Chimalhuacan is a small city located slightly east of Mexico City, giving you convenient access to Mexico’s biggest sights without being surrounding by overwhelming crowds. The city is also home to notable cultural attractions and is encircled by mountainous national parks popular among adventurous travellers.

Things to do

Mexico’s enthralling culture is on full display at the Bicentennial Cultural Centre Mexiquense. Here you can watch live performances in concert rooms and open-air theatres, attend art workshops and visit an informative museum on space. You’ll find yourself naturally drawn to the 50-metre-tall red sculpture Chimalli Guerrero, which also houses a museum on the construction process.

Are you fascinated by archaeological findings? Visit Chimalhuacan’s very own archaeological site where one of the few late Postclassical-era palaces in Mexico has been unearthed. It covers about one hectare and includes a three-platform pyramid and stone serpent. Make sure you visit the on-site museum to see exhibits on ancient fauna and other interesting discoveries.

If you love traditional Mexican cuisine, you won’t need to search far for your next meal in Chimalhuacan. The city is full of local restaurants and eateries serving classic fares, such as arroz a la tumbada (rice and seafood) and cochinitapibil (slow-roasted pork).

Planning to make a day trip? You’re only 50 minutes from Mexico City, where you can visit the sprawling Chapultepec, a 686-hectare park with historic monuments, a zoo with over 2,000 animals and Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology. If adventure is more your style, take the overnight journey to Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park’s two volcanoes, which provide challenging, yet rewarding hikes.

Getting around

It’s possible to walk around Chimalhuacan, but be prepared for lengthy treks between attractions. Alternatively, you can use the local taxis. If you’re flying into Mexico City beforehand, pick up a hire car from Mexico City International Airport for more convenience and freedom.