Your Weekend Itinerary

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The first step onto the cobblestones feels like a step back in time. It's the kind of crunch that tells you you're somewhere special. Val'Quirico is a trickster - a little bit of Italy tucked away in the heart of Mexico. Sunshine stains the terracotta roofs, and the scent of fresh-baked bread tempts your nostrils. This isn't your average town. It's a charming mirage, a little storybook village come to life, with Italian flair mixed in with warm Mexican vibes. And those cobblestone streets... aww man, they just draw you in.

A mere 2 hours from Mexico City, Val'Quirico is a charming escape from the restless city life. This Italian-inspired village, complete with cobbled streets, terracotta roofs, and quaint shops, provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Built on the grounds of the former Santa Agueda hacienda, it's been meticulously crafted to resemble a medieval city. You'll find echoes of Tuscany and Umbria in Italy, as well as the architectural influences of Spain's Segovia, all seamlessly woven into the design. Adolfo Blanca, the visionary behind this project, has created a destination that feels like stepping back in time. Val'Quirico opened its doors to the public in 2015 and has since become a popular tourist spot, drawing visitors with its picturesque streets and captivating atmosphere.

For a weekend escape of relaxation, adventure, and delightful experiences, this itinerary will guide you through this enchanted city of cobblestone. Forget the rush, you can easily cover this quaint little town in one full day, but why not take your time and let the slow pace lull you in. Savor every nook and cranny. Val’Quirico is full of hidden surprises, and you're about to get swept up in them.

Day 1: Local Delights

Morning (9am-12pm): Check into your chosen accommodation. I recommend Hotel Canaria, a cozy boutique hotel Mexican charm and a beautiful garden. Alternatively, explore Villa Toscana ValQuirico Lofts & Suites Hotel Boutique, offering elegant rooms and patios with city views.

Lunch (1pm-3pm): Start your culinary adventure at Otello Ristorante offers a wide variety of authentic Italian traditional dishes. Signature cuisine as well as traditional dishes are offered, where everything is prepared at the moment and with the freshest products on the market.

Afternoon (2pm-5pm): Immerse yourself in the artistry of Val'Quirico! Visit the Art Gallery, Galaría Amarte to see the works of local artists usually in ceramics, prints and sculptures. Try Galería Agua Fuerte for emerging artists and art sales. You must visit Tlax’Arte to purchase a handmade piece as a unique souvenir. This artisan boutique acts as a vibrant platform for Tlaxcalan creatives to showcase their talent and bring the rich traditions of Mexico to the forefront.

Evening (5pm-8pm): Step into the Time Machine and feel like you’re entering a portal to a bygone era. Time Machine is the perfect touch of vintage glamour for my photo shoot. As the camera shutter clicks, be swept away, not only by the magic of the setting, but by the delightful feeling of stepping out of your present life and into a whimsical moment of the past.

Dinner (8pm-10pm): Experience the warmth of Mexican hospitality at La Catrina, a haute Mexican cuisine and grill. Known for their top of the line dishes and creative drink options, a great choice for your first dinner, setting the tone in Val’Quirico.

Day 2: Spa, History & Indulgence

Morning (9am-12pm): Begin your day at the Spa Tí with revitalizing treatments like massages, facials, or sauna sessions. Or rent a bike from La Biota for a relaxing bike ride with the Italian…oh wait…MEXICAN breeze through your hair.

Lunch (12pm-2pm): Head to Coppelia for world cuisine dishes at lunchtime. Coppelia, born from the vision of two friends, celebrates the warmth and flavors of their family recipes, bringing a unique and delicious dining experience to life.

Afternoon (2pm-5pm): Join a guided Historical Tour to uncover the secrets behind the village's unique architecture and fascinating history. Or take a carriage ride around the city and take in its secrets.

Dinner (5pm-8pm): Come experience a little bit of Spain at Mesón de los Reyes. This Val'Quirico favorite offers authentic Spanish food that will have you saying "Olé!" Their exquisite paella is a must-try, and their dedication to Spanish cuisine will transport your taste buds straight to a tapas bar.

Bar (8pm-10pm): Enjoy a relaxing evening at Bacanal – a destination for handcrafted cocktails and a truly elevated dining experience. Bacanal specializes in signature cocktails and unique mixology, paired with a menu featuring the finest haute cuisine, wines, and gourmet spirits.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures:

Horseback Riding Tour: Experience the beauty of Val'Quirico's surroundings on horseback, exploring hidden trails and natural landscapes.

Minuto 59: Step into the region's only escape room. Put your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test. Team up with friends or family and work together to crack codes, solve puzzles, and escape the themed room in under an hour.

Local Craft Workshop: Enroll in a hands-on workshop and learn the art of creating pottery, jewelry, or other local crafts.

Stargazing Night: Escape the city lights and enjoy the stunning night sky while exploring the celestial wonders through a powerful telescope.

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the beauty of the countryside from above in a serene and memorable hot air balloon ride.

Guided Hiking Trails: Discover hidden natural beauty in the nearby canyons, valleys, and mountains surrounding Val'Quirico.

Day Trip to a Nearby Oasis: Escape the village for a refreshing dip in a nearby oasis with pristine water, natural waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna.

Val'Quirico offers an idyllic escape, filled with charming details, enchanting activities, and local treasures waiting to be discovered. This itinerary serves as a guide to your unforgettable weekend, allowing you to customize your experience with your unique preferences and interests. Embrace the magic of this Tuscan paradise and create memories that will last a lifetime.

View from a 2nd floor restaurant, Val’Quirico

Getting to Val'Quirico from Mexico City:

The journey from Mexico City to Val'Quirico offers a scenic adventure in itself. You have two main options to choose from:

1. By Car:

Distance: Approximately 230 km (143 miles)
Duration: Around 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Route: Take the Mexico-Queretaro Highway (Highway 57), and follow signs towards San Juan del Río. You'll find the entrance to Val'Quirico along this route.
Advantages: You have more flexibility to explore along the way and can make stops as you please.

2. By Bus:

Frequency: Several bus companies offer daily services from Mexico City to San Juan del Río.
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Departure Points: There are various bus terminals in Mexico City that offer direct services. You can find specific routes and schedules through online bus ticket providers or travel agents.
Advantages: Affordable and comfortable with less need to focus on driving.

Upon arrival in San Juan del Río, Val'Quirico is easily accessible by car or taxi. The trip is about 20 minutes.

Tip: Remember to book bus tickets in advance for your desired dates and consider downloading a GPS app for navigating the roads, as signals might be intermittent in some areas.

Val'Quirico: Mexico Meets Italy in This Quaint Town