Taxco, Guerrero

You will know you have discovered something truly unique the moment you set eyes on Taxco. A restored gem of a colonial city with white-washed walls, red terra-cotta roofs, and the stunning Santa Prisca cathedral with a truly magnificent dome, the hillside town is surrounded on all sides by steep mountains.

The silver trade thrives in Taxco, which is situated roughly 100 miles outside of Mexico City. The town has been known as a silver mining settlement since the 16th century. Although the silver is all gone today, Taxco is still a popular tourist destination and you can still buy silver there. It maintains its status as a bustling historical escape from Mexico City because of its spectacular natural scenery, historical architecture, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Today, exploring Taxco's history and architecture is the thing to do. Take a cable car ride up to the Monte Taxco Hotel for a fantastic bird's-eye view, explore the Santa Prisca church, and check out the Museo de la Plateria (the silver museum).