Best Places to Visit in Taxco, Mexico
Taxco, known as the “Silver City,” is a picturesque colonial town nestled in the mountains of Guerrero, Mexico. Famous for its silver mines and exquisite silver craftsmanship, Taxco offers visitors a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. The town’s steep, winding streets, whitewashed buildings with red-tiled roofs, and vibrant markets make it a captivating destination for travelers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Taxco, Mexico:
Best Places to Visit
1. Santa Prisca de Taxco
The Santa Prisca Church, or Templo de Santa Prisca, is an iconic landmark and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico. Built in the 18th century, the church features a beautifully ornate façade, twin bell towers, and an interior adorned with intricate gold leaf altarpieces and frescoes. Located in the heart of Taxco, the church stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and wealth from silver mining.
- Key Attractions: Baroque architecture, gold leaf altarpieces.
- Activities: Sightseeing, photography, attending services.
- Location: Central Taxco.
2. Zócalo (Plaza Borda)
The Zócalo, also known as Plaza Borda, is the main square and social hub of Taxco. Surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and silver shops, the plaza is an excellent place to relax and soak in the town’s atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, browse for handcrafted silver jewelry, and watch street performers. The Zócalo is a lively spot that offers a glimpse into the daily life and culture of Taxco.
- Key Attractions: Historic buildings, vibrant atmosphere.
- Activities: Shopping, dining, people-watching.
- Location: Central Taxco.
3. Teleférico de Taxco (Taxco Cable Car)
The Teleférico de Taxco provides a unique way to experience the town’s stunning scenery. The cable car ride takes visitors from the Montetaxco Hotel up to a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Taxco’s whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and surrounding mountains. The ride is especially beautiful at sunset, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.
- Key Attractions: Panoramic views, scenic ride.
- Activities: Photography, sightseeing.
- Location: Montetaxco Hotel to hilltop.
4. Casa Borda
Casa Borda, once the residence of the prominent mining magnate José de la Borda, is a historical building that now serves as a cultural center. The mansion’s colonial architecture and beautiful courtyard provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former owner. Today, Casa Borda hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it an important cultural hub in Taxco.
- Key Attractions: Colonial architecture, cultural exhibitions.
- Activities: Exploring, attending events.
- Location: Central Taxco.
5. Mercado de Plata (Silver Market)
Taxco is renowned for its silver craftsmanship, and the Mercado de Plata is the best place to purchase high-quality silver jewelry and crafts. The market features a wide range of silver items, from intricate jewelry to decorative pieces. Visitors can interact with local artisans, learn about the traditional silver-making process, and find unique souvenirs to take home.
- Key Attractions: Silver jewelry, local craftsmanship.
- Activities: Shopping, learning about silver-making.
- Location: Central Taxco.
6. Casa Humboldt
Casa Humboldt is a museum named after the German explorer Alexander von Humboldt, who visited Taxco in the early 19th century. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building and features exhibits on the history and culture of Taxco, including pre-Hispanic artifacts, colonial-era items, and religious art. Casa Humboldt offers a fascinating insight into the town’s past and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Historical exhibits, colonial architecture.
- Activities: Museum exploration, cultural learning.
- Location: Central Taxco.
7. Cristo Monumental
The Cristo Monumental is a large statue of Christ located atop Cerro del Atache, offering breathtaking views of Taxco and the surrounding landscape. The statue is reminiscent of the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro and is a popular site for both pilgrims and tourists. Visitors can hike up to the statue or take a taxi, and enjoy the panoramic views, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
- Key Attractions: Panoramic views, religious monument.
- Activities: Hiking, photography.
- Location: Cerro del Atache, Taxco.
8. Mina Prehispánica de Taxco
The Mina Prehispánica de Taxco is an ancient silver mine that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the underground tunnels and learn about the traditional mining techniques used by indigenous people. The tour includes a visit to a small museum displaying mining tools and artifacts, providing an educational experience about Taxco’s mining heritage.
- Key Attractions: Ancient mine, historical artifacts.
- Activities: Guided tours, historical exploration.
- Location: Near Taxco.
9. Ex-convento de San Bernardino
The Ex-convento de San Bernardino is a former Franciscan monastery that dates back to the 16th century. The convent is known for its beautiful architecture, including a large courtyard and a stunning church. Today, the site serves as a cultural center, hosting art exhibitions, concerts, and other events. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and learn about the convent’s history.
- Key Attractions: Historic architecture, cultural events.
- Activities: Exploring, attending events.
- Location: Central Taxco.
10. Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa
The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park, located about 30 kilometers from Taxco, is home to one of the largest cave systems in the world. The park offers guided tours through its extensive network of caves, showcasing impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. The park also provides opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and rappelling, making it a great destination for adventure enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Extensive cave system, natural formations.
- Activities: Cave exploration, hiking, adventure sports.
- Location: Near Taxco.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Prisca de Taxco | Iconic Baroque church | Ornate façade, gold leaf altarpieces | Central Taxco |
| Zócalo (Plaza Borda) | Main square with historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere | Shopping, dining, people-watching | Central Taxco |
| Teleférico de Taxco | Cable car offering panoramic views | Scenic views, unique experience | Montetaxco to hilltop |
| Casa Borda | Historic building and cultural center | Art exhibitions, colonial architecture | Central Taxco |
| Mercado de Plata | Market specializing in silver jewelry and crafts | Silver jewelry, local craftsmanship | Central Taxco |
| Casa Humboldt | Museum with historical exhibits | Pre-Hispanic artifacts, colonial items | Central Taxco |
| Cristo Monumental | Large statue of Christ with stunning views | Panoramic views, religious monument | Cerro del Atache |
| Mina Prehispánica de Taxco | Ancient mine with guided tours | Underground tunnels, mining history | Near Taxco |
| Ex-convento de San Bernardino | Former Franciscan monastery | Historic architecture, cultural events | Central Taxco |
| Grutas de Cacahuamilpa | National park with extensive cave system | Cave exploration, natural formations | 30 km from Taxco |
How to Reach Taxco
By Bus
Taxco is well-connected by bus from major cities like Mexico City, Cuernavaca, and Acapulco. Several bus companies offer daily services, making it an accessible destination for travelers.
By Car
Taxco can be reached by car via well-maintained highways. The drive from Mexico City takes approximately 2-3 hours, while the journey from Cuernavaca takes about 1.5 hours. Parking is available in various locations around the town.
By Plane
The nearest major airports to Taxco are Mexico City International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez) and General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport in Acapulco. From these airports, visitors can take a bus or rent a car to reach Taxco.
Best Time to Visit Taxco
The best time to visit Taxco is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is mild and pleasant. This period is ideal for exploring the town’s attractions and outdoor activities. The summer months (June to September) can be hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. Taxco is also known for its Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, which are a significant cultural event and draw many visitors.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Taxco offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including pozole, tamales, and tacos. Be sure to try the local specialty, mole, a rich sauce made with chocolate and spices.
- Cultural Insights: Taxco has a rich history and a strong tradition of silver craftsmanship
. Visitors can learn about the town’s cultural heritage by exploring its museums, historic sites, and local workshops.
- Safety Tips: Taxco is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, avoid carrying large sums of money, and be cautious when exploring less crowded areas. Stick to well-lit and busy places, particularly around tourist attractions.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Santa Prisca de Taxco and explore the surrounding Zócalo. Enjoy breakfast at a local café and shop for silver jewelry at the Mercado de Plata.
- Afternoon: Take the Teleférico de Taxco for panoramic views of the town. Visit Casa Humboldt and Casa Borda to learn about the town’s history and culture. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
- Evening: Head to Cristo Monumental for a stunning sunset view. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant and explore the vibrant atmosphere of the Zócalo.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a guided tour of the Mina Prehispánica de Taxco and explore the underground tunnels. In the afternoon, visit the Ex-convento de San Bernardino and relax in its peaceful surroundings. Spend the evening exploring the shops and restaurants around the Zócalo.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park and explore the impressive cave system. Return to Taxco in the afternoon and visit the Mercado de Plata for some last-minute shopping. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Teleférico de Taxco for one last view of the town.
Taxco’s charming streets, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination in Mexico. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, shopping for exquisite silver jewelry, or enjoying the scenic views, Taxco offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
