Tlalpan Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Tlalpan, Mexico City with our comprehensive tour guide, including must-visit attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Tlalpan

Tlalpan is a charming neighborhood located in the southern part of Mexico City, Mexico. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and impressive outdoor adventures. The area is home to a variety of museums and historical sites, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, and a thriving food and drink scene. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a relaxing getaway, Tlalpan offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Tlalpan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) - This museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including pottery, sculpture, and murals.
  • Ex-Convento de San Juan Bautista - Built in the 16th century, this Baroque-style convent is now a museum that showcases the life and work of the renowned Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo.
  • Casa de la Cultura Tlalpan - This cultural center is a hub for performances, exhibits, and workshops, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Tlalpan.

Natural Attractions of Tlalpan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fuentes Brotantes de Tlalpan - This natural spring is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, with beautiful scenery and a waterfall.
  • Ajusco National Park - This park offers stunning views of Mexico City and the surrounding mountains, with hiking trails, camping areas, and picnic spots.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tlalpan

  • Pista Ecologica - A 17 km bike path along the former path of a railway line, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Parque Ecologico Loreto y Peña Pobre - This park features several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, with stunning views of the city and natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Tlalpan: Activities and Tours

  • Visit Mercado de Tlalpan - A vibrant marketplace filled with local vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Take a Cooking Class - Learn how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes like tamales, chiles rellenos and salsas.
  • Join a City Tour - Discover Tlalpan’s rich history and culture through a guided tour of the neighborhood’s most important landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tlalpan

Day Activity
1 Visit Casa de la Cultura Tlalpan
2 Explore Museo Frida Kahlo
3 Hike and picnic at Fuentes Brotantes de Tlalpan
4 Take a cooking class and visit Mercado de Tlalpan
5 Excursion to Ajusco National Park
6 Join a city tour and visit INAH
7 Relax and unwind at a local spa or enjoy a night out in Tlalpan

Food and Drink Scene of Tlalpan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chiles en Nogada - A seasonal dish made with stuffed chilies, covered in walnut sauce and topped with pomegranate seeds.
  • Tamales - A traditional Mexican dish made with masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, and vegetables.
  • Pozole - A hearty soup made with hominy, pork, and spices, often served with garnishes like lime, radishes, and cabbage.

Local Beverages

  • Pulque - A traditional Mexican drink made from fermented agave sap that has a slightly sour taste and low alcohol content.
  • Tequila - One of Mexico’s most famous exports, tequila is made by distilling the fermented juice of the agave plant.
  • Mezcal - A lesser-known cousin of tequila, Mezcal is a smoky spirit made from the agave plant and is often sipped from a gourd or horn.

Where to Stay in Tlalpan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Stara Hamburgo - A boutique hotel in the heart of Tlalpan with luxurious amenities and impeccable service.
  • Hostal Buena Vida - A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, located near popular attractions and dining options.
  • Casa Moctezuma Guesthouse - A charming guesthouse with spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, and a relaxing atmosphere.

What to Buy in Tlalpan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts - Visit Mercado de Tlalpan for traditional crafts like hand-carved wooden boxes, embroidered textiles, and pottery.
  • Mexican Chocolate - Take home some locally made chocolate and enjoy the rich, flavorful taste of this Mexican specialty.
  • Tequila and Mezcal - Bring home a bottle of tequila or mezcal and enjoy a taste of Mexico whenever you like.

Local Culture and Customs of Tlalpan

  • Dia de los Muertos - A traditional Mexican holiday that celebrates and honors loved ones who have passed away, typically celebrated on November 1st and 2nd.
  • Fiestas Patrias - Mexico’s Independence Day is celebrated on September 16th with parades, fireworks, and traditional food.
  • Religious Celebrations - Tlalpan is home to many beautiful churches, and religious celebrations like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Las Posadas (Christmas) are often marked with processions and festivities.

Best Time to Visit Tlalpan

The best time to visit Tlalpan is between March and May when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Avoid the rainy season, which usually lasts from June to September, and the high season, which is from December to January.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tlalpan

Do:

  • Do try the local food and drinks, including Tamales, Mezcal, and Pulque.
  • Do learn some Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals.
  • Do take advantage of the area’s outdoor activities, like hiking and biking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water. Always drink bottled water.
  • Don’t walk alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
  • Don’t forget to carry cash for smaller shops and vendors that may not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tlalpan

Tlalpan is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, it’s best to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.

Health in Tlalpan

Make sure to drink bottled water and avoid uncooked fruits and vegetables to prevent digestive issues. Tlalpan has several pharmacies and clinics if you need basic medical care. If you’re planning on hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities, make sure to wear appropriate clothing and protect yourself from sunburn.

Getting to Tlalpan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tlalpan

The closest airport to Tlalpan is Mexico City International Airport (MEX), which is approximately 30 minutes by car or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Tlalpan

Tlalpan has several bus stations that offer transportation to other parts of Mexico City and neighboring regions. The most popular stations are Taxqueña and Tasqueña.

Other Options

You can also take a taxi or use rideshare services like Uber or Cabify to get around Tlalpan and explore the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Tlalpan

The best way to get around Tlalpan is by taxi or public transportation. Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable, and the city’s Metrobus system is an excellent way to navigate the area and beyond. You can also rent a bike or scooter to explore Tlalpan on your own.

Where to Go Next from Tlalpan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Xochimilco - A UNESCO World Heritage Site with floating gardens and colorful boats that ply the canals.
  • Coyoacan - A charming neighborhood with a rich artistic and cultural history, known for its cobblestone streets, beautiful plazas, and museums.
  • Teotihuacan - One of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites, known for its pyramids and ancient ruins.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or just a relaxing getaway, Tlalpan has something to offer. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its stunning natural beauty and impressive outdoor adventures, Tlalpan is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming neighborhood.

Tlalpan City Hall Tlalpan City Hall Casa Chata in Centro Historico Casa Chata in Centro Historico