Guide To Cuernavaca

About Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is today one of Mexico's best-known colonial cities. The city has a history that dates back to at least 1200 AD, when the location was an important agricultural and artisan center. The city was conquered by the Aztecs around 1380 and, after the subsequent conquest by the Spanish, the city became an important agricultural center and popular get-away location for the well-heeled Spaniards living in the capital.

Today, more than 400 years later, during weekends and holidays, the highway from Mexico City to Cuernavaca becomes packed with capitalinos (Mexico City residents), heading out of the city to get away for a break.

The city's original name, "Cuauhnahuac" (kwow-NAH'-wak) translates into 'place of great trees', although the Spanish renamed it to its present-day name, which sounds similar, but literally translated means 'horn of the cow'.

A principal attraction of this colonial city is its year-round temperate climate. Alexander von Humboldt, a 19th Century naturalist, once described Cuernavaca as 'The land of eternal spring', a phrase that seems to have stuck as it's still used extensively today.

A walk through the central historical zone of the city, and in particular the Plaza de Armas and Jardin Juarez, may leave you with a mixed impression. Outwardly, Cuernavaca’s centro historico is not nearly as beautiful nor as well kept as many other colonial cities across Mexico.

Besides the principal colonial buildings and monuments, for example El Palacio de Cortez (recently renamed to Museo de Cuanahuac), Palacio de Gobierno, the Cathedral and Casa Maximiliano, much of Cuernavaca’s colonial-era elegance and charm is hidden away from view. Behind some of the tall walls are beautiful gardens and residences owned by wealthy local families, politicians and celebrities: houses and estates which host some marvelous scenes of colonial architecture and life.

Some of these colonial residences, dating back to the 15th century, have been converted into fine hotels, restaurants, spas and museums and so there does exist some opportunity to get a glimpse into what lies beyond the protective stone walls; with scenes including cool green garden patios bursting with flora, stunningly preserved original colonial courtyards, elegant rooms and hallways with tall ceilings and original wood beams, and sub-tropical blossoms in quiet colonial gardens where birdsong echoes and water trickles down stone fountains...

For peace and quiet that is open to the public, visit the Jardin de Borda, or the Chapultepec Park and the San Anton waterfall; all of which are situated away from the city center but inside the city limits.

Semi-precious stones from the surrounding mountains, said to give off energy, are sold in various typical markets all over Cuernavaca. In fact, this whole area is said to be surrounded by natural energy sources: springs, rocks and volcanoes and is perhaps one of the reasons why there are a number of top quality spas located here. See the Mexico Spas on Mexperience for more information about how you can enjoy a wonderful experience at one of the spas in Cuernavaca.

As a reward for his endeavors, Hernan Cortes was given what the Spanish Crown then termed as the 'Valle de Oaxaca'; an enormous expanse of land south of Mexico City encompassing some 22 towns, including Cuernavaca. Cortes retired here and you can visit his old estate, including the Palacio de Cortes (recently renamed to Museo de Cuauhnahuac, although most people continue to refer to it as Cortes' Palace). Maximilian and Carlotta had a weekend retreat in Cuernavaca - it too, is an important museum open to the public. And one of Mexico's oldest churches, built in 1592, can be seen here in Cuernavaca.

A large community of foreign expatriates live here, part of full-time; many relocated here to enjoy the great climate and access to modern facilities; others find it convenient being so close and well connected to Mexico City - which is just fifty six miles north east of the city and connected by a modern four-lane highway.

Cuernavaca is also a major language study center, boasting over fifty Spanish language schools. Many foreigners come here to study or improve their Spanish language skills. For more details connect to our section about Learning Spanish.

You can enjoy Cuernavaca as a day trip from Mexico City, but you'll get much more from a visit to the area by staying at least one or two nights. The city offers some very comfortable hotels, including restored colonial-era residences and haciendas, so your accommodation can be an experience in its own right.

Colonial city tours almost always include a stop-over in Cuernavaca. Some people stay here for a week or more, making it a base from which to explore and discover more of Mexico's southern colonial region; or as a stop-over on the way to nearby the nearby colonial city of Taxco and the world-famous port city of Acapulco.

Cuernavaca offers an abundance of attractions and activities to visitors. It's a good place to visit for a day; but's it's a better place to stay and relax for a weekend or longer...

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Key Attractions

Colonial Center

Leave your car parked and walk around the colonial center, or take one of the official guided tours.

Key attractions include the Cathedral, Catedral de la Asunción de María, one of the oldest churches in Mexico; started in 1529 and completed in 1552. The city Zocalo (Main Plaza) hosts some magnificent colonial architecture - including the Plaza de Armas, and Palacio de Gobierno - leading on from here is also the Palacio de Cortez, now also known as Museo Cuauhnahuac (see note above). This is the only Zocalo in Mexico that does not feature a Cathedral.

In 1987, the Gardens at Jardín Borda, were completely restored after years of decay. The house and gardens were originally commissioned by a wealthy silver magnate in the 1700's and this place was also host to Maximilian and Carlotta during the French reign in Mexico.

If you like art, go to the Museo Casa Robert Brady, which is actually a private house turned into a magnificent art gallery. Here, you'll find a permanent collection on display which includes works by Rufino Tamayo and a self portrait by Frida Kahlo. The house and collection belonged to Robert Brady, an American who resided in Cuernavaca from 1962 to 1986.

Art lovers may also enjoy a tour to the workshop (taller) at the Taller de Alfaro Siquieros, a very famous Mexican Muralist, which is also found here in Cuernavaca's colonial center.

Away from the Colonial Center

There are two main attractions to bring to your attention a couple of miles outside of the City's colonial center. The first is the Salto de San Antón, which is a small village hosting a magnificent waterfall. You can walk behind it and picnic there. The second is Casa Maximiliano (Maximilian's House), which was built in 1866 and also hosts the Museo de Medicina Tradicional (Traditional Medicine Museum) and a Herb Garden.

Learn Spanish in Cuernavaca

There's no better way to learn Spanish than by becoming immersed in it at a language school in Mexico. Cuernavaca is well-known as a cultural and language center and there are number of fine language schools here. Read our guide to Learning Spanish in Mexico for more details and to find a language school in Cuernavaca.

Spas in Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is host to some the best spas in Mexico. For more information about Spas, and how to benefit from a magnificent health spa experience in Mexico, connect to the Mexperience guide to Mexico Spas.

Museums and Art in Cuernavaca

See the section above on "Colonial Center" for a selection of notable museums and art galleries.

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Getting There & Around

Getting There

By Air - There's a small airport here, which receives some domestic flights although most people drive or take the bus from Mexico City. Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for Airlines.

By Bus - You can travel to Cuernavaca on a luxury bus from Mexico City - the trip takes about an hour. Buses are frequent and this is the most common way of getting to Cuernavaca from Mexico City besides driving in a car. Buses can be boarded at the southern bus terminal (Central de Autobuses del Sur) , and now also directly from the airport in Mexico City. Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for National Buses.

By Car - Driving to Cuernavaca is very fast and efficient with a six-lane toll highway direct to Cuernavaca from Mexico City. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico's Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Getting Around

From the Airport - Taxis are available from the airport to the center of town.

Taxis - Cuernavaca taxis are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their taxi rates on a board in the lobby. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a better price. Another good reason to Learn Spanish

Rent a Car - Cuernavaca is very accessible by road, and there is plenty to see and do in the surrounding areas. Renting a car would be a smart option if you're thinking about traveling around this region, as it will give you the freedom and flexibility to see more of the area and its surrounding attractions. See the Mexperience Travel Center for Car Rental in Cuernavaca.

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Local Events Calendar

Cuernavaca Carnival - Held five days before Ash Wednesday, you can expect parties, foods, drink, dancing, exhibitions and performances during this local celebration.

Spring Fair - Feria de la Primavera: Starts March 21st and ends around April 10th - this two-week celebration includes parties, concerts, exhibitions, street performers, good food and artistic events.

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Practical Information

Telephone: Connect to the Communications in Mexico Page on Mexperience for full information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of Cuernavaca. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy traveler's checks and cash from you as well. Read about currency exchange in Mexperience's Money Section.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical cover and/or travel assistance cover when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes are commonplace in Mexico - new ones open and old ones close all the time - but you won't have to look too hard to find one downtown and in the main tourist areas.

Busy Times in Cuernavaca: All weekends are busy in Cuernavaca, and if you want to stay at one of the hotels, it's best to book ahead of time. Cuernavaca gets especially busy during Holiday weekends, and in particular, at Easter and during the Independence Day celebrations around September 16th. The roads out of Mexico City towards Cuernavaca get particularly visit during long holiday weekends in Mexico, during school holidays, and during the Easter, Christmas and Independence Day periods. The roads from Cuernavaca back into Mexico City get jam-packed on the last days before the holiday period ends. If you can, avoid 'traveling with the crowds' by leaving earlier and returning later or vice-versa.

Local Tourist Office: Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for details of the nearest Tourist Information office.

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Hotels in Cuernavaca

Find Hotels in Cuernavaca, browse detailed reviews and make secure reservations online or by telephone

• Find Hotels in Cuernavaca

Looking for ideas or inspiration about places to stay in Cuernavaca?
Check out our Mexico Hotels Collection

Restaurants

Las Mañanitas, Mexican, International Food. Ricardo Linares 107, Col. Centro. Tel: (777) 362 0000.

Casa Hidalgo. Mexican, International. Tel: (777) 3122749

Terrarium. European, Mediterranean. Av. San Diego 1305. Tel: (777) 5126873

Rincón del Bife. Argentine. Av. San Diego 1001. Tel: (777) 3164428

Hubert's Haus. German. Ajusco 31,Buena Vista. Tel: (777) 3178710

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When Night Falls

Cuernavaca's night life has something for those looking to stay up, sitting around, drinking and talking into morning hours, as well as those looking for some club-scene partying that will go on until the sun comes up...

Locally Hosted Parties - Check with yours and other Local Hotels about public parties they may be hosting during your stay. Traditional Mexican theme night parties are popular with the locals, and there's a chance you could join a really special night out - the real Mexican way, and certainly on the eve of September 16th - Mexico's Independence Day! Hosted parties usually include dinner, dancing, a show and / or live music (usually authentic Mexican Mariachis) plus all drinks for a fixed fee and are always excellent value for money! Ask at your hotel to find out what is happening locally.

Nightclub Scene - Cuernavaca has a selection of night clubs. Some night clubs charge an all inclusive cover fee; some a smaller cover and drinks on top. Drinks are served all night - don't even consider going to a nightclub before 11pm. Nightclubs keep going all morning and most people will start to leave between 5 and 7 am.

Night Bars / Restaurants - There's a good variety of Late Night Entertainment in Cuernavaca to keep entertained into the early hours.

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What to Buy in Cuernavaca

You'll find lots of traditional markets in Cuernavaca, selling a variety of authentic Mexican art and craft work. Cuernavaca is known as a center of "natural energy" in Mexico, and so the sale of "energy bearing" stones, including onyx, quartz and natural crystals which emanate from the nearby Tepozteco Mountains, is commonplace in these parts.

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Local Climate

Cuernavaca's climate is warm and very comfortable all year-round, although the summers can get quite hot here. It's a city at altitude, approximately 1,530 meters (just over 5,000 feet), and during the winter months, early mornings and later evenings can get cooler, so pack warmer clothes if you visit during the late fall and winter months.

Live Weather Report:

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