Mexico’s ten most beautiful colonial cities

Published December 28th, 2021

When Mexico was occupied by Spain, between 1510-1810, the Spanish did more than plunder the country’s natural resources, enslave the locals and destroy sacred temples and religious sites.

No, they also used the remains of the destruction of these pagan buildings, combined them with some colonialist architectural styles and sensibilities, and developed a large number of colonial cities for which Mexico is still known to this day.

Here are ten of the most beautiful colonial cities.

Guanajuato

Guanajuato is one of Mexico’s most popular colonial cities, thanks to its relative proximity to the capital, Mexico City, as well as the ex-pat haven of San Miguel de Allende.

Known for winding streets (callejones) and colorful facades that give Guanajuato its unique charm and character, you can also find many reminders of the city’s colonial past in the Teatro Juarez, the Alhondiga de Granaditas, and the abundant baroque churches.

San Miguel de Allende

Speaking of San Miguel de Allende, this favorite of out-of-towners and retirees is another classic example of a Mexican colonial town and one you should definitely add to your Mexico bucket list.

After all, we’ve all seen the photos of San Miguel’s stunning pink church, so why not go see it for yourself? Even if the church doesn’t appeal to you, San Miguel is also known for its tin crafts and artsy atmosphere.

Oaxaca

The entire state of Oaxaca is littered with architectural vestiges of Mexico’s colonial past, but the capital, Oaxaca City, is perhaps where you are likely to find some of the most impressive examples, such as the Templo de Santo Domingo, the Basilica de la Soledad, and the cathedral.

However, in addition to exploring the colonial baroque buildings that dot the capital city, you should also enjoy a taste of Oaxaca’s famous gastronomic scene.

Puebla

If you prefer to head a bit north in search of your colonial fix in Mexico, consider a stop in the lively baroque city of Puebla, which was founded in 1531.

While Puebla suffered some damage in the recent earthquakes, everything is more or less back to normal in and around the historic center, and you should definitely visit the impressive central cathedral (with ornately tiled domes) and dark purple painting.

San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal de las Casas, in the state of Chiapas, is a favorite of backpackers, and for good reason.

However, this colonial city is also a worthy destination in its own right that you should consider visiting if you like affordable and plentiful handicrafts and rich cultural history.

Aside from that, San Cris is also home to some magnificent buildings, such as the famous mustard-colored cathedral.

Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is a municipality that extends far beyond its small and well-worn historic center.

However, many people dismiss it as a day trip from Guadalajara, when it really deserves at least a couple of days of exploration. Relaxed, quaint, and full of artistic surprises at every turn (like tile stores, galleries, and museums), Tlaquepaque is unbearably pretty.

And the colonial architecture? Look no further than the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad.

Zacatecas

Zacatecas is rarely included in most Mexico itineraries, since it’s a bit further north than most of the major attractions and doesn’t have the same reputation as, say, Guanajuato.

However, if you are really determined to visit some of Mexico’s best colonial cities, you should put Zacatecas on your bucket list just for the ornate basilica alone.

However, once you’re done gawking at that, don’t forget to try a local favorite in the form of poisoned tacos.

Taxco

Taxco is an easy day trip from Mexico City and was once known for having some of the most profitable silver mines in the country.

Today, however, Taxco is less about the mines and more about the stores (where you can pick up some sterling silver bargains), as well as the winding cobblestone streets that seem to spiral for miles, the pretty whitewashed buildings, and, of course, the spectacular Templo de Santa Prisca.

Merida

Humid Merida is not for the faint-hearted in midsummer, but it is gaining popularity among ex-pats and visitors alike, who have begun to recognize the casual Caribbean charm and beauty of the place…excessive sweating aside.

With a thriving arts scene, good food, and a wealth of well-preserved colonial buildings, including numerous chapels, theaters, and cultural centers, now is the time to visit.

Cholula

Finally, we’ll end this guide to Mexico’s top colonial cities with Cholula, which is only twenty minutes from Puebla.

It may be more of a town than a city, but don’t underestimate compact Cholula; after all, it was one of the most historically significant colonial sites in Mexico and remains a must-see for those of you who like cute centers, good nightlife, and interesting museums.

Ah, Cholula is home to the largest pyramid in the world by volume.