Overview
Ixtapan de la Sal is a romantic colonial town in Mexico State recognized as a Pueblo Mágico. Visitors come for the thermal spas with volcanically heated mineral waters, the charming 16th-century church, and the artisan markets selling pottery and copalillo wood carvings.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History
Before you go
Money
Prices in Mexican pesos (M$). Cash preferred at markets and local restaurants. Cards accepted at larger hotels and resort restaurants.
Packing
Bring swimwear for thermal pools, comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, and sunscreen. Traditional dress is modest around the church.
Spa
Thermal springs are the main attraction. Balneario Municipal costs M$80 and opens 06:00-16:30. Parque Acuatico Ixtapan is open weekends only.
Transport
Buses run from the Terminal de Autobuses to Toluca (most common), Tenancingo, and other regional destinations. From Mexico City, take a bus from Terminal Poniente to Toluca, then connect.
