Cuernavaca Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Cuernavaca with this comprehensive guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and more.


Introduction to Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” is a picturesque colonial town located in the state of Morelos, in Central Mexico. With its year-round warm weather, lush vegetation, rich cultural history, and stunning architecture, Cuernavaca has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and immersive experience. The city is conveniently located just 1.5 hours away from Mexico City, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca offers a variety of attractions for travelers of all ages and interests. From culturally significant landmarks to outdoor adventures, here is a list of places to visit in Cuernavaca:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palacio de Cortés: Built in the 16th century, this former palace served as the residence of Hernán Cortés, the Spanish conquistador who conquered Mexico. Today, the palace houses the Cuauhnáhuac Regional Museum, which features exhibitions on the history and culture of the city and surrounding regions.
  • Jardín Borda: This majestic garden estate was built in the 18th century and houses a museum that showcases the life of Maximilian I, the former emperor of Mexico.
  • Catedral de Cuernavaca: Built in the 16th century, this cathedral features a mix of Baroque and Churrigueresque styles and is a prominent landmark in the city.
  • Templo de la Tercera Orden: This 16th-century church is known for its stunning baroque façade, intricate interior decorations, and religious significance.
  • Robert Brady Museum: This museum houses a collection of artwork, antiques, and decorative objects from around the world, curated by the late American designer Robert Brady.

Natural Attractions of Cuernavaca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tepozteco National Park: Located just outside of Cuernavaca, this scenic national park covers over 25,000 acres of natural terrain, featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Las Estacas: This natural water park offers a unique opportunity to swim and snorkel in a natural spring-fed river, surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.
  • Jardín Etnobotánico y Museo de Medicina Tradicional y Herbolaria: This garden museum showcases the traditional and medicinal herbs cultivated in the region, as well as the indigenous knowledge and practices related to their use.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca’s scenic landscapes and natural attractions offer several options for hiking and biking routes. Here are some popular routes to explore:

  • Parque Barranca Chapultepec: This park offers several hiking trails that wind through the scenic Barranca Chapultepec canyon, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Tepozteco Mountain Hike: This challenging hike takes you to the top of the Tepozteco mountain, where you will find a pre-Hispanic temple and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Biking Tour to Xochicalco: This guided bike tour takes you through scenic rural landscapes to the archaeological site of Xochicalco, where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about Mexican history and culture.

Best Things to Do in Cuernavaca: Activities and Tours

Cuernavaca offers a range of activities and tours that will keep you entertained and engaged throughout your stay. Here are some of the best things to do in Cuernavaca:

  • Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Mexican dishes with a local chef and take home new skills and recipes.
  • Cultural City Tour: Explore the historic center of Cuernavaca and learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Artisan Market Tour: Visit local markets and shops to discover the unique crafts and products made by local artisans.
  • Tequila and Mezcal Tasting: Discover the unique flavors and history of Mexico’s national drinks, tequila and mezcal, through a guided tasting experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cuernavaca

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Cuernavaca:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in at hotel
Day 2 City tour of Cuernavaca and visit to Palacio de Cortés
Day 3 Hiking tour in Tepozteco National Park
Day 4 Cooking class and artisan market tour
Day 5 Day trip to Xochicalco archaeological site
Day 6 Tequila and mezcal tasting
Day 7 Departure from Cuernavaca

Food and Drink Scene of Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca’s food and drink scene showcase traditional Mexican flavors and a mix of other culinary influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cochinita Pibil: A slow-roasted pork dish with a mix of spices, topped with red onions and served with tortillas.
  • Chilaquiles: A classic breakfast dish made from fried tortilla chips, topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and sour cream.
  • Mole: A rich and complex sauce made from a mix of spices, chilies, and chocolate, typically served over chicken or beef.

Local Beverages

  • Horchata: A refreshing and sweet drink made from rice, water, and cinnamon.
  • Tejate: A traditional beverage made from corn, cacao, and edible tree flowers.
  • Pulque: A fermented drink made from the sap of the maguey plant, with a slightly sour and sweet taste.

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

Cuernavaca offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style preference. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, here are some options to consider:

  • Hacienda de Cortés: This historic hotel, located in the former residence of Hernán Cortés, features lush gardens, a spa, and a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine.
  • Las Mañanitas: This elegant hotel features colonial architecture, lavish gardens, and fine-dining restaurant, and is considered one of the best hotels in the city.
  • Hostel Siete Cielos: This budget-friendly hostel offers private and shared rooms, a communal kitchen, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.

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

Cuernavaca is known for its artisanal crafts and traditional products, making it an excellent destination for souvenir shopping. Here are some local products to consider:

  • Talavera pottery: Handmade pottery with unique designs and colors, typical of the region.
  • Mexican textiles: Colorful fabrics with intricate embroidery and weaving, used for clothing, home décor, and accessories.
  • Agave-based products: Cosmetics, skincare, and other products made from the agave plant, such as mezcal and tequila.

Local Culture and Customs of Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca’s rich cultural heritage and traditions are reflected in its architecture, food, art, and festivals. Here are some customs and practices to be aware of:

  • Greeting customs: Mexicans are known for their warm and friendly greetings, such as hugs and cheek kisses. It is common to greet strangers and friends alike with a “buenos días” or “hola.”
  • Religious traditions: Mexico has a strong Catholic influence, and religious celebrations and festivals are a common part of Cuernavaca’s culture.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language of Mexico, and while many locals may speak English, it is always appreciated to learn some basic Spanish expressions.

Best Time to Visit Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca’s warm, subtropical climate makes it an attractive destination year-round. However, the best time to visit Cuernavaca is between November and March, when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cuernavaca

When visiting Cuernavaca, it is important to be respectful of local customs and practices. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect cultural differences and practice cultural sensitivity.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn some basic Spanish expressions to facilitate communication.
  • Be open to meeting people and making new friends.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture or traditions.
  • Leave your personal belongings unattended in public places.
  • Engage in illegal or unethical activities.
  • Assume that everyone speaks English fluently.

Safety and Health in Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is a safe destination with a relatively low crime rate. However, it is always important to take precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are some safety and health tips for Cuernavaca:

Safety in Cuernavaca

  • Use official and licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
  • Keep your valuables safe and avoid drawing attention to yourself with flashy accessories or attire.

Health in Cuernavaca

  • Drink bottled or filtered water and avoid ice in drinks.
  • Apply sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
  • Consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications.

Getting to Cuernavaca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cuernavaca is conveniently located just 1.5 hours away from Mexico City, making it easily accessible by several means of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Cuernavaca

  • Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City
  • Licenciado Adolfo López Mateos International Airport in Toluca

Bus Stations Near Cuernavaca

  • Cuernavaca Central Bus Station
  • Pullman de Morelos Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private car or van service
  • Rental cars

How to Get Around in Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is a relatively small city, and many of the attractions and sites can be easily accessed on foot. However, other transportation options are available, including:

  • Taxi and ride-sharing services
  • Local buses and minivans (“colectivos”)
  • Rental bicycles and scooters

Where to Go Next from Cuernavaca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cuernavaca is located in a region of Mexico with many other historical, cultural, and natural attractions to explore. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Mexico City: The capital of Mexico is just 1.5 hours away by car or bus, offering a wealth of cultural, historical, and culinary offerings.
  • Tepoztlán: This charming town, just 30 minutes from Cuernavaca, is known for its stunning scenery, traditional handicrafts, and spiritual significance.
  • Taxco: This picturesque colonial town, just 2 hours from Cuernavaca, is known for its silver mines and handcrafted silver jewelry.

Conclusion

Cuernavaca is a hidden gem in Central Mexico, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are exploring the historic center of the city, hiking the trails of Tepozteco National Park, or indulging in traditional Mexican cuisine, Cuernavaca is a destination that should not be overlooked by any traveler.

Cathedral's side-chapel at dawn Cathedral's side-chapel at dawn Inside Cuernavaca Cathedral Inside Cuernavaca Cathedral