Taxco — The Silver City★★
Taxco (pronounced: "TAS-ko") is Mexico's silver capital — a whitewashed mountain town clinging to steep slopes. The narrow, cobblestone streets are full of silversmiths (over 300!), and the baroque Santa Prisca church dominates the central square.
Highlights
- Iglesia de Santa Prisca: Funded by a single silver mine owner (José de la Borda), this Churrigueresque church (1751-1758) is a masterpiece of Mexican baroque. The gilded altarpieces inside are breathtaking.
- Plaza Borda: The central square overlooking Santa Prisca. Cafés, silver shops, and ice cream.
- Silver workshops: Taxco silver is known worldwide (925 Sterling). In the workshops, you can watch silversmiths at work. Prices: Ring from 200 MXN, necklace from 500 MXN.
- Teleferico (Cable Car): From the town to Hotel Monte Taxco — fantastic views over the town and surrounding mountains. 100 MXN.
- Grutas de Cacahuamilpa: 30 km away. Huge stalactite caves with chambers up to 80 m high. Guided tour 1.5h. 120 MXN.
Getting there: 3h from Mexico City by bus (from Terminal Taxqueña, Estrella de Oro/Futura). Also doable as a day trip, but an overnight stay is worthwhile.
💡 Tipp
Buying silver: Look for the "925" stamp (Sterling Silver). Prices are negotiable at the Mercado de Plata. Workshops offer better quality than street vendors.
