Things To Do
in Axapusco

Axapusco is a small, agricultural town in the State of Mexico, northeast of Mexico City, where rural life blends with colonial touches. The town center features a shaded plaza, a historic church, and lively markets that showcase local produce and crafts. Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals and a pace of life that feels timeless.

Nearby landscapes offer peaceful escapes into fields and gentle hills.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Charm of Axapusco
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Axapusco, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that depict the town's rich history. Don't forget to visit the local market to experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided tour to the nearby Lake Axapusco, where you can enjoy a tranquil afternoon surrounded by nature. Engage in water activities such as kayaking or simply relax by the shore, taking in the stunning views of the mountainous backdrop. Treat yourself to some fresh seafood from nearby vendors, providing a taste of local flavors.

evening
:

As the sun sets, join a cultural event at the town plaza, where you can experience traditional music and dance performances by local artists. Dine at a charming restaurant, indulging in dishes unique to the region while reflecting on your day. Conclude your evening with a serene walk through the village, soaking in the peaceful ambiance under the starry sky.

day 2
Historical Sites and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Church of San Bartolomé, an architectural gem that dates back to the 16th century. After wandering through the church's beautiful interiors, enjoy breakfast at a nearby eatery specializing in local pastries and coffee. Take some time to appreciate the scenic views of the surrounding countryside that showcases Axapusco's idyllic charm.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the ruins of the ancient Tepetlaoztoc, where you can learn about the region's pre-Hispanic history and its significance. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ruins, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the history that surrounds you. Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site and its stories.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, head back to town and visit a local cantina to mingle with residents and experience Axapusco's vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a variety of local drinks, such as mezcal or pulque, paired with delicious bar snacks. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through the market, where the lively atmosphere continues into the night with colorful lights and sounds.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or tea$2-4
🚎One-way local transport$0.50-1.50
🚖Taxi start (city area)$1.50-3.50
🍺Beer at a bar$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic town experience away from the crowds
  • Affordable food and lodging with local flavor
  • Limited nightlife and night life options
  • Fewer English-speaking services for travelers
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good morning
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Sin carne" - Without meat

Places to Visit in Axapusco

Visit one of these nice places.

Parroquia de San Juan Bautista and Plaza Central

Colonial church and shaded central plaza ideal for morning light and street photography.

Mercado Municipal exterior

Colorful market facade with locals, produce stalls, and daily life scenes.

Rural farmlands on the outskirts

Open fields and maize rows at golden hour offering wide, tranquil compositions.

Sunset view along the main road to the hills

Horizon silhouettes with warm tones as the sun goes down.

Culinary Guide

Food in Axapusco

The cuisine around Axapusco reflects Central Mexican flavors: hearty, corn-based dishes, fresh salsas, and farm-to-table ingredients. Expect rustic preparations, seasonal produce, and sensibly spiced meals that emphasize purity of flavor.

Axapusco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barbacoa de chivo (goat barbacoa)

Slow-cooked goat meat served with onions, cilantro, and tortillas.

Must-Try!

Pozole rojo

A robust hominy stew with pork or chicken and chili, often enjoyed on special occasions.

Tamales de elote

Sweet corn tamales enjoyed with crema and cheese.

Nopales guisados

Dishes featuring prickly pear cactus pads with tomatoes, onions, and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Axapusco

A local market for fresh produce, tortillas, and prepared foods.

Esquites y elotes

Grilled corn cups (esquites) and corn on the cob with toppings at street stalls.

Tacos y sopes a la plancha

Quick-grilled tacos and thick tortillas with a variety of fillings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Axapusco experiences a warm, temperate climate with a distinct rainy season (roughly May through October) and a cooler dry season (November through February). Summers are hot, while nights can cool down, especially in higher elevations nearby.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a brief hola or buenos días; use usted with strangers to show respect.

Dress in religious sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly.

Tipping culture

Tipping is common but modest; even small amounts are appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

As with many small towns, take standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure, beware of pickpockets in crowded markets, use reputable taxis, and stay aware of local traffic conditions; drink bottled water when unsure about local sources; avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Axapusco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Small tips (5-10%) for service in restaurants; round up taxi fares; leave change for street vendors when possible.

Payment Methods

Cash (MXN) is widely accepted; many places in town handle cards, especially larger restaurants or hotels; ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry-to-warm days with intermittent rainstorms in the afternoons; bring sunscreen and water; evenings can be cooler.

Rainy season (June-October)

Frequent afternoon showers; mud on trails; carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bags.

Winter

Mild to cool days; cooler nights; great for photography and outdoor walks.

Nightlife Guide

Axapusco at Night

The nightlife in Axapusco is low-key, centered on family-friendly plazas, local bars, and cafes; weekends may bring live mariachi or small performances in the town square or nearby towns, with a tranquil ambiance rather than party-focused venues.

Hiking in Axapusco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rural hiking and short nature trails around Axapusco

Easy hikes through farmland, small hills, and nearby woodlands; suitable for all levels.

La Marquesa forested hills (nearby town)

Popular nearby hiking area offering longer trails, viewpoints, and picnic spots; accessible by car from Axapusco.

Airports

How to reach Axapusco by plane.

Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX)

Mexico City's main international airport, about 1.5-2.5 hours by car depending on traffic; provides international and domestic flights.

Toluca International Airport (TLC)

Regional airport closer to the western part of the Mexico State region; shorter drive to Axapusco depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Axapusco is walkable in its central areas, especially around the plaza and markets; distances between attractions are short, but some streets may lack sidewalks, and taxis or buses are advisable for longer trips or to reach surrounding towns.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo and rural families

A largely mestizo population with rural roots; some communities maintain indigenous heritage and practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport, with local leagues and pickup games in plazas and sports fields.

Baseball

Common in some communities and schools; sometimes seen in regional tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier on peak hours near major highways toward Mexico City; local roads are generally light; public buses and regional coaches connect Axapusco with nearby towns; taxis are widely available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Axapusco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Axapusco, vegetarian options are available at mercados and many eateries; ask for frijoles, nopales, and salsa de guacamole; look for 'sin carne' and 'vegetariano' on menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in town through local clinics; for more extensive care, residents typically go to larger hospitals in nearby municipalities or the Mexico City area; carry prescription medications and travel with travel insurance.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide