Known as Mexico's city of eternal spring, this calm colonial town sits at 1,510 meters above sea level, with year-round temperatures near 21°C (70°F) and gardens throughout.
Just 90 minutes south of Mexico City, Cuernavaca maintains a year-round temperature of 21-26°C (70-79°F). Walk through the 16th-century Palace of Cortés to see Diego Rivera's vivid murals, stroll past fountains in the Jardín Borda's 18th-century gardens, or browse Mexican art at the Robert Brady Museum. Many Mexico City residents come here for weekend breaks, and international students attend the city's numerous Spanish language schools.
Getting to Cuernavaca
From Mexico City, take a first-class bus from any of the three major terminals - the journey takes 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. If you're driving, follow the six-lane toll highway (Federal Highway 95D) directly to Cuernavaca. The city also has a small airport for domestic flights.
Weather and Climate
At 1,530 meters above sea level on the southern slope of the Sierra de Chichinautzin mountains, temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) on winter mornings, especially in the northern parts of the city. From June to September, expect afternoon rain showers lasting 1-2 hours.
Palace of Cortés and Cathedral
Inside the Palace of Cortés (Museo de Cuauhnáhuac), you'll find Diego Rivera's 1930 mural spanning the conquest of New Spain through the Mexican Revolution. Walk to the nearby Cathedral, built in 1529, to see one of Mexico's earliest open chapels, San José, with its original 16th-century stone carvings.
Robert Brady Museum
Walk through this former monastery's rooms exactly as Brady arranged them, with art from his world travels displayed alongside Mexican works. Look for Frida Kahlo's self-portrait and pieces by Rufino Tamayo among the collection. Each room tells its own story through carefully curated furniture, textiles, and artwork.
Parks and Gardens
Walk the stone paths of Jardín Borda, built in the 1860s, where you'll find 18th-century fountains and reflecting pools. Cool off at the San Anton waterfall, a 10-minute drive from downtown, or spend an afternoon in Chapultepec Park's shaded areas.
Spanish Language Education
Choose from more than fifty Spanish language schools in Cuernavaca. Most schools run intensive courses from one week to several months, and can arrange stays with local families. Classes typically run Monday through Friday, with cultural activities in the afternoons.
Day Trip to Tepoztlán
Take a 20-minute drive to Tepoztlán, where you can hike one mile up to El Tepozteco pyramid. The steep trail takes about an hour to climb. In town, try local specialties like sopes - thick tortillas topped with beans, lettuce, and cream - at the main market.
