Xico
Introduction
You will find Xico situated in the State of Mexico as the municipal seat of Valle de Chalco. Located within the Mexico City metropolitan area, the city sits on land that once formed the bed of Lake Chalco before it was drained along with much of the Basin of Mexico.
Before you go
Prepare for your journey by understanding the local context and cultural nuances of the region. Familiarizing yourself with the area's unique character will help you navigate the city more effectively.
Getting there
You can reach Xico by taking a bus from Puebla to Xalapa, where you can then complete your journey by boarding a combi or taking a taxi.
Several buses per day are available for the trip to Xalapa, with services provided by both ADO and AU (Autobuses Unidos).
Getting around
You will find that Xico is a compact town, making it easy for you to explore the local area on foot or by bicycle.
When you wish to reach the surrounding areas, you can hire a taxi to transport you to nearby villages or to visit some of the waterfalls.
Where to stay
You can find various accommodations in the Centro district that cater to different preferences. Choose a boutique hotel featuring rustic decor and comfortable rooms, where you can enjoy a first-class restaurant and wine cellar. Alternatively, stay at a modest hotel with clean rooms and an on-site restaurant for a simpler experience.
For a more tranquil atmosphere, seek out a traditional small hotel located in a quiet area next to the river. This cozy option features an on-site restaurant where you can sample local favorites like enchiladas de nata and café de olla.
Food & drink
Savor the rich flavors of regional Mexican cuisine while exploring the local culinary scene. You can dine in an elegantly traditional setting to sample various types of mole or try the Brujitas Xiqueñas. For a more casual experience, visit a sidewalk restaurant where you can enjoy homemade tamales and large breakfasts, or opt for unique cocktails like orange juice mixed with mezcal. If you prefer a cozy atmosphere, some nearby spots offer extensive menus that blend traditional dishes with international options like burgers.
Located in the heart of Veracruz coffee country, the area offers several ways to enjoy locally grown java. You can visit long-standing local fixtures where beans have been roasted and ground for decades, or stop by a shop to watch baristas prepare your drink using various methods such as a press, espresso, latte, or cappuccino. Choose from hot or iced options, and consider picking up some freshly roasted coffee to take home as a souvenir.
- El Mesón Xiqueño
- Los Portales
- El Danubio Azul
- Casona Don Gonzalo
- Terraza Cafe
- Maharba's
- Cafe Texolo
- Real Cafecito
What to see and do
Explore the historic heart of the city to visit the Parroquia Santa Maria Magdalena, a colonial-era church featuring neo-classical and baroque architecture. You can admire its opulent interior, which is decorated with vaulted ceilings, domes with intricate tilework, and gilded trim, as well as sculptures of the Virgin Mary and Christ. Located in the courtyard of this church, the Museo de Vestidos showcases a collection of hundreds of elaborately decorated dresses donated by parishioners. For a deeper look into local traditions, visit the Museo del Danzante Xiqueño to see hand-carved ceremonial masks and costumes that celebrate the region's unique history of folkloric dance. You can also find unique figurines made from corn husks at the Museo del Totomoxtle.
Venturing beyond the town center, you can visit the impressive Texolo Waterfall, which has appeared in several films. You can explore the footpaths around the falls and cross a bridge over the gorge to reach two smaller waterfalls. Alternatively, you can see the Monja waterfall, though you should avoid bathing in its dangerous waters. If your timing aligns with late summer, experience La Xiqueñada, a week-long festival featuring music, parades, folk dances, and colorful sawdust carpets before culminating in a running of the bulls.
Three days in Xico
Day one, you begin your journey in the heart of Xico. You can wander through the Centro to explore the local architecture and find a spot to savor Mexican flavors. Visit the Parroquia Santa Maria Magdalena to see the image of the Virgin Mary.
Day two, you can enjoy the local atmosphere by visiting several nearby establishments. You might choose to stop at El Mesón Xiqueño, Los Portales, or El Danubio Azul. For a different experience, you could visit Casona Don Gonzalo.
Day three, you spend your final day exploring more of the area. You can find a seat at Terraza Cafe, Maharba, Cafe Texolo, or Real Cafecito to relax before your departure from the state.