San Cristóbal de las Casas

This handsome colonial city in the pine-clad Valle de Jovel is surrounded by delightful Tzotzil and Tzeltal villages where age-old customs are spiced with modernity. San Cristóbal de las Casas is characterized by its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with an artistic and bohemian flair which attracts many European visitors, especially. It's a magnet for travelers wanting to learn a little Spanish, absorb the bohemian atmosphere and soak up the lively bar scene.

San Cristóbal has a fine plaza and a swag of churches including the striking pink Templo de Santo Domingo. The colonial streets and alleyways lined with red-roof tiles and white-washed walls beg wanderers to explore and discover the nooks and crannies; alleyways open up into picturesque arcades and plazas showing off their authentic colonial architecture and hosting churches, museums, cafés, restaurants and artisan workshops, among other delights. Popular pursuits include stocking up at the local weavers' co-op, sampling delicious organic coffee, horse back riding in the hills and breathing in the amazingly clear highland air.