Let me tell you about Xico - it's one of those magical Mexican towns that captured my heart the moment I stepped onto its cobblestone streets. Tucked away in Veracruz's mountainous terrain, this Pueblo Mágico (that's "Magical Town" for those who aren't familiar with Mexico's special designation) serves up the kind of authentic Mexican experience that's getting harder to find these days.
I'll never forget the aroma of fresh coffee wafting through the morning air - Xico's coffee plantations produce some of the finest beans in Mexico. But that's just the beginning of what makes this place special. The town's got this wonderful mix of colonial architecture and natural beauty that'll make you want to snap photos at every corner.
Key Features
• The impressive Cascada de Texolo waterfall - trust me, it's worth the trek
• Local coffee plantations offering tours and tastings
• Traditional wine production using local fruits
• The historic Parroquia de Santa María Magdalena church
• Rich cultural festivals, especially the famous Xiqueñada celebration
• Artisan workshops creating unique handicrafts
• Local cuisine featuring specialties like mole xiqueño
• Surrounding cloud forests perfect for hiking and nature exploration
Best Time to Visit
From my experience, the sweet spot for visiting Xico is between November and February. The weather's just right - not too hot, not too cold, and you'll catch some pretty spectacular clear skies. But here's a pro tip: if you're into cultural experiences, plan your visit during July for the Feast of Mary Magdalene. The whole town comes alive with the Xiqueñada festival, and you'll get to witness bull running through the streets (yeah, seriously!).
Rainy season hits from June to October, and while it might dampen some outdoor plans, it's actually when the surrounding landscape is at its most lush and the waterfalls are at their most impressive. Just pack a good raincoat and embrace it!
How to Get There
Getting to Xico isn't as complicated as you might think. The closest major airport is in Xalapa, about 30 minutes away. From there, you've got options - you can grab a taxi (my preferred choice, cause the drivers usually have great local stories to share), or hop on one of the regular buses that run between Xalapa and Xico.
If you're driving yourself (which I did on my second visit), the roads are pretty well-maintained, though they can get twisty through the mountains. Just follow the signs from Xalapa, and you'll be there in no time. And don't worry about parking - the town's small enough that you can usually find a spot without too much hassle.
Tips for Visiting
Look, I learned some things the hard way during my visits, so let me save you some trouble. First off, bring cash - lots of the smaller shops and restaurants don't take cards, and the nearest ATM isn't always reliable.
Wear comfortable shoes! The cobblestone streets are charming but can be tough on fancy footwear. And if you're planning to visit the waterfalls, bring water-resistant shoes - the paths can get slippery.
Try to learn a few basic Spanish phrases before you go. While some folks in the tourism industry speak English, many locals don't, and knowing just a bit of Spanish will enhance your experience tremendously.
The altitude here is no joke - we're talking about 4,300 feet above sea level. Take it easy your first day, drink plenty of water, and maybe skip that extra cup of (amazing) local coffee until you've adjusted.
Don't rush through the town in a day - give yourself at least 2-3 days to really soak in the atmosphere. The magic of Xico isn't just in its sights, but in the slower pace of life and the warm hospitality of its people.
Make sure to try the mole xiqueño - it's different from other moles you might've had in Mexico. And if you're a coffee lover like me, buy some local beans to take home. Just remember to leave room in your suitcase!
Oh, and one last thing - the weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers and maybe a light raincoat, even if you're visiting during the dry season. Better safe than sorry, right?
