Compare Mexico City Stopover by Intrepid Travel vs The Best of Central Mexico: Magical Towns and Bustling Cities by Road Scholar

Day 1 Mexico City

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico City. Check in to your hotel, where a welcome pack will be waiting for you. This will include all the information you need for your Short Break Adventure. If you have free time today, why not venture into the streets and check out this incredible city. Modern meets ancient in Mexico City – one of the world's largest urban centres. Although crowded and smoggy, D.F. (Distrito Federal) offers a great variety of impressive museums, galleries and architecture, along with exciting night life and delicious street food. Why not head to the Zocalo – the city's huge central square – to see Aztec ruins and colonial architecture or relax in one of the many parks, plazas and gardens.

Day 2 Mexico City

Pick up the rest of your travel mates today and head out of town by public transport, experiencing how locals move about this crowded city. Hop off at the archaeological area of the Teotihuacan pyramids and explore the grounds. Visit the Moon Pyramid, the Calzada de los Muertos (Dead Pass), and the 63-m-high Sun Pyramid, the tallest and most spectacular in the area. Next, head to a nearby village and stop by a family-run business where you’ll learn about obsidian – the material that the Teotihuacan people use to make their tools, idols and decorations. You’ll also get to sip pulque (an ancient sacred drink), considered by some as the great-grandfather of tequila! After working up an appetite, be welcomed into a family home for a memorable lunch where you’ll be served authentic dishes bursting with local flavours and plenty of Mexican hospitality. After lunch, head back to Mexico City.

Day 3 Mexico City

Have breakfast this morning and then take some time to refresh and pack up, before checking out of your hotel. You can leave your luggage here this morning, before heading out on today’s final adventures. Your guide will pick you up from the hotel, at 10 am, for an epic journey of exploration through Mexico’s incredible capital. Let your expert guide bring 700 years of history back to life as you uncover little-known facts and hidden hotspots, from Aztecs to art, in one of the biggest cities in the Americas. Head into the heart of Mexico City – the Plaza de la Constitucion – and hear about the remains of an ancient city located under the modern metropolis. Visit iconic sites like the Templo Mayor and the Metropolitan Cathedral – the biggest cathedral on the continent – and see one of Diego Rivera's most famous murals at Museo Mural. Head to the fresh food stalls at Mercado San Juan and shop for snacks and souvenirs. Wander through the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) and when you’re finished, your guide will lead you back to your hotel, where your trip will come to an end.

Day 1 In Transit to Program, Bienvenidos a México Mexico City

Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.

After checking in to the hotel and getting your room assignment, confirm the location of the meeting room and time of our Orientation session with the front desk, then register with the Road Scholar program staff and get any updated information. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Take some time to freshen up and relax. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. This program is staffed with a knowledgeable Study Leader — who will also serve as our Group Leader — on field trips and other group activities, and who will give presentations about important aspects of Mexico’s history, culture, traditions, and economy during transfers. Transportation will be via private motorcoach unless noted otherwise. Travel times may be affected by traffic. Meals will feature local foods reflective of Mexico’s extensive culinary traditions. Vegetables are usually mixed with the main dish as in stews, inside tacos, in soups, etc. Water is available at all meals as well as a non-alcoholic beverage with other beverages usually available for purchase. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Our Study Leader will give us a presentation summarizing pre-Columbian events leading to the settlement of the Aztecs that will provide background for our upcoming field trips. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At the hotel.

Day 2 Orientation, The Zócalo, Chapultepec, Anthropology Museum Mexico City

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 10 miles, less than 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, standing up to 2 hours at a time during field trips; flight of stairs, city sidewalks, generally flat, uneven.

As the ancient center of the Aztec Empire and the first and most important of Spanish colonial marvels in the New World, Mexico City offers culture and history in a vibrant atmosphere. We will begin to explore this fascinating city. We will ride to the more visited section of Chapultepec Park. The origin of Chapultepec Park, one of the largest and most beautiful urban parks in the world, dates to the Aztecs who planted the first Ahuehuete trees — a few of which are still alive today — near a spring and built an aqueduct that was later destroyed by the Spanish. In addition to its wonderful variety of green spaces, the park contains nine museums, a zoo, an amusement park, lakes, and more. Chapultepec is an important social and cultural destination for local people as well as visitors. Among the many attractions, the park houses the world famous Anthropology Museum in which we will have an expert-led exploration.

On our way back to the hotel, we will drive along majestic Reforma Boulevard where every roundabout exhibits a monument. At the Alameda Park, we will continue with a walking excursion of the historical center. Enter the Diego Riviera Museum where the famed mural Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Park is exhibited. The mural was originally painted in 1947 in the historic Hotel del Prado; when the hotel was condemned for demolition after the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, the mural was moved to its own museum. Continue to the imposing Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Palace of Fine Arts, an emblematic Mexico City palace, then enter the eclectic Correo Mayor. Stroll along busy downtown streets lined by impressive colonial and neoclassical buildings which we will explore with our Study Leader arriving at the historical Zócalo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The large plaza is enclosed by the Cathedral, the National Palace and other majestic colonial buildings. We will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, constructed with stones from the main Aztec pyramid and view from atop the recently excavated Templo Mayor archeological site where the base of Tenochtitlan’s main pyramid has been unearthed. Free time to enjoy the ongoing lively activities on your own. Our hotel is located on the plaza.

At leisure.

On the scenic terrace at the hotel, we will have a buffet breakfast with additional choices of hot dishes served plated. The restaurant has a wonderful view of the Plaza de la Constitución, the Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and Government Palace.

We will have a traditional Mexican taco lunch in a taqueria. Wrap your own taco and add your favorite trimmings; a non-alcoholic drink is included, additional beverages available for purchase.

We will walk to a nearby Mexican restaurant for a traditional meal served plated; a non-alcoholic drink is included, other beverages available for purchase.

Day 3 Xochimilco Floating Gardens, Coyoacan, Frida Khalo Mexico City

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time. Getting in/out of a flatboat from a cement platform. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, standing up to 1 hour during field trips; flight of stairs, city sidewalks, generally flat, uneven.

We will board a motorcoach and ride to Xochimilco. The Aztec city of Tenochtitlán was located on a lake in which the Mexicas, as the Aztecs called themselves, traveled by canoes and cultivated the land using chinampas, wooden trellises set on the water. Today, a small portion of the lake and of the agricultural system still remains in Xochimilco, where colorful “trajineras” — small boats decorated with flowers — travel in the canals through the “floating gardens”. Boats with food and flower vendors and mariachis ride alongside visitors adding to the folkloric ambiance. We will hop aboard a “trajinera” and join in the fun while gaining a deeper understanding of the complex Aztec city. Together with México City itself, Xochimilco is part of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription, “With its network of canals and artificial islands, it testifies to the efforts of the Aztec people to build a habitat in the midst of an unfavorable environment. Its characteristic urban and rural structures, built since the 16th century and during the colonial period have been preserved in an exceptional manner.” Our field trip will then continue to Coyoacan, a beautiful and quaint colonial neighborhood of narrow streets, small plazas, and a Zócalo with cafés, museums, bookstores, and art centers. We will have some time for independent exploration to stroll along the quaint streets, enjoy the lively plaza, and choose a restaurant for lunch.

While in Coyoacan, we will visit Casa Azul, home of the famous artist Frida Kahlo and now a museum of her life and works. After a self-directed exploration, we will gather in the garden for additional information and Q&A with our Group Leader. We’ll then return to the hotel with time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. There are choices from a “fonda” — simple home-style restaurant — or a “taqueria” to delightful full-service Mexican restaurants.

At a restaurant facing the Templo Mayor.

Day 4 Transfer to Morelia, City Field Trip Morelia

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 190 miles, approximately 4 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day, standing up to 1 hour at a time during field trips; flight of stairs, city sidewalks, cobblestone streets, generally flat and uneven.

We will check out of the hotel, board our motorcoach, and leave México City behind with a view of ultra-modern skyscrapers in the Santa Fe neighborhood. As we cross forested mountains, look for the snow-covered tips of volcanos that form the Trans-Mexican Volcano Belt. During the ride, our Study Leader will present the fascinating history of the state of Michoacán, its indigenous Purépecha population, and the origin of its fine crafts. We expect to arrive in Morelia late morning. Capital of the state of Michoacán, it is known as the aristocrat of colonial cities. The historic center is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Characterized by outstanding urban planning, its wide avenues are lined with more than 200 majestic palaces, a prominent Cathedral, and stately plazas. Most of these were constructed with pinkish quarry stones, contributing to a formal, unified appearance. If early check-in is possible, we will check in to our centrally located hotel and have a moment to freshen up before lunch.

We will begin to explore the city during a walking field trip with our Study Leader. As we stroll along stately avenues, we will be able to admire the beauty of each palace, its architecture, and decoration. We will see the façade of the majestic Cathedral and enter the Government Palace displaying socially significant murals by Alfredo Zalce that our Study Leader will help us to interpret. At the Regional Museum, we will learn about colonial lifestyles. As we walk amid fountains, parks, and plazas, we will see one of the homes of José Maria Morelos, a hero of the War of Independence, who gave Morelia its name. Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the afternoon and evening are free.

At leisure. You might like to stroll in the main plaza to see the cathedral beautifully illuminated and mingle with local people at cafés under the arches.

At the hotel.

At a traditional restaurant under arches facing the Cathedral.

On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions from the many restaurant choices.

Day 5 Purépecha Villages & Towns Morelia

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 90 miles, approximately 2 hours. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, standing up to 1 hour at a time during field trips; flight of stairs, city sidewalks, cobblestone streets, generally flat and uneven with uphills.

The state of Michoacán — often called the “Soul of México” — is home to the indigenous Purépecha people. In pre-Hispanic times, they had developed a realm powerful enough to resist Aztec domination. The Spanish called them Tarascans. After the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs, the Tarascan kingdom eventually fell, too. Today, their population of more than 100,000 still cling to ancient traditions and contribute greatly to the richness of Michoacán’s crafts, considered some of the finest in México. We will board our motorcoach and out to villages around Lake Patzcuaro. As we ride, our Study Leader will tell us about Mexican culture and traditions. It looks as if time stood still in the small picturesque Purépecha village of Santa Fe de la Laguna, our first stop. We will see these reserved people trading their goods in the simple market of the town plaza. We’ll then visit the home of a potter who revived ancient pottery making techniques and have blue corn tortillas right off the grill in a traditional kitchen. In Tzintzuntzan, once the center of the Purépecha empire, we will explore the 16th Century Franciscan convent, then move on to Patzcuaro. Founded in the 1320s by the Purépecha, the small quaint town of Patzcuaro is a colonial gem of simple tile-roofed adobe homes painted in red and white, ancient churches, and somber convents that reveal its indigenous-colonial-Mestizo roots.

Purépechas proudly relish their traditions, including music and dancing. In the restaurant patio, we will delight In a private presentation by an indigenous folkloric group of their most noted dances and songs. Our Study Leader will then take us on a walking field trip through plazas, up and down cobblestone streets, and to the House of 11 Patios. We will also trace the history of the Purépechas, who were fierce foes of the Aztecs, in a mural painted by Juan O’ Gorman. Returning to the hotel in Morelia, we will have some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer tomorrow.

At the hotel.

At a rooftop restaurant in the center of Patzcuaro with a view of the city’s red-tiled roofs.

At the hotel.

Day 6 More Morelia, Transfer to Guanajuato, El Pipila Viewpoint Guanajuato

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 120 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time. Getting in/out of Sprinters (private vans). Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; slow walking and standing up to 1 hour during field trips; flight of stairs, city sidewalks, cobblestone streets, generally flat and uneven.

We will continue to explore Morelia with our Study Leader. The city boasts a magnificent aqueduct, one of the best preserved in the world. Built with the pinkish quarry stone, the 1-mile long aqueduct is supported by 253 arches. Near the aqueduct, we will enter the brightly decorated Santuario de Guadalupe, unforgettable with its brilliantly colored and decorated interior. We will also stroll to the small Calle del Romance (a romantic alley) and to the Fuente de las Tarascas, an emblematic Morelia fountain. We will then have some time for independent exploration or simply to relax before checking out of the hotel and regrouping for lunch. The Study Leader will also take those who are interested on an exploration of the Church of Santa Rosa de Lima whose adjacent convent is today one of Latin America’s most prestigious music conservatories.

Next, we will ride to the queen city of Mexican colonial jewels, Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our Study Leader will give us a presentation on the importance of mining in México as we ride. In the 18th Century, the discovery of some of the richest silver finds in history promoted the construction of this magnificent city. Nestled in the mountains, Guanajuato is notable for its charm as well as its very narrow, winding, often steep streets (callejones), stairways, small plazas (plazuelas), subterranean streets, and colorful buildings. Arriving at the outskirts of the city center, we will leave our bus and hop into Sprinters (private vans) because busses cannot enter the narrow streets. As we drive along the panoramic road, we stop at El Pipila Statue for the finest viewpoint in Guanajuato. There, the city lies in front of us on a steep hillside, colorful and imposing as if it were a painting. We’ll then we take a funicular to reach the hotel in a quiet niche in the pedestrian zone of the Jardín Union, the main plaza. After checking in, we will have time to freshen up and relax before dinner. You might also like to find a bench and take in the surroundings of the tree-shade plaza sided by the elaborate façade of Teatro Juarez.

At leisure. You might like to explore Guanajuato’s serpentine streets on your own or stay in the plaza where music and merriment is always present.

At the hotel.

At a small local restaurant.

At a restaurant on the plaza facing Teatro Juarez.

Day 7 Guanajuato Highlights, Free Time Guanajuato

Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, standing up to 1 hour at a time during field trips; flight of stairs, generally narrow sidewalks, uneven cobblestones, uphills, many steps.

We will set out with our Study Leader on a walking field trip to explore some of the city’s highlights. Bright, colorful homes and buildings line the streets, alleys, and plazas. The alleys can become so narrow that a popular legend tells of a couple kissing from their balconies. We will stop to admire the imposing white stone building of Guanajuato University fronted by a wide staircase with 133 steps — viewed from the bottom! The striking, deep yellow Guanajuato Basilica is one of the city’s most renowned architectural, historical, and ecclesiastical landmarks. Situated on a hilltop facing a larger plaza, it is prominent in the daytime and brightly lit at night. Construction began in 1671, sponsored by local silver miners, and was completed in 25 years. The main object of veneration inside is a jewel-laden image of Our Lady of Guanajuato. The story goes that this wooden statue of the Virgin and Child was carved by an unknown artist in Andalusia prior to the Moorish invasion of Spain, and was then guarded in a cave to hide it from the Moors — where it stayed for eight centuries! Eventually, the King of Spain gave it to the basilica as a token of thanks for all the wealth dug out of the silver mines and sent to the Spanish treasury. We will also trace the city’s turbulent history at the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a former granary that now contains a regional museum. In 1810, it was the site of the first battle in the Mexican War of Independence.

Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration. You might like to wander through the maze of alleys, plazas, and markets, or find a café to sip a beverage and observe the vibrant city life. Other possibilities include the home and museum of world famous artist Diego Rivera, the adjacent Modern Art Museum, and a museum dedicated to Cervantes. We will regroup with our Study Leader in the late afternoon at the stately entrance of Teatro Juarez, with its magnificent, neo-classical exterior that faces the central plaza. As we enter the theater, we will be able to appreciate its richly ornate, flamboyant decoration that follows the horseshoe design of most European opera houses.

One of Guanajuato’s most popular traditions is the “callejoneada” when groups of musicians in period dress sing, dance, and retell local legends (in Spanish) as they weave through cobbled streets, ancient and steep alleys, and plazas. Elective: Those with energy, stamina, and enthusiasm are welcome to follow the callejoneada. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions from the many small restaurants in the vicinity.

At a restaurant overlooking the plaza.

Day 8 Transfer to San Miguel Allende, Queretaro Queretaro

Getting in/out of vans; on/off a motorcoach. Driving about 90 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day, standing up to 1 hour at a time during field trips; narrow sidewalks, uneven cobblestones, generally flat and uneven, uphills, steps.

After checking out, we will take Sprinters to ride through the city center. Picturesque back sides of homes will be visible through the openings of the underground tunnels and narrow passageways. We will then board our motorcoach for the ride to Queretaro. As we go, our Study Leader will tell us more about the economic, social, and religious structure of the Spanish colonial period leading to the Mexican Independence. We will stop to visit the sites known as the Cradle of National Independence. In Atotonilco on September 16, 1810, Father Hidalgo — a priest who became “the father of México” — took a banner depicting the Virgin of Guadalupe as a symbol of the nascent insurgent army, then marched to the Church of Dolores where he gave the famous cry for freedom, now called the “Grito de Dolores,” that sparked the beginning of the War of Independence from Spain. September 16 is celebrated as México’s Independence Day. The Sanctuary of Atotonilco is known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas. It is part of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site that includes the picturesque town of San Miguel de Allende. From the UNESCO inscription: “San Miguel de Allende acted as a melting pot where Spaniards, Creoles and Amerindians exchanged cultural influences while the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco constitutes an exceptional example of the exchange between European and Latin American cultures…Its interior decoration, especially mural painting, makes the Sanctuary a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque.”

San Miguel Allende was named in honor of General Ignacio Allende, one of the fathers of Mexican Independence, who was born here. It gained international fame thanks to the establishment of Instituto Allende in the 1950s, attracting foreigners to its art and Spanish courses. We will take a walking field trip with our Study Leader to explore the town center and appreciate the variety of architectural styles represented in its buildings, especially La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel — the Parish of Saint Michael the Archangel — that can be seen from everywhere. Founded in the mid-1500s, it was rebuilt several times over the centuries. They appear ancient, but the soaring towers and neo-Gothic façade we see today are from the late 19th century. Brief free time to explore on your own. We’ll then move on to Querétaro. During the ride, our Study Leader will narrate the eventful years following the independence discussing Benito Juarez, the French Invasion, the Revolutionary War, and the eventual signing of México’s Constitution. Santiago de Querétaro is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription: “The old colonial town of Querétaro is unusual in having retained the geometric street plan of the Spanish conquerors side by side with the twisting alleys of the Indian quarters. The Otomi, the Tarasco, the Chichimeca and the Spanish lived together peacefully in the town, which is notable for the many ornate civil and religious Baroque monuments from its golden age in the 17th and 18th centuries.” Upon arrival, we will check in to an original 16th century former convent for our overnight stay.

At leisure. You are welcome to walk back to the hotel with our Study Leader or stay in the plaza to enjoy the nightlife, mingle with local people, and return to the hotel on your own.

At the hotel.

In a garden restaurant featuring Yucatan cuisine.

We will walk to a restaurant on the main plaza.

Day 9 Exploring Querétaro, Aqueduct Queretaro

Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, slow walking and standing up to 2 hours during field trips; flight of stairs, cobblestones, generally flat and uneven.

Away from the flow of tourism, Santiago de Querétaro’s dynamic historical center pleasantly surprises visitors. A monumental aqueduct highlights rich colonial monuments, charming walking streets, and lively plazas. We will take a walking field trip with our Group Leader through the most notable elements of the historical center and admire the Baroque and neo-classical architecture. We will also learn how Querétaro has played a significant role throughout Mexican history from its founding in 1531 to the plotting of the Independence, the execution of Maximilian of Austria, the writing of the Mexican constitution, and the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe. Near the hotel, we will enter Santa Cruz Temple that houses the Quarry Cross related to an Otomi legend. An expert-led visit of the adjacent Franciscan monastery will immerse us in the life of the monks and the many events which took place in this 16th-century historical site including the Emperor Maximilian’s prison cell. We walk to the main plaza along charming colonial streets and enter the courtyard of the Government Palace, once known as the Casa de la Corregidora. This was once the home of Josefa Ortíz de Dominguez, a heroine of the Mexican independence movement declared a Benemérita del Estado. We will walk past Queretaro’s Cathedral, the Temple of San Felipe Neri, and enter Queretaro’s Art Museum located in the former monastery of San Augustin, founded in 1728, to see what is considered one of the most magnificent courtyards in Latin America. Boarding our motorcoach, we will continue the field trip and ride to Santa Rosa de Viterbo Church to admire the stunning unique exterior and the contrasting Baroque Neo-classical interior. Queretaro’s magnificent aqueduct, a symbol of the city, boasts 75 arches reaching a height of nearly 100 feet. We’ll drive along the length of the aqueduct with a stop for photos, then return to the city center.

Elective. The Otomi Indigenous people of Queretaro are responsible for the creation of the colorful Mexican rag dolls with ribbon-decked hair. Our Study Leader will take those interested to a local Otomi Indian craft center where the women will take us through the steps of making our own rag dolls. This relaxing fun activity offers an opportunity to interact with and get to know the lifestyle of these indigenous people who come to the city from remote villages in the surrounding mountains. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are free to explore independently or rest and relax. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and early transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

At Casa de la Marquesa, once the sumptuously decorated Baroque mansion of a duchess, now a boutique hotel.

On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions from the numerous restaurants in the plazas and pedestrian zones in walking distance of the hotel.

Day 10 Transfer to Puebla, Teotihuacan Complex Puebla

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 230 miles, approximately 5 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, standing up to 2 hours during field trip; gravel paths, cobblestones, generally flat and uneven, high and uneven stone steps.

We will check out of the hotel early and board our motorcoach for the transfer to Puebla, México’s fourth-largest city, important for its rich history, culture, and economy. Our ride will cross agricultural fields nicely divided by stone walls and rolling hills that encircle México City. As we go, our Study Leader will give us a presentation on pre-Columbian cultures. En route, we will stop for a field trip at Teotihuacan, one of México’s most noted archeological sites, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription: “The holy city of Teotihuacan (‘the place where the gods were created’) is situated some 50 km north-east of México City. Built between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D., it is characterized by the vast size of its monuments — in particular, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, laid out on geometric and symbolic principles. As one of the most powerful cultural centers in Mesoamerica, Teotihuacan extended its cultural and artistic influence throughout the region, and even beyond.” Known as the City of the Gods, Teotihuacan was the home of an important culture that influenced succeeding Mesoamerican civilizations and a population greater than Rome from the 1st century BCE to the 5th century CE. We will explore the site with our Study Leader, walk along the Avenue of the Dead, and enter some of its palaces. Elective. Those who like to climb the famous Temple to the Sun (approximately 200 feet high) and the slightly smaller Temple to the Moon, are welcome to do so. Both are reached by steep flights of many stone steps.

Continuing our journey, the Study Leader will tell us about México’s renowned cuisine as well as completing the chronicle of Mexican history to conclude with present day México. Arriving in Puebla, we will stop at the monumental fountain of the fort area where the Battle of Puebla was fought on Cinco de Mayo: May 5, 1862. The outnumbered Mexicans, led by General Zaragoza, outfought the superior French force, providing a moral victory in the larger war against foreign intervention. We will then check in to our hotel with some time to freshen up before our next field trip. Puebla — originally Ciudad de los Ángeles, city of the Angels — was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wealth of historical and cultural riches, especially architecture. With our Study Leader, we will explore this urban treasury and some of its outstanding sites on foot and by motorcoach. Its gems of Spanish-colonial buildings include more than 360 churches, palaces, a historic library, and private houses, many of which are decorated with colorful “azulejos” — Talavera-style ceramic tiles. At the Church of Santo Domingo, much of the baroque ornamentation in the world famous Capilla del Rosario — Chapel of the Rosary located inside the church— is lavishly covered with gold leaf. The Biblioteca Palafoxiana, founded in 1646, was the first public library in the Americas and has been listed in UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” register. We’ll then arrive at the monumental cathedral. Begun in 1575 and completed in 1649, it is the second-largest in México; its twin bell towers are the tallest in the country.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a restaurant near the Teotihuacan archeological site.

At a rooftop restaurant facing the cathedral, magnificently lit at night.

Day 11 Exploring Puebla Puebla

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 18 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, slow walking and standing up to 1.5 hour during field trips; flight of stairs, cobblestones, generally flat and uneven.

We’ll board the motorcoach and ride to explore highlights away from the city center in the direction of San Andrés Cholula, where we visit two delightful churches and a charming small town plaza. Covered in colorful tiles, San Francisco Acatepec’s façade shines. The beautiful church of Tonantzintla, on the other hand, is noted for its exceptional interior where nearly every inch of plaster molding is decorated in an “indigenous baroque” style with colored images of flowers and fruits, human and animal faces and figures with indigenous headdresses, as well as abstract designs reflecting the mix of pre-Hispanic and Christian worlds. We will then move on to the Museo Internacional del Barroco, inaugurated in 2016. The sleek, avant-garde exterior design contrasts dramatically with the Baroque art inside. In a docent -led exploration of the museum amid paintings and interactive displays, we will gain an in-depth knowledge of the many aspects of Baroque and the important role played by México in general and Puebla specifically for its development. We’ll return to the city center for lunch.

We’ll continue our exploration with a walking field trip in the city center. One of the distinctive highlights is the façade of the 18th century, Churrigueresque baroque style Casa del Alfeñique. The name refers to its elaborate stucco ornamentation considered similar in appearance to the meringue candy of the same name. In contrast, the façade of Casa de los Muñecos (House of the Dolls) is decorated with fanciful, Talavera-tiled images. Our field trip will end at the craft market and a ceramic factory where the internationally famous Talavera tile is produced. A small museum explains its history and process. We will explore the factory itself, where every step of the process is elaborated by hand. The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore independently or return to the hotel.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

At a popular Puebla restaurant, we will have a traditional meal featuring mole (pronounced “MOH-leh”), the rich, smooth sauce that originated in Puebla.

On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 12 Transfer to Oaxaca, Zócalo, Cooking Class Oaxaca

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 210 miles, approximately 4.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day, slow walking and standing up to 1.5 hours during field trip; flight of stairs, cobblestones, generally flat and uneven.

After checking out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach and ride out of Puebla. We’ll cross a mountainous area with changes in altitudes and ecosystems: pines forests, tall cacti, dry desert. Volcanos can be sighted. Our Study Leader will give us a presentation on the “magical” cities and protected areas that preserve México’s rich cultural heritage. We expect to reach Oaxaca, one of México’s most captivating cities, by midday. The Centro Histórico of Oaxaca is another UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. It is the home of complex indigenous cultures, magnificent baroque colonial buildings and churches, delicious mestizo cuisine, excellent crafts, traditional celebrations, bustling markets, archeological sites, and the birthplace of Benito Juarez, a national hero and a beloved president of México. Upon arrival, we will have lunch at the hotel. Luggage will be stored until rooms are available for check-in.

We’ll set out with our Study Leader on a walking field trip to get acquainted with Oaxaca and get ready for our cooking class. Close to the hotel is the magnificent Santo Domingo Church and plaza. A pedestrian street connects it to the spacious and lively Zócalo dominated by the baroque Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción — Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. We will meet the chef at the market to gather some ingredients. Among the many local specialties sold in the market, heaps of fried grasshoppers create a memorable sight! We’ll also stop at a chocolate factory to see the process of making Mexican chocolate, then on to cook. The motorcoach will take us from the market to a private home in a residential neighborhood where we are greeted by the lady of the house and family members. Wearing colorful aprons we’ll get ready to work. Mole, salsas, guacamole, tortillas will be part of the gastronomic experience.

Returning to the hotel by motorcoach, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.

At the hotel.

In the beautiful hotel garden.

At the cooking class, we will enjoy the meal we helped to prepare.

Day 13 Monte Alban, Santo Domingo, Free Time, Alebrijes Elective Oaxaca

Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 12 miles, less than 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; slow walking and standing up to 2 hours during field trips; flight of stairs, cobblestones, generally flat and uneven; high stone steps.

We will board the motorcoach with our Study Leader for a field trip to Monte Alban, the social-political-economic center of the Zapotec civilization from 500 BCE to 800 CE, one of the earliest and most important of Mesoamerica. Situated on a mountain top with grand vistas of the Oaxaca Valley, this vast and impressive archeological site is part of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Among the many objects discovered during excavations are elaborate, splendidly made pieces of gold jewelry and other fine objects found in famed Tomb #7. Also of particular interest in Monte Alban are “los danzantes” — the dancers — a series of more than 300 rock carvings depicting figures in playful positions. Returning to Oaxaca, we will enter the Santo Domingo Cultural Center. The monastery, founded by the Dominicans in the 16th Century, is currently a museum where the jewels of Tomb #7 of Monte Alban, considered one of the most important findings in Mesoamerica, are exhibited.

Free time. Take this opportunity to see and do what interests you most. You might like to see Santo Domingo Temple, the most ornate of Oaxaca’s churches, stroll through the galleries, visit a museum, or just relax at the hotel. Elective. Alebrijes are brightly painted wood carvings of imaginative figures, often fantastical, that originated in Oaxaca and have become world renowned. We will gather at the hotel with our Study Leader in the late afternoon and walk to a studio displaying finely crafted Alebrijes and participate in a workshop, trying our skills at painting one of our own! We’ll then walk to the Zocalo where traditional music groups encourage locals to dance to their favorite rhythms.

At leisure. You are welcome to stay on in the plaza and mingle with local people or return to the hotel.

At the hotel.

On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions from the numerous restaurants in the plazas and pedestrian zones in walking distance from the hotel.

At a restaurant facing the plaza.

Day 14 Tule, Teotitlan del Valle, Mezcal Tlacochahuaya, Guelaguetza Oaxaca

Getting on/off a motorcoach. Driving about 20 miles (30 km), approximately 1 hour. Walking up to 1.5 miles (2.5 km) during the day; slow walking and standing up to 1hour during field trips; cobblestones, generally flat and uneven.

We will board a motorcoach with our Study Leader for an all morning visit of the Oaxaca Valley making several stops. Santa Maria del Tule houses the famed 2,000 years old Moctezuma cypress. With a 46-foot (14 m) diameter and a 190-foot (60 m) circumference, it is said to be the widest tree in the world. In Teotitlan del Valle, a small village dedicated to the production of hand-woven rugs, we will see weavers at work. Enter the home and workshop of a family devoted to carding, spinning and dying the wool with natural dyes that is then woven on frame looms to produce high quality rugs representing pre-Columbian designs, famous paintings, or original patterns. In the adjacent village of Tlacochahuaya, we will visit the interesting church decorated in “indigenous Baroque” style. Visit a mezcaleria to taste Mezcal, an indigenous agave-based alcoholic beverage originally from Oaxaca. Relax and enjoy as we learn. While Tequila is technically a kind of mescal, it is produced only from blue agave in five specific regions. On the other hand, Mezcal can be made from a variety of agaves growing in widespread regions. The production process of each beverage is quite different. On the return drive to Oaxaca, we will stop for lunch in a country type restaurant specializing on grilled meats.

Returning to the hotel, we’ll have some “down” time before our farewell events. The Guelaguetza in Oaxaca is one of México’s most cherished cultural events. It takes place in all its fullness every July. In the comfort of the hotel, we will have a private presentation of the event, a small sample of the traditional costumes and the lovely dances, accompanied by a commentary on the traditions of each region represented.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

At the hotel.

At a country restaurant.

At the hotel. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Day 15 Program Concludes, In Transit From Program Oaxaca

Hotel check-out 12:00 Noon. See your program travel details regarding transfers. If you are returning home, keep passports on hand. Personal travel permits must be returned upon leaving México; the airline will collect them during check-in.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

At the hotel (depending on departure times). This concludes our program.