Known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' (La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera) for its warm, pleasant year-round climate, Cuernavaca has been a retreat destination for Mexico City residents since Aztec times — Moctezuma II had a summer palace here. The city sits at 1,500m altitude (740m lower than CDMX) giving it noticeably warmer temperatures. Key sites include the remarkable Cortés Palace — the oldest mainland public building in the Americas — with Diego Rivera murals, beautiful gardens, and a vibrant arts scene.
Highlights
- Palacio de Cortés — Diego Rivera murals depicting conquest and revolution
- Jardín Borda botanical gardens (Emperor Maximilian's summer residence)
- Cathedral de la Asunción (1529) — one of Mexico's oldest churches
- Floating gardens and swimming at nearby Cuautla
- Spa and wellness resorts in the area
Tips for visiting
- Much warmer than Mexico City — pack light summer clothes
- Excellent spa resorts in the area for a wellness day
- The Cortés Palace museum is excellent and free — don't miss the Diego Rivera murals