Mexico is the top choice for Americans looking for a tropical escape and a cultural experience that’s hard to find in the U.S. Think of the beautiful, ocher-colored cities, stunning Baroque cathedrals, and that charming Old World feel. Fortunately, they don’t need to travel far to find places rich in history, as Mexico is full of cities that date back centuries, some even older than the American colonies.
Morelia is one of these hidden cultural treasures, and it’s very accessible, with flights from eight U.S. airports. Morelia, the capital of Michoacán, is a state in central Mexico that often gets overlooked in travel guides. Despite this, its architecture is just as impressive as Mexico City’s, and its historical significance rivals popular destinations like San Miguel de Allende and Campeche. Morelia boasts a well-preserved historic center with buildings from the 17th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was recognized for its cultural importance, having been inhabited by indigenous groups like the Purépecha and Matlatzinca long before the Spanish built the present-day city. It flourished during the Spanish Empire as a key trading hub and a center for education, with the Universidad Michoacán de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, the oldest university in the Americas, founded in 1540.
Over the years, Morelia has accumulated many monumental churches, monasteries, and grand buildings, most of which still stand today. Notable structures include the twin-towered cathedral, which began construction in 1660, the landmark aqueduct, and the Government Palace. Many buildings in the old quarter are made from Michoacán’s distinctive pink sandstone, giving the city a unique character. However, as a major state capital, it can be busier and less tranquil than places like San Miguel de Allende or Taxco. Traffic can be hectic during rush hours, and pickpocketing is more common in crowded areas, but overall, it’s a pleasant city to explore. If you need a break, there are plenty of green gardens and tree-lined patios to relax in.
Morelia is also a great destination for food lovers, with numerous street food stalls offering generous portions of Mexican cuisine for as little as $3. The Mercado de Dulces y Artesanias is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth or an interest in handicrafts.
Safety-wise, Morelia has a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges, with gang activity in the suburbs and a travel warning for the state of Michoacán. However, the locals are friendly and hospitable, and the city center is relatively safe. Visitors should stay aware of their surroundings, avoid displaying wealth, be cautious of scammers, and stick to well-lit, busy streets at night. It’s also advisable to stay in a centrally-located hotel to minimize the need for taxis, which can be prone to scams.
Despite being less popular than Mexico City or Guanajuato, Morelia is well-connected with flights from eight U.S. cities, making it an easy cultural trip for Americans wanting to experience authentic Mexico away from the typical tourist spots. Volaris is the most popular airline for flights to Morelia, offering the most frequent and affordable options. For example, round-trip flights from Chicago can be found for $296, and from Fresno for $396. The U.S. cities with direct flights to Morelia include Chicago Midway, Chicago O’Hare, Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Oakland, Los Angeles, San Jose, and Fresno.