Toluca

Introduction

You will find Toluca, officially known as Toluca de Lerdo, serving as both the state capital of the State of Mexico and the seat of the Municipality of Toluca. Located southwest of Mexico City, the city has experienced rapid growth due to its proximity to the capital.

The city forms the core of the Greater Toluca metropolitan area. You can explore a region that serves as a significant urban hub within the country.

Before you go

Prepare for the high altitude of Toluca as you travel from Mexico City. While you will notice the air is much cleaner, the elevation means you should take it easy during your first day to manage potential altitude sickness. Pack warm clothing for your stay, as nights are consistently cold and the region can experience severe hail at any time of year.

While Toluca is considered one of the safer cities in Mexico regarding sanitation, traffic, and crime, you should exercise extreme caution when visiting certain neighborhoods, including El Seminario, La Unión, El Cóporo, Santa Barbara, La Teresona, Zopilocalco, San Miguel Apinahuizco, Nueva Oxtotitlán, Moderna de la Cruz, Cacalomacán, Capultitlán, Las Margaritas, and Las Palomas.

Getting there

You can reach Toluca by air via the Toluca International Airport, which serves as an alternative to the busy Benito Juárez International Airport in Mexico City. From the Benito Juarez terminal, you can take a bus that departs frequently for Toluca. Alternatively, you can travel by train using the El Insurgente service, which provides fast and comfortable transport from Mexico City's Observatorio station to the modern Toluca Centro railway station.

If you prefer traveling by road, the highway connecting Mexico City and Toluca is one of the most modern in the country. You can also reach the city by bus; several lines operate between Mexico City and Toluca, with some routes offering on-board movies. The large Terminal de Toluca serves as a busy hub where you can find various eateries and shops while making connections to destinations in the north, south, and west.

Getting around

You can navigate the compact streets of Toluca by utilizing the extensive taxi system. Simply walk to any major street and wave at a passing vehicle to secure a ride.

Where to stay

You can choose from various accommodations that cater to different needs and preferences within the city. If you prefer a central location, several options provide easy access to the heart of Toluca. Some properties in the downtown area offer amenities like shared terraces, kitchenettes, or an open atrium restaurant with contemporary decor and spacious rooms.

For those seeking specific facilities, other locations provide indoor pools, gyms, and breakfast buffets. You can also find comfortable accommodations in surrounding areas that offer on-site parking and full breakfast service. Depending on your preference for amenities, you can choose between hotels featuring modern furnishings or more basic options with large, clean rooms.

Food & drink

Explore a diverse culinary landscape ranging from casual neighborhood spots to sophisticated dining rooms. You can enjoy a modern cafe experience with light entrees and coffee, or visit an artsy dining space located within a historic market building. For those seeking a lively atmosphere, some venues offer live music while serving pizza, steaks, burgers, and international dishes. If you prefer regional flavors, you can find a contemporary restaurant specializing in Sinaloa cuisine, where you can enjoy traditional favorites like chilorio or a full breakfast featuring sweet breads, hot cakes, and chilaquiles.

For a more refined experience, several establishments offer an intimate atmosphere with attentive service. You can choose between innovative contemporary Mexican cuisine using locally sourced organic ingredients or fusion dishes served in a century-old house. To unwind with a drink, you can visit a casual bar to hang out with friends or head to a lively venue featuring techno music.

• Olibol Cafe
• Portal Central
• Bistro Mecha
• Culichioso
• Lusso Cafe
• Amaranta
• Petra Fonda
• Hugo's Bar
• Cocoboom

What to see and do

Explore the downtown area, where you can find a variety of parks, gardens, museums, and churches within walking distance. Visit the Toluca Cathedral to see its Neoclassical architecture or stop by the Temple of Santa Veracruz. For a unique experience, visit Cosmovitral, a botanical garden housed within an art nouveau-style stained glass structure that creates a celestial atmosphere. You can also explore the various cultural centers and university-related sites located throughout the city, including those on the west side.

The city offers diverse cultural experiences through its numerous museums:

• Centro Cultural Mexiquense, a former Franciscan monastery housing an anthropology museum, a folk arts museum, and a modern arts museum.
• Museo de Bellas Artes de Toluca, located in a former convent featuring ancient Egyptian exhibits and paintings from various eras.
• Watercolor Museum, which is dedicated specifically to works in watercolor.
• Museo del Paisaje José María Velasco, an intimate space showcasing the landscape paintings of a prolific 19th-century artist.
• Museo Torres Bicentenario, a small art museum and bookstore distinguished by two twisting towers.

Three days in Toluca

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the city. Explore the historic atmosphere of Toluca Centro and visit the nearby sites of El Seminario and La Unión to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Day two, travel toward the surrounding areas to experience different landscapes. You can visit locations such as El Cóporo, Santa Barbara, or La Teresona to see the diverse scenery beyond the main city center.

Day three, venture further into the region to discover Nueva Oxtotitlán, Zopilocalco, and San Miguel Apinahuizco. You can also explore the nearby areas of Cacalomacán, Capultitlán, Las Margaritas, or Las Palomas.