in Taxco.

The museum costs $60 MXN to enter and is closed Mondays.

Not far from the Zócalo is a colorful house museum with a depressing backstory. Now officially known as Museo Casa Figueroa, it’s long been dubbed as the ‘House of Tears’ by locals.

The house was built in 1767 by a group of indigenous Tlahuica slaves on the orders of the Count of Cadena, a friend of José de la Borda.

And given the uncertainty of the era, the Count placed various secret tunnels, hiding places and storage areas all throughout his house.

Later on, the house changed hands several times, but numerous tragedies took place here over the years. One story, for example, involves a father who killed his daughter to prevent a marriage he didn’t approve of.

Another story involves a female owner who was murdered and beheaded by thieves. On a somewhat positive note, the hidden passageways came in handy for people to hide during the violence of the Mexican Revolution.

Unsurprisingly, the house is now considered by many to be haunted.

In 1943, the house was purchased by an artist named Fidel Figueroa. But he never ended up living there, instead using it as a private museum and storage space for his art collection.

You’ll find a wide variety of decorations and art styles on display here – some original and some added by Figueroa – including ceramic tiles, colonial religious art, and numerous pre-Hispanic sculptures.

As you tour the house, you’ll be accompanied by a local guide who speaks both Spanish and English. Even with the mandatory guide, Museo Casa Figueroa only costs 35 pesos to enter.

Unlike most museums, it’s closed on Tuesdays rather than Mondays. To see everything on this Taxco guide, then, try to visit the town sometime between Wed.-Sun.

One of Taxco’s newer landmarks is the Cristo Rey statue, situated high above town. Built in the style of Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer, the 18-meter-tall statue was completed in 2002 after eight months of work.

Frankly speaking, the statue itself isn’t anything special. The real reason to come, though, is for the views. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the walk up is an experience to remember.

The hike up the steep, windy streets of Taxco takes around 45 minutes one-way from the Zócalo. While the route is relatively straightforward with Google Maps, the correct alleyways you’re supposed to take can be confusing at times.

But once you reach a certain elevation, the friendly locals will assume you’re headed toward Cristo Rey and will kindly point you in the right direction.

The views are indeed stunning, while access to the statue is free. You may have to squint, but look carefully and you’ll be able to spot numerous landmarks featured in this Taxco guide.

If you’re not into the idea of walking all the way to the top, you can simply take one of Taxco’s ubiquitous Beetle taxis or a colectivo (shared minivan) from the town center. They should have ‘Cristo’ written on the window.

If you’re mainly interested in views and don’t particularly care about the statue, here’s a little secret. On the way down, I discovered that the vantage point from the terrace outside of Parroquia de Guadalupe offers even clearer views.

From here, you can enjoy a great panoramic view of Taxco while still being close enough to see (and photograph) a lot more detail, especially of the Church of Santa Prisca. This viewpoint is only about 15 minutes or so on foot from the Zócalo (see map above).

Additional Info

To see all of the locations mentioned in this Taxco guide, you only need a day. Why, then, do most other articles and videos about the Magic Town say you should spend at least a night or two?

A lot depends on where you’re coming from. If Cuernavaca is your base, a bus ride to Taxco takes less than two hours one-way, allowing you to leisurely visit all the highlights with time to spare.

But if you’re coming from Mexico City or even further away, you should indeed stay at least a night, as Taxco would be a bit too far for a day trip.

With that being said, Taxco is one of those places where you could probably spend days just aimlessly wandering the streets without getting bored.

As long as you’re based somewhere within walking distance of the Zócalo, you should easily be able to get around on foot.

Some of Taxco’s top-rated hotels include the fancy William Hotel de Diseño , or the more medium-range Villa San Francisco Hotel .

Cuernavaca is the most convenient base for visiting Taxco as a day trip. The route is operated by a company called Costa, and buses depart hourly. You can find them at the Estrella Blanca station in the north part of town.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have the best experience with this company, as the bus departed over thirty minutes late. Around departure time, I asked one of the staff members where the bus was, and they told me to wait a bit longer. And so I assumed it was coming from another city and got caught up in traffic.

But I was wrong, as our bus turned out to be the one sitting in the parking lot the whole time! The driver was also there just chatting with his buddies while the passengers waited. I have no idea why the bus didn’t leave when it was supposed to, but that’s the kind of service you get when a single company has a monopoly over a particular route.

Once we finally departed, the journey took a little under two hours. Luckily, even with the delay, I still had time to visit all the locations in the Taxco guide above. And at least the bus back to Cuernavaca was punctual.

Cuernavaca , home to roughly 350,000 people, is a mid-sized city. As long as you’re staying somewhere relatively central, most of the top highlights should be walkable.

The city is home to a plethora of different bus stations, and you’ll often be using a different one during each of your day trips, not to mention arrival and departure.

I stayed just off of Avenida Morelos, where a few of the stations happen to be located. The hotel was called Hotel Colonial and it suited my needs perfectly. In addition to the convenient location, I had a comfortable room with a private bathroom. The hotel is also home to a very friendly (but very vocal!) cat.

Other highly-rated options in the city include Mesón de las Delicias , Hotel Casa Colonial , and for budget stays, Home Sweet Home .

From Mexico City’s Terminal del Sur (Taxqueña) station, you can find direct buses to Taxco run by the Estrella de Oro company. At the time of writing, they only depart at 8:05 in the morning and then again in the evening.

A one-way journey is listed as taking 2.5 hours, though expect it to take a little longer.

If you want to visit Taxco as a day trip, five hours total in a vehicle (at the very least) might be a bit much. Therefore, you might want to take a tour instead.

All tours listed online seem to combine Taxco with Cuernavaca. While it would be ideal to spend the whole day at Taxco, Cuernavaca is an interesting stop if you wouldn’t have time to see it otherwise.

This highly-rated tour also includes a stop at a pre-Hispanic mine.

15 Top Things To Do In Taxco – The Silver Capital Of Mexico

Taxco is one of Mexico’s Pueblo Magicos and is not only exceptionally pretty but also has tonnes of character . There are many cool things to do in Taxco even though it’s a small place.

The town is not well known to international travelers but every weekend thousands of Mexicans come here, particularly from Mexico City. The narrow roads and alleyways snaking up the hill of the town are super pretty and awesome for exploring.

There are also some impressive caves located just one hour from town that are a must-visit. We were really impressed by Taxco and we think that it is an underrated place to visit in Mexico. So keep reading to find out all the best things to do in Taxco!

What is Taxco, Mexico known for?

Taxco is known for its beautiful white buildings, landscapes, old-school VWs, and silver industry . That’s why it’s often nicknamed as the silver capital of Mexico. The Spanish discovered silver here way back in 1532 which attracted a lot of migrants to the area.

As with many other towns in Mexico, a lot of the beautiful buildings were built by the wealthy owners of the mines in the area. But even before the arrival of the Spanish, prehispanic communities in the area also mined precious stones.

You can actually visit one of the prehispanic mines , which is one of the top things to do in Taxco.

A white VW trying to get around a corner in Taxco's narrow streets

Today Taxco is still known as a great place to buy Mexican silverware. Much of this is because of an American named William Spratling who moved to Taxco in the 1920s.

William Spratling encouraged the creation of local silver workshops . Before this, there was no silver working industry in Mexico and all the silver was exported before being turned into jewelry and more.

He also encouraged the use of prehispanic designs in silver working and trained locals to work with silver. Because of his efforts, he is known as the “father of Mexican silver”.

Silver production made Taxco well-known throughout Mexico. This along with the beautiful architecture and landscapes around Taxco has made it a popular tourist destination.

Now let’s get into the best things to do in Taxco and the top attractions to visit in Taxco.

1. Visit Plaza Borda, the Zocolo (One of the Best Things to do in Taxco)

The main square or Zocolo is usually the center of local life in most Mexican towns and Taxco is no different. Taxco’s main square called Plaza Borda is a small but lively area with a super beautiful church.

If you are visiting on the weekend it can actually get a little too busy here as there are no footpaths . Plus, traffic is still allowed to drive straight through the middle of the square.

But this will give you a chance to see the famous white VWs of Taxco which are the local taxis. Plaza Borda is a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of the town.

📍 Pin the location on your map

Two VW's driving around the Zocolo in Taxco, one of the best things to do in Taxco

2. Admire the Church of Santa Prisca

The Church of Santa Prisca is the most beautiful building in Taxco and one you can see from all over town . The church was built from 1751 to 1759 by Jose de la Borda, a wealthy mine owner from Taxco.

There are many beautiful churches in Mexico but the Church of Santa Prisca in my opinion may be the most beautiful one, along with the central church in San Miguel de Allende.

The church is located on Plaza Borda so you will see it while visiting the plaza. But you can also see it from nearly any viewpoint in town due to its size and location.

The interior of the church is beautifully decorated and has many details so make sure you check that out too.

A white VW beetle driving down a busy street with the Templo de Santa de Prisca in the background

3. Wander the Narrow Alleyways

One of the biggest charms of Taxco is its narrow alleyways lined with white buildings . Getting lost in them is for sure one of the best things to do in Taxco.

I found that the alleyways close to the main square had the prettiest alleys and were a good place to start exploring.

Just be warned that Taxco gets incredibly busy on the weekend. So I recommend trying to visit during the week when there are fewer people and traffic and you can explore in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Katharina walking down an alleyway in Taxco - one of the top things to do in Taxco

4. Ride the Taxco Cableway (A Thing to do in Taxco with an Incredible View)

Riding the cableway was an unexpected highlight of our trip to Taxco. The cable car takes you up to a hilltop across from the town center.

You get an awesome view over Taxco and the surrounding landscape and it is really nice to do this activity close to sunset . The cable cars are pretty old and small so if you are afraid of heights it may be a little scary.

At the top of the hill, there are a few places to buy food and drinks. But the best part of taking the cable car is enjoying the view at Hotel Montetaxco which is the next thing to do in Taxco on this list.

A return ticket on the cable car is 105 pesos (5 USD) which is expensive by Mexican standards but still pretty reasonable and worth it.

Allan standing in front of the ticket booth in the shape of a cable car

5. Have a Drink at Hotel Montetaxco

Hotel Montetaxco is at the top of the cable car and has amazing views that you should check out. It is a great place to grab a couple of drinks on the balcony by the pool and watch the sun go down.

The drinks are a little pricey by Mexican standards but the view is well worth it! We paid for one beer 60 pesos (3 USD) which in other places is sold for 30 pesos (1.5 USD).

If you are looking at staying at nicer hotels in Taxco , Mexico I recommend having a look at this one. The view is awesome and if you stay during the week the prices are very reasonable. You can check out the prices and availability of Hotel Montetaxco here.

People standing around the pool at Hotel Montetaxco - a cool thing to do in Taxco

6. Take a Ride in a VW

The white VW taxis are an icon of Taxco and no trip here would be complete without going for a ride in one. It really feels like you are time-traveling when you see all the white VWs rumbling along the stone streets.

Taxco also has incredibly narrow streets that are often too narrow for two cars. So it is impressive to watch the taxi drivers navigate their way through the chaos of Taxco.

Because the VWs only have two doors all the taxis have the front passenger seat taken out so you can get in the back seat. It really is a unique thing to do in Taxco that you won’t experience anywhere else in the world.

Taxco is located on quite a steep hill so if you want to go somewhere further away it is best to take a taxi. Just remember the drivers may try to rip you off. It shouldn’t cost more than 30-40 pesos for a ride anywhere in town.

The view out of a VW beetle windscreen as it drives up a steep street

7. Eat at Casa Spratling

Casa Spratling is a restaurant located in the former residence of William Spratling . A well-known American who used to live in Taxco, Mexico.

The food at Casa Spratling is a mix of Mexican and Italian and everything we tried was fresh and tasty . Breakfast was also very reasonably priced with scrambled eggs for 85 pesos (4.5 USD).

We ate here a couple of times and there was always a very relaxed atmosphere. The house has been kept in its original style and decoration and some of the dining rooms feel a bit like eating in a museum .

It is a unique thing to do in Taxco and I can definitely recommend it for breakfast . Also, try the fresh beetroot juice mixed with orange juice!

Allan sitting at a table in the Casa Spratling restaurant in Taxco Mexico

8. Visit the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa (An Amazing Thing to do in Taxco)

Visiting the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Taxco. It was for sure the most amazing thing to do around Taxco that we found.

The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa is a cave system that is located about a 40-minute drive from Taxco. The caves are some of the largest in the world and their size really blew us away.

Allan looking up at formations inside the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

What is impossible to see in photos is the scale of how much space is inside. The roof of the caves are up to 80 meters high in sections and the path tourists are taken on goes 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) underground – which is just a tiny section of the whole cave system!

How to get to Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

To get to the caves from Taxco you can either take a taxi or a bus . To catch the bus you need to head to the main bus station in Taxco and look for the Grutas sign. Tickets are 46 pesos (2.5 USD) and the ride takes around 45 minutes.

The bus will drop you on the side of the highway and you will have to walk 15 minutes down to the entrance of the caves. I recommend leaving early in the day as the buses leave only about every 2 hours both ways and stop at sunset.

Ticket counter for the bus to Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

When you arrive at the caves you have to go on a guided tour that costs 100 pesos (5 USD) and lasts for 2-3 hours depending on the guide. The tours leave every hour on the hour and are only in Spanish.

We didn’t find the language barrier to be an issue, as you can still follow the group and admire the amazing caves!

Too much hassle? Viator offers a tour of Taxco and the Cacahuamilpa Caves 🚐

9. Eat Pozole at Pozoleria Tia Calle

Pozole is a traditional stew that is eaten all over Mexico and is very popular in Taxco. The most popular type of Pozole in Taxco is Pozole Verde (Green Pozole). Pozole has existed in Mexico since before the arrival of the Spanish so is truly a Mexican dish.

Pozole consists of large pieces of corn that are cooked with shredded pork or chicken along with a variety of spices. The soup is then served with radish, onions, and limes to garnish along with a stack of tostadas.

The most popular place in Taxco is Pozoleria Tia Calle . They have very reasonably priced and filling bowls of Pozole for 85 pesos (4 USD).

Pozoleria Tia Calle has multiple locations in Taxco. The one we went to was the one next to the main square . It gets very busy on weekends so be ready for a line if you go there in the evening.

A bowl of Pozole with a bowl of Guacamole on the side - one of the tastiest things to do in Taxco

10. Enjoy the View from the Christo Rey Statue

Taxco is located on a steep hill and at the very top of that hill is a large statue of Jesus. From in front of the statue you will get a really nice view over the top of Taxco.

We took a VW up and walked down. If you prefer to also ride down you can negotiate a return price with the taxi driver and he will wait for you at the top. This should cost around 100 pesos (5 USD).

The Christo Rey Statue is a great place to spend about 20 minutes taking in the view before heading back down. There are some bars and snacks to buy and it is a popular place to get the Mexican drink Michelada.

A statue of Jesus overlooking the town of Taxco - a great thing to do in Taxco

11. Grab a Souvenir at Taxco’s Silver Markets, or make your own!

If you are looking for a special souvenir from your trip to Mexico then Taxco is a great place to grab one. There are silver shops all over town with a huge range of jewelry. Plus, most of the open-air markets are located just outside of the city center.

On Google Maps, you will find them as Tianguis de Plata which translates to Silver Flea Market. You will also see signs saying Tianguis de Plata all over town in Taxco.

Taxco is also a great place to make your own silver jewelry piece. We found this highly recommended Airbnb Experience which looks like a great unique thing to do in Taxco. The host doesn’t speak fluent English but reviews said they had a great time with minimal Spanish.

Allan walking through a silver market in Taxco Mexico

12. Dine with a View at Rosa Mexicano

Due to Taxco’s natural location, there are many restaurants with amazing views. But probably the best view that we found was at the Rosa Mexicano restaurant. It is listed on Google Maps as Rosa Amaranto.

The menu consists of classical Mexican food and is fairly pricey by Mexican standards. But the view and service are worth it. We came for lunch and ordered Sopa Azteca, a very traditional Mexican soup, and vegan pasta. Both dishes were excellent.

The view of the central church in Taxco Mexico from Rosa Mexicano Restaurant

13. Try an Artesanal Drink at Yolotl Cervezeria

Yolotl is a bar that specializes in craft beers and Pulque. It has an awesome outdoor seating area with a great view and a really relaxed atmosphere. There were also two of their sweet cats roaming around.

We tried their handmade Pulque , a traditional alcoholic drink from Mexico that has existed for hundreds of years. The flavors are changing so you can check their handwritten sign on today’s menu.

So if you are looking for locally made drinks off the beaten path this spot is for you!

Allan sitting in the outdoor area of Yolotl with a glass of pulque in his hand

14. Go to Bar La Casa de los Radios (A Unique Thing to do in Taxco)

Another great place to grab a drink is Bar La Casa de los Radios. It is a quirky bar and cafe in Taxco with a radio theme. The downstairs room of the bar is actually a little museum full of radios from a whole range of different time periods.

One of the bartenders even gave us a tour of the old radios when we visited. It also has a stunning rooftop view as so many bars and restaurants have in Taxco.

So if you are looking for a unique thing to do in Taxco at night with a view head to Bar La Casa de los Radios.

Two bartenders working at the rooftop bar La Casa de los Radios with Taxco's main church in the background

15. Fuel up with Coffee at Balsamo Cafe

Throughout our travels in Mexico, we often found it hard to find a good coffee. But at Balsamo Cafe, we found great coffee with an awesome view to enjoy it.

There are plenty of cafes in Taxco to choose from but we found this to be the best. The interior is beautifully decorated as well and the staff is super friendly.

So if you are looking for a good coffee spot in Taxco, I highly recommend this one.

The view out of the window at Balsamo Cafe - a great thing to do in Taxco for coffee lovers

How far is Taxco from Mexico City?

Taxco is 177 km (110 miles) from Mexico City with a driving time of around 3 hours . So it is very convenient to visit Taxco from Mexico City. That’s also the reason it is such a popular destination for Mexicans on the weekends.

Hiring a rental car is a good idea because then you will be able to stop at the Cacahuamilpa Caves on the road to Taxco. But if you are not comfortable driving the best way is to travel by bus.

Map of Taxco Mexico showing Mexico City and Taxco marked with a red circle

How to get from Mexico City to Taxco by Bus?

The most convenient way to get from Mexico City to Taxco is by bus. The company that makes the journey is Estrella de Oro and they have modern comfortable buses.

The bus takes about 3 hours and tickets can be bought on Busbud for around 260 pesos (13 USD) one-way. Estrella de Oro leaves in Mexico City at the Taxqueña bus station.

You will arrive in Taxco at the main bus station that is located right next to Taxco’s city center. So you can either walk into town or take a short taxi ride in a VW to your accommodation.

A green Estrella de Oro standing in a car park - a good way to get from Mexico City to Taxco

How many Days do you need in Taxco?

Taxco is a relatively small city so you could easily see everything in 2-3 days which makes it a perfect weekend trip. But if you are flexible I recommend visiting Taxco during the week to avoid the big weekend crowds.

What is Taxco’s Weather like?

Taxco has quite a warm climate year-round with average highs around 27°C (81 F) and lows of 17°C (63 F). The dry season goes from November to April while the wet season goes from June to September. We visited in January and really enjoyed Taxco’s sunny weather.

Is Taxco, Mexico safe for tourists?

Yes! Taxco is generally safe for tourists especially if you stay close to tourist areas. Guerrero, the state where Taxco is located, definitely has some security concerns, but if you are enjoying Taxco’s city center you will be safe.

Is there a Taxco Tour from Mexico City?

If you do not feel like making your way to Taxco by yourself or by bus then there are tours available from Mexico City.

Viator offers a tour of Taxco and the Cacahuamilpa Caves . The caves are one of the top things to do in Taxco! The tour starts at 7:30 am and you will get to spend 4 hours in Taxco and 2 hours at the caves.

In my opinion, it is always better to explore by yourself but this tour will take you to all the best spots in one day from Mexico City.

If you found this list of the best things to do in Taxco helpful or think I should add more to it, please leave me your comment below.

Now you know all the Top Things to do in Taxco, Mexico!

Taxco is an amazing Pueblo Magico that is full of character and off the beaten path for most international tourists. It is a great place to spend a few days exploring especially if you are looking to travel from Mexico City.

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Taxco Guerrero, Mexico | Ultimate Guide to This Captivating Pueblo Magico

This overall view of Taxco Guerrero Mexico shows the back of the Santa Prisca Church and many houses stacked together into the mountainside. Far in the background is the Monumento Cristo del Rey.

Located just two hours from Mexico City, the silver mining town of Taxco, Guerrero is one of the most beautiful pueblo magicos in Mexico.

The narrow streets of Taxco, Mexico wind through the hilly landscape with something to discover around every corner. The white houses are stacked on the mountainside as if they belong there.

The cobblestone streets are decorated with mosaics, marking the year each was paved. And charming white Volkswagen Beatles zip around as the official taxis, turning your street photos into a picturesque scene.

There are a ton of great things to do in Taxco, Mexico besides wandering the streets (though you’ll want to do that too!) And the adventurous day trips expand the list so that you’ll want to plan to spend at least a few days here.

Let’s jump into this guide to visiting Taxco.

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Visit Taxco, Guerrero

Let’s start with five interesting facts about Taxco

The official name is Taxco de Alarcón in honor of writer Juan Ruiz de Alarcón , a native of Taxco.
The original indigenous community of Taxco was located about 6 miles south of the currently location. It’s now known at Taxco el Viejo.
The modern town of Taxco was founded by Hernán Cortés in an area previously known as Tetelcingo because of the substantial amount of silver in the area.
Once a silver mining town exploited by the Spanish, today Taxco is known for fine silver artisans and colonial architecture.
The Holy Week in Taxco has gathered international fame for the long and elaborate processions.

Where is Taxco Mexico?

At nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, Taxco Mexico is located on the slopes of Atache Hill along the north-central edge of the state of Guerrero. It’s 3 hours from Mexico City, about 90 minutes from Cuernavaca, and 4 hours from Acapulco.

Because of its proximity, some visitors choose to take a Taxco tour from Mexico City (this one includes a visit to the nearby cave system, which is stunning).

Two white VW bugs, the taxis of Taxco, Guerrero traverse through the cobblestone streets. In the background are white buildings with terracotta roofs.

Taxco Weather

The climate in Taxco is relatively mild. During the dry season (October through May) the temperatures dip to the low 40s (6°C) while daytime highs hover around 77°F (25°C). The exception is in April and May when they can reach the mid-80s (30°C).

During the rainy season (June through September) the high temperatures are fairly similar while the lows stay closer to 60°F (16°C). Like most of Mexico, the rainy season usually results in brief afternoon thunderstorms.

Taxco Tours From Mexico City

It’s popular among tourists and locals to take a day trip to Taxco from Mexico City . And this is a good option if you’re short on time. I’ve detailed a couple of highly rated tours below.

Cacahuamilpa Caves and Taxco Tour

This small group tour includes a visit to the incredible Cacahuamilpa Caves on the way to Taxco. You’ll have three hours at the caves and about five hours in the pueblo magico of Taxco before returning to Mexico City.

Magical Towns of Taxco and Cuernavaca

This tour from Mexico City makes a quick stop in Cuernavaca since it’s pretty much on the way. You’ll then have free time to explore Taxco before returning to Mexico City.

Where to Stay in Taxco: Hotels and Hostels

Quick view – where to stay.

Hotel d e Cantera Y Plata ($$$) | Luxury boutique hotel with panoramic views, a swimming pool, and jacuzzi Hotel Agua Escondida ($$) | A centrally located hotel with a swimming pool and rooftop views. Hotel Los Arcos ($$) | Classic hotel in Taxco with an enchanting courtyard and modern rooms. Amate Hostal ($) | One of only two hostels in Taxco (shared and private rooms).

Hotels in Taxco

When choosing the right hotel in Taxco, the location (and by that, I mean hilly streets) is important to consider. It’s best to stay close to the center if you plan to walk around, which I highly recommend.

My top two hotels in Taxco are both centrally located which is ideal for exploring this charming pueblo magico.

Hotel Los Arcos

If you prefer an enchanting atmosphere in a central location, book a stay at Hotel Los Arcos . The inviting courtyard is framed with archways and shaded by a majestic tree.

This is a classic place to stay in Taxco. The spacious rooms are modern with traditional Mexican accents.

Hotel Agua Escondida

This centrally located hotel blends old architecture with modern touches, a refreshing swimming pool, and an onsite spa.

When you book a stay at Hotel Agua Escondida , you also have access to the rooftop with lovely views of the city and the main church, Santa Prisca de Taxco.

Hotel Boutique de Cantera y Plata

This luxury boutique hotel in Taxco is located about 10 minutes from the city. The tradeoff is panoramic views of Taxco and the surrounding mountains.

Several of the rooms feature a spa bath or jacuzzi and a balcony to take in the stunning views from your suite.

You should book a stay at Hotel B o u t i q u e d e C a n t e r a y P l a t a if you’re looking for luxury away from the town.

Taxco Hostels

Since Taxco Mexico isn’t exactly on the backpacker trail, there are only two hostels in Taxco. Luckily they’re both centrally located.

Amate Hostal is a more traditional hostel with wooden bunks in the shared rooms and pleasant shower facilities. There are also basic private rooms that utilize the same shared bathrooms.

Hostal Casa Taxco is more like a shared house with mostly private rooms and one shared room. While it lacks a hostel vibe, the best part about this hostel is the rooftop balcony. Unfortunately, it’s not available to book online.

15 Awesome Things to Do in Taxco Mexico

While this pueblo magico may have initially made its riches in the silver mining industry, today its charming atmosphere draws tourists to visit Taxco.

And for a town of this size, there are a lot of things to do in Taxco , especially once you consider adventurous trips outside of the city (see day trips).

1. Get Lost Among the Picturesque Streets of Taxco

A narrow stepped passageway in Taxco, Mexico is bordered by white houses with black metalwork. In the far window, a white dog looks out to the street.

As one of the most beautiful towns in Mexico , I can’t think of a better pueblo to aimlessly wander than Taxco. The narrow streets twist up and down along the hilly mountainside. And the cobblestone paving force the traffic to move almost as slowly as the pedestrians.

Initially, the streets look a bit daunting. And I get it. You don’t know how steep the incline is, only to lament the descent on the other side. But getting lost in the streets is the beautiful thing about Taxco Mexico.

As you round each corner, you’re unaware of what scene you’ll discover next. Though without a doubt a white beetle taxi (or two or three) will pass, entering your picture at the perfect moment. It’s truly a photographer’s dream.

2. Take in Picturesque Taxco From Guadalupe Parish

This hillside church offers some of the most beautiful views of the pueblo magico of Taxco. Because it’s closer to the town, you’ll get better views of Santa Prisca Church, Plaza Borda, and the town of Taxco from this viewpoint.

Tip – To capture the golden sun illuminating the pink sandstone of Santa Prisca, arrive about an hour and a half before sunset.

This spot is more than just a church with lovely views overlooking the city. It’s also an afternoon meeting point for some of the residents of Taxco.

When I first arrived, a small group of women was chatting on the benches under the shade of a tightly shaped ficus tree.

A few moments later, a group of young kids picked up a game of soccer in front of the church. And around the corner, a couple found a secluded spot to make out.

You could easily spend a couple of hours here in the afternoon while you soak up the local life of Taxco.

3. Mina Prehispánica de Taxco | Pre-Hispanic Silver Mine

Explore a pre-Hispanic silver mine established by the Chontal , the indigenous group that inhabited Taxco before the Spanish arrived. The small mine is still full of precious minerals since the Chontal closed it off in an effort to hide it from the Spanish.

Light illuminates the rock, a source of silver and other precious metals inside Taxco's prehispanic silver mine.

Amazingly, this mine was only discovered in 2014. That year, the hotel bar began renovations to lower the floor because patrons would often hit their heads on the ceiling beams. They were amazed to find a small cavity that led to this well preserved pre-Hispanic silver mine.

At the preHispanic Silver Mine in Taxco, the bright turquoise pool glistens in the sun with a large indigenous mosaic adorning the back wall. Behind the pool is another white building that says Hotel.

The entrance is slightly expensive at 150 pesos but it includes a poolside drink after the tour. It was never completely clear to me if you are allowed to swim in the pool. But I gathered you can with a 250 peso spend at the restaurant and bar.

If I were staying in Taxco longer, I’d consider coming here just for a pool day.

Hours – 9 am to 6 pm, closed Sundays Cost – 150 peso entrance (includes a drink at the pool)

4. Shop for Silver in Taxco Mexico

While mining is no longer the backbone of Taxco’s wealth, the town’s reputation for silverwork is a major draw for tourists. On Saturday spend the morning perusing the stalls on Avenida de los Plateros when the weekly silver market takes over the area.

You’ll likely find the best prices here since many silver artisans sell their work directly at the market. If you’re not visiting on a Saturday, there are plenty of silver shops in the center. Or, see the next thing to do in Taxco.

5. Design and Create Your Own Silver Ring

Sure, you can spend Saturday wandering the stalls, scanning the jewelry until you find a piece you like.

Or you can design and make your own silver ring with the help of Gustavo, a Taxco native that started working with silver over 30 years ago.

A woman's hand shows off a silver ring with a gold crescent moon. In the blurred background is a classic white taxi of Taxco, Guerrero.

I opted for an evening class and was promptly greeted at the meeting spot before being led through Taxco’s narrow streets to the silver workshop.

Gustavo and his assistant briefly described the process and then allowed me to choose the aspects of my ring design, including the words stamped inside.

The process was broken down and demonstrated before allowing me to take over, step by step. All the while, they were there for backup and only stepped out to buy beers for us to share.

They also took lots of photos and videos with my phone, which I used to create this Instagram reel .

The finished product is a memory of Taxco I cherish. I highly recommend this unique experience. To book, send a message to his Facebook page .

6. Visit the Church of Santa Prisca

This vertical shot captures the tall columns of the Santa Prisca Church in Taxco, Mexico. In the foreground is Plaza Borda and a white taxi VW bug.

Built in the mid-1700s, the main church in Taxco Mexico is made of pink limestone and flanked by two tall and ornate bell towers. It remained the tallest building in Mexico for nearly 50 years.

Santa Prisca Church was built by José de la Borda, a Taxco businessman who made his fortune in the silver mines. However, its lavish details nearly bankrupted him during the building process.

Today the church stands as a central landmark in Taxco, located on one side of Plaza Borda. It’s worth a quick visit inside, although the most impressive part is the exterior.

7. Take a Break in Plaza Borda (The Zocalo)

Like most towns in Mexico, the Zocalo is the center of life. Well, that and the mercado (see where to eat).

Plaza Borda might just be one of the most beautiful zocalos in Mexico .

This public square rises a few steps above the cobblestone streets. The border is lined with multiple benches that are shaded with mature trees. In the center is the characteristic gazebo, called a kiosko.

Bonus: Casa Borda: Taxco Cultural Center

While there isn’t much to see a Casa Borda, the fact that it’s one of the oldest buildings in Taxco Mexico makes it worth a visit. It’s steps away from the Zocalo, free to enter, and doesn’t take long to pop in.

At one point, this former private residence of Don José de la Borda was transformed into the Taxco Cultural Center to host classes and events for the community. There wasn’t much going on when I visited but there was a small, interesting photographic exhibit.

8. Enjoy a Drink at Bar Berta

For a different part of Taxco history, head to the upstairs balcony at Bar Berta which overlooks the Zocalo and Santa Prisca Church.

This bar has been open since 1930 and is known for its signature cocktail called, The Berta. While I still prefer a margarita, the blend of tequila, honey, and lime was a nice change (if you’re like me, ask for it less sweet).

I would describe Bar Berta as a bit of a dive bar with low prices to match.

9. Take The Cable Car to Hotel Montetaxco

For different views of Taxco and the surrounding area, take the cable car to Hotel Montetaxco. Once you’re there, order dinner or a drink to take in the panoramic views of Taxco overlooking the pool.

This is the perfect spot for sunset cocktails or a romantic evening. Unfortunately, the cable car was closed for maintenance when I was visiting (it had broken down a few weeks prior). But the restaurant actually gets decent reviews for a somewhat touristy spot.

Hours – Sunday – Thursday 8 am-7 pm, Friday and Saturday 8 am – 10 pm Cost – 95 pesos round trip for the cable car

10. Hike or Colectivo to the Christ Statue (and Swing!)

The stone statue of Christ in Taxco, Mexico stands on a small podium and is backlit by the sun.

Looming tall over the pueblo magico of Taxco is a large statue of Christ.

To be honest, I almost skipped this Taxco activity. But I was encouraged to go by other travelers I met at the Cacahuamilpa Caves (see day trips from Taxco).

And I’m happy I did. In front of the Christ are sweeping views of Taxco with the surrounding mountains and valleys in the background.

But the highlight was the swing along the path to the entrance. One man had the genius idea to hang a swing here and catch the interest of visitors on the way to see the Christ statue.

Children and adults are welcome. You’ll climb on the platform to sit on the swing and let him know when you’re ready to be released. You’ll then glide over the hillside as you peer down on the picturesque pueblo of Taxco.

The cost is donation based and while I can’t guarantee it will always be open, I hope it’s something that is there to stay.

How to Get to the Cristo Rey

To get to the Christ statue, you can choose to take a rather grueling (so I’ve heard) 2-hour hike up, hire a taxi, or catch a colectivo (shared minivan). To take a colectivo from the center, go to Plazuela de San Juan and look for one that says Casahuates or Cristo.

11. Museo Casa Figueroa

I wasn’t expecting much during this museum tour. Maybe just a few antiques in a beautiful house. But the guide, Rosa, gave me a wonderful tour in English.

It was fascinating to imagine the former residents as she told stories of the house. I pictured those who used the tunnels to escape to the holy mountain (Cristo Rey). And the women that hid money in the thick walls of the house.

Of course, the house looks very different from that part of history since Figueroa purchased and remodeled the house in 1940. Among the changes he made were adding many windows and Talavera tile (mostly in the kitchen) from the city of Puebla. Nonetheless, many original details remain.

Hours – 10 am to 6 pm, closed Tuesdays Cost – 35 pesos

12. Taxco Museum of Religious Art: Casa Humboldt

Before you write this off as just a religious museum (as I almost did), you should know there are lots of other interesting items that help fill in pieces of the history of Taxco Mexico.

They include a collection of Chontal artifacts, models of old Taxco, and objects from the shipping route between Manila (Philipines) and Acapulco.

In addition, the beautiful historic building features New Spanish Baroque architecture with beautiful archways and views in the back courtyard.

Hours – 10 am to 6 pm, closed Mondays Cost – 20 pesos

Day Trips: More Things to Do in Taxco, Guerrero

These day trips from Taxco blend nature with adventure. They are some of the best things to do in Taxco and are worth extending your visit if needed.

13. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa: Taxco Caves

The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park features one of the largest cave systems in the world . Its magnitude is truly impressive.

Inside the caves are incredible rock formations that have formed over millions of years. Over time, these formations have been named for the figures they resemble, some of which may require a bit of imagination.

Inside the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa in Taxco, Guerrero are incredibly intricate stalactite and stalagmite formations. These are lit up with artificial lights installed within the Cacahuamilpa Caves.

Regardless, the huge stalactites and stalagmites are spectacular.

To access the Cacahuamilpa Caves, you are required to go with a guide who will explain (in Spanish) the history of the caves and point out all of the figures using a flashlight.

It takes about an hour and a half to walk through the caves and back (4 km total). The route is quite accessible, along a sturdy man-made pathway with bathrooms available about midway.

The admission fee includes the guide. There are several packages available as well. For instance, the one that includes the entrance to the caves, the walking bridge (kind of scary, not going to lie), and the zipline is 200 pesos.

Other activities inside the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park include rapelling (dry season) and kayaking (wet season).

Hours – Open every day, 10 am to 5 pm Cost – 100 pesos for adults, 90 pesos for children Other – Various packages include the entrance fee and options to include zipline and/or rapelling

How to Get to Grutas de Cacahuamilpa, Taxco Guerrero

To get to Grutas de Cacahuamilpa, take a bus from the bus station ( Google Maps ) with the company Costa. Tell the bus driver you’re going to the caves. The bus only makes a brief stop here, so be sure to pay attention.

After you get off, followed the paved path down the hill and to the right towards the entrance of the park.

Tip – When you buy a ticket, check the timetables for the last bus returning to Taxco. The return bus picks only comes every two hours. So plan your time in the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park wisely to avoid a long wait for the bus.

14. Las Mil Cascadas: Taxco Waterfalls

Once you enter Las Mil Cascadas, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a hidden paradise. Located about an hour from Taxco Mexico, this is a series of stunning waterfalls, caves, and swimming holes.

The name translates to The Thousand Waterfalls. And while I’m not sure that’s exactly accurate, the area reminds me of La Huasteca Potosina but in a more condensed area.

While I ran out of time to visit Las Mil Cascadas, the pictures are stunning. I would highly recommend finding a tour that can take you.

How to Get to Las Mil Cascadas

The best way to get to Las Mil Cascadas is through a tour. The mountain drive is beautiful, however the road is almost non-existent in some areas.

If you do decide to drive, I recommend going in an SUV or Jeep. Once you arrive, you will be required to pay the entrance fee and rent a life jacket. The guide (about 500 pesos per group) is optional.

Hours – 8 am to 6 pm, every day Cost – 40 pesos to enter and 50 pesos for the mandatory life jacket

15. Pozas Azules: Blue Pools Near Taxco

At Pozas Azules, a wooden bridge suspends over a river, between two rocks with a blue pool of water and small waterfall behind. In the background, a woman in a red bikini rests on the side of another blue pool.

Spend a day relaxing at Pozas Azules, the blue pools located in the nearby town of Atzala. The 100 peso entrance fee gives you access to all nine pools which vary in size and blue intensity.

When you first arrive, I recommend following the path past all of the pools until you reach the area where you need to pay a guide (cost by donation) to take you further.

Once you finish exploring this area, you’ll have a good idea of which swimming areas you prefer. And you’ll be ready to cool off!

Other activities include a zip line that flies high above the pools. Food and drinks are available to purchase from several vendors or you can bring your own. Tables and chairs are available for an extra cost. Although there are also places to sit along the edge of the pools.

Pozas Azules is a great way to spend the day with your family. If you’re traveling solo but prefer company (like me), try to go on a weekend (ideally Sunday) when lots of Mexican families are there.

How to Get to Pozas Azules

Inside a colectivo van, a man's hand rests on the steering wheel. On the windshield reads Pozas Azules backwards as well as hanging religious art.

The colectivo to Pozas Azules leaves from in front of the Coppel department store ( location ) every hour or when full. Look for “pozas azules” on the front windshield.

I recommend arriving early. When I arrived at 11, the 12 pm colectivo was leaving in a few minutes and the next one wasn’t until 1 pm. The cost is 27 pesos each way and takes about an hour.

Food: What and Where to Eat In Taxco Mexico

I found the restaurants in Taxco Mexico to be slightly underwhelming. For the best traditional food, go to the mercado where you can find pozole (see below) and one of my favorite dishes in Mexico, barbacoa.

For nontraditional food, I did enjoy the view, coffee, and crepes (sweet and savory) from Bálsamo Café . And in the afternoons, La Bambina is a good spot for a beer and wings on the patio with amazing views.

This stew is made using large kernels of corn, called Cacahuacintle . It’s the same corn that is ground into masa, a flour used for tamales, tortillas, and other corn dough items.

Pozole can be found throughout Mexico. There are different broth variations – red, green, and white. In the state of Guerrero, it’s most common to find white and green pozole. And it’s often topped with chicharrones (fried pork skin).

So where is the best pozole in Taxco? While Pozoleria Tia Calla is the most popular, I thought it was a bit uninspired. I found the best pozole at Cocina Economical Varón in the local mercado.

This striking pink sauce gets its color from the use of beets, among other rose-colored ingredients. Mole rosa has a mild flavor. Although, like most moles, it also includes various seeds, nuts, and spices.

You’ll often find this signature dish of Taxco, Guerrero served with chicken and garnished with petals of rose or bougainvillea flowers.

Ice Cream at Tepoznieves

Okay, this isn’t strictly a thing to eat in Taxco since this ice cream hails from another pueblo magico nearby. But the ice cream from Tepoznieves is so popular, that they’ve expanded outside of their native Tepoztlan, Morelos.

If you have trouble deciding from the long list of flavors, I suggest picking a base you like, such as chocolate, and pairing it with a more unusual flavor.

Final Thoughts about Taxco Mexico

Taxco, Guerrero is truly a unique town in Mexico. It’s one of the most charming pueblo magicos I’ve visited and well-deserving of the title.

Whether you’re drawn by the desire to shop for fine silver or just become enchanted by its streets, Taxco should be added to your ever-growing list of places to visit in Mexico.

Have you been to Taxco, Mexico? What did you think? Let me know, I’d love to hear from you!

Questions About Visiting Taxco, Guerrero

Is taxco mexico worth visiting.

Taxco, Mexico is absolutely worth visiting. The narrow streets that weave through the hilly terrain, lined with white buildings stacked into the mountainside make Taxco one of the most picturesque pueblo magicos in Mexico. In addition there are several adventurous day trips from Taxco.

What is Taxco Mexico known for?

Taxco Mexico is known for its fine silver jewelry. It is considered the center for silverwork in the Western Hemisphere. It is also known as a stunning pueblo magico with twisting streets lined with colonial buildings and Volkswagen Beatles used as the official taxis.

Does Taxco have an airport?

Taxco does not have an airport. The closest airport to Taxco is in Cuernavaca, though you may find nearby Mexico City to be more convenient for flights. You can take a bus from Cuernavaca to Taxco in less than two hours. The bus from Mexico City to Taxco takes approximately two and a half hours.

How many days do you need in Taxco?

You should spend at least three days in Taxco. You only need a day or two to see the town itself. However, there are several nearby day trips that should not be missed. They include the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa – one of the largest cave systems in the world, La Mil Cascadas (The Thousand Waterfalls), and Las Pozas Azules (The Blue Pools) of Atzala.

About Julien Casanova

I’m happy you found me. I’m a solo female traveler and the creator of Cultures Traveled. I specialize in Mexico and Colombia travel with an emphasis on getting out of routine bucket list travel so you can immerse yourself in the local culture, make new friends, and experience different traditions.

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Discover Taxco

Just over 100 miles (160 km) southwest of Mexico City is one of Mexico’s most beloved colonial towns. Perched on a steeply sloping hillside 5,000 feet above sea level, Taxco (“tass-ko”) was once a silver mining town, but with silver nearly exhausted, it is now best known for its silver craft.

The American architect and writer, William Spratling, established the first silver workshop in Taxco in the 1930s and revitalized the slumbering economy. Today, Taxco is one of Mexico’s principal tourist destinations, and silver jewelry and goods are the mainstay of its local market traders.

This city is picturesque in a very traditional Mexican way—white stucco buildings with red-roof tiles, winding cobbled streets, antique churches, and romantic little plazas overlooked by bougainvillea-laced balconies. Because it was laid out on a steep incline with no regard to logical patterns, Taxco’s streets have a roller-coaster feel about them—true seat-grabbing ascents, descents and twists—especially if you take a ride in the Vocho (Beatle) taxis or combis (mini-buses).

As a well-preserved colonial town, Taxco is a treasure trove of valuable historical architecture. In the town center, you will find many examples of sixteenth through nineteenth century architecture. The pride of Taxco, El Templo Santa Prisca , was a gift from Taxco’s great silver-mining baron, Don Jose de la Borda, who nearly went broke financing its construction. This eighteenth century baroque style cathedral marks the heart of town; its unmistakable rose-colored twin towers dominate the main plaza, Plaza Borda , and beguile onlookers with its elaborate beauty.

As a silver crafts center, Taxco is unrivaled in Mexico. Hundreds of platerias (silver shops) line the streets, offering beautiful designs at a great value. See What to Buy in Taxco, below for tips about trading here.

Taxco’s streets are a bustle of activity and they come alive particularly over the weekends. The locals as well as visitors fill the main plaza and restaurants on a Saturday night—chatting, laughing, and merry-making. Because sidewalks are so conspicuously absent on its colonial cobbled-streets, you must share the road with lots of foot and vehicular traffic. It can feel congested at times, but you can always slip down an alley to find a quiet café and take a reprieve from the crowds.

A city rich in artistry, history, and romanticism, Taxco is worthy of any traveler’s short list of must-see places in Mexico.

Make your next travel experience in Mexico something special

To arrange colonial tours in Mexico, contact Mexperience and we’ll help you make it happen: Plan Your Mexico Trip

Key Attractions

Colonial center.

The center of the city has been excellently preserved and has a great colonial feel and atmosphere about it. The streets are cobbled and steep; small alleyways lead off the roads and some eventually break open into quaint little plazas.

Taxco is an authentic colonial city. It has been declared a national heritage site by the government and building regulations here are strict—take a look at the local gasoline station to see how keen they are to keep the place looking and feeling colonial.

By night the town lights up softly, adding a wonderful feel and atmosphere to the whole place; the lighting, coupled with fewer people as day-trippers leave, changes the ambiance of the town as it becomes more relaxed and romantic.

Taxco also has several noteworthy churches; the most magnificent, Parroquia de Santa Prisca, is on Plaza Borda (the Main Square) and its pink stonework is revered world-wide. The interior decoration here is also magnificent: marvel at the of the gold-covered altars and the exquisitely sculpted figures. There are seven other colonial-era sanctuaries that noteworthy: Capilla de Santa Veracruz, Capilla de la Santisima Trinidad, Capilla de San Miguel Arcangel, Capilla de la Virgen de Guadalupe and Ex-Convento de San Bernadino de Siena

Museums and Art in Taxco

Casa borda centro cultural.

The eighteenth century home of benefactor Jose de la Borda, this magnificent mansion sits on the western end of Plaza Borda. It exhibits sculptures, paintings and photos by artists from the state of Guerrero, and serves as the town’s main cultural center.

Museo de Arte Virreinal

Built in the sixteenth century, this Moorish-influenced grand edifice is one of Taxco’s oldest colonial houses and exhibits works of religious art from the colonial period. Among its small and modest collection are relics taken from Santa Prisca including a well-preserved example of a colonial funeral altar.

Museo de Guillermo Spratling

This museum is named after the great twentieth century American patron of the city, William Spratling, who opened a silver workshop here, producing unique silver designs which skillfully combined pre-hispanic motifs and modern art-deco styles. His love and promotion of the city brought about its economic revival. The museum hosts pre-Columbian works of art from Spratling’s private collection—the inspiration for many of his designs. You can also see some fine examples of Spratling’s signature silver design work in the form of jewelry, tableware, and other decorative pieces. To see more of his silver work, you’ll need to visit the Rancho Spratling (see below), located in Taxco Old Town.

Panoramic Views

One of Taxco’s main attractions are its topographical vantage points from which to admire a sprawling carpet of green hills, valleys, and cliffs. You will find several great vantage points in and around town, but two of the best for panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains are the Monte Taxco and the Cristo Monumental.

Monte Taxco

The only cable car system in town leads straight up to a four-star hotel resort named Monte Taxco. Go to the north side of town—just off Avenida de los Plateros —and look for the signs to the teleferico (cable car station). There’s a small fee to pay, and on the cable run you’ll enjoy an eye-catching ascent over a deep gorge with good views across the city and the surrounding mountains. Named for its location, the Monte Taxco Hotel has a restaurant and bar which is precisely positioned to give you a panoramic view of Taxco and the surrounding natural landscape.

Cristo Monumental

Opened in 2002, the Cristo Monumental (Christ Monument) is now one of Taxco’s most prominent landmarks and an exceptional vantage point. The towering statue of Christ with outstretched arms (reminiscent of Rio’s famed Cristo ) stands atop Cerro de Atachi . The statue itself is three meters in height set on a pedestal and looks over Taxco like a protective symbol. You can walk (you’ll need to be fit for the steep climb) or take a taxi up to the monument.

Attractions Near Taxco

Las Grutas de Cacahuamilpa – These are limestone caverns ( grutas ), formed naturally over the course of millions of years by water flowing down through the mountains. Some of the chambers reach heights of around 250 feet. There is about a mile of pathways through the caves, which a guided tour will take you through and highlight the main attractions inside. The caves are about 30 miles north-east of Taxco, but well worth a visit. Tours are generally in Spanish, and occasionally an English tour will be offered if there is sufficient demand. The air temperature inside the caves is considerably lower than the temperature outside, so if you’re prone to chills, take a pull-over with you.

Taxco El Viejo – About five miles south of Taxco is Taxco El Viejo (Taxco Old Town), which features a couple of attractions and offers visitors serene surroundings.

Ex-Hacienda San Juan Bautista – This is an old Ex-Hacienda named after Saint John the Baptist, which today hosts the School of Earth Sciences (an offshoot of the Guerrero State University) and a museum.

Rancho Spratling – This ranch is a working silver craft workshop that today continues the traditions of high quality silver craft that William Spratling started in the 1920s. You can witness the silver artisans at work; silver goods are available for purchase. The ranch is just south of the Ex-Hacienda San Juan Bautista .

Getting There & Around

Getting there.

By Air – The closest airport to Taxco is the Cuernavaca airport, although most visitors to Taxco will arrive at Mexico City’s airport. Connect to the Mexperience guide about Flights and Air Travel in Mexico .

By Bus – You can travel to Taxco on a luxury bus from Mexico City (southern bus terminal, known as Taxqueña ) or from Cuernavaca. The trip takes around three hours from Mexico City or less than two hours from Cuernavaca. The buses leave frequently with services every day of the week. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico .

By Car – Driving to Taxco is fast and efficient using the toll-road from Mexico City south of Highway 95D. Taxco is beyond the colonial city of Cuernavaca and will take you around 2 – 3 hours to get to from the capital. See additional information about Driving in Mexico on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental here.

Getting Around

Local Buses – Besides using your feet to get around this very walk-able town, try the local transportation. Known as combis , these mini-buses are an economical way to get around town. To get to the town center, look for the combis that have “ Zocalo ” written on the windshield.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico

Taxco Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found in the central area of Taxco. During business hours the local Casas de Cambio will buy foreign currency in cash from you. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico .

Pedestrians Take Note! Pedestrians and motor vehicles—including taxis, mini buses, mopeds, and 4×4 off-roaders which some visitors rent—share the narrow spaces between the picturesque buildings which make up the rich tapestry of architecture in this colonial town. Take care when you are walking the streets, especially on Saturdays and Sundays when traffic and visitor levels increase significantly. Also wear a good pair of walking shoes—the steep cobble streets become even more precarious after a good rain, leaving stones very slippery.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: In addition to access via mobile data networks, internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico. WiFi is ubiquitous now, and you can connect easily and often free from cafes, shops, hotels, etc.

What to Buy in Taxco

Visitors would be remiss to visit Taxco without engaging in its main trade: silver shopping. The main streets of Taxco feature an endless string of platerias (silver shops) and you can hardly pass by one without having an eager vendor beckon you to look inside. Jewelry, platters, statuettes—whatever may be fashioned from silver—you can be sure to find it here and at a good price.

There exist three commercial venue types in Taxco where you can make silver purchases: an established silver shop, a jewelry center where rows upon rows of stalls are manned by small independent silver traders, and street fairs and markets. It’s a good idea to take some time to browse several places before purchasing anything so that you get an idea of the available styles, quality and prices. The silver shops on Plaza Borda tend to charge higher prices and may not be as open to negotiation, but they also are among the most reputable vendors.

Whichever one you choose to patronize, you should know how to distinguish sterling silver from silver-plated. Pieces made from solid silver are stamped “.925” which certifies that the piece is at least 92.5% silver. Objects which are cast in cheaper metals—nickel and pewter are the most common—and covered with a thin silver plating are unstamped .

Some of the more unscrupulous traders may try to palm-off imitation silver, known as “ alpaca ” or nickel silver; however, there isn’t a huge amount of fraud of this kind as silver is a relatively inexpensive precious metal, especially compared to gold, but it’s possible to be misled, especially if you buy from vendors off the street. A little forward research can help you to buy good quality silver pieces.

We recommend that you look up the current international price for silver, quoted per ounce, so that you arrive in Taxco with an idea of the value of the pieces that you are considering for purchase. Solid silver pieces are priced based on their weight, and price mark-ups for artisanship are added depending upon the designs or if a notable artisan has been involved in the creation of the piece. Carry a small magnet on your person and use this to test pieces which are purportedly solid silver: precious metals are not magnetic.

Beware of taxi drivers trying to give you ‘advice’ on where to buy silver. Some silver shops give tips or commissions to drivers who bring potential customers to their stores. A common ruse is for the taxi driver to belittle ‘other’ places and tell you that a certain other place offers better quality at a fraction of the cost.

All good establishments will offer you a printed receipt displaying the store’s name, a description of the item, and its sale price; this can be used in case any matters arise afterwards relating to the purchase you made.

Although silver is the primary product visitors shop for in Taxco, don’t overlook some of the other authentic Mexican crafts which are sold here too; for example, embroidered clothing, papier-mâché art, wood carvings, brightly painted scenes on amate (wood bark) paper, and hand-woven baskets.

Local Climate

Taxco enjoys year-round warm and dry weather. Its altitude makes it feel spring-like year-round. Rains tend to happen more frequently during the months of April thru November, but as with most monsoon areas, they tend to be fierce and brief in the late afternoon, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off. The winter months can get cooler in the evenings and overnight, so take a sweater with you if you are traveling in Taxco during these times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

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What To Do In Taxco, Mexico

6 comments:.

I just spent a weekend in Taxco, it was really nice. I had a pozole too, perfect snack!

Glad you enjoyed it, Jeremy! The pozole really is amazing.

Everything is very interesting

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10 No FOMO Things to Do in Taxco: Mexico's Top Magic Town

Looking for what to do in Taxco, one of Mexico’s best pueblo magicos?

As my bus approached the city, distinct Spanish colonial architecture with terracotta-colored roofs sprawled across the mountains of Taxco de Alarcon in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. Driving up the steep cobblestone streets, one can’t help but stare in awe at the beauty of this small city and wonder how the heck people can navigate Taxco’s narrow, windy roads.

As a former silver mining town, Taxco is best known for being one of the finest places for silver jewelry and crafts in the Western hemisphere.

But for visitors like you and I, you’ll find gorgeous city views and fantastic nature day trips nearby. Now, here’s the info on all of the best things to do in Taxo, Mexico.

Taxco, Cuernavaca & Prehispanic Mine Tour

Best Day Tour from Mexico City

All highlights of Taxco & Cuernavaca
Authentic pre-Hispanic mine (add-on)
Round-trip transfer & local guide

Top Things to Do in Taxco, Mexico

Taxco is designated as one of Mexico’s pueblos magicos (magic towns). Mexico has selected 132 pueblos magicos all over the country, and Taxco holds one of the top-ranking spots on the list.

So, you’ve decided to go for a visit, what are the things you should go see?

1. Panoramic View of Taxco at Cristo Rey

From any given point in the city, you will see a giant Jesus statue sitting near the top of the mountain overlooking Taxco. For a few dollars, you can take a cute VW Beetle taxi up the crazy steep, winding roads to the top. From the main square, taxi drivers take 10-15 minutes to get to the top.

From the Christ viewing platform, enjoy one of the best places to see the panoramic scenery of the entire city and the valley beyond.

Breathtaking…

I recommend walking down as it was a pretty easy 30 – 45 minutes down winding streets or hidden stairwells. It’s hard to get lost. As long as you are going down, all the roads will lead to the Zocalo, the town center.

2. Climb the Bell Tower of Templo de Santa Prisca

Viewable from anywhere in the city, the exquisitely decorated church, Temple de Santa Prisca, sits grandly in the center of the Zocalo. The details from its outside façade is captivating, and don’t get me started on the colors during the sunrise and sunset. The light casts a pinkish hue on the exterior.

You can go up to the bell towers for a Taxco city view for 50 pesos per person (although we may have been overcharged since someone told us 5 pesos). Even having overpaid, do not miss this Taxco attraction. You can literally take pictures on the roof of this behemoth cathedral.

Once you are let in, go up the narrow, windy staircase all the way to the top where the bell tower is. This is by far one of the best views of the whole city!

3. Go Silver Shopping

Taxco has traditionally been known for its silver mines and is still the silver capital of Mexico. Historically, the local people traded silver to the Aztecs for protection.

Today, this precious metal industry is still very prominent in the town. Seemingly around every corner and at every kiosk, silver shops hang sparkling necklaces in doorways and pendants in glass cases.

At a mid-range store, a sterling silver pendant sells for 20 USD and a matching chain for 15 USD. There were definitely cheaper and more expensive options than these. Although jewelry is the primary souvenir choice, silver statues or tea sets are also available.

4. Wander through the Winding Streets for Hidden Secrets

One of my favorite things to do in Taxco is just roaming around the hidden alleyways and paths. Every turn up the hillside provides an opportunity for a better city view or a tasty snack to try. Endless rows of colonial buildings and terracotta-colored roofs lead you to hidden churches and lovely gardens.

Aim to get lost; once you’re ready to go back, just go down, you’ll end up back in the Zocalo.

5. Get Lost in Mercado Tetitlán

Like most cities and towns in Mexico, there will be a central market, and Taxco is no different. Mercado Tetitlan is concentrated near the Zocalo, sprawled across five floors and still spilling out onto the stairwells and streets nearby.

Vendors sell all the usual expected market categories: necessities, street food, juices, fruits, and for Christmastime, an entire area dedicated to cheery decorations.

Fun Fact: I once got lost in the market for 25 minutes. Many floors don’t have exits, and I am directionally challenged.

6. Peer into the Historical Mines Beneath Taxco

Only rediscovered in the last decade or so, this pre-Hispanic mine is one of Taxco’s newest attractions. You can take a guided tour to see the historic mines tunneled beneath the town of Taxco.

Entrance to the mine and museum comes with a one-hour guided tour that can speak English and an unusual welcome drink.

7. Ride the Cable Car for Taxco Views

If you leave from the center of Taxco, you can walk on foot to the base with a steep 20 minute walk. The cost is 120.00 pesos round trip and the ride is only about 5 minutes one way. The cable car stops at the Montetaxco Hotel , where you can wine and dine for above-average costs.

Address: Los Plateros 3, Ahuacatitlan, 40225 Ahuacatitlán, Gro., Mexico

Day Trips Near Taxco, Mexico

A few special day trips surround the vicinity of Taxco and are doable by yourself. Many hotels and agencies offer tours to visit these locations as well.

I would’ve loved to visit all of them, but alas, I only had time to see Pozas Azules, which I highly recommend. I hope you have more time to check the other ones out too!

8. Pozas Azules

In Pozas Azules, turquoise water streams down waterfalls in a river that pools into man-made and natural blue pools. The ever-green moss on the cliff sides contrasts beautifully against the color of the icy blue waters.

Only 45 minutes outside of Taxco with a minibus, Pozas Azules is a fantastic day trip if you’ve got an afternoon to spare. Although it was cloudy and raining the day I went, the pools were still blue, so I can only imagine what it would look like if it was nice out.

Additional Guided Pools

Beyond the official boundary of Pozas Azules, you can hire a local guide to take you on the 10-minute hike to some additional small pools. Based on tips, I saw the lady before me tip 50 pesos, so I did the same.

How to Get to Pozas Azules:

On Avenida de Plateros in front of the “Coppel’ store, minibusses leave every 30 minutes at the bottom and top of the hour. The bus stop is directly at the entrance of Pozas Azules and will last 45 minutes.

How to Get Back to Taxco:

The minibus will wait at Pozas Azules for 15 minutes and leave at the bottom and the top of the hour. Due to picking other people up, it will take about an hour to return back. The last bus will return at 6 pm.

9. The Cacalotenango Waterfall

On the way to Pozas Azules, a large 540 feet waterfall cascades down the mountainous area. Using the same minibus as Pozas Azules, it takes about 30 minutes from Taxco. Ask the driver which is the best stop to get off at. You will also have to hike a bit to get to the waterfall.

10. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa (Caves of Cacahuamilpa)

30 minutes outside of Taxco, Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park is home to one of the largest cave systems in the world. Every year, the cave even organizes concerts within its walls.

Today, only guided tours allow visitors into the nearly two-kilometer-long caves. An English tour is available at more expensive rates. Here’s some more information on the caves . Side note: Atlas Obscura is one of my favorite websites to find odd places

Book a full-day tour from Mexico City, visiting both Taxco and the Cacahuamilpa Caves

Where to Stay in Taxco

Budget hostel – amate hostel.

We stayed at Amate Hostel , as it was the cheapest one we could find. Although not anything crazy special, the staff was friendly, and the place had a super cool sink.

FLAVORFUL PRIVATE ROOM – Villa San Francisco Hotel

For a private room with a bit more pizzaz, Villa San Francisco Hotel is a low mid-budget hotel with colonial-style architecture and a swimming pool.

Where to Eat in Taxco

Menta .

If you have been to Central and South America for a while, raise your hand if you are at least slightly bored of the food. So, I am always super excited when I find an amazing veggie and fruit-filled place.

For around 15 USD at Menta, we got 2 fantastic juices, a giant salad, and a Toast that would rival some of the best brunch places in the USA. I would highly recommend Menta if you are looking for some greens or are a vegetarian.

Note: Google has said that it is permanently closed (false), here is their FB page . Last I heard, they were going under renovations in 2023.

Hole-in-the-Wall Mexican Place: Los Dobles

We passed by Los Dobles , a small restaurant featuring around 10 ceramic pots of options. Their nopales poblano was the best nopales I have ever had, and I don’t even like nopales.

Update : Sadly, they may be now closed, but if you’re there, do check if they’re still there

Restaurants in the Zocalo

There are many restaurants in the Zocalo serving traditional Mexican fare. They can be a bit more pricey than their non-zocalo neighbors, but you pay for the food and the views of the city and the Santa Prisca church. There are quite a few restaurants that advertise their rooftop terrace, and any one of them will do.

Café de Los Radios

Café de Los Radios is a little café with a radio theme. They’ve got great Frappuccinos, but the real selling point was the fast Wi-Fi and pretty great views of all of Taxco.

ChuCho

For those with a sweet tooth, Chucho is a modern Churreria selling one of the best churros I have eaten in Mexico, and I have eaten a lot. Imagine a make-your-own froyo place but with churros instead. These are dipped in your choice of sauce, then two toppings, and can even be paired with ice cream.

How to Get to Taxco, Mexico

Taxco is in Guerrero State in central Mexico. Getting to Taxco is possible by public transport (bus) or car. Detailed below are bus options from the most common leaving destinations. I always use these two bus aggregators in Mexico to find busses: Check my Bus and ClickBus.

Related Post: If you are concerned about getting around Mexico, find information on their transportation here.

From Cuernavaca to Taxco

We could only find two buses that took this route, CostaLine, and Estrella de Oro. There are many bus stations in Cuernavaca, which can be confusing.

The CostaLine bus leaves from Grupo Estrella Blanca—Terminal de Autobuses (18.926275, -99.238667) a few times a day and arrives in about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If you come from Tepotzlan , you will most likely take a transfer bus that stops in Cuernavaca.

From Mexico City to Taxco

The road from Mexico City to Taxco takes about 2hrs 20 minutes from Taxquena (Terminal del Sur), Mexico City’s southern-bound bus terminal. This bus route departs only 1-2 times a day.

Want the logistics planned? Book a Full-day tour from Mexico City to both Taxco and Cuernavaca’s city highlights!

From Acapulco to Taxco | Bus Stops in Chilpancingo & Iguala

Coming from Acapulco , you will most likely arrive at Taxco’s bus station, Estrella de Oro. There are two main bus stations in Taxco: Estrella Blanca and Estrella de Oro. They are both on Avenida de Los Plateros and are only a 5-10 minute walk from each other.

The bus will also make stops in other cities on the way in Iguala, Chilpancingo, before arriving at Taxco.

Time to Reach Taxco by Bus:

From Iguala: 30 minutes
From Chilpancingo: 3 hrs
From Acapulco: 4 hrs – 4.5 hrs

On the day we went, there were only two buses that day. We couldn’t find this bus on a bus aggregator, but here is Ado’s website to check the latest times. Iguala has many more connections to Taxco than straight from Acapulco if there are no optimal times.

If you’re short on time, book a private full day tour from Acapulco to roam around Taxco

How Many Days Do You Need in Taxco, Mexico?

Taxco has a unique beauty that is worthy of checking out. I would recommend spending at least two days exploring the town itself. The streets are confusing, and it takes a while to get a handle on not getting lost.

If you have any additional days to spare, I recommend going on one of the nearby day trips.

Mexico City to Taxco Day Trip

While Taxco is a favored day trip from Mexico City, the 5-hour round trip might have you hurrying to see its highlights. Nonetheless, it’s entirely doable.

Final Thoughts: Is Taxco Worth Visiting?

Yes, absolutely! It’s always fun to stumble upon a magical town filled with history, beautiful churches, and friendly locals. I hope you think the same when you visit too! But what to choose if you don’t have enough time to see everything in Taxco, make sure to check off the following activities:

Make your way to the top to see the views from Cristo Rey
Climb to the top of the bell tower
Day trip to Pozas Azules

Going Elsewhere? Discover Other Mexico Adventures and Resources

Best Things to Do in Tepoztlán, Mexico
Fun Things to Do in Acapulco, Mexico
Best Things to Do in Zihuatanejo – Ixtapa, Mexico
Ixtapa Island: A Perfect Beach Day at La Isla Ixtapa, Zihuatenejo
How to Visit Chacahua, Oaxaca – A Secret Mexican Beach Paradise
Adventurous Things to Do in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
Day Trip to the Magical Waterfalls of Copalitilla and Llano Grande
Things to Do in Huatulco, Mexico and Why I Won’t Be Back
Never Lost in Mexico: Transporation Guide to Getting Around Mexico

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Looking for what to do in Taxco, one of Mexico’s best pueblo magicos? As my bus approached the city,...

Taxco, Mexico – Travel Guide for Nomads and Expats

December 2, 2018

Last updated: 2021

All prices in US dollars

Cost of living metrics are based on minimum living expenses for one person

A hillside town in the Mexican State of Guerrero. It’s known for the mining and craftsmanship of silver — many folks travel here to buy jewellery and other items made from the precious metal. Taxco is famous for its history as silver mining town. As mines no longer remained productive, mining gave way to tourism as the main economic activity. Like Tepoztlán , Taxco is a popular weekend getaway for folks living in Mexico City .

POPULATION: 55,000

Table of Contents

WEATHER IN TAXCO

Yearly temperatures range from 6°C to 30°C. Any time of year is a good time to visit, but to avoid any rainfall November to May will be your best timeframe.

SAFETY IN TAXCO

Taxco is a fairly safe city. Locals work hard to preserve the cities reputation as a safe tourist destination. That said, the state of Guerrero is known for high crime rates. During the day, you should be perfectly fine walking around Taxco and its narrow, picturesque streets that wind up the mountain. At night, if you’re staying any more than a five minute walk from the main plaza, we suggest taking a taxi to your destination. Taxco is one of the safest cities in the state, but we still recommend taking this precaution.

MUST DO IN TAXCO

Check out the Mina Prehispánica de Taxco for a tour of a silver and gold mine.

RENT AN APARTMENT IN TAXCO

Rent prices in Taxco are reasonable. $400/month will be enough to rent something close to the main plaza (zocalo).

If you want to rent an apartment for a short period of time — just to make sure the city is right for you before committing to a longterm apartment contract — we suggest using Airbnb.

COST OF LIVING IN TAXCO

We suggest a minimum budget of $1000/month to live comfortably here.

HOW TO GET TO TAXCO

Taxco is a 2 hour drive from Cuernavaca .

JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN TAXCO

There are not many work opportunities here for foreigners.

IS THERE UBER IN TAXCO

Uber does not operate in Taxco at this time. However, local taxis are safe and affordable.

IS TAXCO, MEXICO A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE?

Taxco may be a good choice for some expats. It’s safe, picturesque and conveniently located to both Mexico City and Acapulco, if you want the occasional taste of the beach and/or big city. However, the narrow streets means that traffic here is complicated — walking around can be a headache when cars have inches to squeak by you. And, there are A LOT of hills in this city. If you don’t do well with steep inclines and altitude, this city is not for you. Also, since this town lives off tourism, expect to be asked if you want to buy silver every few minutes. While Taxco isn’t a bad choice, if you want a picturesque mountain town in Mexico, we think Guanajuato will be a more suitable choice for most expats.

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The first sight of Taxco's (tahss-ko) white buildings scattered across the steep valley as you approach it is enough to take your breath away. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and cliffs, its perfectly preserved colonial architecture and the twin belfries of its baroque masterpiece, Templo de Santa Prisca, make for one of the most beguiling views anywhere in the central highlands.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Taxco. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Templo de Santa Prisca

The icon of Taxco, Santa Prisca is one of Mexico’s most beautiful and striking pieces of baroque architecture. Its standout feature (best viewed side-on)…

Museo Casa Figueroa

A splendid, envy-inducing home-turned-museum, with an interesting collection of vintage art and craftwork from across Mexico, comes to life alongside…

Museo de Arte Virreinal

This charming, rather ragtag religious-art museum is housed in a wonderful old house. It hosts a small but well-displayed collection of art, labeled in…

Museo Guillermo Spratling

This well laid-out three-story history and archaeology museum is off an alley behind Templo de Santa Prisca. It contains a small collection of pre…

Built by José de la Borda in 1759, the Casa Borda serves as a cultural center hosting experimental theater and exhibiting contemporary sculpture, painting…

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Latest stories from Taxco

Oct 12, 2019 • 4 min read

Different parts of Mexico boast different kinds of folk art. Know where to look before heading out on your search.

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The Complete Travel Guide to Taxco, Guerrero
In this 77-page guidebook, I cover 30 of my favorite Mexican destinations, including how to get to each city, where to stay, and the best things to do in each city. I also include tidbits of useful information like things to know before going to Mexico, as well as my favorite party destina…. $15.00$10.00. Shop now.
Things To Do In Taxco
Take a Trip to Las Granadas Mil Cascadas. This epic series of cascading waterfalls and turquoise pools surrounded by lush vegetation makes for an amazing day trip from Taxco. Mil Cascadas provides various options for adventurers, including hiking along trails, jumping into the pools, and rappelling down the waterfalls.
14 Things to do in Taxco: Mexico's Most Beautiful Town
One of the most popular things to do in Taxco is to simply enter the church and enjoy the peace and quiet. This stunning Baroque church is a masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship, built in the 18th century by Jose de la Borda, a wealthy silver miner. The church is located in the center of town, and its façade is decorated with ...
The Ultimate Guide to Taxco: Mexico's Silver Capital
Table of Contents. Taxco, often dubbed "The Silver Capital of Mexico", is a cobblestone street-lined town built on the hillsides of Guerrero. Taxco is famed for its silver mines, which helped it grow during the Spanish colonial era. Today, its landmark is the 18th-century Santa Prisca church, located right in the center of the town.
12 things to do in Taxco
Things to do in Taxco and places to visit. Visit religious edifices. Holy week's celebration statues. Taxqueño Christ viewpoint. Pre-Hispanic Mine. William Spratling Museum. Museum of Religious Art. Ex-Hacienda El Chorrillo. Silver workshops.
Taxco Travel Guide: What to Do in Taxco, Mexico
Busses depart daily from the Terminal Central del Sur (Taxqueno) and cost 225 pesos / 12 usd. Some lines that run the route are Estrella del Oro, Costa Line, and ADO. This routes from Mexico City to Taxco don't run super often so it's a good idea to check the timetables on their websites the day before you go and plan accordingly.
16 Things To Do in Taxco On A Trip From Mexico City
Getting to Taxco from Mexico City. Hiring a car in Mexico City: driving to Taxco would work out cheaper than visiting by public bus, especially if there's a group of you.Use Rentalcars.com to find the best price. Bus: We caught the bus from Taxqueña (Terminal de Sur) in the south of Mexico City. The journey takes 2 hours 20 minutes providing there's no traffic and drops you in the centre ...
Taxco Travel Guide
Just a two and a half hour drive from Mexico City, Taxco is an easy overnight trip from the capital. You can choose to hire a private driver—which will be helpful when exploring the surrounding area—or you can catch a bus from Mexico City's Taxquena terminal. Tickets cost around 600 pesos (about $24 USD) for a roundtrip.
Taxco Guerrero Mexico Travel Guide
The return to Mexico City is from 6 am every 30 minutes to one hour and the last bus is 8 pm. From Acapulco to Taxco by ADO 280 pesos each way (14USD) 8.30am, 11.05am, 1.35 pm, 3.35 pm, 6.05 pm. Return - 5 am, 6am, 9.20 am, 13.20, 16.30, 18. Please keep in mind that the schedule and price can change without notice.
Taxco, Mexico
The cost is approximately 35 pesos per person for the 40-minute ride. Be forewarned, the roads are curvy, so if you get car sick, take some medicine ahead of time and sit towards the front. You can catch the colectivo to Pozas Azuls at the Coppel in Taxco. Admission: $100 MXN pesos per person or ½ price for children.
The Ultimate Guide to Taxco Guerrero de Alarcón: Mexico's Silver Capital
The driving distance between the two cities is around 180 km (112 miles), depending on the route taken. Travel time by car can vary based on traffic conditions, but generally, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to drive from Mexico City to Taxco. The most common route is via Highway 95D.
A Guide to Taxco: Mexico's Most Magical Pueblo Mágico?
One of Taxco's newer landmarks is the Cristo Rey statue, situated high above town. Built in the style of Brazil's Christ the Redeemer, the 18-meter-tall statue was completed in 2002 after eight months of work. Frankly speaking, the statue itself isn't anything special. The real reason to come, though, is for the views.
15 Top Things to do in Taxco: Mexico's Cutest Town
14. Go to Bar La Casa de los Radios (A Unique Thing to do in Taxco) Another great place to grab a drink is Bar La Casa de los Radios. It is a quirky bar and cafe in Taxco with a radio theme. The downstairs room of the bar is actually a little museum full of radios from a whole range of different time periods.
Taxco Guerrero, Mexico
Taxco Weather. The climate in Taxco is relatively mild. During the dry season (October through May) the temperatures dip to the low 40s (6°C) while daytime highs hover around 77°F (25°C). The exception is in April and May when they can reach the mid-80s (30°C).
Taxco Travel Guide and Blog: The Mexico Guru goes to Taxco
My travel companion and I often walked bent at the waist, head tilted toward our destination, legs driving piston-like up the decorative flagstone streets. To complement its earthy-Mediterranean-style glamour, Taxco's downtown streets are mosaics of flat black and white stones---as opposed to the ankle-twisting streets of rounded cobblestones ...
Taxco Mexico: Travel Guide and Tips for 2024 » Savoteur
02/25/2024. Mexico. Welcome to Taxco Mexico, a charming colonial town nestled in the hills of Guerrero state. Taxco is famous for its silver mining history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Mexican culture. Whether you're interested in exploring ...
Experience Taxco
Discover Taxco. Just over 100 miles (160 km) southwest of Mexico City is one of Mexico's most beloved colonial towns. Perched on a steeply sloping hillside 5,000 feet above sea level, Taxco ("tass-ko") was once a silver mining town, but with silver nearly exhausted, it is now best known for its silver craft. The American architect and ...
What To Do In Taxco, Mexico
So I went to Taxco, Mexico recently and wanted to share a couple of photos and tips. Taxco is about two and a half hours outside of Mexico City (in Guerrero state). ... Welcome to my travel blog. Follow @B_Kienapple. Hear about new posts first: First Name . Email Address . Get $20 credit on me! Click to get credit. New users only.
10 No FOMO Things to Do in Taxco: Mexico's Top Magic Town
2. Climb the Bell Tower of Templo de Santa Prisca . Viewable from anywhere in the city, the exquisitely decorated church, Temple de Santa Prisca, sits grandly in the center of the Zocalo.
Taxco, Mexico Travel Guide
Things to do. Taxco is a 500-year-old colonial town in the state of Guerrero. A hidden gem for international tourists, it is more than 5700 feet above sea level in the mountains. Once a prominent silver mining town, now it's known for silver craft, having exhausted its supply.
Taxco, Mexico
A hillside town in the Mexican State of Guerrero. It's known for the mining and craftsmanship of silver — many folks travel here to buy jewellery and other items made from the precious metal. Taxco is famous for its history as silver mining town. As mines no longer remained productive, mining gave way to tourism as the main economic activity.
Taxco travel
Taxco. Mexico, North America. The first sight of Taxco's (tahss-ko) white buildings scattered across the steep valley as you approach it is enough to take your breath away. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and cliffs, its perfectly preserved colonial architecture and the twin belfries of its baroque masterpiece, Templo de Santa Prisca, make for ...
Taxco Travel Blogs, Photos and Forum
Taxco Travel Blogs, Photos from TravelBlog.org. Background: The site of advanced Amerindian civilizations, Mexico came under Spanish rule for three centuries before achieving independence early in the 19th century.A devaluation of the peso in late 1994 threw Mexico into economic turmoil, triggering the worst recession in over half a century.

The Partying Traveler

The Complete Travel Guide to Taxco, Guerrero | Mexico

Table of Contents

Where To Stay in Taxco

Where To Eat and Drink in Taxco

More on Mexico

Amate Hostel

Hostal Casa Taxco

Things to do in Taxco de Alarcon, Guerrero

Teleferico (Taxco Cable Cars)

The Prehispanic Mines (Mina Prehispanico de Taxco)

Cristo de Taxco

Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

Mil Cascadas

Pozas Azules de Atzala

Historical Tour of the City

Holy Week in Taxco (Semana Santa)

Things To Know Before Visiting Taxco

Do You Need Spanish To Get By in Taxco?

Is Taxco Safe to Visit?

Buy Me A Beer!

My Complete Mexico Itinerary

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

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14 Things to do in Taxco: Mexico’s Most Beautiful Town

How to get to Taxco from Mexico City

Best Things to do in Taxco

Wander around the Zocalo

Take a Cable Car Ride

Discover the Prehistoric Mines of Taxco

Walk Around the Narrow Streets

Enjoy a Drink at a Rooftop Bar

Visit the Christ the Redeemer Statue

Attend a Festival or Event

Explore the Cacahuamilpa Caves

Try the Local Cuisine

Visit the Silver Markets

Cascada De Cacalotenango

Take a Day Trip to Iguala

Visit the Casa Borda Cultural Center

Where to Stay in Taxco?

Hotel Agua Escondida

Hotel Cielito Lindo

Things to do in Taxco Summary

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12 things to do in Taxco – Complete travel guide

Things to do in Taxco and places to visit

Visit religious edifices

Holy week’s celebration statues

Taxqueño Christ viewpoint

Pre-Hispanic Mine

William Spratling Museum

Museum of Religious Art

Ex-Hacienda El Chorrillo

Silver workshops

Things to do around Taxco

Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

Taxco Itinerary

What to eat in Taxco

Where to stay in Taxco

How to get to Taxco

Is Taxco safe?

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Where to Stay in Taxco

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