Intricate colonial architecture lines the cobbled streets of southern Mexico's highland gem, San Cristobal de las Casas. This culturally resplendent city is located along the road passing from the Pacific to the Yucatan Peninsula, close to the Guatemalan border. High skies brighten the colorful fa‡ade of the Cathedral of San Cristobal and light dances through the wares at market on a warm Mexican afternoon, a pleasant place to pause your travels.
Soak up the fresh air with a stroll around the important buildings and plazas before delving into the history of coffee at the Coffee museum or touring historic home, Na Bolom. Get a dose of art at the Popular Cultures Museum, anthropology and fashion at the Museo de Trajes Regionales Sergio Castro and information on amber at the Museo del Ambar de Chiapas before heading to the top of the hills rimming San Cristobal for views over the city.
Take to the road for some of the attractions outside of San Cristobal. Enjoy the colors and culture of Sunday markets in one of the surrounding villages or join a guided bike tour through cloud forests for remote country vistas and exercise. If you'd rather avoid exertion, saddle up for a horseback ride along local trails.
San Cristobal de las Casas is 402 miles east of Puerto Escondido.