Mexico

Colonial Cities, Food and Culture

Mexico at its most colourful, characterful and full of life

A 15-day small-group journey through the colonial cities, traditional towns and cultural heartlands of central Mexico.

Beginning in Guadalajara, we travel through tequila country to Pátzcuaro and the artisan villages of the Lake Pátzcuaro region, before continuing to elegant Morelia, colourful Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende and Mexico City.

Along the way, we will experience lively markets, regional food, traditional crafts, music and distinctive local communities. The journey combines Mexico’s major highlights with artisan visits, food experiences, tastings, local neighbourhoods and time to enjoy the character of each place.

At a Glance

Duration: 15 days / 14 nights

Transport:
Private comfortable air-conditioned vehicle throughout, with airport transfers and local transport as outlined in the itinerary.

Accommodation:
Comfortable handpicked hotels, chosen for their location and character.

Activity level:
Moderate walking is required, including cobbled streets, uneven surfaces and some hills and steps. A reasonable level of mobility is needed.

Meals:
Selected meals are included, including most breakfasts, a walking food tour and a farewell dinner.

Itinerary

Beginning in Guadalajara, this journey travels east through tequila country to Pátzcuaro and the artisan villages of the Lake Pátzcuaro region, before continuing to elegant Morelia, colourful Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende. We finish with two nights in Mexico City, including time around the Zócalo and a guided visit to Teotihuacán.

The route combines colonial cities, smaller traditional towns, regional food, local markets, artisan visits and cultural experiences, with enough time in each place to enjoy its atmosphere without rushing.

Arrive in Guadalajara and settle into our centrally located hotel.

Mexico’s second-largest city is known as the home of mariachi music and one of the gateways to tequila country. We will explore its historic centre, plazas, markets and local neighbourhoods, with time to experience the city’s food, music and lively street atmosphere.

We will also visit Tlaquepaque, known for its artisan workshops, galleries, colourful streets and traditional restaurants.

A full-day excursion takes us through the blue agave landscape to the town of Tequila. Visit a working distillery, learn how tequila is produced and enjoy a guided tasting, with time to explore the town and enjoy a local lunch.
Travel east to Pátzcuaro, a smaller and more atmospheric town of whitewashed buildings, tiled roofs, lively markets and broad plazas.

Our time here will focus on the culture and traditions of the Lake Pátzcuaro region. We will visit local markets and nearby villages known for pottery, woodwork, textiles and other traditional crafts, with opportunities to meet artisans and see their work being made.

We will also visit Tzintzuntzan, the former centre of the Purépecha Empire, with its archaeological site and artisan community. Time around the lake will give us a glimpse of village life and the distinctive cultural identity of the region.
Continue to Morelia, an elegant colonial city known for its warm pink-stone architecture, arcaded streets and handsome plazas.

After arriving, we will explore the historic centre and enjoy the evening atmosphere around the cathedral and main square. Morelia is also known for its regional cuisine, cafés and traditional sweets.
Travel to Guanajuato, one of Mexico’s most colourful and dramatically situated colonial cities.

Built across steep hills and narrow valleys, Guanajuato is known for its brightly painted houses, winding lanes, underground roads and lively plazas.

We will explore the historic centre and local neighbourhoods, with time to enjoy the city’s markets, cafés and evening atmosphere.

Our stay will also include an excursion into the surrounding region, with visits to Dolores Hidalgo and a local winery.
Continue to San Miguel de Allende, known for its warm-coloured buildings, cobbled streets, galleries, markets and thriving artisan community.

We will explore the historic centre, local markets and quieter neighbourhoods while learning about the city’s history and creative traditions.

Our stay will include varied local experiences, such as an artisan visit and a walking food tour, with time to enjoy the galleries, cafés and atmosphere of San Miguel.

There will also be an optional visit to the nearby La Gruta thermal springs.
Travel to Mexico City for the final two nights of our journey.

After arriving, we will explore the Zócalo and the heart of the historic centre, including the main square, cathedral and surrounding streets.
The following morning, we travel to Teotihuacán, one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites. With a local guide, we will explore the Avenue of the Dead and see the great Pyramids of the Sun and Moon before returning to Mexico City.

Our final evening will include a farewell dinner together.

Accommodation
14 nights in comfortable handpicked hotels, chosen for their location and character.

Transport
Private comfortable air-conditioned vehicle throughout, including airport transfers and local transport as outlined in the itinerary.

Activities and sightseeing
Guided sightseeing and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary, including the tequila-country excursion and tasting, artisan and market visits, local cultural experiences, regional excursions and Teotihuacán.

Meals
Most breakfasts, selected meals, the San Miguel walking food tour and a farewell dinner.

Tour leadership
Personally accompanied by a Grassroots Adventures tour leader, with experienced local guides in key destinations.
International Flights
International flights to and from Mexico are not included.
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not specifically included
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Optional activities,
- Tips for local guides and drivers
- Any visa or entry requirements