In anticipation of a trip to Mexico, it is possible to start considering the best routes to follow in order to visit this country so rich in history and culture.
Specifically, here is a guide to Mexico focused particularly on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The first stop recommended to include in a Mexico tour is Guanajuato, located in the Bajío region, also called the “Heart of Mexico.” Here, in the state of Guanajuato, the local culinary tradition allows you to discover the full flavor of typical dishes, enhanced by the air and the territory: the city is situated in a picturesque valley, among the mountains of the Sierra de Guanajuato.
The city’s architecture itself will let you take a dive into the past, as the colonial era atmosphere is palpable. Due to its geographical position, Guanajuato is also ready to be visited by the more adventurous, flying over the valley by hang glider or hot air balloon. From above, you will also notice that the city takes on a particular shape: that of a frog.
Off the usual Mexican tourist circuits is the city of Oaxaca, very lively and invigorated by flourishing trade and many local craft activities. Markets, popular festivals, typical dishes whose recipes are lost in the mists of time, millenary traditions: in the city, the signs of history—made by ancient civilizations—are still tangible.
Queretaro appears as the quintessential colonial city, so much so that the monumental area of Santiago de Queretaro became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 precisely because its architecture is a testimony—among other things perfectly preserved—of the multicultural spirit that has lived here for centuries. Various colonial routes can be followed, perfect to best discover buildings, streets, and squares of the city.
San Cristóbal de las Casas is the right destination to immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of populations descended from the Maya: different dialects will be discovered depending on the lineage group and, not by chance, here in the Chiapas region, a peculiar language is spoken, different from the rest of Mexico. Certainly, this city is recommended in a Mexico tour as it clearly bears witness to the oldest, historical, and pure Mexican traditions.
Finally, the city of San Miguel de Allende completes the route among Mexico’s UNESCO World Heritage Cities. Particularly loved by those who appreciate art, it presents itself as a “mix” location: colonial-era buildings stand alongside structures hosting numerous art galleries, boutiques, bars, and shops of all kinds. The richness and vibrancy of this city are also due to its strategic position: it is part of the ancient Ruta de la Plata, the silver route. Therefore, it has always been characterized by the passage not only of goods but above all of people.
