Towns in the state of mexico near toluca to visit
Driving route through the magical towns of the State of Mexico near Toluca
Traveling to Mexico during the World Cup not only implies living the excitement of the matches, but also discovering nearby destinations that complement the experience. In this context, touring the towns near Toluca becomes an ideal alternative if you want to escape the urban pace and get to know landscapes, culture, and traditions in a single trip.
Strategically located between Mexico City and the Toluca Valley, this region offers different routes that connect some of the best towns in the State of Mexico. Thanks to its proximity to one of the main World Cup venues, it is possible to organize a tourist circuit that combines football, the road, and cultural tourism.
If you are planning this tour, it is best to do it by car. You can opt for car rental and move with total freedom between destinations, adjusting your itinerary according to the match schedules.
Why choose Toluca as a starting point?
Toluca is an ideal base for exploring different towns in the State of Mexico. Its road connectivity allows for the creation of short and efficient routes, many of them recommended on the state's official tourism platforms.
Additionally, during the 2026 World Cup, its proximity to CDMX makes it a strategic point if you are looking to avoid large concentrations and enjoy nearby getaways between matches.
From here, you can easily access several nearby towns, as well as lesser-known destinations that are part of the tourist routes of the State of Mexico. If you are organizing your tour, you can consider car rental options in Toluca to start the journey from this point.
Route 1: Metepec, tradition and craftsmanship minutes from Toluca
The first point of the tourist circuit is Metepec, located just 15 minutes from Toluca. This destination is one of the most accessible towns in the State of Mexico.
Metepec is famous for its pottery tradition, especially for the iconic Tree of Life (Árbol de la Vida). Its historic center combines cobblestone streets, art galleries, and a varied gastronomic offer.
Among the main activities to do in Metepec we find:
-Tour the center and its artisanal workshops
-Visit the Mud Museum (Museo del Barro)
-Enjoy typical restaurants
Route 2: Malinalco, history and nature
Following the circuit, Malinalco appears as one of the most complete towns near Toluca. The journey by car takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, crossing mountainous landscapes.
Activities to do in Malinalco:
-Climb to the Cuauhtinchan archaeological zone
-Tour the former Augustinian convent
-Stroll through the historic center
-Enjoy its gastronomy
Route 3: Valle de Bravo, nature and adventure
Another of the magical towns in the State of Mexico is Valle de Bravo. About 2 hours from Toluca, this destination is excellent if you want nature and outdoor activities.
Among its main attractions we find:
-Lake Avándaro
-Paragliding from the viewpoint
-Colonial historic center
-Nearby waterfalls
Route 4: El Oro de Hidalgo, mining past and architecture
El Oro is another of the towns in the State of Mexico that is worth including in your tourist circuit. It is located approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Toluca.
This destination stands out for its mining history and its European architecture. It is a less crowded destination, ideal if you are looking for a quieter experience during the 2026 World Cup.
Activities to do in El Oro:
-Visit the Juárez Theater
-Tour the Mining Museum
-Stroll through its historic center
How to organize an efficient tourist circuit?
To make the most of this tour, it is important to plan the route considering travel times and schedules.
A recommended option:
-Day 1: Toluca - Metepec - Malinalco
-Day 2: Malinalco - Valle de Bravo
-Day 3: Valle de Bravo - El Oro - return
This type of circuit allows you to visit several destinations without making excessively long journeys. If you are arriving from the capital, you can organize your mobility with car rental in CDMX and start the journey toward Toluca.
How to get from CDMX to Toluca by car? The journey from Mexico City to Toluca is one of the busiest in the center of the country, especially during major events like the World Cup. The good news is that there are several efficient routes that allow you to adapt the trip according to traffic, time, and the starting point within the city.
Main route: Mexico-Toluca Highway (Highway 15D)
-Depart from the west of CDMX, ideally from areas like Santa Fe, Polanco, or Lomas
-Take the Mexico-Toluca highway (15D) toward Toluca You will cross forested areas and mountain stretches with good infrastructure
-Always continue following the signs to Toluca The estimated time for this trip is between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a toll highway, but it offers better speed, safety, and fewer traffic lights.
Alternative route: Mexico-Toluca Free Road
If you prefer to avoid tolls or travel more calmly, there is the option of the free road (carretera libre).
-You can also take it from Santa Fe
-It is a slower route, with curves and local traffic
-It crosses urban and commercial areas
The approximate time for this path is between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours. It is useful during low-traffic hours or if you want to make intermediate stops.
Scenic route: Desierto de los Leones
Another interesting alternative, although slower, is to go through Desierto de los Leones:
-Depart from the south or west of CDMX
-You will take roads that cross this natural area
-Later connects with the highway to Toluca
This journey is excellent to start your tourist circuit, as it connects directly with several of the towns in the State of Mexico and serves as a starting point to explore destinations near Toluca.
What are the advantages of renting a car during the 2026 World Cup?
In massive events like the World Cup, mobility can become a challenge. Therefore, having a car has multiple benefits:
-Greater schedule flexibility
-Access to less crowded destinations
-Possibility of adapting the itinerary
-Time savings on transfers
-Enjoying scenic landscapes that are part of the experience
An ideal getaway between 2026 World Cup matches
Touring the towns of the State of Mexico is a different way to experience the country during the 2026 World Cup. Beyond football, these destinations offer culture, history, and nature within a short distance of the main cities.
Whether you are looking for a short getaway or a more complete trip, this route allows you to discover a more authentic face of the State of Mexico. If you are organizing your itinerary, the charming towns near Toluca are a great option to complement the experience.