Things To Do
in Chicoloapan
Chicoloapan is a small municipality in the State of Mexico, located just southeast of Mexico City at coordinates 19.4167, -98.9. It offers a mix of traditional market culture, local crafts, and approachable street-food scenes within a settled town center. The area is anchored by a compact plaza, a few colonial-era churches, and welcoming neighborhoods that reflect everyday life for residents and visitors alike.
Its proximity to the capital makes a day trip or weekend stay convenient for exploring the surrounding valleys and hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Chicoloapan, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the town's story. Visit the local market to taste fresh tortillas and sip on a steaming cup of atole, a warm, thick drink made from corn. As the sun rises higher, appreciate the lively atmosphere as locals set up their stalls, greeting you with friendly smiles.
After a leisurely lunch at a traditional Mexican restaurant, delve into the historical significance of the area by visiting the Church of San Juan Bautista, a stunning example of colonial-era architecture. Take time to explore the surrounding plazas, where you can find artisans selling handcrafted goods and children playing. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow, making it a perfect time to capture photos of the vibrant culture around you.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a local eatery, sampling regional specialties such as mole or tacos al pastor. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the town square, where you might find live music or a local festival in full swing. The evening air is filled with laughter and conversation, creating an inviting atmosphere to soak in the local culture.
Start your morning by visiting the bustling Chicoloapan market, where the sounds, colors, and aromas create an immersive experience. Browse through stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional handicrafts, while engaging in friendly banter with the vendors. Don’t forget to sample local snacks like quesadillas and fresh fruit juices to energize your day ahead.
After your market adventure, take a cooking class with a local chef who will guide you in preparing authentic Mexican dishes using fresh ingredients sourced from the market. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own meal while learning about the cultural significance of each dish. Share lunch with fellow participants, discussing your culinary experiences and the rich history of Mexican cuisine.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby taquería for a casual dinner, indulging in a variety of tacos topped with fresh salsas and locally sourced ingredients. Post-dinner, you can join a traditional dance class in the town center, where you will learn regional dances and enjoy the rhythm of live music. This lively evening will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the vibrant culture of Chicoloapan.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5 L) | $1-2 |
| 🚍Local transit ride | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
| 🧭Souvenir small item | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals
- Affordability and value
- Close proximity to Mexico City for day trips
- Limited tourist infrastructure in some parts
- Traffic and parking can be challenging near the center
- Hot and rainy summers may require planning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Por favor" - Please
Places to Visit in Chicoloapan
Visit one of these nice places.
The central plaza with colonial arches, quiet in the early morning light, perfect for architectural detail and candid street life.
A compact church with colonial-style façade, ideal for capturing religious architecture and the rhythm of weekend gatherings.
Colorful market exterior with vendors setting up, offering rich textures and people in motion for dynamic street photography.
A short hike to a hillside viewpoint that provides a broad view of the town and surrounding valleys, especially golden at sunset.
Food in Chicoloapan
Chicoloapan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork with pineapple and spices served on corn tortillas; widely available at taquerías around the town center.
Must-Try!
A traditional hominy stew with pork or chicken, garnished with cabbage, radish, lime, and chili; best found in mercados and family-run restaurants.
Oval masa cakes filled with beans or cheese, served with salsa, onions, and cilantro; a common street snack and market staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market where you can sample fresh tamales, tlacoyos, fruit, and prepared foods straight from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello and use formal addresses like usted in new encounters. Courteous tone and patience in queues are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Chicoloapan
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of about 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, while many establishments also take credit or debit cards. Have some cash on hand for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with frequent short rain showers. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor excursions for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days and cooler evenings with a moderate chance of rain. Comfortable for walking tours and market visits.
Mild to cool temperatures, especially at night. Layers recommended; good visibility for photography and city strolls.
Pleasant days with occasional showers. Great for outdoor markets, parks, and scenic drives.
Chicoloapan at Night
Hiking in Chicoloapan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails in nearby hills and forested areas, within a short drive from town.
Airports
How to reach Chicoloapan by plane.
Main gateway for international and domestic flights; typically a 40-60 minute drive depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving the State of Mexico and surrounding areas; about 1-1.5 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families, workers who commute to nearby cities, and long-time residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region, with local clubs and casual games throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chicoloapan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most traditional dishes feature meat; look for bean, cheese, and vegetable fillings. Ask for tortillas and sauces prepared without lard and request 'sin manteca' or 'vegetariano' options.