Exploring the vibrant culture of Mexico City is a must for any visitor. The tour to Xochimilco offers the perfect opportunity to take in the city’s rich heritage. Cruising along the iconic canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a unique glimpse into the traditions and lifestyles of the local community. From browsing handcrafted silver pieces to discovering the historic Ciudad Universitaria, this experience promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. What awaits as you dive deeper into this enchanting journey?
Key Points
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A 7-hour guided tour from Mexico City that includes a visit to the iconic Xochimilco canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional trajinera boat cruises.
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Opportunity to explore the main campus of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), home to Diego Rivera’s murals and the historic rectory building.
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Inclusion of a visit to the Plateria Store, showcasing intricate handcrafted Mexican silverwork and the artisanal process behind it.
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Optional visit to the Azteca Stadium, with an additional cost, providing a chance to experience the home of Mexico’s national football team.
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Flexible booking options, including the ability to reserve a spot and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a comprehensive 7-hour experience, priced from £29.59 per person.
Available in English and Spanish, it allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.
This tour is offered in both English and Spanish, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.
The tour departs at 8:00 AM from accommodation or a designated meeting point. Highlights include visiting a silverware store, exploring the university campus, and free time in the charming Coyoacán neighborhood.
The iconic Xochimilco canal cruise is included, with options to purchase refreshments. An optional visit to the Azteca Stadium is available for an additional cost.
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Departure and Itinerary
The tour departs at 8:00 AM from either your’ accommodation or a designated meeting point. After the departure, the itinerary highlights include:
| Destination | Duration |
|————-|———-|
| Plateria Store | 30 mins |
| Ciudad Universitaria | 1 hour |
| Coyoacán | 2 hours |
| Xochimilco Canals | 2 hours |
| Optional: Azteca Stadium | 1 hour |
During the tour, guests can explore the university campus, admire Diego Rivera’s murals, and wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Coyoacán. The highlight is the traditional trajinera cruise along the Xochimilco canals, where scenic views and onboard meal options are available.
Visit to Orfrberia Store (Plateria)
After departing from the meeting point, the tour heads to the Orfrberia (Plateria) store.
This unique silver shop offers visitors the chance to explore and purchase a variety of handcrafted pieces:
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Intricate jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings
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Decorative silver tableware and home accents
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Traditional Mexican silverwork techniques and designs
Guests can browse the store’s impressive collection, learning about the artisanal process and history behind these exquisite silver creations.
The visit to the Orfrberia store provides a glimpse into Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and the skilled craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Exploring Ciudad Universitaria
Leaving the Orfrberia store, the tour heads to the nearby Ciudad Universitaria, the main campus of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).
Visitors explore the iconic university stadium, home to the Pumas football team. Next, they admire the towering murals by renowned artist Diego Rivera, depicting Mexico’s history and culture.
The tour then moves to the historic rectory building, a prime example of mid-20th century modernist architecture.
With ample time to wander, travelers can soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this renowned academic hub, a true reflection of Mexico’s intellectual and artistic prowess.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering Coyoacán
Next, the tour makes its way to the charming neighborhood of Coyoacán. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets, browse the Crafts Market, and visit Frida Kahlo’s iconic residence.
The Crafts Market offers a vibrant display of traditional Mexican handicrafts, from intricate textiles to handcrafted pottery. Frida Kahlo’s Blue House, or "La Casa Azul," showcases the artist’s life and work, providing a unique glimpse into her creative world.
After enjoying the sights and sounds of Coyoacán, the tour continues on to the next destination, the famous Xochimilco waterways.
Xochimilco Experience
The tour then takes visitors on a traditional trajinera cruise along the iconic canals of Xochimilco.
Visitors experience the traditional trajinera cruise along the iconic canals of Xochimilco on this tour.
Gliding through the serene waterways, guests can admire the scenic views surrounding them. Along the way, they may opt to purchase soft drinks or beer from vendors on the boats.
An onboard meal is also available for those who wish to indulge in local cuisine during the cruise.
This unique Xochimilco experience offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Mexico City, allowing visitors to enjoy the colorful and lively atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Optional Activities
For those interested, the tour also offers an optional visit to the iconic Azteca Stadium, one of Mexico’s most renowned sports venues.
This add-on experience comes at an additional cost and allows visitors to explore this historic stadium that has hosted numerous international football matches, including two FIFA World Cup finals.
The optional visit includes:
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Entrance to the stadium grounds and access to the field.
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Guided tour of the facilities, including the locker rooms and other behind-the-scenes areas.
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Opportunity to take photos and soak in the atmosphere of this iconic Mexican landmark.
Inclusions
The tour package includes several key components to provide a comprehensive Xochimilco experience.
Participants receive entrance to the traditional trajinera boats that cruise the iconic canals. Plus, the tour includes a visit to a silverware store, known as a plateria, where guests can browse unique Mexican silver pieces.
Cruise the iconic canals of Xochimilco on traditional trajinera boats and browse unique Mexican silver pieces at a local plateria.
Visitors also enjoy free time in the charming Coyoacán neighborhood, exploring its cobblestone streets, crafts market, and Frida Kahlo’s residence.
Finally, the tour provides return transportation to the original starting point. Food, drinks, and tips are all covered in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation Included to the Meeting Point?
Transportation to the designated meeting point is not explicitly included. The tour overview states the departure is from the customer’s accommodation or a specified meeting point, so transportation to the starting location is the responsibility of the participant.
Can I Opt-Out of the Silverware Store Visit?
Yes, you can opt-out of the silverware store visit. The tour itinerary includes it, but you’re not obligated to participate if you don’t wish to. Just let the guide know you’d prefer to skip that part of the tour.
Is There an Age Limit for the Trajinera Cruise?
There’s no age limit for the trajinera cruise. The tour is suitable for all ages, and children are welcome to join the relaxing boat ride along the scenic canals of Xochimilco.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour includes a scenic trajinera cruise with options to purchase soft drinks or beer on board. An onboard meal is also available for an additional cost.
What Time Does the Tour End and How Do I Get Back to My Hotel?
The tour ends around 3:00 PM and you’ll be returned to your original starting point. Getting back to your hotel after the tour is your own responsibility, though the tour operator can provide recommendations.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Mexico City’s vibrant culture. Visitors can cruise through the iconic Xochimilco canals, admire handcrafted silver pieces, explore the historic Ciudad Universitaria, and discover the charming neighborhood of Coyoacán. With options for refreshments and local cuisine, this experience provides a well-rounded taste of Mexico’s rich heritage, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to explore the city’s cultural wonders.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Mexico City
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