How to get from azteca stadium to malinalco and tepotzotlán?
Road trip from the Estadio Azteca to the magical towns of Malinalco and Tepotzotlán
Exploring the towns near CDMX is one of the best ways to escape the urban pace without going too far. If you are planning a different route, a roadtrip from the iconic Estadio Azteca —currently known as Estadio Banorte and, during the World Cup, as Estadio Ciudad de México— toward destinations full of history and nature can be an unforgettable experience, especially if you are in the city to experience the 2026 World Cup.
This journey connects two jewels of Mexican tourism: Malinalco, in the State of Mexico, and Tepotzotlán, famous for its colonial heritage. Both are part of the magical towns near CDMX ideal for a weekend getaway or even a single-day adventure, perfect to complement your experience during the World Cup.
If you are thinking of organizing this trip, it is best to do it by car to enjoy each stop at your own pace. You can start by planning your car rental and make the most of the freedom of the road, something especially useful if you are traveling to CDMX for the football matches.
How to get from the Estadio Azteca in CDMX to Tepotzotlán?
The starting point is the south of Mexico City. From the Estadio Azteca, the journey to Tepotzotlán is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route is taking main roads toward the north of the city, connecting with highways that facilitate access, an excellent option if you want to leave the city between World Cup matches.
-Depart from the Estadio Azteca taking Calzada de Tlalpan toward the city center.
-Continue along this avenue until connecting with the Circuito Interior or the Anillo Periférico, depending on the traffic flow.
-From there, head toward the north of the city to join the Mexico-Querétaro Highway (Highway 57D), one of the country's main fast routes.
-Once on the highway, follow the signs to Tepotzotlán.
-Take the corresponding exit for Tepotzotlán and continue for a few minutes until you reach the center of the town.
What to see in the center of Tepotzotlán?
The center of Tepotzotlán is its heart and one of its main attractions. Its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and quiet atmosphere make it a good destination to explore, ideal for disconnecting from the sporting atmosphere of the World Cup.
One of the must-sees is the National Museum of the Viceroyalty (Museo Nacional del Virreinato), located in an old Jesuit college. Additionally, the main square is surrounded by restaurants and shops where you can try the local gastronomy.
Some ideas on what to do in Tepotzotlán:
-Visit the museum and its historical gardens
-Tour the craft market
-Enjoy traditional Mexican food
-Take photographs in its colonial streets
This destination frequently appears in rankings of towns near CDMX recommended by travelers and tourist platforms. Don't miss this roadtrip if you are in the city for the 2026 World Cup!
How to get from Tepotzotlán to Malinalco?
After touring Tepotzotlán, you can continue your journey toward Malinalco, another of the most charming magical towns near CDMX. The journey lasts approximately 2 and a half hours, crossing mountainous landscapes and rural areas that make the road an experience in itself. This type of route is ideal if you enjoy road tourism and want to make the most of your visit to Mexico during the World Cup.
-Leave Tepotzotlán by joining the Mexico-Querétaro Highway heading south.
-Then, connect with the Anillo Periférico or Circuito Exterior Mexiquense, according to your exact location.
-Head toward Toluca, using fast routes such as the Chamapa-La Venta Highway.
-Once in the Toluca area, continue toward Malinalco on well-marked state roads.
-The last stretch is more scenic, with curves and mountainous landscapes that anticipate the arrival at the town.
What to do in Malinalco during your roadtrip?
Malinalco is one of those destinations that surprise from the first moment. Among the best activities are:
-Climb to the Cuauhtinchan archaeological zone
-Tour the 16th-century Augustinian convent
-Stroll through the historic center
-Enjoy its local gastronomy
Malinalco stands out for its combination of pre-Hispanic history, colonial architecture, and natural environment. If you have little time to visit it and want to delve deeper into this destination, you can see this complete guide on what to do in Malinalco in a day.
Tips for organizing your route from the Estadio Azteca toward Tepoztlán and Malinalco
To make the most of this trip, keep in mind:
-Leave early to avoid traffic
-Organize intermediate stops
-Plan your car rental in CDMX in advance
It is also advisable to research each destination beforehand. Nowadays, social media shows real experiences from travelers in these towns, which can help you discover lesser-known places during your stay in CDMX for the World Cup.
Magical towns near Mexico City: ideal for short getaways
This tour is perfect if you are looking for towns in the vicinity of the capital with easy access and a great diversity of activities, especially if you visit the city during international events like the 2026 World Cup. Both Tepotzotlán and Malinalco offer different but complementary proposals.
Whether as a couple, with friends, or as a family, organizing a route from the Estadio Azteca toward these destinations is a wise decision. If you are looking for a different getaway between matches or World Cup activities, this tour confirms why the magical towns near CDMX are the best options.