Hidden Gems and Small Villages for Women to Explore Near Mexico City

Beyond the spa, the town of Ixtapan de la Sal has its own charm. With a population of around 19,000, the town is small but vibrant, especially during local festivals like the Feast of the Asunción de María. The town square, adorned with statues and fountains, becomes a focal point of activity, surrounded by booths selling trinkets and local delicacies.

A visit to the Sunday market is a must—it’s a sprawling affair where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market is a true reflection of local life, bustling with people from surrounding areas. When I walked through the market with some people I’d met at the spa, we were the only tourists there.

2. Tecomatepec The Ceramic Village

Tecomatepec is a town devoted to ceramics. Shops selling locally produced ceramics line the main streets. It’s also filled with talented artists who have painted murals on almost every building. There’s also a gorgeous church.

The village is where much of the pottery sold all over Mexico is produced. There’s an abundant source of earthenware clay just outside the village. They dig it in the morning, soak it overnight in water, then strain it to remove impurities. The clay is ready to use a day later.

The studios are simple, but they mass produce charming functional and decorative ware. The driver from the hotel introduced me to two different pottery studios. I got to watch them work and ask a lot of questions (in broken Spanish with some translation help from the driver). Before I left town, I bought some ceramics. I spent $6 and left with a huge bag of mezcal mugs, plates and a figurine of a musician.