TAXCO

Originally called Taxco de Alarcon, the silver capital of Mexico is located in Mexico?s southern region, 138 km (85 mi) north of Chilpancingo, the state capital of Guerrero, and 151 km (93 mi) south of Mexico City, off Highway 95. The climate is warm and humid, with an average year-round temperature of 19º C (66º F).

Considered one of Mexico?s most picturesque towns, this charming destination offers cobblestone streets, colonial buildings and white houses with red tile roofs. Another notable attraction of unparalleled beauty is the Catedral de Santa Prisca (Santa Prisca Cathedral), one of the most representative examples of baroque architecture in Mexico. During your stay, you also can visit the Humboldt and Borda houses, which have great historical and cultural value, or you can check out the Viceregal Art Museum and the Silver Museum; in the latter you?ll see incredible silver objects, such as earrings, necklaces bracelets and other items. Silverwork has long been a vital part of Taxco?s economy, thanks largely to American silversmith William Spratling, who had a strong influence on Mexican silver design.

In the surrounding areas you can visit wonderful natural settings like the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa (Cacahuamilpa Caverns), which are ideal for cave diving. Another interesting natural attraction is the Alejandro Humboldt National Park, where you?ll find abundant pine and oak forests offering gorgeous landscapes for hiking. When you return to the city, head to one of Taxco?s traditional restaurants, where you can order Guerrero-style pozole (hominy soup). After the meal, you can take a stroll along the beautifully illuminated streets, and if you like, you can duck into one of the bars, coffee shops, or nightclubs, most of which you?ll find on the city?s southern end. At some of these places you can enjoy the party until the break of dawn.