Tlalpan
Introduction
You will find a striking contrast between urban life and nature within this expansive borough of Mexico City. While much of the northern edge has been developed since the mid-20th century, the vast majority of the area remains protected as forest and ecologically sensitive land.
Explore the distinct character of the region, which was named after its most significant settlement. You can visit Tlalpan center to experience the historical heart of the area, a location distinguished from the surrounding borough by its long-standing heritage.
Before you go
Prepare for a journey through Tlalpan, where you can experience a blend of urban sprawl and rural character. As you travel toward the south, notice the rising elevation and the surrounding greenery that defines this large borough. You will find a sense of history in the well-preserved stately colonial houses and cobblestoned streets of downtown Tlalpan, an area that remains relatively quiet and safe for your visit.
Explore the diverse character of the neighboring districts to round out your trip:
- Pedregal offers a residential atmosphere with winding streets, hills, and abundant trees.
- The rural southern reaches provide a contrast to the city's center, featuring a landscape that remains green and lush.
Getting there
You can reach the Centro Histórico of Tlalpan by taking a bus or microbús from various points north along Calzada de Tlalpan, such as Metro Pino Suárez, Metro General Anaya, or Tren Ligero Estadio Azteca. Alternatively, you can use the Metrobús along Insurgentes Sur at Metrobús Fuentes Brotantes. Look for a bus with a sign reading "Tlalpan San Fernando" and inform the driver that you wish to go to "Tlalpan Centro." Because the area lacks many traffic signs, it is helpful to ask locals for directions.
If you prefer to travel by car from central Mexico City, follow Calzada de Tlalpan and turn right onto Miguel Hidalgo. You will find relatively plentiful free street parking or a public car park located on the right side just after passing the central square. For those traveling further into the region, RTP buses serve most towns in Tlalpan up to Parres, departing from the station opposite Tren Ligero Station Estadio Azteca. Cyclists can also navigate the area via Ciclovía La Gran Tenochtitlán, a paved bike route that follows Calzada de Tlalpan.
Getting around
You can easily explore the Centro Historico of Tlalpan on foot, as it covers a compact area of about six blocks. To help navigate your way through this district, you can request a map at the Tourist Booth located in the Zocalo.
For longer journeys or travel during the night, ride-share apps like Uber and Didi are commonly used and provide a safe way to reach destinations in both Tlalpan and Pedregal. You can also utilize public transit options such as the Tren Ligero, which runs from Tasquena station toward Xochimilco. The Metrobus line 1 travels along Avenida de los Insurgentes and through Pedregal; because these buses operate in dedicated lanes, they offer a reliable way to bypass traffic jams. Additionally, buses serve Calzada de Tlalpan and Blvd. Picacho-Ajusco.
Where to stay
You can choose from various accommodations that cater to different preferences in this area. For those seeking a sense of history, you can stay in a boutique luxury hotel set within a restored 17th-century hacienda featuring manicured courtyard gardens and high-end linens.
Other options provide modern amenities for your stay:
- Upscale hotels with modern facilities and indoor parking.
- Business-oriented tower hotels offering attentive service and on-site dining.
- Hotels providing spacious rooms equipped with air conditioning, WiFi, and cable TV.
Food & drink
Savor traditional flavors across various neighborhoods, from the lively atmosphere of Pedregal de Santa Úrsula where you can enjoy birria de maciza with handmade tortillas and homemade salsas accompanied by live music, to the cozy setting of Toriello Guerra for breakfast packages or blue corn chilaquiles. In the Huipulco neighborhood, visit a casual local spot specializing in pancitas, while the Pedregal area offers a unique experience at Tetetlan, where you can browse bookshelves and enjoy coffee in a space designed by architect Luis Barragan to integrate volcanic rock with its natural surroundings.
For a more refined experience, choose between the colonial ambiance of an 1837 estate in Tlalpan Centro I featuring peacocks and large plates, or the sophisticated nouveau Mexican cuisine at Sud 777 in Jardines del Pedregal. If you prefer a relaxed drink, explore the cafés and bars located in the arcades opposite to the main square.
What to see and do
Explore the historic heart of the area by wandering through the Centro Historico de Tlalpan. You can stroll the streets surrounding the Plaza de la Constitucion, where you can find the Municipal Hall and visit the Parroquia y Convento de San Agustín de las Cuevas, a 17th-century church with an expansive courtyard. Nearby, Parque Juana de Asbaje offers shaded walking paths and a modern children's playscape featuring a bookstore and café. Other notable structures in the district include Casa de Santa Anna, the Tlalpan Mint, Casa Frissac, and Casa Chata.
Beyond the historic center, you can explore significant archaeological and natural sites:
- Cuicuilco Archaeological Zone, featuring a large uneven circular pyramid and several excavated temples.
- Villa Olímpica, which contains additional minor ruins from Cuicuilco.
- The Ruta de la Amistad, where you can see large-scale sculptures relocated to the interchanges between Insurgentes and Viaducto Tlalpan.
- Heroico Colegio Militar, the nation's primary military academy.
- Several colonial-era churches in the southern communities, including the Temple of the Asuncion Chimalcoyotl, the Church of San Pedro Martir de Verona with its striking tent-like modern addition, Parroquia de San Andres Totoltepec, and the tranquil San Miguel de Xicalco Church.
Three days in Tlalpan
Day one, you begin your journey in the heart of Mexico City. You can explore the Centro Histórico and visit the Zocalo before heading toward Tlalpan. If you prefer to travel by car, you can use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Didi to reach your destination.
Day two, you focus on the local surroundings of Tlalpan. You can explore the area around Tlalpan Centro and Tlalpan San Fernando. For those who enjoy cycling, you can navigate the streets as part of your exploration of the local landscape.
Day three, you travel further to see Pedregal or visit Xochimilco. To reach these areas, you can utilize the Tren Ligero from the Tasquena station or take the Metrobús along Insurgentes Sur or Fuentes Brotantes.