Cuernavaca, the “City of Eternal Spring,” is a favorite getaway for those looking for a break from bustling Mexico City. Just a 90-minute drive from the capital, Cuernavaca offers year-round temperate weather, lush gardens, rich culture, and fascinating history. Spending a weekend in this city will allow you to experience both its historical heritage and its modern tourist offerings. Here we tell you what to do in Cuernavaca. do during a two-day stay.
Day 1: History, Culture, and Gardens
Morning: Exploring the Historic Center
Begin your adventure by visiting the Palacio de Cortés, one of the oldest and most emblematic buildings in Cuernavaca. This fortress was built in the 16th century by Hernán Cortés, and today houses the Cuauhnáhuac Regional Museum, where you can learn about the history of the region, from pre-Hispanic times to the colonial period. The collection includes archaeological artifacts, historical documents, and a series of stunning murals painted by Diego Rivera, depicting the history of Mexico.
Next, head to the Cuernavaca Cathedral, an architectural gem from the 16th century. Founded as a Franciscan convent, the cathedral is a testament to the cultural fusion of the time, with its oriental-style murals decorating its interior walls. The architectural complex includes several chapels that show the mixture of indigenous and Spanish influences, making this place a must-see for lovers of history and architecture.
If you like walking through historic areas, you can't miss the Borda Garden, an extensive botanical garden that was the summer residence of important figures in Mexican history, including Emperor Maximilian and Empress Carlota. The Borda Garden is a haven of tranquility where you can stroll along paths surrounded by lush vegetation, fountains and ponds. Cultural activities such as art exhibitions and open-air concerts also take place on weekends.
Midday: Lunch at the Market
After a morning of history and culture, it's time to try the local cuisine. The Cuernavaca Market, also known as the Adolfo López Mateos Market, is the ideal place to sample the region's typical food. Try a plate of barbacoa, tacos de cecina, or a classic pozole. If you love sweets, be sure to try the ates and tortitas de Santa Clara, traditional desserts from the area.
Afternoon: Robert Brady Museum and Panoramic View
In the afternoon, visit the Robert Brady House Museum, a colonial mansion converted into a museum that houses the impressive art collection of this eccentric American collector. The museum displays pre-Hispanic works of art, paintings by Mexican artists, antique furniture, and decorative art pieces from various cultures around the world. Each room is a testament to Brady's artistic and cultural life, and the house itself is a work of art with spectacular views of the historic center of Cuernavaca.
To end the evening, go up to the Mirador de Cuernavaca, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. It is the perfect place to relax and admire the sunset over the mountains.
Night: Dinner and Nightlife
At night, Cuernavaca offers a wide variety of restaurants. If you want to enjoy a dinner with traditional flavors and a contemporary touch, we recommend Las Mañanitas, a luxury restaurant famous for its Mexican cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant's garden is full of exotic birds, which adds a special touch to the experience.
After dinner, if you feel like enjoying the nightlife, the center of Cuernavaca has bars and clubs where you can relax with a drink or dance until the early hours of the morning. Places like La Maga and Casa Hidalgo are popular with locals and tourists alike for their cozy atmosphere and excellent cocktail selection.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
Morning: Xochicalco Archaeological Zone
On your second day, venture outside of Cuernavaca to visit the Xochicalco Archaeological Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This archaeological site is one of the most important in the state of Morelos and is known for its impressive pyramids and astronomical observatory. Xochicalco was a fortified city that flourished after the decline of Teotihuacan, and its architecture reflects influences from various Mesoamerican cultures, such as the Mayans and Zapotecs.
During your visit, you'll explore the Temple of the Feathered Serpents, one of the site's most notable structures, adorned with engravings depicting Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god. Don't forget to bring a hat and water, as the weather can be quite hot during the day.
Midday: Lunch at a Spa
After a morning of archaeological exploration, relax at one of Cuernavaca's famous spas. The city is known for its hot springs, and many spas offer pools and relaxation areas surrounded by nature. Las Estacas is one of the most popular spas and features a crystal-clear river where you can swim or snorkel.
Most spas have restaurants where you can enjoy a light lunch. Try some fish tacos or a fresh salad while you relax in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Afternoon: El Tepozteco National Park
In the afternoon, if you're feeling adventurous, you can take a trip to the nearby El Tepozteco National Park, located about a 30-minute drive from Cuernavaca. This park is famous for its impressive hilltop pyramid dedicated to the Aztec god of pulque, Ometochtli-Tepoztécatl. The climb to the pyramid is a moderately difficult hike that will take you about an hour, but the views from the top are worth it. From there, you can see the entire Tepoztlán Valley and enjoy a unique perspective of the region.
Evening: Farewell with Dinner in Tepoztlán
End your weekend with a visit to Tepoztlán, a picturesque magical town just a short drive from Cuernavaca. Tepoztlán is known for its bohemian atmosphere, its craft market, and its typical food. Here you can enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying dishes such as tlaltequeadas or the famous itacates, a kind of stuffed gordita.
Before you leave, take a moment to stroll through the cobblestone streets of Tepoztlán and visit its craft market, where you can buy unique souvenirs such as textiles, jewelry, or ceramic figures.